Scopello: Church, Alpe di Mera and Sesia
Accommodation in Scopello
Scopello has several clear points of interest to help you plan your trip: the Chiesa Parrocchiale Maria Vergine Assunta, winter sports on Alpe di Mera and fishing on the Sesia. These themes are quite distinct: church furnishings and the area’s former mining history sit alongside groomed ski runs and a fishing reserve on the river. This lets you consider in advance which of these interests matters most for your stay.
Church, mining and a shepherds’ chapel
The construction of the Chiesa Parrocchiale Maria Vergine Assunta is documented as taking place in 1583. The church contains a baptismal font dated 1585. The organ adds another historical layer: it was made in 1925 by the Vincenzo Mascioni firm in Cuvio, and its opus number is Op. 366. The dates point to different moments—the construction of the church, the dated baptismal font and a much later addition to the furnishings. For travelers interested in church history and music, this offers a concrete glimpse of the parish church’s different historical features.
There are traces of the past outside the church, too. In the Genziana area, the tall chimney structure is the only surviving remnant of Scopello’s former mining complex. On Alpe di Mera stands the Cappelletta della Madonna della Neve: shepherds built it to protect the area from wolves. The chimney structure points to the former mining industry, while the chapel reflects the shepherds and their intention to protect the area. Together, these traces add further historical themes to the church furnishings.
Alpe di Mera: ski runs and access
Alpe di Mera has 30 kilometers of groomed ski runs. The ski area also has a beginner zone called “Campo”: it extends for about 400 meters and is served by a surface lift. The two figures refer to different measures—the groomed runs across the ski area and the length of the beginner zone. From Scopello, you can reach the mountain on foot, by chairlift or by car. If you plan to use the chairlift to get there, check the operating information for your travel dates before your visit.
Sesia: fishing reserve and river features
The “Fiume Sesia – Scopello” tourist fishing reserve is about 1.2 kilometers long and passes through Scopello’s built-up area. In this section, the Sesia has numerous rapids and deep pools bordered by wide gravel banks. Fishing in the reserve is permitted using the Tocco method, spinning or fly fishing. The trout found here include brown trout, marble trout, brown trout–marble trout hybrids and rainbow trout. Fish populations may change due to stocking and river conditions; also check local fishing regulations before your trip.
Choosing a focus for your stay
If you are deciding between winter sports and fishing, the two interests also differ in terms of planning: for Alpe di Mera, the ski runs and access matter; for the fishing reserve, the techniques, river features and local regulations mentioned above are important. The parish church and historical traces offer a distinct cultural focus. You can use this priority to guide your search for a hotel in Scopello.
Discover more destinations: SanthiĂ , Cigliano, Pila, Crescentino, Alagna Valsesia, Desana, Albano Vercellese, Piode
Return to the broader travel guide: Vercelli.
