Why visiting Piedmont Region?
Since returning from Australia, I have loved being a tourist in my region, PIEDMONT.
In my modest opinion, Piedmont is still one of the most underrated regions in Italy.
I mean, Piedmont offers so many beauties, and they always leave me breathless.
Piedmont is a region that knows how to capture the eyes of those who visit it. This is why in this article, I want to give you an overview of Piedmont: landscapes that surprise hikers, historic cities that impress history’s seeker, and art and gastronomy that captivate food lovers. In short, Piedmont is the ideal destination for those who want to discover a land rich in every type of activity.
Piedmont is a continuous discovery. If you, like me, are fed up with being surrounded by crowds when visiting the most iconic Italy and want to savour it like a local, then I am sure Piedmont is for you.
Hiking in Piedmont
Piedmont offers some of Italy’s most stunning and unknown hiking trails. Don’t get me wrong; the Dolomites are amazing, but to me, they don’t feel like mountains anymore. You have pretty much access to them through cable cars, so wherever you look, you see ski facilities.
In Piedmont, you will find mostly peace and untouched mountains, but there are also ski lifts if you like to ski. From the Val Grande National Park to Gran Paradiso National Park, there are so many routes suitable for all levels.
If you don’t fancy high mountains, there are rolling hills covered with vineyards surrounded by the majestic Alps.
One of the most beautiful hikes I have done is the Giro del Monviso (read the article here). It takes you around the dramatic peak of Monviso, Piedmont’s highest mountain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of valleys, alpine lakes, and wildlife. This is a must do hike to me!
Are you visiting the whole Piedmont region?
I have prepared the perfect guide for you!
Cities in Piedmont
Piedmont’s cities blend history, culture, and charm, making them must-visit destinations. Turin, the region’s capital and the first capital of Italy, is full of Baroque architecture and home to the iconic Mole Antonelliana and fascinating museums like the Egyptian Museum (second only to the Cairo one). Asti is known for its medieval towers and the famous Palio race, while Alba offers a more intimate setting, surrounded by vineyards and renowned for its truffle markets. Novara and Alessandria, though less known, provide a glimpse into Piedmont’s rural beauty and historical significance.
Food in Piedmont
Piedmont is also a paradise for food lovers, famous for its rich, hearty cuisine that reflects the region’s agricultural bounty. Home to delicacies like white truffles from Alba, risotto, and handmade tajarin and agnolotti pasta. A must try (if you like garlic) is bagna càuda, a warm anchovy and garlic dip, where you will dip fresh vegetables. You can also pair your meals with world-class wines from the Langhe and Monferrato, such as Nebbiolo, Barolo and Barbaresco, or indulge in sweet treats like gianduiotti, the region’s signature hazelnut chocolate.
Must Visits in Piedmont
There are so many spots to visit, but a visit to Piedmont would only be complete with a visit to the Langhe and Monferrato region, where rolling hills covered with vineyards create a postcard-perfect landscape. Alba, particularly during truffle season, is a foodie’s dream, while Lake Orta offers a more tranquil retreat with its charming island of San Giulio. The Sacra di San Michele, a stunning abbey perched on a mountaintop, is a spiritual and architectural wonder, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Lastly, the Gran Paradiso National Park is a must for nature lovers, where you can immerse yourself in the alpine beauty and possibly spot ibex in the wild.
Are you visiting the whole Piedmont region?
I have prepared the perfect guide for you!
Do you still have a question?
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