Piedmont

Introducing Piedmont

Sometimes referred to as ‘Tuscany without the tourists’, Piedmont’s undulating hills striped with vineyards bear more than a passing resemblance to its famous southern counterpart. But, inexplicably, many visitors to Italy bypass this picturesque region. The first trickle of tourism, stemming mostly from Switzerland and Germany, only began in Piedmont (Piemonte) a decade ago. Today it remains a haven of tranquillity where you can meander among the vines and sip wine in castle cellars.

In-the-know foodies seek out Piedmont’s white truffles, hazelnuts, chocolates, and vintages such as Barberesco, Barolo and sparkling Asti. Its abundance of fresh produce and artisan traditions inspired the Slow Food Movement here, which is based around savouring the simple pleasures in life – an art which the Piedmontese have perfected.

The 2006 Winter Olympics, hosted by Piedmont’s capital Turin, and the nearby pistes of the Via Lattea (‘Milky Way’) also brought Piedmont to international attention. In the process, Turin shed its industrial image, reinventing itself as a chic, sophisticated world city. Even so, Piedmont will leave you wondering when the crowds will finally catch on – and being thankful that they haven’t, yet.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009