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AUDIO GUIDE The Asphodel Path – S2
The Asphodel Path (S2) begins in Località Montata delle Pietre, accessible by following Via dei Giardini past several local accommodation facilities. Before reaching the starting point, a junction marks a gravel ridge-road variant. This option is recommended during periods of bad weather to avoid the damp valley floor; it is also accessible by car to reach the Roero Forest Park, a large green area equipped with small lakes and recreational zones.
The main itinerary plunges into an initially mixed woodland, where Scots pines and wild cherries gradually give way to monumental specimens of oak and chestnut. After a nearly flat section, the descent becomes more pronounced, and the trail winds through hazelnut and maple trees until it opens into the Asphodel Valley. Here, particularly in spring, nature puts on a show with vibrant blooms of asphodels and periwinkles across the forest floor.
The walk continues through a cool, sheltered environment, crossing the Rio Buriasco via two small bridges made of tree trunks. From here, a steady climb through dense vegetation leads back to the ridge, where the terrain becomes gravelly and the path widens. Passing by coppiced chestnut groves and the Cascina Vidavì estates, the route turns into an evocative tree-lined avenue. After a final passage through the undergrowth, the trail rejoins the paved road heading back to the starting point.
ITINERARY
- length: 5.5 km
- who it’s for: children aged 6 and up; not suitable for strollers (small children should be carried in a hiking baby carrier).
- best time to visit: Spring, autumn, and winters with little snow.
SAFETY
The trail is marked with directional signs: please follow the path in the indicated direction. We recommend checking the weather forecast and visiting the Ecomuseo website or contacting their offices in advance to confirm the trail's current accessibility and conditions.
PLEASE NOTE: Responsibility for the maintenance and practicability of the various trails lies with the municipalities where the routes are located. The Tourist Board, therefore, cannot be held responsible for any inefficiencies, but is willingly available to collect your reports so that they can be forwarded to the authorities concerned.
