Top 14 Natural Monuments around Zimone
Best natural monuments around Zimone, Italy, are characterized by a landscape shaped by ancient glacial activity, including morainic formations and lakes. The region, part of Piedmont, offers a mix of geological features and historical sites with natural significance. These natural attractions near Zimone provide opportunities to explore unique environments. The area is situated within the morainic amphitheater of Ivrea, showcasing remnants of past geological processes.
Best natural monuments around Zimone
- The most popular natural monuments is Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone, a historical site and natural monument where the remains of an ancient Bronze Age pile-dwelling village are preserved beneath the water, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site holds significant archaeological value, with artifacts discovered that reconstruct the life of a Bronze Age community.
- Another must-see spot is Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, a natural monument and historical site known for its unique lunar landscape of mounds formed by ancient Roman gold mining activities, now a nature reserve. This area, approximately 8 kilometers long, was transformed by thousands of men over two millennia ago.
- Visitors also love Lake Bertignano, a lake and natural monument formed by the retreat of the Balteo glacier, offering tranquil views and a special conservation area. This lake, along with others in the area, originated from the ancient glacier.
- Zimone is known for lakes, ancient geological formations, and historical sites with natural significance. These areas provide diverse opportunities for exploration.
- The natural monuments around Zimone are appreciated by the komoot community. The community has contributed more than 120 upvotes and 30 photos, highlighting their appeal.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site
Highlight • Natural Monument
It is located between Biella and Ivrea, included in the municipalities of Borriana, Cerrione, Mongrando and Zubiena, on the orographic right of the Elvo stream. It is part of the Serra moraine, considered the largest in Europe.
A lunar appearance, with large mounds placed together like desert dunes, made up of stones of various sizes. Between one pile and another, curtains of often impenetrable plants and bushes. This is the aspect that one perceives when entering the Bessa Nature Reserve for the first time, established in 1985. But the charm of Bessa also lies in its history.
One thing is now certain. This entire large territory, almost ten square kilometers, has been entirely modified in its appearance by the work of thousands of men.
These were the Ictimuli - or Vittimuli - who inhabited a large part of the Biella area over two thousand years ago. Led and exploited by the Romans between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. they transformed the Bessa into one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world.
Traces of this immense work remain in the mounds, erected by piling up the stones discarded during the excavation.
Source: atl.biella.it/localita-dettaglio/-/d/riserva-speciale-della-bes-1
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Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone
Highlight • Historical Site
The settlement is one of the 111 "Prehistoric Pile-dwelling Sites of the Alpine Arc" protected by UNESCO. The place is definitely enchanting: water lilies, poplars, aquatic birds...
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Lake Bertignano
Highlight • Lake
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Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Lake Ingagna
Highlight • Lake
it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lago_dell%27Ingagna
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Tips from the Community
Must do, at least once, interesting place.
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The oasis they built with a wooden construction overlooking the lake is very pleasant
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In Lake Viverone, the remains of around 5000 poles driven into the ground which supported the structures of a very ancient large pile-dwelling village dating back to the Bronze Age have been extraordinarily preserved. The site has an important archaeological value, artefacts such as swords, axes, pins and ornaments have been discovered, which have allowed us to reconstruct the life of a Bronze Age community. The site is now a World Heritage Site.
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Small and quiet lake where you can take 4 steps
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A few meters below the water level, the remains of approximately 5000 poles stuck in the ground have been preserved, evidence of an ancient pile-dwelling village dating back to the Bronze Age. The settlement is one of the 111 "Prehistoric Pile-dwelling Sites of the Alpine Arc" protected by UNESCO. The place is definitely enchanting: water lilies, poplars, aquatic birds...
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The stilt houses on Lake Viverone, a place to stop and enjoy the view.
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I recommend it because there are some nice paths in the area, unfortunately the lake itself and the scenery are a bit ruined by large electric pylons.
