Sanctuary of Saint Bernard

According to tradition, the Sanctuary of San Bernardo was erected in the 14th century on Monte Rubello, in Valdilana, in just 50 hours using the remains of the Dolcinian fortifications to celebrate the victory over Fra Dolcino.

In the Middle Ages, Fra Dolcino, the heretical friar mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy, took refuge in the mountains of Valdilana and fought the last battle here before being captured and sentenced to the stake with his partner Margherita.

The ancient oratory, expanded over the centuries, took on its current form in 1948, when it was enlarged on the initiative of Ermenegildo Zegna. Easily reachable on foot from Bocchetta di Stavello or Bocchetta di Margosio, it offers great views over the Po Valley and the Alps.

In the wake of the Dolcini historical event, you can go on two days of trekking from Bocchetta di Stavello to Alpe Peccia.

You can leave the car in the parking lots along the Panoramica Zegna SP232, near the Chiesetta Alpina or Bocchetta di Margosio ; the paths start to arrive in a short time at the Sanctuary.
The lawn in front of the Sanctuary is perfect for a picnic, moreover at Alpe Margosio there is the Agrichiosco, for a delicious lunch or snack.

Itinerary 5
An easy itinerary of 6 km for a duration of 2.5 hours. From Bocchetta di Margosio along the Panoramica Zegna, take path 5 to Bocchetta di Stavello. Along itinerary 5 you can meet the Animated Forest.

Itinerary 7
An excursion for everyone: from the Panoramic Road, after the Alpine Church, in half an hour you can reach the Sanctuary.

Bocchetta di Margosio
It is the esplanade that separates Monte Rubello from Tirlo, the wooded hill that rises to the east, a meeting place and starting point for excursions.

Stavello Labyrinth
Bocchetta di Stavello is the Sunday meeting place and departure point for excursions. The Labyrinth is clearly visible from the Sanctuary and can be considered a sacred place to go through to rediscover the meaning of one’s life.

Alta Valsessera
It extends on the north side of the Panoramica Zegna SP 232 road and is an area rich in woods, pastures and mountain pastures, with an extraordinary panorama up to Monte Rosa.

Animated Forest
Along the path 5 wood sculptures with the inhabitants of the forest will welcome you, between magic and amazement.