Oasi Zegna a natural paradise in Piedmont

What is Oasi Zegna and where is it located?

Oasi Zegna is a natural area located in the heart of Biellese, in Piedmont. It is a large mountain park that extends over 100 km2, created by entrepreneur Ermenegildo Zegna in the 1930s with the aim of enhancing and protecting the territory. The Oasi is located between Trivero Valdilana and Bielmonte, along the panoramic Zegna road, a spectacular route that offers breathtaking views of the Alps and the Po Valley.

Why is Oasi Zegna so special?

Oasi Zegna represents a unique model of harmony between man, industry, and the environment. Born from the dream of Ermenegildo Zegna, a famous Biellese industrialist, the Oasi combines the natural beauty of woods and mountains with a deep commitment to sustainability and collective well-being. It is a place where nature is the protagonist, but also where the history of a territory that has managed to combine work and respect for the environment is rediscovered.

What is the Conca dei Rododendri and why is it a must-see?

The Conca dei Rododendri is one of the most famous and photographed spots in Oasi Zegna. Designed and funded by Ermenegildo Zegna, it was later enriched by the intervention of the famous landscape architect Pietro Porcinai and, more recently, curated by architect Paolo Pejrone. It is a true natural work of art, where plants and flowers create a harmonious blend of colors, scents, and shapes. From mid-May to mid-June, the Conca transforms into an explosion of colors ranging from pink to red, purple to white, offering a unique spectacle in Italy.

When is the best time to visit the Conca dei Rododendri?

The most spectacular period is between late May and mid-June, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. During these weeks, the landscape lights up with intense colors, and the walk along the trails becomes an unforgettable sensory experience. However, Oasi Zegna is fascinating in every season: in autumn, the woods turn orange and gold, in winter they become a paradise for skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts, while in summer they offer coolness and clear views.

Who are the architects who contributed to the beauty of the Conca dei Rododendri?

In addition to Ermenegildo Zegna, who was its visionary founder, the Conca dei Rododendri owes much to the talent of two great Italian landscape architects. Pietro Porcinai, one of the most important of the twentieth century, took care of the original layout, combining aesthetic rigor with the spontaneity of nature. Paolo Pejrone, his student and now one of the most esteemed landscape architects, has continued the work with contemporary sensitivity, respecting the natural balance of the place and introducing elements of continuity and harmony.

How do you reach the Conca dei Rododendri?

The Conca is located along the Panoramica Zegna, the road that connects Trivero Valdilana with Bielmonte. You can drive to the nearest parking lots and then continue on foot along the well-marked trails. The route is suitable for everyone and does not present particular difficulties, making it ideal for families and children.

What activities can be done in Oasi Zegna?

Oasi Zegna is a paradise for those who love nature and outdoor activities. Among the most appreciated experiences are: hiking along panoramic trails; multi-day trekking with stops at mountain huts; mountain biking and e-biking; winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing in the Bielmonte area; guided naturalistic and educational tours. Additionally, there are panoramic points perfect for photographing the landscapes or simply relaxing immersed in greenery.

Are there paths suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes. Oasi Zegna offers itineraries of varying difficulty. The trails around the Conca dei Rododendri are easy and suitable for everyone, while those that climb towards Bielmonte or the Bocchetta di Margosio require a bit more experience. Visitors can choose short routes for a simple walk or more challenging treks to discover the higher areas of the Oasi.

What makes the rhododendron bloom unique?

The blooming of the rhododendrons is a natural spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors every year. These flowers, native to the Himalayas, have perfectly adapted to the climate of Biellese and create a colorful carpet that covers the hills. The shades of the petals, the arrangement of the bushes, and the integration with the surrounding conifers make the Conca dei Rododendri a poetic and unrepeatable place.

Is the entrance to Oasi Zegna free?

Yes, access to Oasi Zegna is completely free. The initiative is part of the philanthropic project wanted by Ermenegildo Zegna to offer a common good to the community. Even today, the Zegna Foundation continues to support the maintenance, protection, and enhancement of the territory, ensuring that the Oasi remains a free and open place for all.

What are the other places to visit around Oasi Zegna?

In the surroundings, there are characteristic villages such as Trivero Valdilana, Mosso, and Pettinengo, as well as historical sites and museums related to the Biellese textile tradition. Do not miss the Sanctuary of San Giovanni d'Andorno and the Bosco del Sorriso, a thematic path dedicated to well-being and connection with nature.

How to best enjoy a weekend in Oasi Zegna?

For those who wish to spend a weekend immersed in nature, there are accommodation facilities, diffused hotels, and agritourisms where you can taste typical dishes of Biellese. You can organize picnics in the Conca dei Rododendri, dawn walks to admire the light on the mountains, or starry evenings in the panoramic areas. Every moment inside the Oasi gives sensations of calm and regeneration.