Attractions and Places To See around Andrate - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Andrate include a variety of natural and cultural sites in Piedmont, Italy. This mountain municipality is situated on the upper terrace of the Serra Morenica of Ivrea, offering panoramic views over the Canavese plain. The area features glacial forms, forests, and high-altitude pastureland, with the municipal territory rising towards the slopes of Mombarone. Andrate's historic village retains its original imprint, complementing the region's diverse landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Andrate
…Last updated: September 26, 2026
Oropa Sanctuary
Highlight • Religious Site
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Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses
Highlight • Lake
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The Dancing Lands
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Ivrea Historic Centre and the Dora Baltea Riverside
Highlight • Historical Site
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Paerno Bell Tower (Ciucarun)
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
The Santuario di Oropa is one of the most important Marian places of worship in Piedmont, Italy, located at about 1,159 m above sea level on the mountainside of the Valle d’Oropa, just above Biella. It is famous for its religious history, imposing architecture, and the surrounding natural landscape.
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It is a unique place of its kind. In a rather small and circumscribed area 2 steps from the Montalto lake (also called "Rabbit" lake) there is an area with a very dark soil composed of water, peat, earth and medium-sized trees. Especially when the ground is wet or it has rained previously if you jump on the surface, it moves creating small waves making the surrounding trees dance. A real show! You can reach the dancing lands from 2 different dirt tracks. For those with good technical skills the entry or exit paths in both directions are also fun to pedal.
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Regardless of whether you reach the Serra di Ivrea or not, even wandering around these lakes, taking advantage of the good signage present, pays off! There is a nice variety of environments and paths, from single track to dirt road, ending on cobblestone sections, never too banal, especially in the wet... the lake environments are beautiful, given that most of these lakes are not very urbanized, the stilt houses rebuilt on the shore of Lake Pistono are very beautiful, they certainly deserve a stop. Places also suitable for children, given that in the lake area the differences in altitude are very modest... just watch out for hikers, because the paths are open to everyone!
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Passage made during Erratico Gravel
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In this beautiful peat bog in Montaldo Dora there is a very particular natural phenomenon, which gives the place its name. The Terre Ballerine are in fact called this way because of the particular consistency of the ground, which makes those who walk on it feel like they are walking on a mattress.
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Ivrea, the cradle of the Olivetti company and its famous typewriters, is located on the right bank of the Dora Baltea, west of the Serra di Ivrea, the largest moraine wall in Europe. The silhouette of a 14th century castle rises above the city. In the upper town there is also the originally Romanesque Duomo, which was renovated in the 19th century. On the other bank of the Dora, near Via Jervis, the old Olivetti factories have been converted into Musea dell'Architecture Moderna.
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Marian sanctuary built according to tradition in the 4th century, Oropa contains an important statue of the Black Madonna and in 1957 Pope Pius XII elevated it to a minor basilica. The climb that leads to the sanctuary was made famous by Marco Pantani's feat, perhaps the most memorable of all: in the 1999 Giro he won here with an epic comeback.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Andrate?
Andrate is rich in natural beauty. You can experience the unique phenomenon of The Dancing Lands, a peat bog where the ground has an elastic, bouncy feel. The region is also known for its morainic landscape, including the Serra di Ivrea, offering panoramic views. Don't miss Lake Pistono, which provides splendid views and is part of the moraine lakes visible from Andrate's vantage points.
Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting near Andrate?
Absolutely. The most prominent is the Oropa Sanctuary, the largest Marian sanctuary in the Alps and a significant historical and religious site dedicated to the Black Madonna. You can also explore the Ivrea Historic Centre, known for its 14th-century castle, Romanesque Duomo, and former Olivetti factories. Additionally, the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses at Lake Pistono offers a full-scale reconstruction of an ancient village from 6500 years ago.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Andrate?
The area around Andrate is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes along the Serra ridge offering sweeping views. The municipal territory rises towards Mombarone, featuring forests and high-altitude pastureland ideal for exploration. For specific routes, consider exploring the hiking trails around Andrate, which include options like the 'Andrate and Croce Serra via Alta Via Morenica Loop' and the 'Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater High Route'.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Andrate area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Dancing Lands offer a fun and unique experience for all ages with its bouncy ground. Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses combine natural beauty with an educational historical reconstruction. The Oropa Sanctuary is also considered family-friendly, offering a cultural experience in a beautiful setting.
Where can I find good hiking trails around Andrate?
Andrate is surrounded by excellent hiking opportunities. The Serra di Ivrea and the slopes of Mombarone provide diverse terrain. You can find trails ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater High Route: Stage 1' or the more challenging 'Colma di Mombarone Trail from San Giacomo'. For a comprehensive list and details, check out the hiking guide for Andrate.
What is the best season to visit Andrate for outdoor activities?
Andrate is enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural features like the Serra di Ivrea and Mombarone. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and higher altitude pastures. While winter can bring snow, some trails may still be accessible for winter hikes, offering a different, serene experience of the landscape.
Are there any unique natural phenomena to see in the region?
Yes, the most notable unique natural phenomenon is The Dancing Lands (Terre Ballerine) near Montaldo Dora. This peat bog creates an unusual sensation where the ground feels elastic and bouncy when walked upon, due to its composition of peat resting on water. It's a truly memorable experience.
Can I find mountain biking or gravel biking routes near Andrate?
Yes, the varied terrain around Andrate is suitable for both mountain biking and gravel biking. You can find routes that traverse the forests of the Serra and explore the wider Canavese area. For specific gravel biking tours, you can refer to the gravel biking guide for Andrate, which includes routes like the 'Oropa Sanctuary loop from Chiaverano' and 'The Dancing Lands – Black Lake loop from Tavagnasco'.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' around Andrate?
Beyond the main highlights, Andrate's historic village itself retains a charming, original imprint with leaning houses and narrow streets. The ancient alpine pastures (Alpeggi) offer a glimpse into the historical land use. For a unique historical landmark, visit the Paerno Bell Tower (Ciucarun), an evocative solitary bell tower that is the only remaining testimony of the village of Paerno.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Andrate?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views over the Canavese plain and the Ivrea morainic amphitheater, especially from viewpoints like Croceserra. The unique experience of The Dancing Lands is often highlighted as impressive and worth trying. Many also appreciate the historical and spiritual significance of the Oropa Sanctuary and the serene beauty of Lake Pistono.
Are there running trails available in the Andrate area?
Yes, the diverse landscape around Andrate also offers opportunities for running. You can find various running trails that take you through scenic areas. Examples include the 'SICAI Cycle Route' and 'Il Lago Nero da Bienca – loop run in the Riserva Laghi di Ivrea'. For more options and detailed routes, consult the running trails guide for Andrate.
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