Between the Alps and the Apennines, in the northwestern part of Italy is Piedmont. A suggestive land, with uncontaminated nature. The Alps, the soft wine hills, the wonderful lakes that dot the territory, the historic villages, the abbeys. But also the dynamic and refined cities. National parks, such as the Gran Paradiso, which constitute a world-wide historical, environmental and cultural heritage. All this makes Piedmont a unique place.
The Alps
If in the winter season the alpine arch turns into a white galaxy, able to offer advanced ski facilities for winter sports enthusiasts. In summer the valleys are covered with colours, plants, flowers and fruits. You can admire the beauties following the paths of the Via Alpina, with paths that go from Monviso, the Piedmontese side of Monte Rosa, to Val Formazza, from Val Chisone to the picturesque valleys of Val di Susa, Valsesia and Val d’Ossola . From the Monviso, in Piana del Re, the longest river in Italy is born, the Po, river rich in history.
The Langhe
Equally characteristic is the panorama of the Langhe, Monferrato and Roero. Gentle hills, covered with vineyards, small villages, churches and medieval castles, already decreed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. They have been awarded for their history and for the indissoluble bond between man and landscape. It is possible to discover these treasures thanks to the numerous itineraries that include explorations among the vineyards, with tastings and visits to the cellars.
The castles
Do not miss the castles that dot these areas, evidence of a majestic past. Today they have now become museums, wine bars or charming theatres for historical re-enactments. There are numerous villages and small towns where traditions survive and which offer visitors a fascinating horizons.
The plain and the cities
The landscape changes again in the flat areas of the region, where we find rice fields and ponds. Extensive lakes characterise Piedmont, such as Lake Maggiore, with Stresa and the Borromeo Islands, home to wonderful Italian gardens and sumptuous palaces. And Lake Orta, which houses an ancient Basilica. In the noble Piedmontese cities, which hold precious works and prestigious palaces full of history, the great variety, combined with the proverbial innovative thrust of production. Design, ancient and contemporary art, contribute to a continuous development of this region. Piedmontese cuisine, refined and varied, is famous for its desserts and wine, like Barolo, to name one. Among the most evocative events we remember the Palio di Asti, which dates back to the twelfth century and takes place in September.
