What to see in Valle d’Aosta?

The smallest region in Italy between nature, history, tradition and good food!

This is a route through the Aosta Valley, in the Italian Alps combining nature, culture and gastronomy.

An itinerary that visits castles and forts such as that of Bard or the Roman remains of Aosta; climb at 3,462 m to see Mont Blanc; taste the typical products of the region and advise you on excursions near Monte Rosa.

Do you want information about a route through the Italian Alps?

Keep reading!

 Italian Alps in Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley is the smallest region in Italy, made up of 13 side valleys. It is located in the Alps and surrounded by the highest mountains in Europe (Mont Blanc 4,810 m and Monte Rosa 4,634 m).

This valley was inhabited by the Salassi (Celto-Ligurians), Romans, Burgundians and Longobards (Germanic) and Carolingians until the Royal House of Savoy emerged.

The peaks of Mont Blanc, the Cervino and other snow-covered giants make the Italian region of Valle d’Aosta a paradise for skiers and hikers.

From Courmayeur to Chamonix a skiing experience awaits you along the Vallée Blanche.

On the way back, relax in the relais with spa with swimming pool, super-technological gyms, which offer intimacy and exclusivity in an enchanting environment! The tourist resort of Courmayeur offers adventures on ice all year round, thanks to the Giant’s Tooth Glacier.

The oldest national park in Italy, the Gran Paradiso, is also located in the Aosta Valley, as are numerous castles. A cable car ride from La Palud takes passengers over the mountains to Chamonix, France, offering a bird’s-eye view of the breathtaking landscape.

Italian Alps and Gressoney Valley. As you go through more days route the Aosta Valley, you will be able to realize the different cultures that inhabited this region, both in food and architecture. The vestiges of the Roman era can be seen from Pont-Saint-Martin to Augusta Praetoria, the current city of Aosta.

Roman monuments in Aosta: Augusta Praetoria, Door To The Alps

Ancient Roman roads, a crumbling theatre, bridges and aqueducts, city walls and old crypts are all in evidence throughout the Aosta Valley.

• Arch of Augustus:This monument is Aosta’s landmark. It was built in 25 BC, the year in which Augusta Praetoria was founded, in honour of Emperor Augustus’ victory over the Salassi.
• Porta Praetoria: This was once the main entrance to the town. It has two parallel arches 12 metres apart, each with three passages: a central one for vehicles and two side ones for pedestrians.
• Roman theatre: The impressive 22-metre high southern façade can be seen from the theatre which would have held three or four thousand spectators.
• The city walls of Augusta Praetoria reached around 7 metres in height and delineated a rectangle of 724 x 572 metres.
• Roman bridge: This single arch bridge was built at the end of the first century BC over the river Buthier. which changed its course a few centuries after due to a flood. [FOTO]

Visit Fort Bard

The Fort Bard is formed of three main defence stations positioned at different levels upon a high imposing rock spur, the lowest at 400m above ground and the highest at 467m. The Ferdinando Opera is the defence structure at the bottom, the Vittorio Opera in the middle, and the Carlo Alberto Opera at the top. There are a total of 283 rooms in the entire fortress.

Almost intact from the moment of its construction, Fort Bard represents one of the best examples of early 1800 military strongholds.

The Valle d’Aosta and Its Castles

In the Middle Ages, the Aosta Valley was a compulsory passage towards Alpine passes. Thus, toll collections were an important source of power and income. Since the Aosta Valley wasn’t directly controlled by any authority, it was easy to take the land and appoint yourself as its lord; therefore, local nobles moved away from the towns, in search of land where they could extend their domains. Castles, towers and fortified houses arose on unaccessible elevations to dominate vast stretches of land from above.

Typical examples of fortifications from the 11th and 12th century are Graines Castle in Brusson, the castle of Cly in Saint-Denis and Châtel-Argent castle in Villeneuve. Their chapels show the extreme simplicity of Romanesque religious architecture.

The evolution of defensive castles into mansions In the following centuries, castles gets more complex. It’s the case of Ussel castle and Verrès castle.

Late Gothic Fénis castle and Issogne castle complete the evolution of defensive castles of the Aosta Valley into urban mansions.

4 local foods & drinks you have to try in Aosta Valley

• Lard d’Arnad: The aromatic Aosta Valley Lard is an exquisite cold cut traditionally produced in the Alpine town of Arnad, where the tradition of pig farming dates centuries back. One of the distinctive features in the production of Lard d’Arnad is the animals’ diet, consisting mainly of chestnuts, roots and tubers found in the Valley.
• Fontina cheese: Produced in the Aosta Valley since the 1100s, Fontinais a semi-cooked cheese traditionally made with raw cow’s milk of the Valdostana Pezzata Rossa cattle breed. Depending on the length of maturation, the texture of Fontina can vary from semi-soft to firm, while the flavor ranges from mild, sweet, and nutty to robust and quite tangy.
• “Crespelle alla Valdostana”: Is an Italian specialty that consists of savory, stuffed crêpes smothered in gooey Fontina cheese and béchamel sauce. The batter for the crêpes is made with a combination of flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, salt, and pepper, while the filling typically includes diced or sliced Fontina cheese, cooked ham (such as gran biscottoham), and (sometimes) mushrooms.
• Aosta valley DOC wines: Valle d’Aosta boasts a climate particularly suited to the cultivation of vines since Roman times, of which there are numerous testimonies.
  Today the denomination of Controlled Origin D.O.C “Valle d’Aosta – Vallée d’Aoste” is represented by 7 sub-denominations per area and 19 sub-denominations per vine. Among the DOC Valle d’Aosta wines we recommend: Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle and Chardonnay among the whites and Donnas Picotendro, Syrah and Torrette among the reds.
  Production is limited, the result of often “heroic” viticulture, where the use of technologies is limited by the conformation of the territory.

Taste these wines with gastronomic excellences and you will find the authenticity of the taste that has been handed down for a generation, the best that the Aosta Valley can offer!

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

Liguria: 10 Things to see absolutely in Genoa

What to see in Genoa in Liguria?

What are the places of interest to visit?

What to see in particular?

Here are the 10 things to see in and around Genoa and not to be missed!

Genoa, the city of art. Set between the sea and the mountains of Liguria, Genoa offers those who visit it breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.

Rich in noble palaces, museums, churches, but also more “modern” attractions such as the famous Aquarium, Genoa deserves to be visited at least once.

Famous for its “Rolli”, which today are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Genoa is a city to be experienced in all its facets.

Now, west Liguria and its villages, we indicate 10, but to know that there are many more to see.

Historic Center and “Caruggi”

The historical center is certainly the heart of the city.

Formed by the so-called “caruggi“, that is narrow alleys that date back to the medieval period, “creuze” (typical narrow lane or mule track that cuts, often vertically, the hills of Genoa and all of Liguria) and small squares, it is one of the many elements that have been included in the heritage of humanity by Unesco as name “The Strade Nuove”.

Rich in noble palaces, churches and monuments, the Historic Center of Genoa is the testimony of how different styles, eras and cultures have come into contact in this city, leaving a tangible imprint in the style of most of the buildings present.

You can admire some of the most fascinating alleys starting from Piazza Caricamento and going on foot towards via al Ponte Reale and Piazza Banchi where the Loggia della Mercanzia is located, a medieval building that housed the trading of merchants and bankers.

Royal Palace Museum

The Museum of Palazzo Reale in Genoa is located inside what was commonly called Palazzo Stefano Balbi, one of the 42 “Rolli” in Genoa.

To compose the museum, in addition to the “house” of the Balbi, there is also one of the most important art galleries in the city, which contains works created by Van Dyke and Tintoretto.

In addition to this, you can find, shortage of Genoese sculptures, frescoes and furniture dating back to the 17th-18th century.

Genoa Aquarium

The Genoa Aquarium is without doubt the most famous place in the city. Inaugurated in 1992 in the Porto Antico area, the Genoa aquarium is the second largest in Europe after the one in Valencia. Inside there are 12,000 specimens of 600 different species.

Among these, sharks, seals, penguins and turtles are particularly successful. The aquarium is structured in such a way that visitors can literally “walk” in the tanks, which are well over 70.
Recently the structure has further enlarged thanks to a new pavilion designed by Renzo Piano, called the “Cetacean Pavilion”.

Galata Museo del Mare

The Galata Museo del Mare, after the Genoa Aquarium, is one of the most important maritime museums in the Mediterranean. Dedicated to the history of navigation and to the celebration of the bond that has always connected man and the sea, Galata takes its visitors on a real journey through the reproductions of the boats that accompanied man in his discovery of the sea. From rowing ships to sailing ships, from boats related to geographical explorations to those used to discover America.

The Lantern

The lantern, symbol of Genoa, is the ancient lighthouse of the city.

With a structure 77 meters high, it dates back to the fourteenth century and had the task of signaling the entrance of the port to ships.

Specifically, the lighthouse became such in 1326, when the first oil lantern was installed inside.

To see it, the lantern is truly spectacular: the tower in fact stands on top of a hill 40 meters high, which makes the Lantern 177 meters high above sea level.

