The 10 most beautiful villages in Piedmont

Piedmont is a land of enchanting landscapes that serve as the backdrop for fascinating and diverse villages, each able to convey the beauty and atmosphere born from centuries of history and traditions.

As we travel through the landscapes of the region, we’ll visit the 10 most beautiful villages in Piedmont, on an itinerary that will take us to discover the many facets of this territory and to experience authentic and unforgettable moments.

We’ll start with the pristine serenity of the mountains surrounding Ceresole Reale, a peaceful oasis at the foot of the Alps, and then immerse ourselves in the heart of the Langhe, among the rolling hills and fine wines of Barolo and Alba.

Next, we’ll head to Volpedo, a small gem that preserves the art and history of the famous painter Giuseppe Pellizza, before exploring the gentle hills of Cella Monte and Cocconato d'Asti, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.

Then we’ll move on to Candelo, renowned for its Ricetto, a fascinating and perfectly preserved medieval fortified complex, before continuing to the lakeside views of Orta San Giulio, overlooking one of Italy's most picturesque lakes.

Finally, we’ll venture into the Alps, with our last stop at Macugnaga, where the untamed beauty of the mountains will conclude our exciting journey, in which each village holds a unique piece of Piedmont’s heritage, ready to reveal its wonders to all who wish to discover them.

Ceresole Reale is a charming mountain village nestled in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, in the province of Turin, not far from the French border. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps, this small town is an ideal destination for those seeking a direct connection with nature.

The history of Ceresole dates back to the Middle Ages, but the name "Reale" was added in 1861 in honor of King Vittorio Emanuele II, who frequented these areas for his hunting expeditions.

The Lago di Ceresole, with its turquoise waters, is one of the most picturesque spots in the area. In this little paradise, you can spend your days enjoying relaxing walks or bike rides, and in the winter months, you can indulge in cross-country skiing.

The surroundings of the village also offer must-see natural wonders. Just a few kilometers away is the Lago di Serrù, an alpine gem nestled among the peaks, where the reflection of the mountains in the clear waters creates a postcard-like panorama.

Ascending further up the road, you can reach the Colle del Nivolet, one of the most spectacular alpine passes in Piedmont, located over 2,600 meters above sea level. Here, the view unfolds over a magnificent landscape of alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and snow-capped peaks, which can be explored through challenging hikes that offer opportunities to spot local wildlife, including ibex and golden eagles.

After such exertion, let’s return to the village to refuel with Toma di Ceresole, a distinctive mountain cheese with a strong flavor, or traditional Piedmontese mountain dishes like polenta and local cured meats.

The charming town of Barolo offers an irresistible blend of history, culture, nature and flavors, making it an unmissable stop among the 10 most beautiful villages in Piedmont. Located in the heart of the Langhe, a hilly area famous worldwide and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Barolo is surrounded by vineyards that produce one of Italy’s most renowned wines, the namesake Barolo.

Strolling through the narrow streets of the picturesque historic center is a journey through history and beauty, with the well-preserved medieval castle now home to the Wine Museum, the interesting and interactive WiMu, an ideal place to discover the area's long winemaking tradition.

The castle also hosts the Regional Enoteca of Barolo, where visitors can taste and purchase the finest vintages of this prestigious wine.

The breathtaking scenery of the Langhe makes the town an ideal destination for nature lovers. From the trails that wind through vineyard-covered hills you can enjoy unforgettable views, especially traveling in autumn, when the vines turn shades of red and gold. Additionally, you can follow food and wine itineraries on foot or by bike, surrounded by the stunning hilly landscape.

Beyond wine, Barolo is synonymous with gastronomic excellence. In its restaurants and inns, you can savor typical Piedmontese dishes such as white truffle, bagna cauda, or Fassona beef tartare, all perfectly paired with the essential Barolo DOCG. A stay here offers a complete immersion in local flavor and tradition, providing visitors with a truly unique experience.

Cocconato d’Asti is a village nestled among the hills, yet it is also known as the "Riviera of Monferrato" due to its mild and favorable climate.

The town center is small but very charming, with cobbled streets winding between the War Memorial, the 17th-century Church of the Holy Trinity, a few restaurants, and a viewpoint offering a spectacular panorama on the surrounding hilly countryside.

