Best natural monuments around Palazzo Canavese are primarily found within the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater, a vast glacial landform. This region, shaped by the ancient Balteo glacier, features morainic hills, glacial lakes, and erratic boulders. It offers a unique landscape for exploring geological formations and diverse ecosystems. The area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its distinct natural features.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Must do, at least once, interesting place.
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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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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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The oasis they built with a wooden construction overlooking the lake is very pleasant
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In Lake Viverone, the remains of around 5000 poles driven into the ground which supported the structures of a very ancient large pile-dwelling village dating back to the Bronze Age have been extraordinarily preserved. The site has an important archaeological value, artefacts such as swords, axes, pins and ornaments have been discovered, which have allowed us to reconstruct the life of a Bronze Age community. The site is now a World Heritage Site.
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Small and quiet lake where you can take 4 steps
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The landscape around Palazzo Canavese is primarily defined by the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater (AMI), a vast geological formation created by the ancient Balteo glacier. This area features distinctive morainic hills, numerous glacial lakes, and scattered erratic boulders, all testaments to its glacial past.
The region boasts several significant glacial lakes. Among them are the Five Lakes of Ivrea, including Lago Sirio, Lago Pistono, Lago Nero, Lago San Michele, and Lago Campagna. Additionally, the nearby Lago di Candia Natural Park is a protected wetland known for its rich biodiversity.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses offers picturesque views and an archaeological park with a reconstruction of a 7,000-year-old village. The Dancing Lands provides a unique and fun walking experience on elastic ground. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is also family-friendly, combining natural beauty with historical intrigue.
Beyond the morainic hills and glacial lakes, you can observe glacial erratic boulders scattered throughout the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater. These are large rocks transported by the ancient glacier, differing from the local bedrock, and serve as powerful reminders of the glacier's immense force. The 'Terre Ballerine' (Dancing Lands) near Lago Sirio, a former peat bog with elastic ground, is another unique natural phenomenon.
The region uniquely blends natural and historical elements. At Lake Pistono, you'll find an archaeological park with a full-scale reconstruction of a 7,000-year-old village. The Pile-dwelling Village at Lake Viverone is a UNESCO World Heritage site preserving Bronze Age remains. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site showcases ancient Roman gold mining operations within a nature reserve.
Yes, the area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking routes, such as the 'Path of Saint Charles: Magnano Loop' or the 'Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater High Route: Stage 1A Loop'. For running, options like the 'From Broglina to Ciucarun in the Serra di Ivrea – loop run' are available. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Lake Viverone and Naviglio di Ivrea Loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, running guide, and cycling guide for Palazzo Canavese.
The Lago di Candia Natural Park is one of Piedmont's most valuable wetlands, encompassing a glacial lake basin, marshlands, and the 'Paludetta'. It's a haven for over 400 plant species and a crucial stopping point for nearly 200 bird species, including rare ones like the Eurasian bittern. It offers exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and tranquil nature walks, with guided electric boat tours available.
Komoot users appreciate the unique geological features and the blend of nature with history. They particularly enjoy the elastic ground of The Dancing Lands, describing it as an impressive and unique walking experience. The picturesque views of Montalto Dora Castle from Lake Pistono and the tranquility of Lake Viverone are also highly rated, with many photos shared showcasing the area's beauty.
Yes, Lake Pistono offers a circuit path that winds through vineyards and chestnut woods, providing picturesque views of Montalto Dora Castle. This path is generally considered accessible and enjoyable for a leisurely walk.
The Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater and its natural monuments are beautiful throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring, with vibrant foliage or blooming flora. Summer is ideal for enjoying the glacial lakes, particularly Lago Sirio, which is suitable for swimming. Even winter can be picturesque, with a different kind of serene beauty, though some paths might be less accessible.
Many natural areas and trails within the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater are generally dog-friendly, especially those around the glacial lakes and morainic hills. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone. Specific regulations might apply in protected areas like the Lago di Candia Natural Park, so check local signage.
Yes, the morainic hills within the Ivrea Morainic Amphitheater offer striking panoramic views, especially those overlooking the glacial lakes. For instance, the circuit around Lago Campagna provides splendid views of San Giuseppe Castle, the Mombarone, the Serra, and Chiaverano. Many trails around the lakes, such as Lake Pistono, also feature excellent viewpoints.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Palazzo Canavese: