In the heart of southern Piedmont, between the imposing embrace of the Maritime and Cottian Alps and the gentleness of the hilly landscapes, stands the province of Cuneo: a territory that seems to have distilled the best of the region into a perfect union of nature, taste and history. This corner of Italy, known for its picturesque views and gastronomic delicacies, offers a weekend getaway where outdoor activities meet the refinement of food and wine traditions. The show of the mountains blends with the delicacy of hazelnuts, the main ingredient of local cuisine and ambassador of Cuneo in the world. The following article will guide you through an itinerary that reveals the secrets of this fascinating land, suggesting authentic experiences to discover the most genuine soul of southern Piedmont.
Immersed in nature: excursions and breathtaking landscapes
Imagine waking up with the fresh air caressing your face and opening the window on the majestic backdrop of the Maritime and Cottian Alps. The province of Cuneo extends at the foot of these mountains, offering nature enthusiasts an infinite number of routes for every level of experience. The high mountain paths are like an invitation to discover the Alpine environment, from the simplest ones that wind through the larch and fir woods, up to the more challenging routes that lead to mountain refuges where you can taste typical dishes of Piedmontese cuisine.
Inside the Maritime Alps Natural Park, one of the largest in Italy, it is not uncommon to encounter a varied fauna: chamois and ibex move agilely among the rocks, while in the forests you can spot the flight of the eagle owl or listen to the song of the black grouse. For the lucky ones, morning or evening excursions could reserve surprising encounters with the wolf or the regal golden eagle. For those looking for less demanding activities, the valleys offer walks among the hazelnut groves, whose fruit is the main ingredient of many local delicacies. The climate of Cuneo is typical of mountain areas: cool and breezy summer, it allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities, while in winter the atmosphere becomes magical with the snow-covered landscape.
From village to village: culture, history and gastronomy
Casting your gaze on the squat bastions and medieval towers of the towns that dot the Cuneo territory is like taking a step back in time. Historic villages like Saluzzowith its unmistakable profile of castles and chapels, or the well-preserved historic center of Fossano, offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in Piedmontese history. Walking through the narrow alleys of these centers is an experience that enriches the soul, where every stone has a story to tell.
Food and wine culture blends with local history in the numerous events and festivals that celebrate local products. Among these, the Brown Fair in Cuneo and the famous Festival of Sagre di Asti, offer a window on the Piedmontese culinary world, centered on high quality raw materials among which the renowned PGI hazelnuts stand out. There is no shortage of opportunities to deepen one’s knowledge of the territory by participating in tastings of local wines, such as Barolo or Barbaresco, which warm the heart and spark conviviality. Along the wine route of the Langhe, you can combine the discovery of the hilly landscape with moments of pure oenological pleasure, appreciating the work of the winemakers who have made this land famous throughout the world. Cuneo reserves a warm welcome in every season: from the warmth of autumn colours, to the cool spring green which invites you to discover hidden corners of this land rich in treasures.
A weekend spent among the enchanting mountains of Cuneo and the expanses of lush hazelnut groves testifies to the authentic charm of southern Piedmont, a land that reveals itself amidst nature, taste and tradition. From excursions in the greenery of the Alpine paths to cultural visits to medieval villages, every moment becomes an opportunity to discover the harmony of the landscape and the food and wine richness of a territory that deserves to be explored with curiosity and taste . Hazelnuts, the true brown gold of the region, not only delight the palate, but also tell a story of agricultural dedication and passion for the territory. Those who come to Cuneo will experience not only a break from the frenetic daily routine, but also an enrichment of the senses, bringing with them on their return a backpack full of authentic memories and flavours. The discovery of Cuneo is a journey that begins among the peaks and woods and ends with the full taste of one of the most appreciated Italian excellences. A visit to these lands leaves the promise of returning, because every corner hidden between the mountains and the hazelnuts hides a secret to be revealed.