Old Port

Ancient trade center of Genoa, the Porto Antico has now become one of the cultural centers of the city in 1992, when the area was “modernized” by Renzo Piano on the occasion of the five hundred years of the Discovery of America .

Today the Porto Antico area is home to some of the city’s major attractions, including the Genoa Aquarium, the Galata and the Biosphere, a glass and steel bubble that floats on the water and contains at its inside a tropical environment with some animals such as butterflies and birds

Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Dating back to the 9th century, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a splendid example of Genoese style.

The Duomo was remodeled several times until the 16th century, as can be seen from the mixture of different architectural styles both inside and outside.

The Cathedral is composed of three naves that collect works of all kinds, from sculptures to frescoes and paintings, up to a Treasure Museum, which contains the Sacro Catino which, according to legend, would be the Holy Grail, in addition to the Ark of the Ashes of San Giovanni Battista and other objects related to the patron of Genoa.

Albertis Castle

Castello d’Albertis is currently the home of the Museum of World Cultures.

It is one of the most famous house-museums in Genoa and its surroundings, a symbol of the adventurous life that its owner and founder, Captain Enrico Alberto d’Albertis had. The museum aims to offer a sort of journey between different cultures and peoples with which the Captain came into contact through archaeological and ethnographic finds that will amaze you.

Via Garibaldi and its museums

Commonly called “Strada Nuova”, via Garibaldi is often called the “golden road” of Genoa, thanks to the exorbitant quantity of noble palaces that arise there.

Among these, three palaces stand out which today are known as the “Strada Nuova Museums”: Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Doria Tursi.

The first, which was the home of the Brignole – Sale, collects the family’s private collection, which tells more than two centuries of history, which also includes works by Van Dyck and Veronese.

The second one is the seat of an important collection of paintings of the Italian, Flemish, French, Dutch and Spanish tradition, which range from the 16th to the 18th century. The third also contains displays of ceramics and tapestries, as well as being the place where “il Cannone” is preserved, the famous Paganini violin built in 1734.

Belvedere Castelletto

Finally we offer you a real gem, probably the one that is the best panoramic point in the city. The Spianata Castelletto is a fantastic “suspended balcony” overlooking the historic center.

It is a rather romantic place, absolutely not to be missed especially if you visit Genoa as a couple. Particularly fascinating if you reach it via the liberty style elevator.

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

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Discovering the Cinque Terre

Sun, beaches, nature, but not only. The Cinque Terre also contain architectures that highlight an ancient history and something magical.

The name that derives from the five seaside villages that are located in the 15 km of one of the most pristine Mediterranean coasts of Liguria.

Following the paths of the 5 villages

The crystal clear sea and the network of paths that offers varied landscapes have made the Cinque Terre today among the most popular destinations for tourists.

The first town located in the western part is that of Monterosso al Mare, the most populous of the villages.

Located in the center of a small natural gulf, protected by a modest artificial cliff, it contains within it stretches of fine gravel beaches. But interesting of this village are not only the beaches, but also the monuments, such as the medieval Aurora Tower, which divides the old village from the new one, the “giant statue” and the hermitage of S. Antonio del Mesco.

Proceeding east, climbing a small promontory that fits into the sea, you will find Vernazza, where there are valuable architectural elements that testify to the economic and socially superior level of life of the past.

Centrally located is Corniglia, the only village in the Cinque Terre that does not directly overlook the sea. To reach it you need to climb a promontory, through a staircase of almost 400 steps called “Lardarina” (or alternatively you can take the road that connects it to the railway station).

Another village located on a promontory is Manarola. It rises in the terminal part of the valley of the Groppo stream and the houses face one another close to the other on the main street. The splendid “Via dell’Amore” also starts from Manarola, carved into the rock wall, a road famous all over the world for its beauty and its breathtaking views, declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site.

Road that you can walk in peace until you get to Riomaggiore, the easternmost village of the Cinque Terre.

The historic center, whose original core dates back to the 13th century, is made up of several parallel orders of Genoese tower houses that follow the steep course of the stream. Due to the floods that have affected this region in recent years, some paths are closed for a long period (it is in fact expected to reopen in April 2018) so before venturing into these areas it is recommended to check the various updates on the dedicated websites, in so as not to find unpleasant surprises.

Beaches and nature

In Cinque Terre there are a large number of beaches for all.

Walking on the blue path, tourists can go down to the sea at any time.

Generally they are all free, and some offer paid services, such as bars, umbrellas, deck chairs, showers etc.

A characteristic of the coast is that the wind hardly ever blows, so swimming is pleasant even when it is not too hot.

Both because it is the largest and because it is the only one with sand, Monterosso is the beach most frequented by tourists while the others are more rocky.

