The best walks and hikes in the Piedmont

Piedmont offers a vast network of over 19,000 hiking routes. These range from easy strolls through valleys to challenging alpine ascents, ensuring options for every skill level.

The best time to hike in Piedmont generally depends on the elevation. Spring and autumn are ideal for vineyard and valley walks, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. For high alpine trails, summer (July to September) provides the most favorable conditions, with less snow and warmer weather. Some lower-altitude trails may also be accessible for winter hiking, especially those around the lakes or in less snowy areas.

The hiking trails in Piedmont are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 45,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the majestic Alps to the rolling vineyards, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities. The stunning views, particularly from peaks like Mottarone, and the serene beauty of alpine lakes are often highlighted.

Yes, Piedmont has nearly 5,000 easy hiking routes, many of which are suitable for beginners and families. These often include gentle walks through valleys, along lake shores, or in the lower vineyard regions. For example, the Mottarone and Monte Zughero Loop offers moderate terrain with panoramic views, which can be a good option for those looking for a slightly more challenging but still accessible experience.

Absolutely. Piedmont is home to some of Europe's most challenging multi-day treks, particularly in the high Alps. The Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA) is a famous long-distance trail spanning over 1,000 kilometers across the Piedmontese Alps, offering multi-week adventures. Areas around Monte Rosa and Monviso also provide extensive high-altitude routes for experienced hikers seeking significant elevation gain and remote wilderness.

Yes, many trails in Piedmont are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cicogna - Alpe Pra - Pogallo Loop Trail, which explores remote valleys, and the Mont'Orfano Loop from Mergozzo. You can also find circular routes around alpine lakes, such as the Lakes of Campliccioli and Antrona - ring tour.

Yes, Piedmont's diverse landscape includes impressive waterfalls. The Goja del Pis Waterfall is a notable natural attraction that can be incorporated into a hike. Other areas, particularly in the alpine regions, feature numerous cascades and falls, such as those at Gias Fontana and Saut, providing picturesque stops along your route.

Piedmont offers many opportunities to combine hiking with cultural exploration. Trails around the Colle di Tenda feature ancient military fortresses, some of which are accessible. The Forte di Fenestrelle, Europe's largest fortress complex, is another significant historical site. Additionally, the Church of Sant'Anna and Medieval Bridge in Sant'Anna Gorge provides a historical point of interest along a scenic route.

Beyond the high mountains, Piedmont is famous for its UNESCO-recognized vineyards in the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato regions. These areas offer a different kind of scenic beauty, with pleasant hiking routes winding through rolling hills and picturesque wine country, especially beautiful during spring and autumn. Many local trails allow you to combine a walk with wine tasting experiences.

Piedmont is dotted with stunning alpine lakes that make for excellent hiking destinations. Notable examples include Lago Rosset, Lake Alpe dei Cavalli, and Lake Antrona. The four lakes around Monviso, including Lago Chiaretto with its striking turquoise water, are also popular. The Ascent to Lago Nero —Ring tour is another excellent option to experience these beautiful glacial lakes.

Generally, dogs are allowed on most hiking trails in Piedmont, especially on leash. However, regulations can vary, particularly within protected areas like Gran Paradiso National Park, where specific rules may apply to protect wildlife. It's always advisable to check local signage or park regulations for the specific trail you plan to hike.

Accessibility by public transport varies across Piedmont. While some popular trailheads, especially those closer to towns or major lakes, might be reachable by bus or train, many high alpine and more remote routes require private vehicle access. Planning ahead and checking local transport schedules for specific regions is recommended, particularly for areas like Valle Maira or Gran Paradiso National Park.

For most general hiking trails in Piedmont, permits are not required. However, if you plan to hike within protected areas such as Gran Paradiso National Park, or if you intend to undertake specific activities like camping or climbing, there might be regulations or permits required. It's always best to consult the official website of the specific park or protected area you intend to visit for the most up-to-date information.