Italy continually seduces the senses with its timeless charm and is a destination that reveals something new with every visit. Recently, we've uncovered a well-kept secret nestled in the heart of Northern Italy – the Monferrato region, a captivating enclave in the region of Piedmont, celebrated for its hidden treasures, and captivating landscapes, not to mention its long tradition of winemaking.
The Enchantment of Piedmont's Monferrato Region
Piedmont, often celebrated for its rich history and culinary delights, holds a true gem within its embrace, known as the Monferrato region. Divided into Alto Monferrato and Basso Monferrato, this area borders the Liguria region and unfurls across 300,000 hectares of a natural canvas of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns. Monferrato is also a historical region with its significance emphasized by its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where culture, history, and nature coalesce to paint a picture of pure enchantment.
An Exploration of Alto Monferrato
Alto Monferrato, just one facet of Monferrato, offers breathtaking panoramas and a delectable array of culinary treasures, spearheaded by the renowned local wines.
Reaching this exquisite destination is easier than most off-the-beaten destinations. With major cities such as Milan, Turin, and Genoa just sixty to ninety minutes away, it's a region easily accessible by car or train. Regional trains departing from Turin Porta Nuova or Milan Centrale offer a convenient way to reach the city of Novi Ligure where an efficient network of local trains and buses connect the charming towns of Serravalle Scrivia, Gavi, and Libarna.
Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Alto Monferrato
Gavi Fortress / Photo MAG Press
Monferrato unfolds its wonders to visitors, offering an array of activities and experiences. Nature enthusiasts will find their haven among the rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque countryside where hiking and cycling routes unveil the beauty of the region. Wine aficionados, on the other hand, can indulge in tastings at renowned wineries, allowing them to delve into the world of Gavi and other local varieties.
The region is a treasure trove of charming towns and captivating sights. Nova Ligure, a historic center with painted palaces reminiscent of Genoa is a visual delight. The town is also home to the unique Museo dei Campionissimi, a collection of vintage bicycles and historical records that trace the region's rich cycling heritage.
Serravalle Scrivia, a small town ensconced between the hills along the course of the Scrivia stream, delights visitors with its brightly colored Ligurian architecture, a castle, and ancient churches housing prestigious art. It's also home to the Serravalle Designer Outlet where Italian brands like Gucci, Prada, Fendi, and more can be found.
Libarna, an ancient Roman city near Serravalle Scrivia, provides a remarkable window into history. Well-preserved ruins, including residential areas, public buildings, a forum, a theater, and an amphitheater, offer insights into Roman urban planning and daily life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an invaluable resource for archaeology enthusiasts.
Gavi, known as the "city of fort and wine," captivates with its enormous fortress, perched atop Monte Moro, and overlooking the medieval historical center. Gavi is also famous for producing the white wine Cortese di Gavi, a fruity and floral delight. But Gavi offers more than wine, including the ancient Chiesa di San Giacomo, housing valuable artworks, and the Santuario di Nostra Signora della Guardia, offering breathtaking views of Gavi and the Lemme Valley.
Acqui Terme derives its name from the thermal waters that flow through the town. The most prestigious landmark is La Bollente, an ancient fountain of boiling water that has attracted tourists since Roman times. Set amidst the rolling hills of the Monferrato region, Acqui Terme is home to luxurious spas drawing from three natural thermal springs.
Culinary Delights in Monferrato
Ravioli di Gavi /Photo C. Abernethy Picfair
The Monferrato region in Piedmont, Italy, has a rich culinary tradition that reflects the area's agricultural heritage and dedication to high-quality ingredients. Typical dishes from Monferrato are a celebration of local produce and time-honored recipes.
Although difficult to choose, here are some dishes that represent the essence of Monferrato's culinary heritage:
Ravioli di Gavi is a delicate pasta pocket encapsulating a luscious filling. The classic filling combines tender veal, flavorful pork, aromatic herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The pasta is meticulously crafted to achieve the perfect thickness, ensuring a harmonious blend of pasta and filling. Each chef has a signature ingredient for its flavorful sauce.
Bagna Cauda is a beloved dish made to be shared. It's a warm and flavorful dip made from a combination of anchovies, garlic, olive oil, and butter. It's traditionally served with an assortment of raw and cooked vegetables, creating a delightful and social dining experience.
Tajarin with Truffle Sauce is a type of thin egg pasta, and in Monferrato, it's often served with a luxurious truffle sauce. This dish perfectly showcases the region's love for truffles, both white and black. The earthy and aromatic flavors of the truffle sauce complement the delicate tajarin pasta beautifully.
Retail Therapy in Monferrato
Serravalle Designer Outlet / Photo MAG Press
A trip to Italy cannot ignore Italian style, so take a moment to browse the shop windows of downtown Turin on Via Roma or Via Garibaldi.
In the heart of Alessandria, Galleria Guerci echoes Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its architectural charm. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, from well-known brands to charming boutiques, along with cafés and bakeries for a relaxing break.
Shopaholics will find their paradise at the Serravalle Designer Outlet, Europe's largest luxury designer outlet, just a short drive from Serravalle Scrivia, an hour from Milan or Turin. This shopping haven has over 230 brands, with discounts of up to 70%. Its charming Italian village architecture and open-air design create a unique shopping experience, with options ranging from Gucci and Prada to Nike and Levi's. Dining opportunities abound, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Also, take advantage of tax-free shopping which helps you get a refund on the 22% VAT rate applied to goods like clothes, textiles, leatherwear, jewelry, glassware, sunglasses, and wines.
Monferrato beckons travelers to embark on a journey of discovery, where nature, history, and cuisine unite to create an unforgettable experience. This hidden gem in Italy's Piedmont region is a testament to the enduring allure of a well-preserved past and the timeless beauty of nature.
Top photo credit: Gavi / Photo C.Abernethy Picfair