First Protected Area and then Regional Park, the Cinque Terre became National Park in 1999, a tool to safeguard a unique environment in the world.

In addition, the territory between Punta Mesco and Capo di Montenero has been declared a Natural Marine Protected Area to preserve the beautiful seabed.

Furthermore, due to the presence of whales and dolphins, these waters are part of the Cetacean Sanctuary.

Good Ligurian cuisine

The cuisine of the Cinque Terre preserves the characteristics of the past almost intact. The mild climate allows the cultivation of olives, citrus fruits and viticulture. The top product is certainly the “Sciacchetrà”, a rare and precious liqueur wine famous all over the world.

Another famous product is the “limoncino”, a liqueur made from the tasty lemons of these lands.

Obviously, being in Liguria, the home of basil pesto, be sure to take a first course with good local pesto.

If you love fish, here you will be spoiled for choice between the famous salted anchovies of Riomaggiore, the frying of whitebait, the cuttlefish of zimino rock, the octopus and the stuffed squid.

On the table of the five coastal villages you can taste the typical Ligurian dishes, especially the Genoese pesto, especially the fish dishes, with some local specialties.

One of the most typical desserts of the locality is certainly the tart with lemon jam.

Now, after west Liguria, its hidden villages, the city of Genoa and Cinque Terre tour, you to find the your perfect experience for your next holidays in Liguria with Elite Luxury Tours!

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

West Liguria: 5 little villages that can’t be missed!

There are wonderful succession of villages interspersed with the lush green of nature in west Liguria.

From the Mediaeval Apricale to the little Principality of Seborga, from the romantic Tellaro to the old Maritime Repubblic of Noli.  A tour to discover an unexpected Liguria which surprises you from every angle.

There are five historical villages in Liguria, selected among the lots of hidden treasures of this region that will be able to astonish even the most expert traveller, unveiling their hidden beauty between alleys and little squares steeped in history and culture, giving compelling emotions in front of the spectacle of the sea and unforgettable walks up and down hills and mountains.

1. Apricale 

Climbed on the mountain of Bordighera, in the intense green of vegetation, the view of Apricale really takes our breath away.

At 13 kilometres from the sea of the Riviera di Ponente, Apricale is a little treasure recently given back to its authentic charm by thorough works of recovery and restoration, performed by international artists and enlightened entrepreneurs, who decided give life back to this little Mediaeval jewel.

Cars must be parked at the bottom of the town, and from there you should move on foot to reach the Castle.

The best souvenir to bring back home, from here, is a bottle of the very good extra-virgin oil of olives DOP Riviera dei Fiori, extracted by taggiasche olives.

2. Cervo 

Not far from Apricale, but directly facing the sea, there is an enchanting and charming place, the little town of Cervo, it is very quiet and very enjoyable to visit.

The time seems to have stopped here: between the blue of the sea and the green of the hills, its Mediaeval houses, the caruggi and the stone arches, the squares and the terraces depict an authentic landscape, to cross only on foot and without hurry.

Discovered over half a century ago by Sandor Vegh, the renowned Hungarian violinist, who saw great potentiality in the characteristic concave façade of the Church of Saint John and who decided to transform the village of Cervo in the centre of the Chamber Music.

Very fresh fish is king in Cervo, matched with the very good Riviera Ligure di Ponente Vermentino DOC.

3. Noli 

In Noli we look at the history of prosperity, travels and adventures of the Maritime Republics, Italian port towns that had had independence, autonomy, and great commercial wealth since the IX century.

The most famous are Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa and Venice. However, there were other four towns that had a remarkable importance and among these there is the little village of Noli in Liguria. From its port men departed to the Holy Land during the Crusades. During Maritime Republics, alled of Genoa, used its wealth to build 72 towers, massive walls and prestigious palaces. Still visible today.

4. Seborga 

It is one of the smallest commons of our Country with 315 inhabitants. But, above all, Seborga, or better, the Principality of Seborga is the smallest state in the world, even if it is an imaginary one.

Inside the village, you can’t resist the illusion to find themselves in a tiny Mediaeval kingdom. Seborga is an old and attractive village, dating back to the X century, characterised by narrow cobblestones alleys, arches and rocky doors, that lead to the beautiful Piazza San Martino, with the Palazzo dei Monaci, where the old Seborga mint is still held. Around the half of last century, the inhabitants of Seborga claimed that after the Italian unification, made by the Savoy, the Principality of Seborga wasn’t legitimately listed among the properties of the Kingdom of Italy.

The unique history of Seborga gives this old village even more charm and magic.

