Discover Paroldo: Trails, History and Landscapes of the Alta Langa

Paroldo between ridges and forests

Paroldo is situated in a highly panoramic and well-exposed hilly landscape. Ridges of the Langhe arranged in an almost circular formation border the area; it is drained by a single stream, the Bovina, which collects the waters of the two main valleys, Pasqua and Feraio. Between sunny ridges and shady forests, walks through the typical landscapes of the Alta Langa are particularly suitable for autumn, when they fascinate hikers.

Exploring on foot and by mountain bike

The Sentiero delle Masche is a two-kilometre route along roads and paths that leads to the most significant places in Paroldo. It begins near the wayside shrine on the provincial road that forms the entrance to the Borgata dei Cavallini. For longer tours, there are also numerous farm tracks, which are suitable for mountain biking as well. Depending on the desired pace, this makes it possible to combine walks with more athletic exploration.

Church and oratory as historical evidence

The parish church of San Martino in Paroldo is first mentioned in the 1474 statutes, Article 11; it was therefore built before 1474. Its classical Baroque appearance largely dates back to renovations in the 18th century.

The Oratory of San Sebastiano stands on the hilltop of Paroldo, next to the ruins of the castle. In the Middle Ages, the building was used as a metallurgical forge, later converted into a chapel, and subsequently used as a religious building by a confraternity. Inside are late Gothic frescoes attributed to a local itinerant workshop, adorning an unusual section of wall.

Remembering the events of 1796

On 16 April 1796, French troops reached Paroldo as they advanced to occupy Piedmont. At La Pedaggera, they attacked the fortified camp, were repulsed by Piedmontese troops under the command of Colonel Colli, and withdrew to Paroldo. A commemorative stele erected by the municipal administration in 1999 at Passo della Pedaggera honours those who fell and commemorates this event.

Motorsport and practical facilities

The Crossodromo La Gamellona motocross track, established in 1984, is located near the place of the same name in Paroldo. It was completely renovated in 2000 and equipped with a bar, a restaurant with a terrace for motorcyclists and visitors, showers, toilets, a motorcycle wash area, and a camping area.

Seasonal highlights

The Premio Palodium is a regular fixture in Paroldo’s summer calendar. The 30th edition of the Estate di San Martino includes bagna caoda, music, performances, roasted chestnuts, and a fair of local products. It takes place from Friday the 7th to Sunday the 9th of November and complements the landscape and historical impressions with regional cuisine and community events.

Choose accommodation to suit your interests

When choosing a hotel in Paroldo, you can align your travel plans with the different facets of the town: walks between ridges and forests, the Sentiero delle Masche, the farm tracks for mountain bikers, churches and castle ruins, or the events held throughout the year. This makes Paroldo appealing both for peaceful landscape experiences and for culture, regional products, and motorsport.

Other destinations to compare: Manzotti, Perno, Castino, Monteu Roero, Neviglie, Sommariva Del Bosco, Torre Bormida and Roà Marenca.

To the higher-level travel overview: Cuneo.