フォンタイネモレの天然記念物・トップ20

At 2020 meters, Lake Barma (or Balma) is a lake of glacial origin sunken between the Gragliasca peak, Lei Long and Balma d’Oropa on the left, Mont Mars and Monte Rosso on the right, and the Balma d’Oropa hill in front. With 31,320 square meters of extension, it is the largest lake included in the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. On its shores, from the second half of June, rhododendrons, mountain lilies, round cotton grasses, mountain arnica and wild orchids bloom.

The climb is very tough but once you get to the top the sanctuary is beautiful.

Oropa is an important Catholic pilgrimage site in the Piedmont Alps, about 12 kilometers northwest of Biella, Italy. It lies in a picturesque valley at an altitude of approximately 1,159 meters. In brief: * Pilgrimage site: One of the most important Marian pilgrimage sites in the Alps, dedicated to the Black Madonna. * History: According to tradition, the pilgrimage dates back to Saint Eusebius in the 4th century. * Sacro Monte: The Holy Mountain of Oropa, with 12 chapels depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. * Basilicas: Consists of the old basilica (17th century), where the Black Madonna is venerated, and the newer, larger Basilica Superior (20th century). * Nature and activities: Surrounded by mountains, it offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. There is also a botanical garden and an adventure park. * UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized along with eight other "Sacri Monti" in the region for its religious, cultural, and scenic significance. Oropa is a place of spiritual significance, impressive architecture, and natural beauty, attracting many pilgrims and visitors annually.

The climb to the Sanctuary of Oropa from Biella is a Piedmont classic. It is about 13 km intense and constant, which do not allow respite with always challenging slopes. The iconic and hardest stretch is the last kilometer on the scenic pavé, made legendary by Pantani's feat in the Giro '99.

waterfalls of the Oropa stream on the path to Mucrone

Between the sanctuary of Oropa and the Rosazza refuge, at this point you can see a small but pretty waterfall of the Oropa stream. The water flows between several boulders to create a truly remarkable play of colors and reflections.

Convenient road from the sanctuary, beautiful to look at and cool to rinse off

This beautiful lake is located at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. From its banks Punta Leretta, Punta Figlieu, Mount Mars, Mount Rosso, the Lei Long and Gragliasca peaks and Mount Pietra Bianca are visible. It's a nice place to take a break on your mountain run with a breathtaking view. The paths in this area are mostly free of technical difficulties and easy to follow while running.