Do marmots live in Italy? Here They Are Not Afraid of People

An indescribable beauty of a place where the mountains are higher than 2000 meters above sea level and where you feel renewed in nature, animals that know they are not threatened by a man. 

Serrù Lake, Agnel Lake, Colle di Nivolet... This is now a place that I visit every June: a unique place where you can meet lots of marmots and also a large herd of ibex.

I leave the car near Lake Serrù and take a nice walk. This time I decided to explore the Ancient Military Road. Honestly, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to make it after the winter, but in the end, I did 9 km with significant altitude differences: the parking lot is at 2250 meters above sea level, the highest part I reached 2350, then I went down to 2070 and returned to the parking lot.

I often have breathing problems when walking at heights above 1500m asl, but yesterday I felt so good - I have to say that the height was not felt at all. I mean that if you are afraid of feeling bad in the high mountains (it happens with many) maybe you should choose a different season. For example June and not July or August.

Serrù Lake, Agnel Lake, Colle di Nivolet... This is now a place that I visit every June: a unique place where you can meet lots of marmots and also a large herd of ibex. I leave the car near Lake Serrù and take a nice walk. This time I decided to explore the Ancient Military Road. Honestly, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to make it after the winter, but in the end, I did 9 km with significant altitude differences: the parking lot is at 2250 meters above sea level, the highest part I reached 2350, then I went down to 2070 and returned to the parking lot.

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We Visited The Highest Library in Europe

In Val Maira it seems that time has stopped. One of the interesting places to visit is the highest library in Europe.

The highest library in Europe I want to tell you about is situated in Marmora (CN), in Val Maira. It is located at an altitude of 1,580 meters and was established by Father Sergio De Piccoli, a Benedictine monk with three degrees. This incredible library is housed in the spacious Marmora rectory, which is renowned for its extensive collection of books.

Life in the mountains seems to have not changed much over the centuries and the visit to this humble library remains in our hearts: we enter an inhabited room with a bed, a kitchen, and a table - all in one - and then we descend into a series of rooms completely filled with books. Even rare. Whole necklaces, some of which do not exist more in other places. Imagine, there are more than 75000 books there! They are everywhere! =>>>

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Control Trail Conditions When You Plan Hiking in Piedmont and Aosta Valley, Italy

Hiking in Piedmont, Italy offers a unique experience with its well-preserved soil and solid surfaces. The trails are well-drained, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable hike for visitors. The CAI (Italian Alpine Club) and other associations and volunteers do a great job maintaining the paths, mule roads, and other trails for nature and sports enthusiasts. They ask only that visitors use these designated pathways to preserve both wildlife and pastures. Please refrain from trampling off the beaten track or destroying the original soil.

Why Hiking Is An Ideal Cardio Workout?

Hiking is a relaxed walk along a trail for fun purposes and can vary in difficulty and distance. It provides a few hours of activity, engages all the muscles of the body, boosts the metabolism.

My main problem is that I don't enjoy any type of physical exercise. I have tried everything to persuade myself to engage in sports. Without any success.

At one point, I even purchased a one-year membership to a gym that also included a spa. I reasoned that I wouldn't be able to resist such a delightful incentive and would go there regularly. I didn't want to feel guilty about the money I had spent. Unfortunately, things didn't pan out as I had hoped. I wasn't feeling well for a couple of months, and then I simply lost interest. Ultimately, I stopped going altogether.

In this article, I aim to delve into why physical exercise is crucial for our bodies. What are the benefits? Hopefully, it will convince you and me to become more active, including practicing hiking regularly, too.

• The ideal cardio workout depends on your fitness level and goals. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

  

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The Positive Impact Of Outdoors And Hiking On Our Emotional Well-being

There's a growing body of research highlighting the positive impact of outdoors and hiking on our emotional well-being. Here are some key points to consider:

                           

Stress Reduction and Improved Mood:

• Nature immersion: Research suggests spending time in green spaces, like forests or parks, can lower stress hormones like cortisol and decrease anxiety. One study found a 90-minute walk in nature significantly reduced rumination (overthinking negative thoughts) compared to an urban walk.
• Physical Activity: Hiking is a form of moderate exercise, which releases endorphins, natural mood-boosters, promoting feelings of happiness and well-being.
• Mindfulness and Disconnection: Being outdoors encourages disconnecting from technology and daily demands, providing space for mindfulness and present-moment awareness, known to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

Reduced Anxiety and Depression:

• Ecotherapy: Studies on ecotherapy (therapeutic interventions in nature) show positive effects on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Engaging with nature can offer a sense of peace, perspective, and connection to something larger than oneself.
• Increased Self-Esteem: Completing challenging hikes can foster a sense of accomplishment and boost self-confidence. Experiencing the beauty of nature can also instill awe and appreciation, contributing to positive self-perception.
• Social Connection: Hiking with friends or joining hiking groups can foster social interaction and support, combating feelings of isolation and loneliness, both significant risk factors for anxiety and depression.

Additional Benefits:

• Improved Cognitive Function: Studies suggest nature improves attention, memory, and creativity.
• Enhanced Sleep Quality: Regular physical activity like hiking can contribute to better sleep, further promoting emotional well-being.
• Increased Sense of Connection to Nature: Spending time outdoors promotes a sense of connection to the natural world, fostering environmental awareness and stewardship, which can have positive emotional implications.

It's important to note:

• While research paints a positive picture, individual experiences may vary. Factors like personal preferences, accessibility, and social aspects can influence the impact.
• Some individuals might find certain outdoor activities challenging or anxiety-provoking, highlighting the importance of finding enjoyable and manageable experiences.

