Stretching southwards, as far as the foot of the Ligurian Appenines, the Monferrato area
occupies a fertile tract of terrain between the provinces of Alessandria and Asti. In addition to numerous historic, cultural and outdoor activities, Monferrato is renowned for its gastronomic specialties.
Nature, culture, art and religion combine in a way that takes visitors on a journey to discover the Nature Park of the Sacro Monte di Crea, in the province of Alessandria, a real feat of architectural design that encompasses Mount Crea and its sanctuary, which in turn, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you prefer a historical visit to an excursion, don’t miss the Eco Museum of ‘Pietra da Cantone’ – a type of sandstone only found in this area – in Cella Monte. For some years now, the museum has undertaken the arduous but worthwhile task of taking an inventory of the “infernot” in the area. Infernot are dark, airless underground spaces, carved out in stone, located beneath houses and cellars that, in some instances, are real underground tunnels. These works of arts, carved and modeled by artists, were either used to store bottles of wine, or as pantries, because the temperature inside them remains constant. Several of these old infernot are open to the public, especially during the vendemmia (grape harvest) or on special occasions.
Although the majority of local wines are red and full-bodied, like Barbera, Grignolino and Freisa, you’ll also find a good selection of whites, including Moscato. An absolute must for wine connoisseurs visiting the area is the Enoteca Regionale di Vignale Monferrato. Located in a magnificent 17th century palazzo, the Enoteca is a great place to taste and purchase some of the area’s best local wines.
