Top 20 Natural Monuments around Selve Marcone
Best natural monuments around Selve Marcone include a diverse landscape characterized by the Biellese Alps. The area features significant natural attractions such as Monte Turlo, the highest point in the immediate vicinity, and extensive woods and chestnut groves that define the hills. Oasi Zegna, a nature park approximately 7.6 km away, offers reforested areas and the vibrant Conca dei Rododendri. These natural elements collectively form the appealing natural heritage of Selve Marcone.
Best natural monuments around Selve Marcone
- The most popular natural monuments is Bocchetto Sessera Pass, a mountain pass that connects the Strona valley with the Sessera valley at about 1,400 m. This location offers panoramic views at the base of Monte Marca.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Vargno, a lake located at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. From its banks, visitors can see several peaks including Punta Leretta, Mount Mars, and Mount Rosso.
- Visitors also love Burcina Park, a historic garden situated on the hill north-west of Biella. This park is notable for its blooming rhododendrons, particularly in May.
- Selve Marcone is known for its mountains, lakes, and extensive forests. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from high mountain passes to tranquil lakes and verdant woodlands.
- The natural monuments around Selve Marcone are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 230 upvotes and 81 photos shared.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Bocchetto Sessera Pass
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Lake Vargno
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It's a nice place to take a break on your mountain run with a breathtaking view. The paths in this area are mostly free of technical difficulties and easy to follow while running.
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Climb to Oropa from Biella
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Burcina Pond
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Labirinto di Stavello
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The **Passo (or Bocchetto) di Bocchetto Sessera is an alpine pass located in the Biella Alps, in the Province of Biella (Piedmont, Italy). It connects the Valle dello Strona di Mosso with the Val Sessera, between the mountains Monte Marca (1,558 m) and Monticchio (1,697 m).
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artificial lake once infested with abandoned turtles and now finally reclaimed
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Main entrance to the Oasi Zegna, from which many paths start, including the "Bosco del Sorriso" path and others
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The Stavello Labyrinth is one of the attractions of the Oasi Zegna, located in Bocchetta di Stavello in the municipality of Valdilana (BI). Built in 2021 on an area previously occupied by bowling greens, the labyrinth is a large stone spiral with a diameter of 29 meters, inspired by the Cretan model with 11 spirals. The path, over 480 meters long, was built using local stones of various shapes and sizes. Designed as a meditative path, the labyrinth invites visitors to an experience of introspection and awareness. Its unicursal path, which recalls the shape of a brain, symbolizes the inner journey of the human being. Walking through the labyrinth slowly and in silence allows you to reflect on yourself, promoting a deep connection with the surrounding nature and with your own interiority. It is an experience accessible to everyone, without technical difficulties, ideal for those looking for a moment of pause and reflection immersed in the greenery of the Oasi Zegna.
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The climb is very tough but once you get to the top the sanctuary is beautiful.
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Oropa is an important Catholic pilgrimage site in the Piedmont Alps, about 12 kilometers northwest of Biella, Italy. It lies in a picturesque valley at an altitude of approximately 1,159 meters. In brief: * Pilgrimage site: One of the most important Marian pilgrimage sites in the Alps, dedicated to the Black Madonna. * History: According to tradition, the pilgrimage dates back to Saint Eusebius in the 4th century. * Sacro Monte: The Holy Mountain of Oropa, with 12 chapels depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. * Basilicas: Consists of the old basilica (17th century), where the Black Madonna is venerated, and the newer, larger Basilica Superior (20th century). * Nature and activities: Surrounded by mountains, it offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. There is also a botanical garden and an adventure park. * UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized along with eight other "Sacri Monti" in the region for its religious, cultural, and scenic significance. Oropa is a place of spiritual significance, impressive architecture, and natural beauty, attracting many pilgrims and visitors annually.
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The climb to the Sanctuary of Oropa from Biella is a Piedmont classic. It is about 13 km intense and constant, which do not allow respite with always challenging slopes. The iconic and hardest stretch is the last kilometer on the scenic pavé, made legendary by Pantani's feat in the Giro '99.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent natural features to explore around Selve Marcone?
Selve Marcone is characterized by the Biellese Alps, offering a diverse natural landscape. Key features include the extensive woods and chestnut groves that define the hills, and several watercourses like the Rio Tamarone, Rio Soccasca, and Rio Sobbia. Approximately 7.6 km away, Oasi Zegna is a significant nature park known for its reforestation efforts and diverse flora.
Are there any significant mountain landmarks in the immediate vicinity of Selve Marcone?
Yes, Monte Turlo, at 835m, is the highest point within the immediate vicinity. It's a defining geographical landmark with slopes characterized by unique geological formations. Reaching its summit offers rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Where can I experience extensive woodlands and chestnut groves for leisurely walks?
The very name 'Selve Marcone' originates from the 'vast woods' that historically covered the area. The territory is a continuous alternation of these woods and chestnut groves, providing a verdant and tranquil environment ideal for leisurely walks, forest bathing, and enjoying serene natural beauty throughout the seasons.
What is Oasi Zegna, and what can I see there?
Oasi Zegna is a freely accessible nature park in the Biella Alps, envisioned by textile entrepreneur Ermenegildo Zegna. It features extensive reforested areas with over 500,000 conifers, rhododendrons, and hydrangeas. Highlights include the vibrant Conca dei Rododendri and the Bosco del Sorriso (Wood of Smiles), a sensory trail for 'Forest Bathing'.
When is the best time to visit Oasi Zegna, especially for its famous rhododendrons?
The Conca dei Rododendri within Oasi Zegna becomes a vibrant spectacle of white, pink, red, and purple blooms particularly between mid-May and mid-June. This period is ideal for experiencing the park's most colorful display.
Are there family-friendly natural attractions in the area?
Yes, Burcina Park is a historic garden suitable for families, especially in May when its rhododendrons are in bloom. Lake Vargno also offers a beautiful setting for a break with scenic views, and Oasi Zegna is designed to provide an engaging natural environment for families.
What are some popular natural monuments recommended by the komoot community?
The komoot community highly recommends Bocchetto Sessera Pass, a mountain pass offering panoramic views at the base of Monte Marca. Another favorite is Lake Vargno, located at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve, providing stunning mountain vistas.
Can I find any lakes or water features near Selve Marcone?
Absolutely. Lake Vargno is a beautiful body of water at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. The Barma Lakes, consisting of one small and one large lake, are also notable. Additionally, the area is crisscrossed by watercourses like the Rio Tamarone, Rio Soccasca, and Rio Sobbia, and near Quadretto, you'll find Laghetto Le Ginestre, a small artificial lake popular for sport fishing.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available near these natural monuments?
The region offers diverse hiking opportunities. For challenging mountain experiences, consider routes like the Monte Camino – Rifugio Rosazza loop or the Mucrone Lake loop from Oropa. There are also moderate options such as the Lago della Vecchia – Rifugio Lago della Vecchia loop. You can find more details on Mountain Hikes around Selve Marcone.
Are there options for road cycling or mountain biking?
Yes, the area is excellent for cycling. Road cyclists can explore routes like the Panoramica Zegna and Bielmonte Loop or the Oropa Climb. For mountain biking, trails such as the Sessera Pass – Scenic viewpoint loop or various routes through Burcina Park are available. Discover more on Road Cycling Routes around Selve Marcone and MTB Trails around Selve Marcone.
What kind of views can I expect from the natural monuments in the area?
You can expect breathtaking panoramic views. From Bocchetto Sessera Pass, you'll see expansive vistas at the base of Monte Marca. Lake Vargno offers views of several peaks including Punta Leretta, Mount Mars, and Mount Rosso. Even the challenging Climb to Oropa from Biella rewards with impressive scenery.
Is there a historical or cultural site that also offers natural beauty?
The Sanctuary of Oropa, accessible via a challenging climb from Biella, is a significant Catholic pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is nestled in a picturesque valley at an altitude of approximately 1,159 meters, offering both spiritual significance and impressive natural surroundings, including opportunities for hiking and a botanical garden.
What makes Burcina Park a notable natural monument?
Burcina Park is a historic garden situated on a hill northwest of Biella. It is particularly notable for its spectacular blooming rhododendrons, especially in May, making it a beautiful and tranquil spot for walks and enjoying nature.
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