The terraces on the slopes, which usually characterise mountainous agricultural areas, particularly seen in Alpine territory, have megalithic structures in some areas of Ossola Valley dating back to the time of primordial colonisation. They are found at between 400 and 800 metres (1312-2624 ft) above sea level and are particularly common in Montecrestese, but only in Villadossola – in the area between Sogno and Varchignoli – the phenomenon seems to be quite important. This route was enhanced by the Villarte association and inaugurated in 1999 with a local promotion and protection project.
Description
Upon arrival in Boschetto, climb to Casa dei Conti, visiting the village among the old houses before heading up to Rive di Lazzaro. The first site you find is the huge drainage channel in Seul, then you find the exedra niche to deviate on the banks that lead to the Rive di Lazzaro. Follow a flat terrace as far as the Veia Rota house, on the mule track that leads to Varchignoli. Arriving at Varchignoli, at the beginning of the village go up through the houses to the car park above where you’ll find the site of the “camera a cista”. Follow the mule track westward and then head to the terraces of “Valin bianc”. From the monumental exedra room, begin your descent, via the megalithic stairs, until you meet the mule track to Varchignoli and from here descend along the Strada Antronesca, the ancient road in the direction of the Boschetto, which you reach by passing through the upper part of the town.
Useful info
Italian Alpine Club (CAI) site identification code
Sector A “Routes” – IA04
Useful info
Domodossola FS International Railway Station (from Bern and Milan).
Take the bus to the Antrona Valley and get off in Boschetto.
Contact details: Municipality of Villadossola
CAI contact details: Villadossola Section
Difficulty
Although the route is not difficult, you’ll need to be a bit careful when coming down the terrace steps.
Lenght
3,5 km
Ascent
134 m
Total duration
1 hr 05 min
Recommended equipment
Walking boots
Signage
A01
Reference map(s)
Map no. 7 scale 1:25,000 of the Geo4Map/CAI
Digital maps on the following apps: ViewRanger – Avenza Maps
28845 Domodossola (VB) See map