Attractions and Places To See around Benna - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Benna include a diverse landscape shaped by ancient geological forces and historical human activity. The region features natural monuments like lakes and nature reserves, alongside significant archaeological and historical sites. Located near the Elvo stream and the Serra moraine, the area offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is characterized by varied terrain, including plateaus and areas modified by ancient gold mining.
Best attractions and places to see around Benna
…Last updated: July 2, 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 types of attractions can I find around Benna?
Around Benna, you'll discover a mix of historical sites, natural monuments, and trails. The area is characterized by ancient gold mining sites, serene lakes, and protected nature reserves, offering both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Are there any significant historical sites near Benna?
Yes, a prominent historical site is the Ricetto of Candelo, a well-preserved medieval fortified structure. Another significant historical area is the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, which was one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the ancient world, operated by the Ictimuli under Roman influence.
What natural areas or reserves can I explore around Benna?
You can explore the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, known for its extensive plateau, unique gully morphologies, and sparse forests. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is also a nature reserve, featuring a distinctive landscape shaped by ancient mining activities.
Are there any lakes or viewpoints worth visiting near Benna?
Yes, Lake Bertignano is a beautiful lake formed by the retreat of the Balteo glacier, offering scenic views. Additionally, the Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana provides a pleasant viewpoint over the Elvo stream and connects to the paths of the Bessa Reserve.
What outdoor activities can I do near Benna?
The area around Benna is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various routes for cycling, mountain biking, and running. For more details, explore the Cycling around Benna, MTB Trails around Benna, and Running Trails around Benna guides.
Are there hiking or running trails available near Benna?
Yes, there are numerous trails. The Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana connects to paths within the Bessa Reserve, offering easy routes for exploration. For dedicated running trails, you can find options like the 'Baraggia di Candelo – Ricetto of Candelo loop' or shorter loops directly from Benna. Check the Running Trails around Benna guide for more.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking around Benna?
Absolutely. The region offers a variety of cycling and mountain biking routes. You can find challenging routes like the 'View of Torrazzo – Ricetto di Magnano loop' for road cycling or the 'Baraggia di Candelo MTB Circuit' for mountain biking. Refer to the Cycling around Benna and MTB Trails around Benna guides for detailed routes.
Are the attractions around Benna family-friendly?
Many attractions are suitable for families. The Ricetto of Candelo is a fascinating historical site for all ages, and the Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana offers an easy, family-friendly route. Natural areas like Lake Bertignano also provide pleasant settings for family outings.
What do visitors enjoy the most about the attractions near Benna?
Visitors appreciate the excellent state of conservation of historical sites like the Ricetto of Candelo, often calling it one of Italy's most beautiful places. The unique, almost 'lunar' landscape of the Bessa Nature Reserve and its ancient gold mining history also captivate many.
Is there public transport to reach attractions around Benna?
While specific public transport details for each highlight are not extensively documented, the region is generally accessible. It's advisable to check local transport options or consider personal transport for flexibility when visiting the various sites spread across the area.
What is the best time to visit Benna for outdoor activities?
The region's climate is generally temperate. Spring and autumn typically offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and running, avoiding the peak heat of summer or colder winter conditions.
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