Walks Under the Stars - Silvano Loop (CAI)

A night walk through the hills of the Ovadese

The Silvano Loop is one of the most beloved stages of the "Walks Under the Stars" series, the summer initiative through which CAI Ovada (Italian Alpine Club, Ovada section) guides hikers and enthusiasts to discover the trails of the Ovadese area at sunset. The event takes place in Silvano d'Orba, a small hillside village in the Province of Alessandria, in southern Piedmont, just a few kilometers from the border with the Monferrato and the Ligurian Apennines.

The loop trail

The meeting point is at the Parish Church of Silvano d'Orba. From here, the group sets off along a loop that climbs from the upper part of the historic center, in the Merli area, toward the ridge overlooking the town. The path crosses stretches of woodland until reaching the San Pancrazio pass, with its small sanctuary, then continues along the dirt road of the Costa before descending toward the Pieve area. The return journey follows a flat, tree-lined path, now under the light of the stars.

This is a route classified as E (hiking) difficulty, pleasant and accessible to everyone, designed even for those who do not regularly hike in the mountains.

What to bring

• Hiking shoes with lugged soles
• Headlamp or flashlight for the return in the dark
• Clothing suitable for an evening walk in the hills

An event for everyone

Participation is open to everyone, both CAI members and non-members, and has always attracted a large crowd of trekking enthusiasts. At the end of the walk, local associations often offer light refreshments, providing a convivial way to end the evening in good company. In case of bad weather, the outing is canceled and will not be rescheduled.

Silvano d'Orba and the Ovadese

Nestled among the vineyards and woods of the Alto Monferrato, Silvano d'Orba preserves the charm of Piedmontese hillside villages, with medieval glimpses and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. Over the years, the "Walks Under the Stars" have become a precious way to rediscover these minor trails and the deep bond between the local communities and their territory.