Sentiero dei Sarvanot

The Sentiero dei Sarvanot winds around Sampeyre like an ancient story that comes to life with every step. This captivating loop trail, taking around five hours to complete, leads walkers deep into the heart of the Val Varaita, where chestnut and beech forests open onto sweeping views of the Cottian Alps. The trail takes its name from the Sarvanot, the mischievous woodland spirits of Piedmontese Occitan folklore, mysterious creatures said to inhabit the forests and streams of these mountain valleys. Walking here means moving between nature and living memory, sensing the deep bond that ties alpine communities to their landscape. In spring, the forest floor bursts with violets and wood anemones, while summer brings aromatic highland herbs and birdsong at every rest stop. Autumn transforms the trail into a stunning palette of reds and ochres, making it especially evocative during that season. Rated E by the CAI difficulty scale and designed as a loop, the route is well suited to families with children accustomed to hiking, as well as cultural trekking enthusiasts looking for an experience that goes beyond the scenery. Dogs are welcome, making it a rewarding outing for the whole family.