5. Borgio Verezzi

One of the the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più belli d’Italia), a common between sea and hills.  We recommend you to discover Borgio Verezzi, this small Ligurian village full of charm that will amaze you with its beaches and beautiful hill walks. Visitable in all periods of the year Borgio Verezzi will conquer you with its suggestions and colors. If this is still not enough, let yourself be enchanted by its gastronomy. Don’t predict gnocchi with pesto and snails alla Verezzina.

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

West Liguria: the Italian Riviera of Flowers

When we say “Riviera dei Fiori” in Italy, we mean the area of ​​the West Liguria Riviera (from Genoa … to France).

A wonderful succession of villages interspersed with the lush green of nature.

The “Riviera dei Fiori” is in fact the last patch of western Liguria near France, well-known for its rather temperate climate.

Three main provinces:

• Genova
• Savona
• Imperia

GENOA

Genoa the capital of its province and Liguria.

Located on the Golfo of Genova in the Ligurian Sea, Genova has historically been one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean and it was one of Italy’s two largest maritime republics (together with Venice) that enjoyed enormous power and prestige as early as the Middle Ages.

For this reason Genova has been called la Superba (“the proud one”) by Petrarca due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks.

Today Genova is one of the most fascinating Italian cities.

Part of the old town of the city was inscribed on the World Heritage List (UNESCO) in 2006 as Genova: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli and its richness in culture, history, art, music and cuisine allowed it to become the 2004 European Capital of Culture.

The city is a succession of enchanting walks along the coast and steep creuze (small brick roads), which climb up the hills and descend vertiginously to dive into the sea while the historic center develops in an intricate maze of alleys (caruggi) that open unexpectedly in small squares.

It’s a succession of precious treasures, corners of peace and beauty and an incredible mix of different tastes, colors, scents and cultures.

SAVONA

Between Genoa and Imperia, there is the province of Savona also called the Riviera delle Palme.

The Riviera delle Palme includes the entire Province of Savona, from Varazze and Spotorno

For over 932 square kilometers of coast, mountains and inland valleys. Here the inhabitants live a reality of the sea, green pines and olive trees.

• Finale Ligure is part of the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più belli d’Italia). It is made up of three urban centers: Finale Marina, with its splendid promenade and alleyways (winding streets and side streets), elegant shops and lively cafés; Finalpia (or Finale Pia) and a little further inland, Finalborgo.
• Pietra Ligure, on the other hand, is a small seaside town surrounded by beautiful hills and vegetation, as well as by large beaches with hospitable accommodation and holiday resorts. It is an important tourist destination, mainly for those who come from the big cities of northern Italy.
• Albenga one of the most important cities of the Riviera di Ponente with art, history and fun; but to explore the sea and its seabed we recommend an excursion to the Gallinara Island, (Regional Nature Reserve since 1989).
• Finally, do not forget Alassio, famous for its Muretto (wall) with the autographs of all the celebrities who have chosen to stay here; Il Muretto also lends its name to a local beauty contest that takes place every summer.

IMPERIA

Imperia is a coastal city. It is the capital of the Imperia province and in the earlier times it had been the capital of the ancient district of Intemelia.

The city is well known for its cultivation of olives and flowers.

The city is famous not only for its food industries but also for tourism.

Oneglia and Porto Maurizio are the main cities from which Imperia born.

The pretty, touristic side of the city is best seen around Porto Maurizio whilst Oneglia is more devoted to the production of olives and flowers.

If you approach Imperia from the west, the road following the coastline suddenly opens up to a beautiful view of a large, beautiful bay of shimmering blue water surrounded by majestic hills covered with the colorful orange buildings of the city.

Sanremo

Sanremo is It is one of the agricultural commodities in western Liguria and in particular within the Province of Imperia.

Sanremo is the “city of flowers” for excellence. Famous for its annual Italian Song Festival and for its Casino.

Sanremo is an extremely suggestive city.

It’s not simply the city of the famous Italian Song Festival, but it’s one of the most fascinating villages in the region.

La Pigna, the ancient historic center of Sanremo retains the charm of a medieval village and acts as a counterweight to the newer part of the city with the famous Casino.

A walk in La Pigna allows the most attentive tourist to discover an unpublished San Remo, made of winding alleys and stairways, arches and buttresses, secluded and silent squares.

The final Ponente Riviera municipality before the French side, is Ventimiglia. Don’t lost to visit its historic center conserves unique art treasures.

Just few chilometers to the glamorous Monte Carlo (France).

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

The UNESCO sites and cities of Piedmont

Today we tell you about the beauties of Piedmont in a journey through its UNESCO heritage sites, creative cities and intangible assets.

The importance to be Unesco World Heritage

The identification, protection and transmission of the cultural and natural heritage of the world to future generations are among the main missions of UNESCO.

