Top 20 Natural Monuments around Mercenasco
Best natural monuments around Mercenasco are found in the Metropolitan City of Turin, within the Piedmont region of Italy. This area, while known for historical sites like Mercenasco Castle, also offers diverse natural landscapes. The surrounding territory features a variety of natural formations, from glacial remnants to serene lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best natural monuments around Mercenasco
- The most popular natural monuments is Lake Candia, a lake located between Chivasso and Ivrea. It is frequented by families…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Lake Candia
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Glacial Erratic Boulders of Vialfrè
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Monti Pelati Mountain Bike Trail
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Erratic Boulders Trail - Boulder No. 1
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Mercenasco.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lake Candia (in Piedmontese lagh ëd Candia), located in the municipality of Candia, in the Canavese area, about thirty kilometers from Turin, is the last highly natural lake basin in the Piedmontese Po Valley, before the mountain barrier represented by the Western Alps.
0
0
The area depicted in these images is located a short distance from the parking lot where it's best to leave your car and explore (on foot or by bike) the countless trails that surround the lake. This is one of the few truly accessible areas along the entire perimeter because, perhaps to protect the lake's fragile ecosystem, the trail that circles it is kept at a constant distance. In any case, aside from the lake, the entire surrounding rural area is worth a visit, still pleasantly unspoiled. A trip in autumn is highly recommended for the myriad colors of the vegetation. Both cyclists and walkers should be careful, as I didn't notice any distinction between trails reserved for mountain bikes and those reserved for pedestrians; many secondary paths have dead ends!
0
0
A photo on the park's pier is a must. Stunning view...
0
0
After crossing Vialfrè along via Roma and via Borghetto, after a trail that runs alongside a fence you find yourself... in a meadow! Luckily, a providential sign guides you, to the left, to the start of the erratic boulders trail, other signs, to follow, show the right path first along an asphalt road, finally, with another left turn at a hairpin bend, back on the right path. Here begins a nice flowing stretch, never difficult (S2 max), but not at all trivial, because the ground, almost always pebbly, requires constant attention when driving. The trail is not critical, in the sense that, even "skipping" some deviations, you still find yourself on other paths almost parallel to the one I took. In the end, all the paths converge almost in the same point... in front of the highway to Aosta: following the trail, other nice paths lead to Villate.
0
0
The erratic boulders represent one of the most curious and typical aspects of glacial morphologies and are an interesting feature of the Morainic Amphitheater of Ivrea. Due to their imposing size, they have always aroused the interest of man, who in the past often used them as sacrificial altars. The erratic boulders originate from the Balteo glacier in the Pleistocene period: its erosive action gave rise to large debris, which was transported even for great distances with the advance of the ice. At the end of the glaciation, during the retreat phase of the glacier, the boulders were deposited on the ground, sometimes remaining resting on the surface, There are many erratic boulders in this stretch of moraine hill, but only 9, the largest and most beautiful, have been reported. This is the first, from which a ring starts that takes you to see them all and returns to the starting point. However, be aware that between boulder 3 and boulder 6 there are steps and you need to bring your bike.
0
0
Here, during the Ice Age, the Balteo Glacier transported enormous boulders to its surface, which were then released when rising temperatures melted the ice.
0
0
Truly unique environment. Challenging surface: hollow and narrow sections, slightly treacherous gravel, many relaunches. A trail that always keeps the commitment high.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Mercenasco?
The area around Mercenasco features a diverse range of natural monuments, including serene lakes, significant erratic boulders, and unique natural reserves. These sites showcase the region's geological history, particularly remnants of glacial activity, and its biodiversity.
Are there any lakes designated as natural monuments near Mercenasco?
Yes, two notable lakes are recognized as natural monuments. Lake Candia is a popular spot between Chivasso and Ivrea, known for its natural park and family-friendly activities. Another is Lake Paolet, a smaller intra-moraine lake with significant naturalistic importance, home to rare species like the Pelobates fosco insubrico toad.
Can I find any historical natural monuments in the Mercenasco area?
Absolutely. The Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone is an important erratic boulder with cavities, historically used for pagan rites. It's set on a small natural hill surrounded by chestnut trees and is one of the best-known altar-blocks in the Canavese area, reflecting ancient cultural practices.
What kind of geological formations are prominent among Mercenasco's natural monuments?
The region is particularly known for its glacial erratic boulders. These huge prehistoric stones, like the Glacial Erratic Boulders of Vialfrè, were transported by the ancient Balteo Glacier during the Ice Age and deposited in unusual locations as the ice melted, offering a glimpse into the area's geological past.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Mercenasco?
Yes, Lake Candia is particularly well-suited for families. It's frequented by families, especially in summer, and offers opportunities for physical activity within its natural park. The surrounding vegetation also provides pleasant spots to observe the landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Lago di Candia Loop' or 'Trail 104 to Napoleon's Spring', which are detailed in the Hiking around Mercenasco guide. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking and road cycling routes, including loops around Lake Candia, available in the Gravel biking around Mercenasco and Cycling around Mercenasco guides.
Is there a natural reserve with unique features near Mercenasco?
Yes, the Monti Pelati area, which includes the Monti Pelati Mountain Bike Trail, is a natural reserve. It's known for its unique rock formations, likely peridotite, which supports a special and distinct flora compared to the surrounding mountains. Visitors must respect the reserve and stay on designated paths.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Mercenasco?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from the serene beauty of lakes like Candia to the historical intrigue of sites like the Pera Cunca Sacrificial Stone. The geological significance of the erratic boulders and the unique flora of the Monti Pelati reserve also draw interest, offering a blend of nature, history, and outdoor activity.
Are there any challenging trails or activities among the natural monuments?
Yes, the Monti Pelati Mountain Bike Trail is categorized as challenging. While it's an S1 level trail, its steep sections require good driving skills. It's also shared with hikers, so caution is advised.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments near Mercenasco?
While specific seasonal considerations for each monument vary, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months. Lakes like Candia are particularly popular in summer for families and physical activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the reserves and boulder paths.
Are there any natural parks or larger protected areas near Mercenasco?
While Mercenasco itself is a small comune, it is situated in the Piedmont region, which is home to broader natural parks and reserves. For example, Lake Candia is located within the Natural Park of Lake Candia, offering a protected environment for recreation and wildlife observation. The Monti Pelati area is also a designated natural reserve.
Are the natural monuments around Mercenasco suitable for dog walking?
Many natural areas and trails in the Piedmont region are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. For specific natural monuments like Lake Candia or the paths around the Glacial Erratic Boulders of Vialfrè, dogs are generally welcome. However, always check local regulations for specific reserves or protected areas like Monti Pelati to ensure compliance.
Most popular routes around Mercenasco
Most popular attractions around Mercenasco
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Mercenasco:
