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Where to Go to Avoid the Crowd
Are you looking for places in Piedmont that are not crowded, but incredibly beautiful? then read and discover with us the secret places in Piedmont!
Piedmont, a region rich in history, landscapes, and culture, has many hidden gems that remain off the beaten path, ideal for those who want to escape the crowds. In this guide, we’ll explore secret destinations in Piedmont, offering natural beauty, historic landmarks, and peaceful retreats. If you’re looking for a unique experience, these secret spots are the perfect choice.
Secret Places in Piedmont Mombaldone, a Medieval Treasure in the Asti Hills
Mombaldone is one of those rare places that has preserved its medieval charm. Located in the Langa Astigiana, this tiny village, with just a handful of residents, is an untouched gem surrounded by rolling hills and quiet roads. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with ancient stone houses, creating an atmosphere that feels almost frozen in time. What sets Mombaldone apart is that it’s the only village in the Asti province still entirely encircled by its original medieval walls, a testament to its historical importance as a fortified settlement.
At the heart of the village stands the Torre dell’Orologio, a clock tower that dominates the skyline and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. While Mombaldone may seem sleepy today, in its heyday, it was a strategic outpost. Walking through the village, you’ll also come across the Romanesque church of San Nicolao, dating back to the 12th century, which holds beautifully preserved frescoes.
Curiosity: Mombaldone is one of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia”, an exclusive list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, thanks to its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
How to get to Mombaldone
Although remote, Mombaldone can be reached by train. The Torino-Savona line serves the Mombaldone-Roccaverano station, though services are limited, so checking the schedule in advance is essential. For those driving, the village is about 90 minutes from Turin, accessible via the A21 motorway. The final stretch of road, the SP456, meanders through scenic hills, making the journey to Mombaldone a pleasant part of the adventure.
Secret Places in Piedmont: Valle Sacra, Mysteries of the Basilisk Trail
Tucked away in the Canavese region, the Valle Sacra is a place of legends and scenic beauty. One of the most mysterious and captivating routes is the Sentiero del Basilisco (Basilisk Trail), which starts in the medieval village of Castellamonte and winds its way up towards Castelnuovo Nigra. The trail is named after the mythical basilisk, a creature said to be a mix between a rooster and a serpent, which locals believed haunted the valley centuries ago. This legend, combined with the natural beauty of the area, makes the hike both exciting and otherworldly.
The Basilisk Trail leads through dense forests and open meadows, offering breathtaking views of the valley below and the distant Alps. Along the way, hikers can explore historical landmarks like old stone chapels and abandoned mills that once served the valley’s rural communities. Despite its relative obscurity, this trail is well-marked and ideal for those looking for a peaceful yet adventurous day out in nature.
Curiosity: The basilisk is not just a figure of local folklore. In medieval European bestiaries, it was believed to have the power to kill with a single glance, making the legend all the more intriguing for visitors who walk this path.
How to get to Valle Sacra
To reach the trail, start in Castellamonte or Castelnuovo Nigra, accessible by car from Turin via the SS460. It’s about an hour’s drive from the city. Public transportation options include taking a train to Rivarolo Canavese and then catching a local bus to one of the valley’s villages. From there, it’s a short walk to the beginning of the trail.
Secret Places in Piedmont Capanne di Marcarolo, Hiking Monte Tobbio
Located in the rugged Apennine hills, the Capanne di Marcarolo Natural Park offers a wild, untamed beauty, far from the more manicured landscapes typical of other parts of Piedmont. One of its standout features is Monte Tobbio, a solitary peak that offers some of the best panoramic views in the region. The climb to the summit starts in the village of Voltaggio, a picturesque hamlet with a rich history dating back to Roman times.
The trail to Monte Tobbio is moderately challenging, weaving through forests, pastures, and rocky paths. As you ascend, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with sweeping views over the park and beyond. At the top, hikers are rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that stretches all the way to the Ligurian Sea on clear days. The climb is not just about the views; the path also passes by several points of historical interest, including ancient shepherds’ huts and remnants of the area’s pastoral heritage.
Curiosity: The Monte Tobbio hike is steeped in local history. It was once a strategic lookout during World War II, and some of the old military posts still dot the mountainside, providing a glimpse into the past.
