Attractions and Places To See around Massazza - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Massazza include a variety of natural monuments, historical sites, and unique landscapes. The region is characterized by its location at the foot of the Biella pre-Alps, featuring diverse terrain from river valleys to extensive plateaus. Visitors can explore areas shaped by ancient glaciers and historical gold mining activities. Massazza offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Massazza
- The most popular attractions is…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site
Highlight • Natural Monument
It is located between Biella and Ivrea, included in the municipalities …
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Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana
Highlight • Bridge
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Lake Bertignano
Highlight • Lake
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Ricetto of Candelo
Highlight • Historical Site
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Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Tips from the Community
Must do, at least once, interesting place.
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ENTERING THE RICETTO IT SEEMS LIKE BEING IN ANOTHER ERA THEN VISITED DURING THE WEEK WITHOUT TOO MANY PEOPLE AND SPECTACULAR
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Candelo, the highlight of our Piedmont trip. Small town from the 14th century with small shops and very good restaurants. An absolute must.
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Small and quiet lake where you can take 4 steps
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Small village of medieval origins particularly appreciable for its excellent state of conservation and local activities/events
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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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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
What unique natural landscapes can I explore around Massazza?
The region is known for its diverse terrain, including areas shaped by ancient glaciers. You can visit the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, an extensive plateau with unique clayey soil, often called the “Biella Savannah.” Another notable natural feature is Lake Bertignano, formed by the retreat of the Balteo glacier.
Are there any historical sites related to ancient mining in the area?
Yes, the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is a significant historical attraction. This area features large mounds of stones, which are remnants of an ancient open-pit gold mine operated by the Romans over two millennia ago.
What historical structures can I visit near Massazza?
You can explore the Ricetto of Candelo, a well-preserved fortified medieval structure. It served as a refuge and a place to store goods and wealth for the local lord.
Are there family-friendly attractions suitable for children?
Many attractions are family-friendly. The Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana, offers an easy route for pedestrians and cyclists. Lake Bertignano and the Ricetto of Candelo are also suitable for families.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available around Massazza?
The area offers various hiking trails, including easy options. For example, you can find an easy 4.2 km loop from the Riserva naturale delle Baragge. For more details and other routes, refer to the Hiking around Massazza guide.
Can I go running or cycling near the attractions?
Yes, there are dedicated routes for both running and road cycling. You can find moderate running loops from Verrone and Mottalciata, and various road cycling routes, including a 58.7 km loop from Villanova Biellese with views of Lake Viverone. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Massazza and Road Cycling Routes around Massazza guides.
How can I access the Bessa Reserve from Borriana?
You can access the Bessa Reserve from Borriana via the Footbridge over the Elvo River. This footbridge allows pedestrians and cyclists to reach paths leading into the reserve.
What is special about the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve?
The Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve is a protected natural area characterized by an extensive plateau of clayey soil with large clearings and sparse forests of birch and oak. It's often referred to as the 'Biella Savannah' due to its unique landscape and is a site of community interest.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Massazza?
Visitors appreciate the unique natural beauty, such as the 'lunar appearance' of the Bessa Reserve and the serene atmosphere of Lake Bertignano. The historical significance of sites like the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site and the well-preserved medieval charm of the Ricetto of Candelo are also highly valued.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are several circular routes. For instance, you can find the 'Silent Park – Baraggia Heathland loop' (9.6 km, moderate) and the 'Baraggia di Candelo – Baraggia Heathland loop' (3.7 km, easy) starting from the Riserva naturale delle Baragge. More options are available in the Hiking around Massazza guide.
What kind of natural water bodies can I visit near Massazza?
You can visit Lake Bertignano, a beautiful lake formed by glacial retreat. The Footbridge over the Elvo River also offers views of the Elvo stream.
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