Argomenti trattati
In the heart of Piedmont lies a charming village named Sale San Giovanni, which, despite its humble population of fewer than 200 residents, transforms into one of Italy’s most visited spots during summer. Known affectionately as the “little Provence of Piedmont,” this picturesque location becomes a canvas painted in shades of lilac, thanks to its sprawling lavender fields that perfume the air for miles around.
Immerse yourself in nature
Strolling through Sale San Giovanni is like stepping into a tranquil paradise where the serene sounds of nature reign supreme. The only interruptions are the melodic calls of red woodpeckers and hoopoes, alongside the rustling leaves stirred by curious squirrels and hares. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of deer peeking through the trees, observing the visitors with curiosity. The experience is one that invites exploration and appreciation of the beautiful lavender fields that define this village.
When to visit for the best lavender experience
The lavender blooms in Sale San Giovanni typically reach their peak between mid-June and the end of July. Every year, the exact timing may vary slightly due to weather conditions, but this period is when the fields burst into life, showcasing colors from deep indigo to vibrant pink. Those planning a visit during the weekend of June 28-29 will also be able to enjoy the “Non Solo Erbe” fair, which celebrates local herbs and flavors. Additionally, throughout the weekends from June 14 to July 13, visitors can indulge in delicious street food stands that pop up across the village.
Four scenic trails to explore
For those eager to experience the surroundings, Sale San Giovanni offers four distinct trails, each marked by a specific color: Orange, Blue, Green, and Brown. The Orange and Blue trails are the most challenging, stretching 9 and 9.8 kilometers respectively, requiring about four and three hours to complete. These trails meander through dirt paths, hiking trails, and short stretches of asphalt roads.
The Green trail, which lasts about an hour and a half, is labeled as “agripanoramic.” However, trekkers should be prepared to walk most of the 5 kilometers under the sun. Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and plenty of water are essential, as there are no refreshment points along the way. For those seeking a simpler experience, the Brown trail is a flat, 1-kilometer path that takes just 30 minutes to traverse, leading to the Alboreto Prandi—a botanical haven created by a former railway worker. Despite the area’s abandonment after his death in 1961, it has been lovingly restored to showcase an array of plants and exquisite orchids.
Discover the village’s rich heritage
The village’s name is derived from the Church of San Giovanni Battista, which dates back to the year 1000 and was built in a Lombard-Romanesque style atop a pagan temple. You can still find traces of the beautiful frescoes from the late 14th century adorning the pillars and walls. This historical site is well worth a visit, adding a cultural layer to your trip.
Visiting guidelines and tips
This year, visitors may find fewer lavender fields than in previous seasons due to crop rotation practices in organic and biodynamic farming. However, the guided paths remain open every day of the week without any restrictions. The complete route through the lavender fields spans about 7 kilometers, with varying elevations, taking approximately two and a half hours to complete. For those traveling with pets, dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.
For visitors arriving by bus, it’s advisable to reach Sale San Giovanni by 9:30 AM, especially on weekends when large crowds are expected. Buses can drop visitors off near the Ancient Church of San Giovanni Battista or at the entrance of the Green trail, close to the Vadda hamlet.
To ensure a safe and pleasant experience during June and July, certain access roads to the lavender fields will be closed to vehicles (except for authorized residents and those with disabilities). Therefore, visitors should plan to explore on foot or by bicycle.
Throughout the weekends from June 21 to July 6, a voluntary contribution of 2 euros per person will be requested for access to the trails. In return, visitors will receive a wristband that grants entry to guided tours of the churches, led by knowledgeable staff.
Explore other lavender fields in Piedmont
For those who wish to extend their lavender experience, there are other stunning fields to visit in Piedmont, such as those in Monferrato, between the charming villages of Cuccaro and Lu. Here, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic road lined with lavender fields and relax on the giant benches that overlook breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of a summer in Provence.