The landscape around Cocconato offers picturesque views, and the vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see invite you to discover the flavors of a centuries-old winemaking tradition, made unique by the particular climate of the area.

Every year, the village hosts Cocco Wine, a not-to-be-missed food and wine festival. This event, which began over twenty years ago, celebrates local excellence, with a special focus on Monferrato wines such as Barbera and Grignolino, which can be tasted directly from the producers.

During Cocco Wine, the village comes alive with stalls, activities and guided tastings, offering the opportunity to discover not only the wines but also the typical local products. It’s an occasion that attracts not only wine enthusiasts but also anyone looking for an authentic experience in the heart of Monferrato.

Surrounded by the fertile rice paddies of the Biella province, Candelo captivates with its extraordinary medieval Ricetto. This ancient fortified complex is one of the best-preserved structures in Europe, representing a true treasure trove of history and culture, among the best places to discover in Piedmont.

Built in the 14th century to protect crops and valuable goods from attacks, the Ricetto of Candelo is now a living monument to the rural and peasant life of the Piedmont region. Wandering through its narrow, cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, wooden balconies, and overhanging roofs, one is literally transported back in time.

The imposing defensive walls encircling the entire complex and the perfectly preserved corner towers offer a spectacular view of the fortifications that once ensured the community’s safety. Visiting the towers allows to closely admire medieval architectural mastery and uncover the secrets and stories these walls have witnessed over the centuries.

Candelo is not only about history but also about gastronomy. The local specialties, such as the prized Baraggia rice and Biella cheeses, are irresistibly enticing. Every autumn, the village comes alive with events and fairs that celebrate local flavors and peasant traditions, offering an immersive experience at the heart of Piedmontese culture.

In the province of Novara, nestled on the shores of the enchanting Lake Orta, one of the most fascinating Italian lakes, the charming village of Orta San Giulio boasts a magical and romantic atmosphere, making it an unmissable destination for those seeking an experience of peace and beauty.

The first thing to do is to explore the captivating historic center, starting from the splendid Piazza Mario Motta and strolling through the adjacent streets, among ancient houses and small artisan shops.

If we want to immerse ourselves in nature and admire the stunning lake views, let’s climb up to the Sacro Monte of Orta, a complex of 20 chapels nestled in an ancient forest, which depict the life of St. Francis of Assisi through statues and frescoes.

It’s one of the nine Sacri Monti located between Piedmont and Lombardy. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacro Monte of Orta combines a mystical and spiritual experience with the opportunity to enjoy the most spectacular views of the lake below, at the center of which stands the silhouette of San Giulio Island, with its Basilica and small Benedictine Abbey.

After visiting the Sacro Monte, let’s return to the village to recharge by tasting the lake’s specialties. Among the local products, the delicate Coregone fish and traditional Piedmontese bollito stand out, accompanied by the flavorful "bagnet" sauces, either green or red, perfect to enhance the taste of the meat.

Our journey through the 10 most beautiful villages in Piedmont concludes amidst the majestic Alps, which provide a stunning backdrop to the charming village of Macugnaga, located in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Here, at the foot of the imposing Monte Rosa, one can experience unique adventures surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Macugnaga is truly a paradise for hikers, with trails leading to spectacular spots like the Lago delle Fate, a hidden alpine gem nestled among the mountains, yet easily accessible. It's a perfect place to spend a few hours relaxing in a postcard-perfect setting.

Another must-do experience is the cable car ride to the Belvedere, from where you can admire both Monte Rosa and the surrounding peaks in all their glory.

In winter, the village transforms into a peaceful ski resort, beloved for its tranquility and the quality of its slopes.

Macugnaga is also a place rich in tradition, reflected in its own architecture. The wooden and stone houses are a perfect example of traditional Walser architecture, a testament to a culture that has left an indelible mark on these lands.

Walser houses are built to withstand the harsh high-mountain climate, using sturdy wood and local stone, with steep roofs to shed snow in winter and wide wooden balconies used for drying agricultural products.

All of these elements, along with the impeccable local hospitality, make Macugnaga a truly special place, where history, nature and tradition coexist in perfect harmony.