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The area of the Bessa Nature Reserve is approximately 8 kilometers long, with an average width of one kilometre. It is located between Biella and Ivrea, included in the municipalities of Borriana, Cerrione, Mongrando and Zubiena, on the orographic right of the Elvo stream. It is part of the Serra moraine, considered the largest in Europe. A lunar appearance, with large mounds placed together like desert dunes, made up of stones of various sizes. Between one pile and another, curtains of often impenetrable plants and bushes. This is the aspect that one perceives when entering the Bessa Nature Reserve for the first time, established in 1985. But the charm of Bessa also lies in its history. One thing is now certain. This entire large territory, almost ten square kilometers, has been entirely modified in its appearance by the work of thousands of men. These were the Ictimuli - or Vittimuli - who inhabited a large part of the Biella area over two thousand years ago. Led and exploited by the Romans between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. they transformed the Bessa into one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world. Traces of this immense work remain in the mounds, erected by piling up the stones discarded during the excavation. Source: https://www.atl.biella.it/localita-dettaglio/-/d/riserva-speciale-della-bes-1
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural monuments can I expect to find around Zimone?
The natural monuments around Zimone are primarily shaped by ancient glacial activity, featuring morainic formations, lakes, and historical sites with natural significance. You'll find a mix of geological wonders and places where nature and history intertwine, such as ancient gold mining landscapes and pile-dwelling villages.
Are there any family-friendly natural monuments in the Zimone area?
Yes, several natural monuments around Zimone are suitable for families. Both the Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone and Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site are listed as family-friendly. Lake Bertignano also offers tranquil views and is a great spot for a family outing.
What historical natural monuments can be explored near Zimone?
The region is rich in historical natural monuments. The Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone is a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving Bronze Age remains. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site showcases a unique landscape created by ancient Roman gold mining. Additionally, the Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone is an erratic boulder believed to have been used for pagan rites.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Zimone offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, mountain biking, and running trails. For hiking, consider routes like the 'From Zimone to Lake Bertignano along the HIGH ALTITUDE TRAIL of the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater' or the 'Great Biellese Traverse: Zimone Trail'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Zimone guide.
Are there hiking trails suitable for beginners near Zimone's natural monuments?
While many trails are moderate, some routes around the lakes, such as the 'Lake Viverone – Lake Viverone loop from Piverone' for MTB, are rated as easy. For hiking, you can often find easier sections or shorter loops around the lakes like Lake Bertignano, which are generally less strenuous. Always check the specific route details for difficulty before heading out.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Zimone?
The best time to visit the natural monuments around Zimone is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is mild and conducive for outdoor activities. The lakes are particularly pleasant in warmer months, and the trails are more accessible. Winter visits might offer a different, quieter experience, but some trails could be challenging due to weather conditions.
Can I find parking near the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site?
Yes, parking is available near the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, which is also a nature reserve. Specific parking areas are usually designated for visitors accessing the reserve, located between Biella and Ivrea.
What kind of wildlife can be observed in the natural monuments area?
Given the presence of nature reserves like the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site and special conservation areas around Lake Bertignano, you can expect to observe various local flora and fauna. The lakes are home to aquatic birds, and the forested areas provide habitats for different species. Keep an eye out for local wildlife while exploring.
Are there any hidden natural gems or less-known spots worth visiting near Zimone?
While the main highlights are well-known, exploring the smaller lakes like Lake Bertignano and Lake Ingagna can offer a quieter experience away from larger crowds. The Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone is also a unique, historically significant natural monument that might be considered a hidden gem.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Zimone?
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility of the lakes, the unique historical insights offered by sites like the Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone, and the distinctive 'lunar landscape' of the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site. The blend of natural beauty and ancient history is a major draw, with many enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for exploration.
Are there any specific regulations or permits needed for hiking in the natural monument areas?
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking on established trails within the natural monument areas around Zimone. However, always respect local signage, stay on marked paths, and be aware of any specific rules for nature reserves, such as the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, to protect the environment and historical elements.
Can I access the natural monuments around Zimone using public transport?
While specific public transport routes directly to every natural monument might be limited, the region around Zimone and Biella has some public transport options. It's advisable to research local bus services to nearby towns or access points, and then plan to walk or cycle the remaining distance to the monuments. Access to Lake Ingagna, for example, is mentioned as being reachable by asphalt road from Mongrando hamlets, though direct access to the dam might be restricted.
Most popular attractions around Zimone
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