4.4
(1616)
8,176
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking in Riserva Naturale Dell'Orrido Di Foresto is characterized by a dramatic landscape sculpted by the Rocciamelone stream, which has carved a deep gorge through limestone bedrock. The region features limestone bastions, xerothermic grasslands, and visible geological folds. This unique environment supports diverse flora, including the Prickly Juniper, and offers varied terrain for exploration. The area's south-facing exposure allows for hiking even during winter months.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(3)
13
hikers
8.31km
03:48
580m
580m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.7
(3)
17
hikers
7.75km
03:23
570m
570m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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5.0
(1)
1
hikers
11.5km
04:29
620m
620m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.5
(4)
5
hikers
4.96km
01:30
160m
170m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.6
(5)
10
hikers
8.30km
03:25
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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After the Sacra di S. Michele, the abbey of Novalesa is the most important ancient center of Christianity in the Susa Valley. Dedicated to Saints Peter and Andrew, it dates back to the year 726 and was founded as a monastery of monks who followed a "mixed rule", partly Benedictines, partly followers of the doctrine of St. Columbanus. The abbey then passed to the Benedictine monks who held it until 1646, when the Cistercian monks took over, remaining here until 1798. Subsequently, it was controlled by French monks, during the Napoleonic era, until, returning to the hands of the Piedmontese government, it was transformed into a hotel. Only in 1972, therefore in recent times, did the abbey return once again under the control of the Benedictine monks, who still guard it today. It is located in a splendid position, elevated with respect to the nearby Novalesa, amidst meadows in front of the Rocciamelone, another center of spirituality, as on its summit is built the small sanctuary of the Madonna del Rocciamelone. To visit the abbey, it is advisable to book at the following e-mail address: by writing to visite@abbazianovalesa.org.
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It's called "Belvedere dei lecci" (Lecci Viewpoint), and the trail leads down a flight of steps to a panoramic platform. From the top, you can admire a waterfall in the Chianocco Ravine.
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From a wooden platform you have an excellent view of the Orrido and the Susa Valley
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The Abbey of Saints Peter and Andrew, also known as the Abbey of (or of) Novalesa, is an ancient Benedictine abbey founded in the 8th century and located in the municipality of Novalesa, in the Susa Valley. Since 1972 the abbey complex has been publicly owned, having been purchased in a dilapidated state by the Province of Turin, now the Metropolitan City of Turin, which entrusted it back to the Benedictine monks. The agreement with the Sublacense Benedictine Congregation has made it possible to enhance the historical and artistic importance of the monument and to spread knowledge of the ancient spiritual, cultural and social tradition of the Benedictine abbey.[1] One of the chapels of the complex houses two important cycles of frescoes from the 11th century, one dedicated to the titular Saint Eldrado and the other, among the first known in the West, to Saint Nicholas of Bari.
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Go to the 2nd floor of the waterfall (sign), it’s worth the detour
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The 360 view is superb. Turning towards the mountains, looking down on the crack of the Chianocco Ravine, you can hear the thunderous sound of the water, which comes out and then cascades into the gorge below.
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Unfortunately the paths to Pavaglione are not signposted
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There are 5 dedicated waterfall hiking trails in Riserva Naturale Dell'Orrido Di Foresto, all rated as moderate. These routes offer diverse experiences through the region's unique landscape.
All the waterfall hiking trails in Riserva Naturale Dell'Orrido Di Foresto are rated as moderate. This means they are suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness and some experience, often involving significant elevation gain and varied terrain.
Yes, several trails feature prominent waterfalls. For example, the Big Bench Bruzolo – Orrido di Chianocco Waterfall loop from Bruzolo offers views of the Orrido di Chianocco waterfall, and the Big Bench Bruzolo – Pissaglio Waterfall loop from Bruzolo leads to the Pissaglio Waterfall. You can also explore the dramatic Foresto Gorge, the Le Voute Caves, and the unique Juniper Trail.
Yes, thanks to its south-facing exposure and Mediterranean microclimate, Riserva Naturale Dell'Orrido Di Foresto is suitable for walks and excursions even during winter months. However, always check local conditions, especially for technical routes like the Via Ferrata, as snow, ice, or high water levels can make them unsafe.
Many of the waterfall trails in the region are designed as loops, offering a varied experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the Big Bench Bruzolo – Orrido di Chianocco Waterfall loop from Bruzolo and the Novalesa Waterfall – Abbey of Novalaise loop from Novalesa.
The trails in Riserva Naturale Dell'Orrido Di Foresto are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1500 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic landscapes, the unique geological formations of the gorge, and the refreshing presence of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools.
Yes, the Via Ferrata dell'Orrido di Foresto is a notable and challenging route (rated 'D' for difficult) that traverses the canyon. It features waterfalls, Tibetan bridges, and technical sections. This route requires safety equipment and is recommended for experienced individuals or those accompanied by alpine guides. Conditions like snow, ice, heavy rain, or high water levels make it unsafe. You can find more information about this specific route on visitvaldisusa.it.
The landscape is dramatic, sculpted by the Rocciamelone stream, which has carved a deep gorge through limestone bedrock. You'll encounter limestone bastions, xerothermic grasslands, and visible geological folds. This unique environment supports diverse flora, including the Prickly Juniper, and offers varied terrain for exploration.
While specific viewpoints for waterfalls aren't always explicitly marked, the trails often offer stunning perspectives of the gorge and surrounding Susa Valley. For a broader panoramic view, consider visiting the View of the Susa Valley from Truc San Martino, which is a nearby highlight.
The duration for these moderate waterfall hikes varies. For instance, the Big Bench Bruzolo – Orrido di Chianocco Waterfall loop from Bruzolo typically takes around 4 hours 28 minutes, while the Big Bench Bruzolo – Pissaglio Waterfall loop from Bruzolo can be completed in about 3 hours 27 minutes. Shorter options like the Novalesa Waterfall – Abbey of Novalaise loop from Novalesa take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Yes, the region has historical significance. For example, the Novalesa Waterfall – Abbey of Novalaise loop from Novalesa trail passes by the historic Abbey of Novalaise, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.


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