The climb on the Piloni path is a charming route that connects Valperga to the Sanctuary and Sacro Monte of Belmonte. The itinerary starts from Valperga’s historic centre at 385 meters above sea level, arriving immediately to the Strada pedonale dei Piloni (Pedestrian Road of the Piloni); Trail CAI 422: a cobbled mule track much loved by both pilgrims and hikers. The first section winds between houses and woods, along quiet lanes that offer panoramic views of the Canavese landscape. Along the way are fifteen small chapels, each dedicated to one of the Mysteries of the Rosary; Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious; built between 1877 and 1880 to accompany the faithful in meditation. Some still preserve their original frescoes, restored in the early 20th century.
In the middle of the route, it lies the Cappella della Samaritana (Chapel of the Samaritan woman), built in the 1930s in Liberty style, with scagliola statues depicting Jesus meeting the woman at the well; a scene that enriches both the spiritual and visual experience of the path. The trail continues through a mixed of chestnut and oak trees, among granite outcrops and natural springs, within a protected area designated by the Piemonte Region. After about 3 kilometres and a 350 metres elevation gain, the path reaches the Sanctuary of Belmonte, at 735 metres, accompanied by the thirteen chapels of the Sacro Monte, featuring life-size statues representing the Passion of Christ.
For those wishing to return via a circular route, it is possible to descend along the naturalistic trail of Sabbionere and the Livesa stream valley, passing through unique geological formations and wetlands crossed by wooden walkways.