Heritage represents the legacy of the past which we today benefit from and which we pass on to future generations. Cultural and natural heritage is an irreplaceable source of life and inspiration.

The Convention on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972, provides that candidate goods can be entered on the World Heritage List as: “cultural heritage”, “natural heritage”, mixed cultural and natural sites.

FIVE UNESCO sites in Piedmont

The Savoy Residences (1997)

A visit to Turin and its hinterland, in discovery of the splendid Royal Residences that the Savoys had constructed between the 17th and 18th Centuries, is truly an immersion into these historic centers of power, as well as the hunting lodges, vacation resorts and venues of court life. Together, each one makes for a monumental architectural complex that the Savoys, tireless in their construction activities, desired as symbols of their own absolute power.

The Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy  (2003)

The Sacri Monti (plural of Sacro Monte, Italian for “Sacred Mountain”) of Piedmont and Lombardy are a series of nine calvaries or groups of chapels and other architectural  features created in northern Italy during the late sixteenth century and the seventeenth century. They are dedicated to various aspects of the Christian faith and are considered of great beauty by virtue of the skill with which they have been integrated into the surrounding natural landscape of hills, forests and lakes. They also house important artistic material in the form of wall paintings and statuary.

The prehistoric pile dwelling sites of the Alps (2011)

In Piedmont there were stilt houses! The Prehistoric Palafitticoli sites of the Alpine arc are probably the least known by the Savoy themselves. 111 of Italy, Switzerland, France, Austria, Slovenia and Germany are registered

In Piedmont, one is in Viverone, in the province of Biella, can be visited, where around 1970 a pile-dwelling site was discovered which later turned out to be one of the largest in the entire European Alpine arc. Moving slightly towards Lake Maggiore, we find the first site found in Italy, that of the Parco dei Lagoni di Mercurago.

Two interesting destinations to organize a tour to discover lakes and prehistory.

The Wine Landscapes of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato (2014)

How many people have fallen in love with the landscapes of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato? That’s why we shouldn’t lose this beauty!
We told you, to visit through its vineyards in every season, even if we prefer autumn!

Ivrea Industrial City of the 20th Century (2018)

“Ivrea Industrial City of the 20th Century” was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The recognition goes to the humanistic conception of Adriano Olivetti’s own work, born and developed in the Community movement, in which the economic, social and cultural well-being of the collaborators is considered an integral part of the production process. Founded in 1908 by Camillo Olivetti, the industrial city of Ivrea developed most in the period of the 30s and 60s, under the direction of Adriano Olivetti, a period in which the Olivetti company produced typewriters, mechanical calculators and computers. Some of the most famous Italian architects and urban planners of that period contributed to the project, including production buildings, offices, services (nursery, canteen, social services) and residences.Ivrea represents a distinctive example of the experimentation of social and architectural ideas on industrial processes and an innovative experience of world-class industrial production that especially focuses on the well-being of local communities.

UNESCO Creative cities

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network is a UNESCO program launched in 2004 to recognize the key role of cultural and creative industries in sustainable urban development, a vision that has been confirmed and consolidated through the implementation of the Convention on the protection and promotion of diversity of cultural expressions of 2005 and through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The cities that are part of the Network, divided into seven areas corresponding to as many cultural sectors (Music, Literature, Craft and Popular Art, Design, Media Arts, Gastronomy, Cinema), develop and experiment innovative methods to include creativity within the territorial strategies and increase the impact of culture on urban development.

All Creative Cities are committed to developing and exchanging innovative good practices to strengthen participation in cultural life and to integrate culture into their development policies. As such, Creative Cities contribute to the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In Piedmont:

• Turin Creative City for Design (2014)
• Alba Creative City for Gastronomy (2017)
• Biella Creative Cities of Crafts & Folk Art (2019)

Biosphere Reserve

The “Man and the Biosphere” Program, Man and the Biosphere – MAB is an intergovernmental scientific program launched by UNESCO in 1971 to support a balanced relationship between man and the environment through the protection of biodiversity and the good practices of Sustainable Development.

Each Biosphere Reserve must include three interdependent areas:

• the “core area”, where human activities are limited and the protection and lasting conservation of the natural habitats and communities within them are pursued as priority objectives;
• the “buffer zone”, a buffer area that surrounds or borders the plants, where only activities compatible with conservation objectives can be carried out, including environmental education, ecotourism, monitoring and scientific research;
• the “transition zone”, where economic and social activities must be directed towards the implementation of projects and good practices of sustainable development, for the benefit of the local population.

