“The necessity to find oneself is within the act of getting lost. And if you want to find yourself, you must get lost in the forest.” This is how the documentary “One Step After Another” begins, describing Anna’s authentic and immersive walking adventure along the Occitan Paths in Valle Maira. It’s an engaging video that takes you straight to the heart of the Piedmontese Alps, North Italy, where unspoiled nature, unique landscapes, and ancient culture blend into an unforgettable experience.
In the documentary, we follow Anna, a girl from Milan who decides to leave the chaos of the city to embark on a 15-day walking journey to discover Occitan Paths in Valle Maira, from the valley floor to high altitudes. Through her eyes, we discover the hidden treasures of this enchanted valley, a true paradise for nature and history lovers.
A Dive into Occitan Culture
Anna guides us along the less-traveled paths of the valley, where every step is a dive into Occitan culture. Here, the traditions and Occitan language are an integral part of daily life.
The Occitan language is a very ancient Neo-Latin language that has remained intact in these isolated valleys of the Alps and the Pyrenees. The documentary shows us how traditions are still alive and well-rooted in the local community, making Valle Maira a unique place of its kind.
A Paradise for Hikers
Valle Maira is a dream come true for hikers. Anna explores panoramic trails that offer breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and historic villages.
The Occitan paths are marked with the abbreviation PO, and here you can find the complete map with all the stages. Watching the documentary, you will feel the call of nature and the urge to put on your hiking boots and set off on an adventure!
The Hospitality of Valle Maira
One of the most engaging aspects of Anna’s journey was the hospitality of the people she met along the way. Valle Maira is famous for its small family-run establishments, where guests are welcomed as long-time friends. Anna emphasizes that being hosted in these homes was one of the most beautiful experiences of her journey.
Entering the homes of local families, sharing meals, and listening to the stories of those who live in the valley added a spontaneous and human dimension to her path, revealing the authentic beauty of life in Valle Maira.
Life Stories and Special Encounters
One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the stories of the valley’s inhabitants. Through their testimonies, we discover a world rich in traditions and deep ties to the land. Anna introduces us to unique characters, each with a story to tell, enriching her journey and making it even more special.
An Invitation to Explore
“One Step After Another” is much more than just a documentary: it is an invitation to discover a still little-known but extraordinarily fascinating corner of Italy. Whether you are a trekking enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for a new adventure, this video will inspire you to visit Valle Maira.
Don’t miss the chance to explore this splendid territory and let yourself be inspired for your next trip to Valle Maira to discover Occitan culture!