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Italy
Piedmont
Biella

Vigliano Biellese

Attractions and Places To See around Vigliano Biellese - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Vigliano Biellese include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites within the Piedmont region of Italy. Situated on the banks of the Cervo stream and extending into the eastern Biellese hills, the area features both industrial heritage and picturesque landscapes with vineyards. Visitors can explore ancient fortifications, unique geological formations, and protected natural areas. The region offers diverse points of interest for those seeking to discover its history and natural beauty.

Best attractions and places to see around Vigliano Biellese

  • The most popular attractions is Ricetto of Candelo, a historical site that is a well-preserved medieval fortified village. This citadel was historically used to store goods and provide refuge, and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
  • Another must-see spot is Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, a natural monument. This protected area features an extensive plateau of clayey soil with large clearings, heather, and sparse forests of birch and oak. It is characterized by its distinctive "brughiera" (heathland) landscape.
  • Visitors also love Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana, a bridge that crosses the Elvo stream. This footbridge connects Borriana to the Bessa Reserve, providing an easy route for pedestrians and cyclists to access the area's trails.
  • Vigliano Biellese is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and unique man-made structures. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient gold mining sites to industrial heritage complexes.
  • The attractions around Vigliano Biellese are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 120 upvotes and 39 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 21, 2026

Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site

Highlight • Natural Monument

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: atl.biella.it/localita-dettaglio/-/d/riserva-speciale-della-bes-1

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The footbridge crosses the Elvo stream and from Borriana connects the "bessa". At the exit of the path, turn left towards Vermogno and right towards Mongrando. Easy route.

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Ricetto of Candelo

Highlight • Historical Site

Fortified structure from the Middle Ages, the Ricetto di Candelo is a sort of citadel in which the local lord accumulated goods and wealth. It is also notable for its excellent state of conservation.

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A protected natural area, the Baragge are located on an extensive plateau of clayey soil, completely uninhabited and characterized by large clearings often covered with heather, and sparse forests of birch and oak.

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Having remained in operation for about fifty years, the old tramway that connected Biella and Oropa has been supplanted by a bus service. It was inaugurated on 4 July 1911 and the last race took place on 29 March 1958. Today it is wonderful to ride it on a mountain bike and this passage is one of the most fascinating.

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Popular around Vigliano Biellese

Hiking around Vigliano Biellese

Road Cycling Routes around Vigliano Biellese

MTB Trails around Vigliano Biellese

Cycling around Vigliano Biellese

Running Trails around Vigliano Biellese

Gravel biking around Vigliano Biellese

Tips from the Community

Fabrizio Garofolo
April 5, 2026, Ponte a tre archi sulla dismessa tramvia Biella-Oropa

The Ponte dei Tre Archi in the La Vecchia locality in Biella (Piedmont, Italy) is a historic stone structure located along the ancient route of the Tranvia Biella‑Oropa — the former tramway line that connected Biella to the Sanctuary of Oropa between 1911 and 1958.

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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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VERY LONG AND CHALLENGING TOUR.....THEN WHAT A THRILLING TO ARRIVE AT THE SANCTUARY OF OROPA DA ANDRATE AFTER HAVING DROVE THE ENTIRE ROUTE

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Suggestive bridge where the ancient Biella Oropa tramway passed. The state road below is clearly visible

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~ Luca ~
November 14, 2023, Ricetto di Candelo

Small village of medieval origins particularly appreciable for its excellent state of conservation and local activities/events

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From the arched bridge, if you are going up towards Oropa, you can see the remains of the old early 1900s thermal plant called Oropa Bagni high up in the woods

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore around Vigliano Biellese?

The region offers several unique natural sites. You can visit the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, known for its extensive plateau of clayey soil and distinctive heathland landscape. Another fascinating spot is the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, a nature reserve with a unique, almost lunar appearance due to ancient gold mining activities. Additionally, the Rive Rosse, characterized by reddish-orange rocks from ancient lava flows, offers a striking 'Martian' landscape.

