Le erbe di Bellino — Guided Hike

A hike through the wild herbs of the upper Valle Varaita

Le erbe di Bellino is a guided nature hike offered by the Monviso Park in the territory of Bellino, a small mountain village in the upper Valle Varaita, in the Province of Cuneo, in the heart of Piedmont. The initiative takes participants on a journey to discover the wild herbs that grow in the Bellino valley, one of the most evocative and best-preserved environments in the region.

Botany, traditions, and phytoalimurgy

Along an easy route designed for adults, the walk delves into the identification of the main local plant species, their traditional uses for medicinal and culinary purposes, and the environmental characteristics of the surrounding territory. It is an invitation to observe the mountains with fresh eyes, learning to distinguish edible plants from medicinal ones and understanding the ancient bond between Alpine communities and wild flora.

The guide

The excursion is led by Ennio Belzuino, an expert in phytoalimurgy, an environmental hiking guide, and an eco-actor for the Monviso UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Phytoalimurgy is the discipline that studies the culinary use of wild plants and focuses on identifying, classifying, and promoting the edible plant species found in nature.

Organizers

The outing is organized by the Itur cooperative, which is responsible for the nature education activities and hiking programs promoted by the Monviso Park. The event is part of a calendar of initiatives through which the organization promotes the biodiversity and natural heritage of the Monviso protected area, at the foot of the massif that gives the park its name.

An experience to rediscover the Piedmontese mountains

Bellino, with its ancient hamlets scattered along the valley, represents an ideal setting for a slow and conscious tourism experience. Participating in Le erbe di Bellino means combining outdoor activity with local knowledge in one of the most authentic Occitan valleys in Piedmont. At the end of the walk, there is an option to have lunch nearby, upon request to the organizers.