Chanti and Phil are a couple who, after living the "American Dream," filled with careers, success, and material possessions, decided to take a completely different path. Tired of a life that felt increasingly heavy, full of responsibilities, and lacking in free time, they chose to become nomads and raise their child while travelling the world.

Chanti explains that, although they spent a lot of time together as a family, they felt something deeper was missing. After visiting several ecovillages in Italy and abroad, they realised what they were looking for: a place to build authentic relationships with people who shared their values, live in harmony with nature, and rediscover a sustainable and genuine way of life.

A Place To Connect With Nature, Body, And Soul

Alpe Pianello is the name of the ecovillage that Chanti, Phil, and their family chose as their new home. Located in the province of Como, it overlooks the Lepontine Alps in Val Cavargna, near the Swiss border. In this place, the family found everything they were looking for: a water source, a lake, breathtaking views, and the chance to care for both the surrounding nature and their inner garden.

One of the core aspects of Alpe Pianello is the return to a more natural and sustainable lifestyle, in harmony with the rhythms of the earth, which guide all the community’s activities: chopping wood, tending the garden, and caring for the children.

This deep connection with nature goes hand in hand with a connection to the body and soul, through holistic practices that include energy and movement work, yoga, Vipassana meditation, fasting, art, and non-violent communication.

The Core Values Of Alpe Pianello

The ecovillage is built on principles of self-sufficiency, sustainability, and spirituality. Water is sourced from a local spring, electricity is provided by solar panels, and heating comes from wood stoves. The 800-square-metre organic garden, though only partly cultivated at the moment, provides fresh, organic food all year round.

Holistic well-being is promoted through personal, physical, and spiritual growth practices. This approach includes nurturing healthy relationships with oneself and others, an ethical and sustainable diet, and alternative education, achieved through homeschooling and outdoor educational activities.

The Economic System Of Alpe Pianello

Alpe Pianello operates with a mixed economic system. Shared resources and goods are managed through a common fund, with income generated from both community and individual activities. Additionally, each resident can have personal income.

Residents contribute financially through monthly payments or donations and can acquire living spaces at varying costs. The goal is to achieve financial independence through association activities, small businesses, and funding opportunities.

The Decision-Making System At Alpe Pianello

The decision-making process at Alpe Pianello is based on sociocracy, a system where decisions are made through a circular process, ensuring everyone has a say, and decisions are only approved when there’s collective consensus.

Building strong interpersonal relationships is key to community cohesion, and this is achieved through the practice of empathy and the circle way, a method that promotes active listening, honest sharing, and mutual respect, creating a safe space where everyone can express their opinions.

A Project Looking For New People

Currently, Alpe Pianello is home to five adults and two children, with a steady flow of volunteers and guests who participate in experience exchanges. Alpe Pianello is an ecovillage actively looking for new members and is open to people of all ages and backgrounds, from families to singles, young people to retirees. The only requirement is a desire to learn, rediscover yourself, and embrace the challenge, knowing that living in a community requires constant commitment.

There are various ways to get involved: as a volunteer (for a minimum of three weeks), through an experience exchange (for those with less time), or by becoming a full-time resident of the community. No matter your role, all participants are invited to actively contribute to community life, sharing their skills and engaging in the daily tasks.

In Conclusion

Alpe Pianello is an ecovillage located in the beautiful Val Cavargna, in the province of Como, near the Swiss border. Founded by Chanti and Phil, the community is now home to five adults and two children. The residents of Alpe Pianello are dedicated to self-sufficiency, holistic well-being, and caring for nature. The project is currently seeking new people who are eager to join the community. If you’re looking for a simpler, more sustainable, and connected way of life, Alpe Pianello might just be the perfect place for you.