Divided into the provinces of Turin, Alessandria, Asti, Biella, Cuneo, Novara, Verbania, and Vercelli, the region’s geographical layout has emphasized certain activities to enjoy in Piedmont: to the north and west there are the Western Alps which, towards the south, merge with the Ligurian Apennines.
The alpine landscapes and ski resorts dominate, among snowy peaks and enchanting valleys. In Piedmont, you can ski at Limone, Sauze d’Oulx, Sestriere, Claviere, Bardonecchia, locations famously appreciated by lovers of winter sports. The flora is wonderful, unique and lush, beautifully showcased for example in the Gran Paradiso National Park where, during walks, it is very easy to encounter squirrels, marmots, and even larger animals, such as chamois and ibexes.
This is complemented by the mildness of Lago Maggiore and Lago d’Orta, notable for hosting the Island of San Giulio in its waters, located about 400 meters from the shore.
The architectural beauties in Piedmont are no less impressive: many are the testimonies of Roman, Baroque, Gothic eras, found in the abbeys (particularly the Sacra di San Michele, on Monte Pirchiarano); in castles and fortresses, undeniable traces of the Savoy dynasty; in museums, truly numerous and rich in artworks. Piedmont is listed, with two sites, on the UNESCO World Heritage List thanks to the Savoy Residences and the Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy.
Regarding urban attractions, Turin is constantly thriving. First of all, it is impossible not to think of the Egyptian Museum, the second most important in the world; the Holy Shroud, kept in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which periodically draws worldwide attention during the exposition (called ostension) that occurs about every 10 years.
Turin is also its Mole Antonelliana, the elegant structure on the banks of the Po River, the monumental arcades, the Castle of Valentino, the Basilica of Superga, the Royal Palace, the Venaria Reale Palace, without forgetting the “modern monuments” such as FIAT, the Automobile Museum, the pastry workshops, and the Turin metro, so stylish, artistic and futuristic. It is impossible not to be attracted by the cuisine as well, whose delicacies are many, starting with the prized Alba truffles and ending with the fabulous Piedmontese wines, Barolo chief among them.
A sunset in the Langhe will poetically conclude a day in Piedmont, a hardworking land that never gives up on fun.