What historical sites are worth visiting near Vigliano Biellese?

The area is rich in history. The Ricetto of Candelo is a well-preserved medieval fortified village, historically used to store goods and provide refuge. You can also find historical residences like Castello di Montecavallo, Villa La Malpenga, and Villa Era, which showcase different architectural styles and historical periods.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Vigliano Biellese area?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Ricetto of Candelo is a great place for families to explore medieval history. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site and the Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana, offer opportunities for easy walks and exploring nature, which can be enjoyable for all ages.

What outdoor activities are available around Vigliano Biellese?

The region provides diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, road cycling, and gravel biking. For example, there are running trails like the 'Little Climb Under the Hill loop' and road cycling routes such as the 'Castello di Verrone – Candelo Baraggia loop'. For more details, explore the Running Trails around Vigliano Biellese, Road Cycling Routes around Vigliano Biellese, and Gravel biking around Vigliano Biellese guides.

Are there good hiking or walking paths near these attractions?

Yes, the area offers several walking opportunities. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is approximately 8 kilometers long and features paths through its unique landscape. The Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana, connects to trails within the Bessa Reserve, providing an easy route for pedestrians. The Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve also has paths through its heathland and sparse forests. You can find more detailed routes in the Running Trails around Vigliano Biellese guide, which includes walking-friendly options.

What unique landscapes can I expect to see in the Vigliano Biellese area?

Vigliano Biellese boasts several unique landscapes. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site features a 'lunar' appearance with large mounds of stones from ancient gold mining. The Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve is known for its distinctive 'brughiera' (heathland) landscape. Additionally, the Rive Rosse presents an almost 'Martian' appearance with its reddish-orange rocks formed from ancient lava flows.

Can I explore the industrial heritage of Vigliano Biellese?

Yes, the region has a notable industrial past. The Pettinatura Italiana Industrial Complex and Workers' Village is a significant example of industrial archaeology from the early 20th century. You can also see the Three-arch bridge on the disused Biella-Oropa tramway, which was part of a tram line that operated for about fifty years and is now a popular route for mountain biking.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Vigliano Biellese?

Visitors frequently appreciate the historical significance and preservation of sites like the Ricetto of Candelo, often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The unique natural beauty of the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site and the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve also receive high praise for their distinct landscapes and opportunities for exploration.

When is the best time to visit Vigliano Biellese attractions?

The best time to visit Vigliano Biellese attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with vibrant natural colors. Summer is also suitable, especially for exploring natural reserves, though it can be warmer. Some historical sites may have specific opening hours that vary by season, so it's advisable to check in advance.

Are there any castles or villas to visit in the area?

Yes, Vigliano Biellese and its surroundings feature several notable castles and villas. Castello di Montecavallo, built between the 18th and 19th centuries, now functions as a winery. Villa La Malpenga, with origins dating back to the 16th century, dominates the town from a hilltop. Villa Era, an elegant neo-classical villa from the late 19th century, is nestled in the rolling hills and boasts an extensive vineyard.

What are some of the most popular trails for cycling around Vigliano Biellese?

For road cycling, popular routes include the 'Parish of Ponzone – Valdengo Castle loop' and the 'Castello di Verrone – Candelo Baraggia loop'. Gravel biking enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Ricetto di Magnano – Oropa Sanctuary loop' or the 'Cervo Badlands – Cervo Stream Badlands loop'. You can find more options and details in the Road Cycling Routes around Vigliano Biellese and Gravel biking around Vigliano Biellese guides.

Are there any unique bridges or structures to see?

Yes, the Three-arch bridge on the disused Biella-Oropa tramway is a suggestive historical structure. It was once part of a tramway connecting Biella and Oropa and is now a popular spot for mountain biking. Additionally, the Footbridge over the Elvo River, Borriana, provides access to the Bessa Reserve and is a pleasant crossing point.

Most popular routes around Vigliano Biellese

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Most popular attractions around Vigliano Biellese

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