Chianale between the Varaita stream, culture and the high plateau

You can discover Chianale through its landscape, architectural history and traditional culture. The different themes can be explored side by side: historic sites, festive traditions and an alpine setting each offer their own focus. Between the stream and the high plateau, there are different places to discover: the stone bridge in the village and alpine lakes among meadows and rocks to the west.

The Varaita stream and a landmark

The Varaita stream divides Chianale into two parts. A stone bridge over the stream is considered a landmark of Chianale. There is a car park at the entrance to Chianale where cars can be left. Those arriving by car can use this location for their arrival and initial orientation in the village.

Chapel, museum and Occitan culture

Chianale is connected with the old Occitan culture. The Museo del Costume e dell’Artigianato Tessile is housed in a former Capuchin mission dating from the second half of the 17th century. Its collection comprises more than 1,000 items and documents the traditional clothing of the upper Varaita Valley. The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio is a chapel of Romanesque-Gothic origin with a fresco cycle from the first half of the 15th century. The two buildings belong to different historical periods: the fresco cycle dates from the first half of the 15th century, while the mission dates from the second half of the 17th century.

Festivals throughout the year

The Festa di San Lorenzo takes place in Chianale on 10 August. The festival includes a procession in traditional dress, a market featuring typical handicraft and gastronomic products, and traditional dances. I Loup is Chianale's traditional carnival and takes place on the Saturday before Shrove Tuesday. The two festivals follow different scheduling rules: the Festa di San Lorenzo is tied to 10 August, while I Loup is tied to the Saturday before Shrove Tuesday.

High plateau, lakes and peaks

A vast high plateau with alpine lakes among meadows and rocks lies west of Chianale. Colle del Lupo and Rocca della Niera, both peaks, are located nearby. Monte Salza, a mountain, is also in the vicinity; Pic d'Asti is another peak there. These landscape features provide travelers interested in alpine nature with a concrete framework for personal planning.

Forts and a castle in the wider area

In the wider region around Chianale are Fort Queyras, a fort, Castello di Bagnolo, a castle, and Fort de Tournoux and Fort de Mont-Dauphin, both forts. Fort Queyras and Castello di Bagnolo belong to different types of structure: one is a fort, the other a castle.

More destinations for planning your trip: Monchiero, San Michele di Mondovì, Venasca, Paroldo, Lequio Tanaro, Castelmagno, Torre Bormida and Caraglio.

For the overarching travel overview: Cuneo.