Hiking trail in the Ciciu del Villar Nature Reserve, featuring mushroom-shaped erosion columns known as “Ciciu.”

The Ciciu del Villar Nature Reserve is located near the municipality of Villar San Costanzo, at the foot of Mount San Bernardo. It was established to protect the erosion columns, probably formed following the last ice age, with a distinctive mushroom shape. They take the name “Ciciu,” a word derived from the Piedmontese dialect meaning “puppet,” in relation to the legend of the town’s patron saint, San Costanzo.

The reserve is also characterized by very rich flora and fauna: chestnut and downy oak trees are prevalent, along with many species of birds and mammals typical of the area.

It features two trails: the first leads to a panoramic platform and returns from there; however, there is the option to continue to Colle Liretta, from which hang gliders and paragliders are launched. The area is always open, accessible year-round with a picnic area.