Not far from Alessandria lies a wild land where you can take refuge to find yourself and your roots. This is Gran Monferrato, a region where nature still dictates the pace of life and where you can enjoy well-deserved relaxation. This territory extends in the southern part of Alessandria to reach Liguria. It offers several options for a slow journey, discovering authentic villages and pristine nature. Among these soft hills lies the village of Ponzone, an idea starting point to explore Gran Monferrato. From here, in fact, you can easily reach various villages of Piedmont, or enter the Ligurian Apennines, towards the sea. In short … a unique adventure begins in Ponzone, to be experienced slowly with your family and, why not, even your dog!
Are you ready to go? Here is our guide to explore Ponzone and Gran Monferrato, slowly and in a sustainable way!
Ponzone, the panoramic town of Gran Monferrato
Ponzone is our starting point to discover Gran Monferrato. This village, about an hour from Alessandria, is nestled in the hills of Piedmont and is also close to several Ligurian towns. Perhaps this is why you feel like seeing the traditions and characteristics of both Italian regions united, in a welcoming and traditional atmosphere.
Perched on the ridge, the village of Ponzone represents a natural balcony from which you can enjoy the Alpine peaks. If you are lucky, you can also breathe in the breeze that comes from the Ligurian sea. Around this are numerous trails, including the Bric Berton Ring, which can reach altitudes of up to 1.000 meters. From here, you can observe the wild and wooded nature of this area.
Here you also return to nature: it’s so easy to turn off your cell phone and be lulled by the sound of nature. Immersing yourself in this territory is a real lifesaver for everyone. While adults can forget the chaos of the city, children and animals can run and play in freedom.
The historic center of Ponzone and its unique atmospheres
To immerse yourself in the history and traditions of the village, walk along Ponzone’s typical carruggi, narrow streets influenced by nearby Ligurian culture, interrupted by quiet squares and ancient rural architecture.
Strolling through the village’s streets, you can come across numerous historic buildings that tell the story of the profound religious and cultural tradition that has characterized these mountain villages for centuries. Among the most significant places stands out the Parish Church of San Michele Arcangelo. It was built between the 16th and the 17th centuries in the heart of the historic center, and it is located at the highest point of the town. Therefore, the church also offers a splendid panorama of the surrounding hills. Its churchyard is, in fact, an evocative viewpoint from which to admire the landscape.
The Oratory of the Holy Suffrage and the Museum of Sacred Art are also worth a visit. They contain precious testimonies of the religious and artistic history of the area. Among the preserved works, those linked to the famous Baroque sculptor Anton Maria Maragliano stand out. He was a figure of great importance in the Ligurian art between the 17th and the 18th centuries.
Not far from the historic center also stands the Sanctuary of the Pieve, a place of worship surrounded by greenery. Among ancient trees, it is the ideal destination for those who wish to take a break of silence and contemplation of nature.
Hikes and trails through the woods and views of Monferrato
A dense network of trails, suitable for all types of hikers, winds around Ponzone and Gran Monferrato. From the simplest routes, perfect for families with children and dogs, to the most challenging itineraries, for those who love trekking and adventure. The area offers endless opportunities. Be ready to explore authentic and little-known landscapes!
Each season offers different emotions. In summer, the woods create shades and pleasant temperatures, while in spring and autumn the landscape lights up with spectacular colors, blooms, foliage, and constantly changing views.
A classic and beloved route is the municipal nature and historic trails. It begins in Piancastagna and passes through several villages in the area up to Moretti. Along the way, you can explore old mills, stone bridges, and clearings where you can spot local animals too. For example, roe deer, squirrels and wild birds.
Instead, for the more experienced, the hiking ring “Cimaferle Loop Trail” offers spectacular panoramic views to observe the surrounding area. From the Alessandria hills to the Ligurian Apennines.
