country house
Montessino
Wellness Art Relaxation
Monferrato, a Hidden Gem in the Heart of Piedmont
The former Marquisate of Monferrato awaits you with gentle hills, medieval villages, and vineyards where some of Italy’s finest wines are grown. Despite its rich history, from the Saracens to the handover to the Savoy royal family, Monferrato has remained largely undiscovered by tourists. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and the homeland of the white truffle, Monferrato invites you to experience the true essence of Piedmont. Discover this unique region and enjoy delicious wines, amidst history, culture, and nature. Your journey will be an unforgettable experience.
Culture, Wine and interesting facts
Start your adventure in Asti, a historic city known for the Palio, its beautiful squares, and its towers. From there, head to Acqui Terme, famous for its thermal springs that have attracted visitors since Roman times and its Fontana della Bollente, where hot, mineral water has gushed for centuries.
In your exploration of Monferrato, you must not miss Casale Monferrato with its majestic castle, impressive cathedral, and one of the most beautiful synagogues in Europe. Stroll through the historic streets with old-world charm. Take lunch in the local trattorias, where you can enjoy traditional dishes such as Agnolotti or Vitello Tonnato, paired with famous Monferrato wines like Barbera and Grignolino.
Near Ottiglio, with the sublime San Germano church and its picturesque village area Moleto, lie the gentle vineyards of Casorzo offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Ideal for walks, hikers, or cyclists. Casorzo is known for its wine production, especially the sweet Malvasia di Casorzo. Continue your journey in the charming Castagnole, where the almost forgotten red wine Ruchè is making a comeback with many awards! Visit local wineries to taste award-winning wines in an atmosphere of authentic Piedmontese hospitality and marvel at the historic cellars (Infernot/UNESCO).
End your day with an evening stroll through Italy’s smallest town: Moncalvo, also known for its annual truffle market, Cella Monte, Olivola, or Vignale Monferrato, whose peaceful atmosphere and beautiful panoramas will enchant you. The Sacro Monte di Crea pilgrimage site, with its impressive 17th-century group of sculptures, rises majestically on a hill offering visitors breathtaking views of the Alps and the picturesque wine landscapes. The UNESCO-recognized holy mountain attracts not only believers but also art and nature lovers.
Explore the many villages and castles that adorn the landscape. To have an authentic experience, find out about local festivals offering traditional foods, wines, and music. These events are a great way to learn about the region’s culture.
Sport
Experience a variety of activities. Hike through breathtaking landscapes with marvelous views, rent an e-mountain bike for exciting exploration tours. Enjoy relaxed horse riding excursions, take the plunge with a parachute jump, or play a round of golf. There's something for everyone in Monferrato! Find out more on this page.