Notes on Piemonte-Piedmont

In many ways Piemonte or Piedmont is synonymous with ‘La Dolce Vita’. A region that contributes to the good life through stunningly beautiful scenery, interesting and exciting art works and cultural events, and some of the most exquisite food and wine to be found anywhere.

The name Piemonte or Piedmont in English refers to the location at the ‘foot of the mountains’. A great region offering all types of landscapes from mountainous to hilly and plain. The highest peaks in Italy are Gran Paradiso at 4 061 metres and Monte Rosa 4 633 metres on the borders to Val d’Aosta and France.

Mountains

The wealthy and vibrant city of Turin – or Torino – was the first capital of the united Italy with a number of cultural and historic sights like the multi-ethnic food market around Porta Palazzo, impressive residences like the Palace of Venaria built to the Royal House of Savoy and the famous shroud of Turin bearing the imprint of a crucified Christ. Other main attractions here, and in the northern provinces Biella and Verbania include majestic mountains, romantic lakes with a mild microclimate and beautiful scenery. Here you’ll find ski resorts that welcome winter and adventure sport enthusiasts such as climbers and hikers along with magnificent gardens and Sacri Monti that appeal to contemplative or spiritual slow travellers.

The plains

Novara, Alessandria and Vercelli in the Po valley are rich in manufacturing industries and agricultural products such as cheese and rice, and it’s a joy to discover the creamy secrets of gorgonzola and to follow the rice route through a fascinating landscape of flooded rice paddies.

Hill towns

Asti and Cuneo are famous for cultivated hills and vineyards, castles and hill towns, art and gastronomy – most notably truffle, hazelnuts and wines.