Exploring Roero: Villages, Castles, and Nature Trails
The Roero region of Piemonte is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors: the Monferrato and the Langhe. Yet, since its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014, Roero has captivated visitors with its pristine landscapes and charming historical sites. This hidden gem appears to be plucked from the pages of a fantasy novel, adorned with medieval castles atop soft hills, surrounded by deep canyons carved by the elements.
The Unique Ecomuseum of the Rocche del Roero
At the heart of Roero lies the Ecomuseum of the Rocche del Roero, an open-air museum encompassing spectacular gorges and spires interspersed with ancient villages. Here, nature has sculpted a backdrop that invites exploration:
- Take leisurely walks on the well-marked trails; there are 19 in total, including the Path of the Marsh Pines, famous for its rare native conifers.
- A new trail, the San Giacomo Path, is set to open, providing an accessible route ideal for strollers and those with mobility challenges.
- Guided tours and downloadable GPS routes make navigation easy, ensuring everyone can partake in this natural marvel.
A Culinary Adventure in Roero
Roero is not just about stunning landscapes; it’s also a haven for food lovers and wine enthusiasts:
- The Roero Arneis wine, a historic white varietal, thrives in these lands, enhanced by the organic interactions with surrounding fruit orchards and forests.
- Stop at Canale, home to the Regional Enoteca, to sample the best local wines.
- Experience fine dining at Tenuta Carretta, which spans 550 years of winemaking history, featuring a charming hotel and the Michelin-starred restaurant, 21.9, helmed by Chef Flavio Costa.
Discover Bra: The Epicenter of Local Cuisine
Known for its rich culinary traditions, the town of Bra offers delightful treats:
- Don’t miss the famous Salsiccia di Bra, a delicacy made with fresh beef, best served raw.
- Explore local cheese specialties at Giolito Formaggi, where you can taste the historic Bra Dop cheese.
- Visit the Boccondivino restaurant, the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, dedicated to promoting quality local ingredients.
Exploring the Historic Castles
No trip to Roero would be complete without visiting its majestic castles:
- The Castle of Monticello d’Alba, home to the Roero family since 1376, offers guided walks through its historic halls.
- Govone Royal Castle boasts stunning baroque architecture with exquisitely preserved interiors that tell tales of centuries past.
The Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park
Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Art Park, an outdoor museum featuring installations by contemporary artists like Carsten Höller and Tauba Auerbach. It’s a beautiful blend of nature and modern creativity, providing a unique backdrop for art appreciation.
How to Reach Roero
Getting to Roero is accessible by car:
- From Milan: Take the A7 and A21 to Asti, then the A33 to Alba, eventually reaching Canale and Bra.
- From Turin: Navigate through the A6 to Cherasco, then follow the provincial roads to your destination.
Where to Stay
| Accommodation | Description | Price (double) |
|---|---|---|
| Borgo Casa Scaparone | 16th-century B&B with a restaurant and workshops. | €140-220 |
| La Madernassa | Charming agrarian-style rooms near a restaurant. | €135-210 |
| Foresteria Conti Roero | Cozy accommodation by the medieval castle with restaurant. | €81-140 |
Top Dining Options
| Restaurant | Description | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| All’Enoteca | Creative Piedmontese menu by chef Davide Palluda. | €130 |
| Marc Lanteri | Piedmont specialties with a French twist. | €54 |
| Boccondivino | Foundation of Slow Food, seasonal local dishes. | €40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Roero known for?
Roero is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, local culinary delights, and exquisite wines, particularly Roero Arneis.
How accessible are the trails in Roero?
The trails are well-marked and vary in difficulty, making them suitable for both experienced hikers and families with children.
Where can I find authentic local cuisine?
Visit Bra, where you can taste local specialties like Salsiccia di Bra and Bra Dop cheese, especially at restaurants like Boccondivino.
What other activities can I enjoy in Roero?
In addition to hiking and dining, visitors can explore historical castles and partake in wine tastings at local wineries.
For more information about the Roero, visit the Langhe Monferrato Roero tourism board.
