The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Alessandria, Piemonte and Arona, Piemonte

Alessandria and Arona are two beautiful and historic towns located in the region of Piemonte, Italy. Both towns are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making them the perfect destinations for a road trip. The trip from Alessandria to Arona is approximately 99 km and can be completed in 1 hour and 20 minutes. The halfway point of the trip is Vercelli, VC, a city famous for its rice production and art. Here are some of the most exciting and interesting things to do during your road trip.

1. Visit Lake Orta

Lake Orta is a beautiful lake located in the province of Novara, just a short distance from Arona. The lake is famous for its crystal clear water, picturesque villages, and lush vegetation. This is an ideal place to relax and unwind on a hot summer day, with plenty of swimming, hiking, and cycling opportunities. The highlight of the lake is the small island of San Giulio, where you can visit the Basilica di San Giulio, a beautiful church with stunning frescoes.

> Lake Orta is also known by the locals as "the Cenerentola of the Italian lakes," which means the Cinderella of the Italian lakes.

2. Explore the Forte di Fenestrelle

Located just outside of Turin, the Forte di Fenestrelle is one of the largest fortified complexes in Europe. Built in the 18th century to protect the region from French invasions, the fortress is composed of a series of connected forts and walls. The complex is an architectural masterpiece, featuring impressive ramparts, tunnels, and towers. You can take a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history of the fortification.

> The fort has more than 3,000 steps and is known as the "Great Wall of Piedmont."

3. Visit the Ecomuseo della Castagna in Cuneo

The Ecomuseo della Castagna in Cuneo is a unique museum dedicated to the history and culture of chestnuts in the region. The museum is located in the historic village of Mombarcaro, in the province of Cuneo. It features an extensive collection of artifacts and documents related to the production and consumption of chestnuts in the region. Visitors can also sample some of the local products, including sweets, beer, and liquor made with chestnuts.

> Chestnuts have been an essential ingredient in the traditional cuisine of Piedmont for centuries, and the region produces some of the world's finest chestnuts.

4. Explore the Sacro Monte di Varallo

The Sacro Monte di Varallo is an unusual and intriguing complex of chapels and temples dedicated to the life of Jesus Christ. Located just outside of Vercelli, the complex was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can admire the stunning frescoes and sculptures that decorate the chapels and learn about the religious and cultural history of the site.

> The Sacro Monte di Varallo is one of the few mountain sanctuaries that have retained their original function to this day.

5. Visit the Rocca Borromeo di Angera

The Rocca Borromeo di Angera is a magnificent castle located on a hill overlooking Lake Maggiore. The castle is one of the most important historic and cultural sites in the region and has played a crucial role in the history of the area. It features an impressive collection of arms and armor, paintings, furniture, and artifacts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the castle and the surrounding gardens.

> The castle was built in the 12th century and has belonged to the Borromeo family since the 14th century.

In conclusion, the road trip from Alessandria to Arona is an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of the Piemonte region. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and passes through some of the most stunning landscapes and historic towns in Italy. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or gastronomy, this trip has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.