Easy hikes and walks in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa
4.4
(2423)
12,050
hikers
501
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa traverse a unique landscape shaped by ancient Roman gold mining and glacial activity. The reserve is characterized by its "lunar appearance," featuring large stone mounds, remnants of an open-pit gold mine, interspersed with dense plant growth. Geologically, it is part of the Serra moraine, showcasing diverse rocks transported by the Balteo glacier, and is bordered by morainic hills and the Elvo and Olobbia rivers. This distinctive terrain offers a blend of historical…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(10)
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
9
hikers
7.20km
01:57
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
4.94km
01:21
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Area where gold prospecting competitions are held. Italian, European and World championships have taken place here.
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Wikipedia: Victimulae (or Victumulae), or more commonly Victimula, is a Roman-era settlement (probably already developed in pre-Roman times) located in Piedmont, in the southwest of the Biella area, not far from Lake Viverone. More precisely, it is believed to have been located on the slopes of the Serra Morenica d'Ivrea near the Bessa plateau.
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Must do, at least once, interesting place.
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here the Elvo forms a large and suggestive marshy area
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area equipped for international gold flake extraction competitions. The extraction of the metal in Bessa dates back to the Gallo-Roman era
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A beautiful equipped area perfect for having a picnic or a simple stop inside the Bressa reserve.
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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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Borriana (BI), Elvo torrent. The walkway - rebuilt after a flood had taken away the pre-existing one - allows pedestrians and cyclists to reach from Borriana the paths of the Bessa Reserve that go up from the Mongrando-Cerrione dirt road (and vice versa).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa?
There are over 160 easy hiking trails in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the unique landscape.
What kind of landscape will I encounter on easy hikes in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa?
You will experience a distinctive 'lunar appearance' landscape, characterized by large stone mounds that are remnants of an ancient Roman gold mine. The area is also part of the Serra moraine, featuring diverse rocks transported by the Balteo glacier, and is bordered by the Elvo and Olobbia rivers.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa?
Yes, many easy trails are suitable for families. The reserve offers various itineraries, some of which are even wheelchair accessible with surfaces partly in wood and partly in cement. The Picnic area next to the Bessa Nature Park visitor center and the Vermogno Picnic Area provide convenient spots for breaks.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Riserva Naturale Della Bessa is generally dog-friendly. Most trails are open to dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please check specific trail regulations at the Visitor Centre if you have concerns.
What are some interesting historical or natural landmarks to see on an easy hike?
You can explore the historical significance of the Roman gold mining operations. Notable landmarks include the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, the Victimula Goldpanners' Arena, and the ancient settlement of Victimula. These sites offer visible traces of the immense ancient work.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes?
Yes, many easy routes in the reserve are circular. For example, the Victimula Goldpanners' Arena loop from Borriana is a popular 6.5 km circular trail. Another option is the Victimula Goldpanners' Arena – Vermogno Picnic Area loop from Riserva naturale della Bessa, which is a shorter 2.6 km loop.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa?
The duration varies depending on the trail length. Shorter easy hikes, like the 2.6 km Victimula Goldpanners' Arena – Vermogno Picnic Area loop, can take around 45 minutes. Longer easy routes, such as the 6.5 km Victimula Goldpanners' Arena loop from Borriana, typically take about 1 hour 45 minutes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique 'lunar appearance' landscape, the historical insights into Roman gold mining, and the well-maintained paths that make for accessible and enjoyable walks.
Is there parking available near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, parking is generally available. The Visitor Centre in Vermogno is a good starting point, often with nearby parking facilities. Many trailheads also have designated parking areas to accommodate hikers.
Are there any educational opportunities or botanical trails?
Yes, the reserve features the 'Aula Verde,' a botanical itinerary created by the Candelo Municipality. This trail is designed to educate visitors about the main plant species thriving within the unique habitat of the Reserve.
What is the best time of year to visit Riserva Naturale Della Bessa for easy hikes?
The reserve is suitable for hiking year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the trails are suitable for walking, and the landscape takes on a different, serene beauty.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of the Elvo and Olobbia rivers?
Yes, the reserve is delimited by the Elvo and Olobbia rivers, and several easy trails incorporate views or sections along these waterways. For instance, the Elvo Stream Marsh – Victimula Goldpanners' Arena loop from Riserva naturale della Bessa offers a chance to experience the riverine environment.
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