How to get to Monte Tobbio
From Voltaggio, which can be reached via the SP160, the hike begins just outside the village. Driving from Turin takes about two hours, primarily along the A21 and A26 motorways. Public transportation options are limited, but it’s possible to take a train to Alessandria and then a bus or taxi to Voltaggio.
Secret places in Piedmont: Lake Viverone, Piedmont’s Hidden Lakeside Retreat
Lake Viverone, located in the provinces of Biella and Turin, is a serene destination that offers a peaceful escape from the more popular tourist spots in Piedmont. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Lake Viverone is one of the largest natural lakes in the region. It remains yet relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The lake is popular with locals for a variety of water activities, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Its calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the lake, and the surrounding walking and cycling paths offer scenic routes through the countryside.
The shores of Lake Viverone are dotted with small, charming villages where visitors can enjoy authentic Piedmontese cuisine and sample local wines. The area is particularly known for its Erbaluce di Caluso wine, which is produced from vineyards surrounding the lake. For history enthusiasts, the Archaeological Park of Viverone offers a glimpse into the area’s ancient past, with discoveries dating back to the Bronze Age.
Curiosity: Lake Viverone is home to an archaeological site that was once a prehistoric village. Remains of pile dwellings, dating back over 3,000 years, have been discovered here, earning the lake a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the “Prehistoric Pile Dwellings Around the Alps.”
How to get to Lake Viverone
Reaching Lake Viverone by car from Turin takes about 1 hour via the A4 motorway. If you prefer public transport, take a train to Ivrea or Santhià, followed by a local bus to the lake.
Parco del Po e dell’Orba: Discovering Lucedio Abbey and the Garzaia of Valenza
The Parco del Po e dell’Orba is a vast protected area that follows the winding courses of the Po and Orba rivers. This region is home to a rich diversity of ecosystems, from wetlands to woodlands, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. One of the park’s most fascinating historical sites is the Abbazia di Santa Maria di Lucedio, located near Trino in the Vercelli province. Founded in the 12th century, this abbey once played a crucial role in introducing rice cultivation to the region, and today, it stands as a peaceful reminder of Piedmont’s agricultural past.
The abbey complex, with its beautiful cloisters and ancient frescoes, exudes an atmosphere of tranquility. Legend has it that Lucedio Abbey was once home to a secretive and powerful order of monks involved in mysterious rituals, adding a layer of intrigue for those exploring its grounds. Not far from here, birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Garzaia di Valenza, a nature reserve home to herons, storks, and other waterbirds. This sanctuary, located along the Po River, is a key nesting site and offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
Curiosity: Lucedio Abbey has long been the subject of rumors and ghost stories. Some claim that the abbey is haunted by the spirits of monks who performed secret rituals, adding a mysterious allure to its already fascinating history.
How to get to Lucedio Abbey
To visit Lucedio Abbey, drive from Turin on the A4 motorway, exiting at Casale Monferrato and continuing on local roads towards Trino. It’s approximately a 1-hour drive from Turin. Public transportation options include taking a train to Casale Monferrato, followed by a bus or taxi to the abbey.
Sacred Mount of Varallo: A Spiritual Journey in the Vercelli Hills
The Sacred Mount of Varallo is one of Piedmont’s most important religious and historical sites, offering visitors a deeply spiritual and visually captivating experience. Nestled in the hills overlooking the town of Varallo, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest and most significant of Italy’s Sacred Mountains (Sacri Monti). Built between the late 15th and 17th centuries, the complex consists of 45 chapels, each containing life-sized statues and frescoes that depict key scenes from the life of Christ. These chapels are arranged along a scenic path that leads visitors through a symbolic pilgrimage, culminating at the stunning basilica at the top.
The artistic value of the Sacred Mount is immense, with contributions from renowned artists like Gaudenzio Ferrari, whose vivid frescoes and sculptures bring the sacred narratives to life. Ferrari’s work is especially admired for its expressive realism, which has left an indelible mark on the religious art of the region. The surrounding landscape adds to the site’s charm, as the chapels are set amidst wooded areas, offering panoramic views of the Vercelli hills and the valley below.
Curiosity: The Sacred Mount of Varallo was envisioned as a “New Jerusalem,” allowing pilgrims who could not travel to the Holy Land to experience a similar journey. This concept made it an important spiritual destination in the Renaissance era and continues to attract visitors today.
How to get to the Sacred Mount of Varallo
The Sacred Mount of Varallo is accessible by car from Turin in about 1.5 hours via the A4 motorway and SP299. If traveling by public transportation, take a train to Varallo Sesia and a local bus or taxi to the site. The Sacred Mount is also reachable by a scenic cable car ride from the town of Varallo, adding a unique element to your visit.
Secret Places in Piedmont: Oasi Zegna and The Forest of Smiles
Nestled in the Biellese Alps, the Oasi Zegna is a hidden paradise for hikers, offering numerous trails that wind through dense forests and picturesque meadows. Among the most enchanting is the Sentiero del Bosco del Sorriso (Forest of Smiles), a path designed to connect visitors with nature in a deeply immersive way. The trail is lined with wooden sculptures and signs featuring quotes meant to inspire positivity and mindfulness, encouraging hikers to slow down and appreciate the beauty around them.
Forest of Smiles is particularly magical in autumn, when the trees’ foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The trail is family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with children or those looking for a gentle, relaxing walk. Along the way, you’ll also find areas dedicated to sensory experiences, such as “listening zones” where visitors are encouraged to sit in silence and tune into the sounds of the forest.
Curiosity: The Sentiero del Bosco del Sorriso was specifically designed as a “well-being” trail. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower stress levels, and this trail was created with that purpose in mind, offering a place to connect with the healing power of the natural world.
How to get to Oasi Zegna
The Oasi Zegna can be reached by car from Biella, following the SP105 to Trivero. The drive from Turin takes about 90 minutes. If traveling by public transport, you can take a train to Biella and then a bus or taxi to the park.
Parco Naturale del Gran Bosco di Salbertrand: The Assietta Road and Exilles Fort
The Parco Naturale del Gran Bosco di Salbertrand is a stunning nature reserve located in the upper Susa Valley, renowned for its dense alpine forests, diverse wildlife, and historical significance. One of the most spectacular routes in the park is the Strada dell’Assietta, a historic military road that runs along a high-altitude ridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Originally built in the 18th century, this road played a crucial role in protecting Piedmont from French invasions and remains a testament to the region’s military history.
A visit to the Forte di Exilles is also a must. This imposing fortress, strategically located near the French border, has stood guard over the valley for centuries. Its history is rich with tales of battles, sieges, and strategic importance during various conflicts between Italy and France. Today, the fort offers guided tours that take visitors through its massive walls, dungeons, and towers, offering a glimpse into its military past.
Curiosity: The Forte di Exilles is often linked to the legend of the “Man in the Iron Mask.” It is said that this mysterious prisoner, whose identity was kept secret, was held here before being transferred to France, adding a layer of intrigue to the fort’s already fascinating history.
How to get to the Gran Bosco and Forte di Exilles
The Gran Bosco di Salbertrand is accessible via the A32 motorway, exiting at Oulx or Salbertrand. The Forte di Exilles is located nearby and can be reached by following the SS24. Public transport options include taking a train to Oulx and then a local bus or taxi to the fort.
Secret Places in Piedmont: Valle Maira and The Occitan Trail
The Valle Maira is one of Piedmont’s most remote and beautiful valleys, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Percorso Occitano, or Occitan Trail, is a long-distance hiking route that winds through the valley, passing by ancient stone villages, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. This trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the rich Occitan culture, which has shaped the valley for centuries.
Along the route, visitors can explore charming villages like Macra and San Damiano Macra, where traditional stone houses and churches stand as reminders of a bygone era. The trail also offers stunning views of the Monte Chersogno and the surrounding peaks, making it a favorite among seasoned hikers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The Occitan Trail is divided into several stages, allowing hikers to explore the valley at their own pace.
Curiosity: The Occitan culture, which still survives in this remote valley, has its roots in the medieval troubadour tradition. The Occitan language, closely related to Provençal, is still spoken by some of the valley’s older residents, adding a unique cultural layer to the hiking experience.
How to get to Valle Maira
To reach the Valle Maira, drive from Turin southwest via the A6 and A33 motorways. The drive takes approximately 2 hours. Public transport options include taking a train to Cuneo, followed by a bus to the valley’s villages.
Exploring the secret places in Piedmont is a journey into the heart of nature, history, and local traditions. From the peaceful shores of Lago di Viverone to the panoramic heights of the Assietta Road, each of these secret destinations offers a unique experience away from the crowds. Discover Piedmont’s true soul by venturing off the beaten path, where unforgettable moments and unspoiled beauty await. Happy travels!
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