Gran Monferrato: villages, nature, and landscapes to discover slowly
In addition to the charm of Ponzone, Gran Monferrato conquers with a mosaic of landscapes that tell the story of the deep connection between man and nature. Here, time seems to pass more slowly. Between hills embroidered with vineyards, lush woods, ancient stone farmhouses, and dry stone walls that bear witness to a rural tradition that is still alive.
This area, recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato Wine Landscapes, preserves an environmental and cultural heritage of extraordinary value. Around the small villages alternate vineyards, meadows, chestnut groves, and wooded areas. They offer evocative scenery in every season and invite you to explore the area slowly, on foot or by bicycle.
Among the must-see destinations is certainly Acqui Terme. This is an elegant spa town just a few kilometers from Ponzone. Known since Roman times for its thermal springs, it preserves one of its most famous symbols in the heart of the historic center. This is the Bollente thermal spring, from which water flows at a temperature of around 75°C. Therefore, it envelopes the square in a characteristic cloud of steam.
For nature lovers, the surrounding area also offers some of the most fascinating protected areas in the Ligurian-Piedmontese Apennines, such as the Beigua Natural Park and the Capanne di Marcarolo. These territories protect an extraordinary biodiversity and are home to forests, streams, natural canyons, and spectacular views. Walking along the canyons carved by the streams of the Apennines is a unique experience. In addition, in summer, you can find small natural pools to swim in!
Local flavors and slow experiences between relaxation and country life
Gran Monferrato is also an area where you can discover the rich, authentic flavors of the local cuisine, to be tasted in the villages in the Alessandria hills, in front of a wild and uncontaminated panorama. In addition to local trattorias, small shops also offer different locally sourced products.
The undisputed protagonist of the village of Ponzone is Filetto Baciato, a unique and patented salami made from pork underthread wrapped in salami paste. It is aged in the highest peaks of the town to ensure a sweet and unmistakable flavor. The tasting continues with porcini mushrooms and Ponzone chestnuts.
A pleasant way to experience the area is to organize picnics in the clearing in the Alessandria hills. Buy the zero-kilometer products in the village, put them in your backpack, and set off on a rejuvenating walk with your children or dog. The effort will be rewarded by a lunch with a view, immersed in nature, amidst the rustling of trees and the chirping of birds.
Sleep green: Farmhouses and Sustainable Structures in the hills
Among the Ponzone hills are farmhouses that allow you to experience the area at a slower pace, immersed in nature and in the tranquility of the countryside. Many of these structures are located in historic buildings, restored with respect for local architecture and the surrounding landscape. Therefore, they offer an authentic way to discover Gran Monferrato.
Among the structures in this area is Mountain House, in the town of Moretti, a few minutes from Ponzone. Surrounded by woods and meadows, this old country house is an ideal starting point to explore the surrounding paths and small villages. The large indoor and outdoor spaces make it particularly suitable for families or groups of friends (up to 8 people) who want to spend a few days in contact with nature.
The interiors feel cozy, rustic, and mountain style, while the outdoor space features a large garden with a pool. Here you can relax with a book and have breakfast overlooking the hills. In addition, the facility adopts various eco-sustainable practices, from rainwater recovery and reuse to eco-friendly detergents.
Starting from the farmhouse, you can embark on many adventures in nature, precisely because several scenic paths wind around it. Here, you can forget about the car and only get around on foot or by bike, embracing a sustainable and authentic lifestyle!
Conclusion
In a world that runs ever faster, Ponzone and Gran Monferrato are the ideal refuge to find your rhythm again. Here, unplugging not only means turning off your phone. It also means turning your senses back on to explore the flavors of local cuisine, the scents of woodland flora, and the sounds of nature. A journey of slow pace, authentic experiences, and a return to the roots, perfect for solo travelers, curious couples, families, and dogs.
This corner of Piedmont awaits you to give you a unique and unforgettable experience!
Cover photo by Piedmont Properties via Wikipedia
Mountain House in relaxing nature – Green Holiday Home in Moretti, AL, Piemonte, IT 
