Asinolla Il Parco
Today’s location is a place that must be included at least once in the childhood of children.
It must be said that Parco Natura Asinolla is strategically located on the summit of Monte Trabocchetto, behind Pietra Ligure, where it is easy to find oneself immersed in nature with a truly enchanting, almost unmissable view of the sea.
The land, a former forest of brambles, has been skilfully recovered over time and through the construction of stone walls as the Ligurian tradition wants, set up properly with areas dedicated to animals such as stables, drinking troughs, walking areas and shaded areas. There is also a bar with a kitchen, a relaxation area with a barbecue, a ten-year-old olive grove and a section dedicated to kindergarten and primary school, as well as a summer solar camp.
What we are proposing today is one of the most interesting experiences we can encounter in the Savona province area. We met Maria Teresa Bergamaschi, one of the owners, one afternoon, while we were visiting the location with little Carolina. She is an empathetic person with a great passion for donkeys, which make the park one of the most important attractions. We probably use the wrong term to define donkeys as an attraction, but this is exactly what happens to the little ones once they cross the gate; they are assailed by an infinity of emotions that really draws them in. Following Carolina on her slow trek through the olive grove this Sunday is Arianna Giribone, a sweet and very patient girl.
The experience begins in the stable, where on our arrival we meet six donkeys intent on eating hay. The approach to the animals is gradual, as it should be. Arianna takes my little girl by the hand to establish a relationship of trust with her, like good friends, before accompanying her to the entrance of the stable. Little by little, the harmony between them becomes complete and Carolina listens attentively to all the recommendations and indications of what is, for her at the moment, a teacher. The donkeys are put on a halter, a kind of harness used to lead a horse by hand, to which a long harness is added to be able to accompany them safely during the trek. Carolina is an integral part of Patou’s tacking, or “bedside table” as the tame little donkey is nicknamed, passing the tools on to Ariadne. Once they are ready, the children (assisted either by a parent or by the teacher himself) begin their slow trek up a dirt path that climbs gently towards the olive grove, where they complete almost the entire experience.
This is a unique way for children to relate to the outdoors alongside really intelligent animals from which they can begin to learn what it means to establish a relationship of trust with them. Once back in the barn, little Carolina has the task of arranging the sheds and preparing some food for the animals by arranging some buckets in single file to divide the rations. This is just one of the activities offered by Asinolla, where both donkeys and horses (and even a few hens) live together.
Several times a week, even longer excursions are organised, which take place in the immediate hinterland, and those on horseback are wonderful; then there are also saddle christenings, activities and workshops that are always new and stimulating for the youngest children but also for adults who are not afraid to get excited like them!
Fonte: Due zaini e un camallo.
