Located in the far northwest corner of Italy, bordering Switzerland and France, lies one of Italy’s most cherished yet least “Italian” regions. With languages and culture traits that reflect the founding populations of the Piemonte region, you can often feel like you're doing a ‘tour of Europe’ while exploring this dynamic region. With a long history of industrialisation, Piemonte is home to Italy’s main manufacturing hubs, as well as global companies like Fiat; this has led to the region having one of the highest GDPs per capita in all of Europe. Despite this industrial past, Piemonte remains one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world, one that is best explored from the saddle of a bike.

The capital of Piemonte, and former capital of Italy, is lovely Turin. Renovated for the 2006 Olympic Winter Games, Turin features wonderful Baroque streets and pedestrian squares. Take a city tour where you can explore the many museums, gelato stands, chocolatiers, and the largest open air market in all of Europe, the Piazza della Repubblica. Heading south from Turin will bring you into some of Italy’s best wine and food regions, where you can sample hazelnuts, truffles, and of course - wine. This is the area where the ‘slow food’ movement first began, so why not slow down and enjoy the ride while in Piemonte. Keep heading south of the Barolo and race your steel bike in the La Langorola bici d’epoca race. Just don’t forget your wool jersey! Asti is another must during its famed medieval Palio horse race which takes place every September.

Heading north from Turin you’ll get to what may be the crown of the Alps - the Valle d’Aosta. Lined with castles, fed by crystal clear rivers, and surrounded by some of Europe's most impressive peaks, the Aosta Valley is one of Italy’s top regions to visit. The cycling in the Aosta Valley may possibly be the best in the world. From the leg burning climbs of the picturesque mountain roads, to the jaw-dropping mountain bike rides, no one will leave the Aosta Valley unsatisfied. The city of Aosta is the best jumping-off point for exploring the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa, all of which are within reach of the Aosta Valley. Summer is obviously the time to be in the Alps for cycling; plan your trip for later summer as the fruits and wines of Piemonte will be coming into season.

Best Seasons:Apr - Oct
Popular Locations:Valle d’Aosta, bici d’epoca, Turin, Aosta