Between Piedmont and Liguria: A World to Discover

Between Piedmont and Liguria lies a world of flavors, culture, and traditions to explore: the rolling hills of Gavi, home to the famous Gavi DOCG white wine; the fort perched on the hills where the Alps and Apennines meet; the plains around Novi Ligure, with the roads of Coppi and Girardengo, chocolate, and much more to discover and taste.

Day 1: Serravalle Scrivia (Libarna Excavations) – Alessandria
Arrival and brunch at a focacceria to taste the typical “focaccia bianca novese,” amaretti, and a good glass of Gavi DOCG (or lunch at a restaurant in Novi Ligure).Transfer to the ancient site of Libarna, one of the most important archaeological sites in Piedmont, to admire the remains of the ancient pre-Roman and Roman settlement, including well-preserved traces of two city blocks (one house features a magnificent mosaic), the theater, and the amphitheater. This was a bustling transit and commercial center along the ancient road that connected Genoa to Aquileia, and it has preserved not only the remains of several buildings but also an interesting collection of artifacts discovered during excavations, displayed in the Libarna museum area. At the end of the visit, transfer to Alessandria for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Gavi and Voltaggio
After breakfast, departure for Gavi to visit the famous Fort (note: short uphill walk to reach it). The fortress stands on a natural rock formation overlooking the old village of Gavi, along the Postumia Road, which in ancient times connected the Republic of Genoa to Lower Piedmont (Monferrato) and Lombardy. It is a rare and valuable example of military architecture. After the visit, lunch at a local restaurant.
In the early afternoon, visit to Voltaggio to admire the collection of sacred art at the local pinacotheca, housed in the Church and Capuchin Convent of this small town. The Pinacoteca dei Cappuccini in Voltaggio offers an exceptional collection of works from the 15th to the 18th century by Ligurian, Piedmontese, and Lombard artists. Afterwards, continuation to discover local flavors at a historic bakery/pastry shop, where freshly baked amaretti will be served. On the return to Alessandria, stop for a visit to Bodrato Chocolate, one of the artisan chocolate factories of excellence, to shop and learn how the fine chocolate and its delicious products are made.

Day 3: Novi Ligure – Tagliolo Monferrato
After breakfast, transfer to Novi Ligure for a stroll through the historic center, offering unexpected emotions. The charm of this town, suspended between Piedmont and Liguria, known for the noble painted facades of the historical residences of Genoese nobility and the exclusive opening of the Oratory of the Confraternity of the Maddalena, where tradition and culture are beautifully intertwined. At the end of the visit, transfer to the Castle of Tagliolo Monferrato for a tour of the castle and cellars, followed by a tasting of Gavi DOCG wine, accompanied by focaccia and cold cuts.

End of Services

The Package Includes:

  • 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Alessandria, half-board, with drinks included.
  • Reserved bus seat.
  • Brunch upon group arrival, with drinks included.
  • Lunch at a restaurant on the second day, with drinks included.
  • Wine tasting at the castle, with drinks included.
  • Guided tours as per the program: Libarna excavations, Fort, Novi Ligure and the castle.
  • Entrance fees included.
  • 1 free for every 25 paying guests.