Verdmont

Budding gourmets can sample Piedmont produce at local farms where prized goat’s cheese is produced, gelaterias selling delicious ice creams in a myriad of flavours, and vineyards throughout the Monferrato region – many are within half an hour’s drive. Historic Canelli (40 minutes by car) has several wineries open for tastings as well, and you can also visit the town’s UNESCO-listed cavern complex, where the region’s sparkling wines were once stored. There’s more culture to soak up at the ancient spa town of Acqui Terme (five minutes) too. Start a tour at the castle and its museum (home to Roman artefacts found locally) and follow the waymarked Corso Bagni trail to the ancient Roman aqueduct, one of the best-preserved in northern Italy. Should you wish to see more of Italy’s rich heritage, the museums, galleries and royal palaces of Turin are an hour and a half by car. If being outside and active is all you want from your Piedmont sojourn, go wild swimming at Lido di Melazzo on the Erro River (20 minutes), or jump on your bike (you can hire one on site) and explore the Monferrato hills.