Between the Alps and the Apennines, in the north-western part of Italy it is located Piedmont. A suggestive land, with uncontaminated nature. The Alps, the soft wine hills, the marvelous lakes that dot the territory, the historic villages, the abbeys. But also dynamic and refined cities. National parks, such as that of the Gran Paradiso, which constitute a historical, environmental and cultural heritage of global significance. All this makes Piedmont a unique place.
The Alps
If in the winter season the Alps transforms into a white galaxy, able to offer avant-garde ski facilities for fans of winter sports, in summer the valleys are covered with colors, plants, flowers and fruits. Its beauties can be admired by following the paths of the Via Alpina, with trails that go from Monviso, the Piedmontese side of Monte Rosa, to Val Formazza, from Val Chisonand the picturesque valleys of the Val di Susa, Valsesia and Val d'Ossola. The longest river in Italy is born from Monviso, in Piana del Re, the Po, a watercourse rich in history.
The Langhe
Equally characteristic is the panorama of Langhe, Monferrato and Roero. Rolling hills, covered with vineyards, small villages, medieval churches and castles, already decreed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. They have been awarded for their history and for the indissoluble link between man and landscape. It is possible to discover these treasures thanks to numerous routes which include explorations among the vineyards, with tastings and visits to cellars.
The castles
Unmissable the castles that dot these areas, evidence of a majestic past. Today they have now become the seat of museums, wine bars or suggestive theaters for historical re-enactments. There are numerous villages and small municipalities where traditions survive and give away suggestive horizons to visitors.
The plain and the cities
The landscape changes again in the flat areas of the region, where we find rice fields and stretches of water. Extensive lakes characterize Piedmont, such as the Lake Maggiore, with Stresa and the Borromean Islands, home to wonderful Italian gardens and sumptuous palaces. And the Lago d'Orta, which houses an ancient basilica. In the noble Piedmontese cities, which preserve precious works and prestigious buildings full of history, the great variety, combined with the proverbial innovative drive in production, design, ancient and contemporary art, they contribute to the continuous development of this region. Refined, varied and tasty, the Piedmontese cuisine is famous for desserts and wine, such as Barolo, to name one. Among the most evocative events we remember the Palio of Asti, which dates back to the thirteenth century and takes place in September.
