Piedmont may be one of Italy’s less-travelled regions, and that is precisely part of its appeal. Sitting at the foot of the Alps, the landscape is a mix of rolling hills, family-run wineries and elegant country estates, with excellent food and wine at its heart – some might even say it rivals that of Tuscany. For a taste of the region, make Sina Villa Matilde your base: a historic country estate where traditional Piedmontese cooking, Italian interiors and gardens come together. Here’s how to spend the perfect 24 hours in the area.
Morning
Wake in your suite and throw open the shutters to views of the mountains. Breakfast is served on the lawn, with the gardens providing a peaceful start to the day.
For a dose of history, head to Masino Castle, a thousand-year-old residence perched above the Canavese plain. Carefully preserved as if still inhabited, the castle offers a glimpse into the lives of the aristocratic families who lived here, while its gardens and panoramic views are reason enough to make the trip.
Alternatively, spend the morning exploring Ivrea, the UNESCO-listed town known for its industrial architecture. Browse the independent shops and local artisan stores before stopping for an espresso or gelato.
Afternoon
Piedmont is one of Italy’s great wine regions, so an afternoon among the vines is essential. At Tenuta Roletto, a family-run vineyard and winery known for its Erbaluce wines, traditional vine-growing sits alongside organic and sustainable winemaking. Book a tasting to sample the estate’s wines and learn more about the grape, or simply take in the vineyard before returning to Sina Villa Matilde for a swim.
Evening
Aperitivo is a natural start to the evening at Sina Villa Matilde, whether at a table on the lawn or in the pebble courtyard. Dinner follows at Le Scuderie Restaurant, housed in the villa’s former stables. The menu focuses on Piedmontese cooking and locally sourced ingredients, with dishes including ravioli ripieni and tonnarelli with scallops, followed by tiramisù. Finish with a nightcap in The Salon, or retreat to your suite for the night.
