Piedmont (Piemonte in Italian) is one of the 20 Italian regions. Sitting in the far northwest of the country, it neighbors France and Switzerland. The name “Piedmont” translates as “at the foot of the mountain,” and it’s no coincidence. In fact, Piedmont is surrounded on by the Alps three sides! Nonetheless, the wild ruggedness of its landscapes is complemented by the elegance of its aristocratic history. To put it bluntly, there are many exciting things to do in Piedmont and even more reasons for you to visit it!
Piedmont (Piemonte in Italian) is one of the 20 Italian regions. Sitting in the far northwest of the country, it neighbors France and Switzerland. The name “Piedmont” translates as “at the foot of the mountain,” and it’s no coincidence. In fact, Piedmont is surrounded on by the Alps three sides! Nonetheless, the wild ruggedness of its landscapes is complemented by the elegance of its aristocratic history. To put it bluntly, there are many exciting things to do in Piedmont and even more reasons for you to visit it!
Did you know Piedmont is Italy's second-largest region? Many argue it's also Italy’s most elegant. Why? Well, the grand palazzi and wines peppered all over the place kind of give it away. The region emerged strong and proud from the utter chaos of the Austrian wars. What’s even more important, it was the base of the Italian unification movement giving the country its first dynastic royal family (House of Savoy) and prime minister.
Most quests in the exploration of the region begin in Turin, Piedmont’s dynamic and cultured capital. Its history reaches as far back as the Roman times through the elegance came later, during the 300-year rule of the Dukes of Savoy. The opulent palaces and elegant piazzas you see today are results of that period. Still, despite the city’s notable history, Turin was often ignored by travelers that is, until the Winter Olympic Games of 2006 open the world’s eyes to its treasures. Langhe and Roero provinces form the region's culinary heart; the birthplace of the Slow Food movement and home to Italy's top wines. Foodies, this is a place for you!
After all the food you might be hungry for some action. No need to worry, Piedmont won’t disappoint on any front! On the other side of the region, close to the Swiss border, sit the lakes, Maggiore and Orta. Having been seducing travelers since the 18th century, both lakes boasts excellent infrastructure and a wide array of activities, especially in the summer months. In winter, head for the mountains. The popular resorts in Val Chisone and Val di Susa are excellent for both skiing and hiking.
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From the16th to the 19th century, the area of Piedmont sprouted from a minor duchy of Savoy to prosperous little kingdom. The Dukes of Savoy peppered the region with summer and winter residences, luxury hunting lodges and gardens. So, if you ever get stuck thinking about what to do in Piedmont, visit one of these incredible places.
Piedmont is a hotbed of cultural and culinary traditions, festivities and celebrations. Whatever time of year you stop by, you are likely to stumble upon one the events and festivals from the region’s busy cultural calendar. There are plenty of opportunities to taste, smell, see and touch Piedmont’s cultural core.
Piedmont is mountain-locked from three different sides making natural environment one of the region’s major attractions. Travelers from all around the world flock in Piedmont to spend their holidays against the unique backdrop of the Alps. Moreover, where there are mountains, there are also spas so there's no better place to relax.