In Piedmont (Italy), whose photos amaze with the magnificence of nature and picturesque views, you can find something to do and beauty in both winter and summer. This original region of Italy has everything you need for a good holiday: sun, mountains, fine wines and cuisine, luxurious nature and cozy old towns. That is why Piedmont is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists who dream of combining different types of recreation in one tour.
Geographic location
The very name of Piedmont speaks of where this province is located - "at the foot of the mountains." Indeed, the region is surrounded on three sides by mountains - the Alps and the Ligurian Apennines. The highest point of the region is Mount Monviso (3841 m). The province occupies a place in the northwest of the country and borders regions such as Lombardy, Liguria, Valle d'Aosta, and the countries of France and Switzerland. The area of Piedmont is just over 25 thousand square meters. km, this is the second largestprovinces of Italy. The relief of the region is mountainous, with comfortable valleys, turning into fertile plains, and high mountains. The largest river in Italy, the Po, originates here, and this region is also rich in beautiful, clean mountain lakes. The main city of the province of Piedmont (Italy) is Turin.
Climate
Piedmont (Italy) is located in two climatic zones: in the mountains - it is a moderate mountain, alpine weather, and on the plain - a temperate continental. On the plain there is a very long and hot summer, with little rainfall, it begins in May and ends at the end of September. Such weather conditions are very favorable for growing quality grapes. Winter comes in November and lasts 2.5 months, it is characterized by a large amount of precipitation, especially closer to the mountains. The average temperature at this time of the year is minus 2 degrees. Spring (March - early May) and autumn (late September - mid-November) are characterized by mild conditions and average rainfall.
History of the region
The first documented references to the Piedmont region (Italy) date back to the 13th century. In those days, there were many small feudal estates here, there was no single government and culture. Only in the 15th century did these lands become part of the Duchy of Savoy. In the 18th century, Piedmont formed the basis of the Sardinian state, whose capital was Turin. At the beginning of the 19th century, the region was controlled by France for some time. But since 1820 it gains independence and becomes one of thethe most developed and prosperous regions of Italy. It was the locals who became the main driving force in several Italian revolutions. It is around Piedmont (Sardinian kingdom) that Italy is united into an integral country in 1860.
Orientation
The province of Piedmont (Italy) includes 8 districts: Asti, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Biella, Vercelli, Novara, Alexandria, Turin, Cuneo. The regional capital is Turin. It is connected by well-developed transport routes with all the settlements of the region, as well as with major cities in the region: Milan, Piacenza, Savona, Aosta. The uniqueness of Piedmont lies in the fact that ideal conditions for various types of recreation have been created here. In the winter, there are some of the best ski resorts in the country, while in the summer you can relax and improve your he alth in the thermal spas, as well as enjoy food, wine, ancient architecture and beautiful views all year round.
Main Attractions
If there are regions that fully reflect all the charm of the country, then one of them is definitely Piedmont (Italy). The sights of the province are varied and unique. The capital of the region is a real baroque kingdom. There are many worthy sights here, the most important of which is Piazza San Carlo with two magnificent temples and a bronze statue. In Turin, it is also worth visiting the Royal Basilica of Di Superga, the Citadel, the Alfieri Theater, the Palace of the Academy of Sciences, the Palazzo Madama, the Victor Emmanuel I Bridge.
There are many in the cityinteresting squares and buildings, so he should take at least a few days. Piedmont is remarkable in that here each town has retained its unique atmosphere, and each has its own attractions. The most famous of them are the Palazzo Alfieri in Asti, the castles of Grillano, Racconigi and Tagliolo, the churches of San Secondo and the Sacro Monte of St. Francis, Villa Crespi, Palace of the Commune. The capital of each district is a unique historical complex with a wonderfully calm atmosphere and a special spirit. Therefore, you can simply travel slowly around Piedmont, and for a very long time.
What to see
Turin is the main city (Piedmont, Italy), which is not just worth seeing with a tour, it is necessary to walk slowly around it in order to penetrate its soul and character. The second significant place in the region is the unique city of Asti, which has preserved the architectural ensemble of the Middle Ages. Piedmont is also famous for its villages, 11 of which are included in the list of the most beautiful rural settlements in Europe. This is a unique village on the island of Orta San Giulio, Ostana, Jaressio and others. It is also worth seeing traditional wineries, beautiful lakes, for example, Margiore. There are more than 50 national parks on the territory of the region, at least the most beautiful ones are worth seeing: Mont Avik and Gran Paradiso.
Things to do
Piedmont is a place where there is always something to entertain yourself. Many tourists specificallycome here to taste the famous wines of Piedmont (Italy). There are more than 40 wine regions, each of which has several distilleries that make different types of wines. To learn how to understand them, it seems, is not enough life. But you can arrange a wine tour and in a couple of weeks become, if not an expert, then at least a moderately knowledgeable person in this matter. Or you can just enjoy tasting different varieties and enjoy the views. In addition, Piedmont is a famous place where excellent truffles grow. In the season of their collection, specialists from all over the world come here. The region is also famous for its hazelnuts and chocolate and, of course, excellent Italian cuisine.
During the breaks between meals in Piedmont, it is worth visiting the famous baths, which will help restore digestion after heavy feasts, as well as cure some diseases and rejuvenate the body. In winter Piedmont comes to the realm of skiing, there are excellent slopes for athletes of all levels. No wonder Turin hosted the Winter Olympics.
Practical information
Piedmont is sometimes called Tuscany without tourists, although their number is growing every year. But while the prices for accommodation here are more forgiving than those of the famous competitor. Travelers are offered a large hotel base of various levels, always excellent food and good service. The Piedmontese are not a helpful people, but they are always welcoming to their guests. Getting to the region is easy. Turin has an international airport, and it is also easy to get here from Milan. Russiansyou will need a Schengen visa, which Italians issue with a minimum of requirements.
Reviews of tourists
Piedmont (Italy), reviews of tourists about which are always full of enthusiastic epithets, attracts with its atmosphere, people come here for the real spirit of Italy, which still remains sincere and pristine. The high season in the region is winter, so in summer there are much fewer tourists than in the promoted Italian provinces. Therefore, the prices here are more attractive, and life is much more comfortable. Tourists are advised to base themselves in Turin and travel to other cities for 1-2 days; for special wine lovers, interesting 3-day tours of wineries are offered.