The World Network of Biosphere Reserves includes 19 reserves in Italy. In Piedmont:

• MAB Ticino Val Grande Verbano (2002, expanded in 2018)
• MAB Monviso (2013)
• MAB Collina Po (2016)

UNESCO World Geoparks

Within the “International Program of Geosciences and Geoparks” launched in 2015 by UNESCO, the  UNESCO World Geoparks have been recognized , individual geographical areas whose sites and landscapes of international geological value are managed according to a holistic concept of protection, education, Sustainable Development. In Geoparks, whose primary objective is the protection of geodiversity, conservation is combined with sustainable development and involves local communities.

In Piedmont we can find Geopark Sesia Val Grande (2013)

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

The medieval style of these historical buildings has become one of the hallmarks of this amazing territory that was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List as “Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe–Roero and Monferrato”.

ELT offers you to discover together this charming world suspended between innovation and tradition, with a wide range of outstanding experiences.

We talked about it among the things not to get lost in a visit to Piedmont in the autumn.

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A small list of places to visit and taste!

Cellars of Barolo

The Langhe region is famous above all for its superb red wines. Probably the best known red wine is Barolo, which is a wine based on Nebbiolo grapes from the enchanting town of Barolo, located south-west of Alba.

So a visit to an authentic Barolo wineries and producers is an opportunity that can’t be missed among the tours or wine tastings that are respected.

We can offer you a sensory journey in selected family-run cellars of Barolo, where it is possible to discover Barolo through different labels.

Cellars of Barbaresco

Another renowned red wine produced with Nebbiolo grapes in the Piedmontese Langhe is Barbaresco.

This type of characteristic wine comes, you guessed it, from the city of Barbaresco, which is located north-east of Alba, always in the splendid mountainous area

The cellars of Barbaresco are among the best wineries to visit in Piedmont, precisely because of their unique variety of Nebbiolo red wine.

Both Barolo and Barbaresco are the cornerstones of the Langhe wine industry, promoters of its fame and notoriety all over the world. Yet surprisingly, they represent just 3% of the region’s total wine production. The fact that these limited reds are so famous is a testament to their extraordinary quality.

Alta Langhe DOCG White Sparkling Wine

In addition to the famous red wines of the Langhe, there are also excellent white wines and sparkling wines to be enjoyed in the north-west of Italy. From Moscato Bianco to Cortese and Arneis, the Langhe have a lot to offer to lovers of white wines.

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That is why during a trip to Piedmont, food and wine experiences are a must to make your stay in this region unforgettable.

In our itineraries through the Piedmont, visits to the most famous wineries for tours and wine tasting are always included. We also include truffle hunting and food experience.

[vc_single_image image=”501″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_outline” title=”The landscape of Piedmont is no less beautiful and rich!”]

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

Turin: the secret gem of Italy

Turin is the first capital city (1861)of Italy.

Equally elegant and hip, the Piedmont capital of Turin is one of Italy’s most surprising cities.

Fanciful tree-lined avenues lead to art deco cafes and Renaissance, baroque, rococo, and neoclassical facades. Splendid art galleries and opera houses serve as the cherished repositories of northern Italian culture.

And public squares, neatly tended gardens, stately castles and grand palaces that were built between the 16th and 18th centuries recall Turin’s heyday as the glittering capital of the House of Savoy.

The city is crossed by the river Po, the longest river in Italy, which cuts north from Turin to Venice.

The culture in Turin is very rich; full of monuments, museums, art galleries, restaurants, beautiful palaces, gardens and the list goes on.

For those who choose to visit Piedmont for the first time, Turin is certainly a must.

When visiting Turin, it is important to explore and experience every corner that the city offers.

The list certainly consists of more than one cultural place in Turin. There are many elements of culture that you will be interested in and want to know more about.

City of nobles and sovereigns, Turin is famous above all for the beautiful royal residences that hosted the Savoy Royal Family and their entire court.

In 1997 UNESCO included 14 of these magnificent royal residences in Turin and Piedmont in the World Heritage List. As example: La Reggia (Venaria Reale) and Stupinigi which are both just 20 min. far away by car from Turin down town.

