LA VALLE MAIRA (CUNEO) - Magnificent in Winters; breathtaking in Summer
Conca di Morinesio
Valle Maira, one of Italy's Occitan/Provencal valleys, is located right in the heart of the Southern Cozie Alps: a delightfully picturesque unspoilt area which will amaze you with the beauty of its countryside.
In the height of Spring, in Autumn and above all in Summer there is nothing better than enjoying one of the many hikes which the area offers; whether you prefer low-altitude strolls, or high altitude treks, there is an infinite range of paths to suit walkers of all levels, many of which are also suited for horse riding and mountain biking; all routes are marked and have equipped rest areas; they vary from 30 minute strolls to 10 day hikes. Nature is totally intact and the area has fascinating history and rich cultural traditions.
La chiesa di S.Pietro
Winter and early Spring offer marvellous opportunities for trekking with skis and snow shoes and cross-country skiing. The range of ski routes is endless. The valley, one of the most beautiful, unspoilt Alpine areas is ideal for visitors who love nature, art, culture and local traditions. This really is trekking country.
An enormous range of natural environments: glacial erosion with its typical “Ciciu del Villar” formations, verdant woods in the heart of the Valley, endless high-altitude meadows. Unusual flora with rare species and many different types of plants found nowhere else.
A network of marked paths bearing witness to vernacular alpine architecture and immensely important religious monuments with mediaeval frescos.
Santa Maria di Morinesio
The Occitan /Provencal dialect, an ancient language of troubadours, has survived over the centuries and is spoken in Italy, France and Spain.
Once there was plenty of trade and constant cultural exchange between Valle Maira and surrounding areas, but more recently, these contacts have become steadily rarer. One positive result of this isolation has been to preserve the environmental and cultural heritage.
Morinesio
More: www.vallemaira.cn.it
