Orco, Alpine waterway in Graian Alps, Piedmont, Italy.
The Orco is a mountain creek that flows from Gran Paradiso slopes through the Graian Alps for roughly 90 kilometers before joining the Po River. Its course is shaped by several tributaries and punctuated by multiple dams built to generate hydroelectric power.
Its Piedmontese name 'Eva d'òr' translates to 'Water of gold', referencing ancient gold-bearing sands that were extracted along the waterway. This resource made the creek economically important for nearby communities since antiquity.
The river shapes local activities with numerous hydroelectric facilities, including six major dams that generate power for the surrounding communities.
The waterway runs turbulent in its upper sections but becomes more gentle in lower elevations where access is easier. Visit during drier months when water levels are more stable and the surroundings are easier to navigate.
The creek descends from roughly 2,600 meters at its source to much lower elevations, creating distinct ecological zones along its path. This dramatic elevation change supports different plant and animal communities that visitors can observe while moving downstream.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