Some tips for your visit:

• The Royal Palace: Designed by the architect Amedeo di Castellamonte, it was the residence of the Savoy Family until 1865. in architectural style reminiscent of Versailles, with the throne room, the dining and dance halls, the tapestries that cover the walls.
• The Cathedral: Near to the Royal Palace is the Cathedral of Turin dedicated to St. John the Baptist. In the Cathedral, inside a chapel closed to the public, the Holy Shroud is kept.
• Mole Antonelliana: La Mole Antonelliana is the symbol building in Turin, in the historic center. The name derives from the architect who conceived it, Alessandro Antonelli. With a height of 167.5 meters, it was the tallest masonry building in the world from 1889 to 1908.
• Museo Egizio: The Egyptian Museum of Turin is the oldest Egyptian museum in the world, founded in 1824, and second in importance only to that of Cairo. Dedicates to the art and culture of ancient Egypt. For the importance of the collections in the museum, Turin is considered the city where Egyptology was born.
• Valentino’s park and castle: it is the largest public park in the city of Turin and is located beside the Po river. Inside the park it is possible to admire the reconstruction of a medieval village and the royal palace of Valentino. Valentino Castle is site of the faculty of Architecture of the Polytechnic of Turin, its was conceived as a fluvial residence of the royal family, therefore originally with its entrance from the Po river side.
• Many Mseum for different experiences: Turin is many cities in one, the former capital of Italy, the Italian “Motor City”, and a cultural hotspot with great art, archaeology, architecture & design museums.
  Find its most diverse cultural offer, ranging from one of the world’s largest museums of Egyptian antiquities to contemporary art galleries to some of the best museums of design and technology in the country.

In Piazza Castello, the heart of the city, stand the Royal Palace from where we suggest to start your city tour. Walking through the streets of the center of Turin, you will be enchanted by the noble palaces and the large squares that follow one after the other.

A particularity of this city are the colonnades that adorn the most important streets and the main squares of the city.

Stop at San Carlo square, one of the most beautiful squares in the city where one of the best historical cafés is located (Stratta) and where you can taste the chocolate symbol of the Piedmont region: the Gianduiotto.

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What about surrounding?

When someone thinks of the Italian hills rich in vineyards and historical villages, they immediately think of others destinations.

The landscape of Piedmont is no less beautiful and rich!

Just think of the wines produced in this region, to understand how important Piedmont is regarding vineyards.

Langhe, Roero and Monferrato, the Piedmont countryside areas are of unique beauty and its hills are protected by the UNESCO as World Heritage site.

First of all the wine cellars

This territory is one of the richest in vineyards in Italy and a perfect destination for wine lovers.

The wines produced in those areas are among the best in Italy and famous throughout the world for their quality. Just think of Barolo, Barbaresco, Dolcetto or Nebbiolo to realize how much this region can offer.

Wine is not the sole best product of the Piedmont countryside.

Another very prestigious ingredient grows right on these beautiful hills: the truffle.

It is considered the most expensive and prized truffle in the world, the Alba white truffle has an unmistakable flavor and it is appreciated by the greatest chefs.

Last but not least

two further products of the Piedmontese land should be mentioned: the cheese and the hazelnut.

Every town and mountain in Piedmont produces its own fermented milk specialty.

The name Nutella remind you of something? Piedmont is where this amazing chocolate cream was born from the Ferrero family in Alba.

That is why during a trip to Piedmont, food and wine experiences are a must to make your stay in this region unforgettable.

In our itineraries through the Piedmont, visits to the most famous wineries for tours and wine tasting are always included. We also include truffle hunting and food experience.

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Piedmont and its lakes

Piedmont is a perfect destination for lake lovers.

Lake Maggiore, the largest lake in Italy, is divided between Piedmont and Lombardy. This lake offers breathtaking views and wonderful villas.

It is famous for its island called Isola Bella which is home to one of the most interesting historic residences in the area: the villa of the Borromeo family, one of the families that marked the history of Italy. If you are in the area, do not miss the tour of Stresa and its islands.

We can offer private day tours departing from Turin or Milan.

Another lake which is worth a visit if you are in Piedmont: Lake Orta. Lake Orta is not among the most popular lakes in Italy and perhaps this is also its charm.

Must to visit the small towns such as Orta San Giulio, a real jewel to be discovered with its enchanted central island.

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Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours

Who is ELT – Elite Luxury Tour?

ELT – Elite Luxury Tours is a boutique tour operator founded to serve the needs of highly discerning travelers.

We specialize in what we know best: NORTH ITALY.

We offer private tours/experiences in Piedmont, Liguria, Valle d’Aosta, Lombardia, Veneto, Friuli, Trentino Alto Adige, and Emilia Romagna.

ELT – Elite Luxury Tour believes passionately in the importance and power of travelling as a way to learn and grow interiorly.

Our aim is to understand your passions and interests, to guarantee a unique travel experience, carefully designed around you.

We do not simply want to build perfect trips. Our task is to offer you a top service, up to the standards of the most demanding clients.

We define ourselves as professional luxury travel designers of authentic journeys in North Italy.

A deep knowledge of Piedmont and North of Italy as well as an inimitable network of contacts allow us to offer a complete range of unconventional travel experiences and unique corporate events.

[vc_single_image image=”442″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_outline”]

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Please choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours