Parks and nature reserves Country of Turin

Extended on the southern slope of the Susa Valley at an altitude ranging from 1,000 to 2,600 meters, the Park includes the areas of Chiomonte, Exilles, Oulx, Salbertrand and Sauze d'Oulx. Its purpose is to protect 700 hectares of mixed wood of white fir and spruce, unique in Piedmont. In the past, these forests have been exploited to obtain large beams used in civil and military engineering works, such as the Arsenal of Turin, the Basilica of Superga and the Venaria Reale. In addition, the wide variety of environments provides an ideal habitat for many animals: from birds of prey to mammals such as wild boar, deer and suede. Wolves have also returned in the park, frequent sightings since 1997.

The Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park covers over 11,000 hectares over a large mountainous area that includes part of the upper Val Sangone and part of the ridge that separates the Susa Valley from Val Chisone, beyond to the special nature reserves of the horrids of Foresto and Chianocco. The landscape is characterized by numerous glacial lakes, slopes and ravines carved by water. In the Park it is possible to observe mammals typical of the Alpine habitat, such as chamois, deer and roe deer. Bird lovers will certainly not be disappointed by a visit: there are more than a hundred species. But the Orsiera Park does not only offer wildlife and beautiful landscapes: there are also numerous archaeological traces of the human presence dating back to the Neolithic period. Unlike many other mountain areas in Piedmont, much of this area has remained off the beaten path of mass tourism and still has an almost unspoiled natural habitat, where activity of man is limited to agriculture, forestry and livestock breeding.

Nestled among the morainic hills and the mouth of the Valle di Susa, it is characterized by three biotypes: the two lakes (Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo), the hills formed during the last ice ages and the swamp of Mareschi. The lakes, where numerous species of fish live, are a favorite destination for birdwatchers. Self-guided activities or along the trails along the trails are supported by an information center, a fishing ecomuseum, maps also available at the Tourist Information Center (+39) 0119311873 - ufficioiat@turismoavigliana.it). Don't forget: Lake Grande is an ideal destination for practicing numerous water sports, such as canoeing, sailing, water skiing. During the summer it is possible to choose one of these activities or simply swim in its clear waters by accessing from one of the beaches indicated on the maps.