Val d'Ala – Piedmont: severe peaks, open pastures and a still authentic alpine valley. The Val d'Ala is located in the Lanzo Valleys, in the province of Turin, and develops along the Stura di Ala stream. Wild and not very man-made, it preserves a typically alpine landscape with mountains over 3,000 meters, still active mountain pastures, high-altitude lakes and a strong identity linked to the mountains experienced in an essential way. ⛰️ Alpine environment and great peaks: The valley is dominated by imposing peaks such as the Cima della Rossa and the Cima della Rossa, destinations for experienced hikers and mountaineers. The views are wide and clean, the silence deep. The high altitude offers open spaces and scenery shaped by glaciers and wind. 👉 Tip: Reach the Gastaldi Refuge from Pian della Mussa for an excursion among rocks, meadows and high mountain views. 🚶 Hiking and glacial lakes: The Val d'Ala is crossed by well-marked paths that lead to alpine lakes, passes and refuges. Routes suitable for experienced hikers, but also easier walks in the woods at the bottom of the valley. The variety of landscapes is surprising: from conifers to stony ground, from alpine meadows to perennial snowfields. 👉 Tip: Lake Mercurin is a little-frequented destination, ideal for those looking for a secluded and panoramic place. 🏡 Mountain hamlets and stone architecture: The small towns, such as Ala di Stura and Balme, preserve stone structures, slate roofs and evidence of traditional alpine life. The highest villages have been partly abandoned, but some are now destinations for slow and cultural tourism. 👉 Tip: In Balme, visit the Ecomuseum of the Alpine Guides: a story of life at high altitude and historical mountaineering in the valley. ❄️ Quiet winter and snowy nature: During the winter, the Val d'Ala offers snowshoeing, ski mountaineering and short itineraries in the snow. The villages remain quiet, immersed in a white landscape. Ideal for those looking for an authentic mountain setting, away from the big ski resorts. 👉 Tip: Snowshoe along the snowy plain of Pian della Mussa: a glacial plateau at almost 1,800 meters above sea level. The Val d'Ala is a vertical and concrete valley, where the mountain retains its natural voice and every step is a dialogue with the rock and the wind.