Guide to Piedmont

Piedmont or Piemonte as it is known in Italy, is a tremendously varied region and despite its many treasures, it is still relatively undiscovered by foreign visitors.  Within Italy, Piemonte is famous for its cuisine and fine wines, and there are many local festivals during the summer months to celebrate both.

Charming hill top towns with strong cultural traditions, ancient castles and Romanesque churches all exist in abundance, and the leisurely walks between villages and amongst the vines offer exceptional views of the surrounding area and beyond in clear weather, to the distant snow topped Alps.

Piemonte prides itself on its superb food and wines, and the area boasts numerous Michelin starred restaurants.

The exceptional local wines include Barolo, Barbaresco and Barbera.

The hotels, all personally selected for our Piemonte Holidays, offer distinct Italian character, excellent standards of accommodation and service, and are located in the some of the most scenic areas of Piemonte.

Our comprehensive Echo Travel Information Pack provides well researched itineraries and will give you all the guidance and local information that you need to make the most of your precious time in Italy.

This will include our up to date guide to Piemonte with maps, detailed local information and sightseeing itineraries, as well as indications as to the best places to eat and drink.

The Langhe

The Langhe with its steep hills and deep valleys is a scenic and gastronomic treat, with numerous excellent restaurants and countless producers of fine wines.
Visit the town of Alba and some of the regions magical hill top towns:

Barolo - the village that gives its name to the famous red wine produced in the area and also houses a wine museum.

On a clear day enjoy the spectacular views of both local vineyards and distant mountains from La Morra, a town with a charming medieval centre.

Monforte d’Alba – now amongst the top producers of Langhe wines, the town also boasts a splendid medieval centre.

Castiglione Falletto – a delightful haven of tranquillity.  The centrally placed village of Castiglione Falletto gives easy access to many of the most scenic local towns and has an imposing castle at its centre.

Serralunga – a striking village, home to the majestic Falletti castle.

Enjoy leisurely walks between the villages or amongst the vines, visit the castles and the vineyards of Annunziata and of course try the excellent local cuisine and indulge in a wine tasting session (or two!)

Really get involved in the local culture of the Langhe with our regional cookery courses and truffle hunting excursions (September and October).

Saluzzo, Barge and Surroundings

Saluzzo is one of Italy's most beautiful small towns and the nearby Abbazia di Staffarda, dating from 1150, is an amazingly well preserved Medieval/Romanesque ensemble.  The Saluzzo valleys offer picturesque villages and ample opportunities for walking with the magnificent Monviso as a backdrop.  

Though not essential you may prefer to have use of a car for your holiday in the Langhe and Saluzzo areas.

Monferrato

One of Italy’s prettiest pastoral corners, a region of rolling hills, country lanes, woodland and vineyards.  Monferrato is an area famous for historic villages, castles and Romanesque churches.  Also of interest are the Sanctuario di Crea and the Abbey of Vezzolano in Albugnano.

Asti and Turin are both close enough to allow a pleasant day out.

Local culture is strong with a variety of festivals taking place over the summer months.

A car is recommended for holidays in the Monferrato area.

Asti

Asti is a charming market town located in the heart of Piedmont’s wine growing area.  It is a gastronomic centre widely famed for its food, wine and restaurants, but also boasts a delightful historical centre, art filled churches and a number of colourful, cultural festivals and traditions.

The local market days are Wednesday and Saturday.

Holidays in September will coincide with some of the more important festivals of the area which include the Palio horse race and its related processions, the Sagre local food festival and the Douja d’Or International wine festival.

Turin

The regions heart is Turin, a city of grace and charm with superb Baroque architecture, excellent museums and art galleries, all set against dramatic Alpine scenery.

Visit the Savoy Palaces, the Quadrilatero Romano -  the cities revitalised Roman and medieval core, and in addition enjoy the famous historical cafes and chocolate shops.

Further Activities in Piedmont

• Cookery Courses
• Wine Tasting
• Truffle hunting
• Palio degli Asini in Alba and Cocconato
• Cycling (many of our hotels offer free use of mountain bikes)
• Golf
• Horse Riding