Sgambassà

Sgambassà: The May Day Ritual of Canale

In Canale, a town in the Roero region of Cuneo province, May Day is not celebrated in the town square, but on the trails. The Sgambassà is a non-competitive walk that has been drawing hundreds of people to the hills and vineyards of Roero for over forty years. The name itself, in the local Piedmontese dialect, evokes the idea of a refreshing stroll in the open air: no rankings, no stopwatches, just the joy of walking together through the nature that surrounds the village.

A twelve-kilometre route through vineyards and hamlets

The route spans approximately twelve kilometres, with a maximum completion time of two and a half hours. Starting from the Polisportiva on Viale del Pesco, the path follows the cycle track towards Valpone, passing through the localities of San Defendente, San Grato, Valdoisa, Rabini, and Castelvecchio before returning to the town centre. A refreshment point is provided in Valdoisa to recharge before the final stretch. It is an accessible itinerary, perfect for families, groups of friends, and walkers of all ages.

A community tradition

Organised by the Pro Loco of Canale, often in collaboration with local sports groups, the Sgambassà has become one of the most deeply rooted events in the town's life, regularly attracting hundreds of participants. The day is made even more special by small, fun awards: baskets of local products for the largest groups, and special honours for the oldest male and female walkers, as well as the youngest participant. It is a simple, genuine formula that turns the walk into a true community celebration.

Canale and the Roero region

The Sgambassà is also a wonderful way to discover the area. Canale is the main hub of the northern Roero, a land of hills, vineyards, and fine wines in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont. Walking through its hamlets means traversing a well-tended agricultural landscape of vine rows, woods, and farmhouses, just a stone's throw from the more famous Langhe region. The event is part of a rich spring calendar that the community of Canale embraces with great enthusiasm.