Overall, the evidence suggests that spending time outdoors and engaging in activities like hiking can significantly benefit our emotional well-being. If you're looking for ways to improve your mood, reduce stress, and connect with yourself and nature, consider incorporating some outdoor activities into your routine. Remember, even small doses of nature can have a positive impact!

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Flower-Watching Hikes Are A Fantastic Relaxation

Flower-watching hikes are a fantastic way to combine the joy of nature with the thrill of discovery. To help you get started, here are some things to consider:

Timing and Location:

• Seasonality: Different wildflowers bloom at different times of the year. Research the specific flowers you're interested in seeing and plan your hike accordingly. Spring and early summer are generally peak wildflower seasons, but some regions have stunning displays in fall too.
• Location: Piedmont offers diverse landscapes and microclimates, meaning flower types vary across regions. Research areas are known for their wildflower meadows, like the Parco Naturale delle Alpi Marittime, the Val Grande National Park, or the Sacra di San Michele. Local tourism boards and hiking websites can be valuable resources.

Article: 

Flower Watching. The Beauty of Early Spring Blooms in Piedmont

Flower Watching. The Beauty of Early Spring Blooms in Piedmont

While many wildflower meadows might come alive later in the year, even February offers a charming display of early bloomers in Piedmont. Let's delve into the English and Latin names of these first flowers, along with some interesting details about each:

• English: Common Crocus, Spring Crocus
• Latin: Crocus sativus (Autumn Crocus, Crocus nudiflorus, Crocus tommasinianus are also possibilities depending on the species)
• About: These cup-shaped beauties are some of the earliest signs of spring, pushing through the winter chill in vibrant shades of purple, yellow, white, and even bi-colored varieties. Keep an eye out for them in meadows, woodlands, and even urban gardens.

Mysterious Lady Of Stroppia Waterfalls, Piedmont, Italy

Has it ever happened to you that you see a creature that no one else can see? This is what happened to me when I was walking with friends near the cascades of Stroppia not far from Chiappera, Piedmont 

The Maira Valley is situated northwest of Cuneo, in Piedmont, near the French border. I had never heard of this place before our visit. My friend's husband enjoys keeping destinations a secret until the last moment. And we did not know where we were going.

Sustainable Hiking in Italy

Italy, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to embark on sustainable hiking adventures. Explore the enchanting trails while embracing sustainable practices. From the majestic Dolomites to the picturesque Amalfi Coast, let's delve into the world of sustainable hiking in Italy.

The Beauty of Hiking in Italy

Italy's diverse terrain boasts a plethora of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. From the rugged mountains of the Alps to the coastal paths overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, hikers can immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery and vibrant ecosystems. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging ascent, Italy has it all.

Most of the stories I tell are about paths that are not complicated and suitable for untrained people, those who can cover 5-10 kilometers even by climbing the mountains (slowly) and with a steep path. With medium effort. 

Spring Is Here. Let's Get Ready For The First Hikes

I spent the whole winter at home due to a series of problems, but above all because my ankle hurt a lot. So much so that I couldn't take two steps. I have to say, not walking was even worse. This is why I can say now that movement is life. After a period of cold weather, however, this day became so beautiful that I couldn't resist the call of nature and went for a short walk. Two steps then became 5 kilometers with a series of "adventures".

The Grand Saint Bernard Pass One Day Visit

The Grand Saint Bernard Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass that connects Switzerland and Italy. Situated at an elevation of 2,469 meters (8,100 feet), this historic route has been used for centuries by travelers, traders, and pilgrims. 

Thermal Baths at the Foot of Mont Blanc

Some incredibly amazing natural hot springs in Italy are situated near the majestic Mont Blanc mountain. These hot springs are located in Pré-Saint-Didier and I often go there to unwind and rejuvenate.

As a great lover of thermal baths, I have come to appreciate the many benefits that they offer. Not only are they an excellent way to relax and unwind, but they also have healing properties that can help to improve one's overall health and well-being. Whether you are looking to soothe sore muscles, relieve stress, or simply enjoy some time in a peaceful and serene environment, the thermal baths offer something for everyone. In this article, I will tell you about a very popular thermal complex I visited a year ago.

When I moved to Biella I looked for the possibilities to have my favorite relaxation mode and visited some thermal baths in Lombardia and Valle d'Aosta. One of my pupils (I’m a Russian Language teacher) knows about my ardent love for thermal baths and told me about this marvelous place. Well, I had to go there… My cousin came to visit me, and we left in the direction of Mont Blanc.

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Guardian of the Gorge: The Devil's Bridge and Its Eerie Legends

Bridging the Supernatural: I was looking down from the bridge. A man passing by in his car turned back and came to me. What are you doing here, my lady? Are you okay? Please don't jump off the bridge...

Varallo is one of my favorite towns to visit when I need a walk. There are interesting tourist attractions, like Santo Monte di Varallo, but the town itself is very nice and beautiful. It is too far from the town where I live, more than an hour on the mountain roads by car. It's not that I don't like this journey, but it's still quite tiring. I think Formula 1 drivers would be no better than me if they had to travel around these curves for two to three hours at a time.

After visiting the town, I decided to take a walk in a valley that I had never explored before.

As you can see, the weather was not very good. Luckily, it wasn't raining. There are infinite hiking trails everywhere in this zone. On my map, I found a circular route (I always prefer circular routes) that passes two footbridges: From Barattina to Ponte della Gula. When you see the road to Cervarolo, before the bridge, there is an antique footbridge.

In the Alps, there are many ancient bridges, even from the Roman era. I don't know, maybe even earlier. But I must say that these have another interesting history: they belong to the descent of the Walser people in the 12th century and, therefore, are decidedly medieval...

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