Garessio

Garessio is a village that wins you over with its discretion, its silence, pure water, and surprising landscapes. Nestled in the Tanaro Valley, on the border between Piedmont and Liguria, the town is crossed by the Tanaro River and consists of four historic hamlets – Borgo Maggiore, Borgo Ponte, Borgo Poggiolo, and Borgo Valsorda – dotted like pearls along the valley. Here, the mountains are soothing and, on clear days, beyond the snow-capped peaks and rocky outcrops, the gaze can reach as far as the sea of the Riviera, distant in the landscape but surprisingly close in spirit.

A medieval living room steeped in history and architecture

The historic center is Borgo Maggiore, an ancient medieval refuge still visible in its entrance gates and the remains of its walls. Among narrow alleys and exposed stone, the majestic Parish Church of the Assumption emerges, along with the Church of San Giovanni overlooking the elegant square of the same name and the medieval complex with what remains of the castle. A little further down, Borgo Ponte is the liveliest and most commercial part of the town, recognizable by its historic bridge and the parish church of Santa Caterina, while Borgo Poggiolo is home to the famous Fonti San Bernardo springs, from which flows the water that has made Garessio famous throughout the world. Higher up, Valsorda is gathered around the charming Sanctuary of the Beata Vergine delle Grazie, a spiritual and panoramic landmark.

Water, nature, and wellness

Water has always played a central role in life in Garessio. The Rocciaviva and San Bernardo springs have been used for therapeutic purposes for over a century and have made Garessio a renowned holiday resort, initially for the elite and now more accessible. Around the village, lush forests of chestnut, beech, and conifer trees tell the story of a rural economy linked to the rhythms of the seasons, the scent of mushrooms, and the fruit that symbolizes the area: the Garessina chestnut, small and flavorful, celebrated every October with dedicated events and festivals.

Between alpine trails and winter sports

Garessio is also an ideal starting point for those who love walking in the mountains. The trails that crisscross the Ligurian Alps lead to peaks such as Monte Galero, Antoroto, and Bric Mindino, crossing meadows and expanses of alpine flora of great beauty. In winter, the snow transforms the area into a destination for sports enthusiasts thanks to the slopes of the Garessio 2000 ski resort, while summer offers a cool, breezy climate, perfect for a rejuvenating stay.

Traditions, culture, and identity

Garessio proudly preserves its traditions. Among the most heartfelt events is the Palio dei Rioni, which culminates in the spectacular Carrera, a race on handmade carts pushed by leg power. The local cuisine reflects the mountains with dishes such as buckwheat polenta with leeks, accompanied by forest products. There are also strong links with art and design: Giorgetto Giugiaro, the famous car designer, and Giuseppe Penone, an internationally renowned artist, were both born here.

A region waiting to be discovered

A few kilometers from the center, the Royal Castle of Casotto, an ancient charterhouse converted into a Savoy residence, adds further charm to an area rich in history. Garessio is now a small medieval gem, recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, where nature, history, and quality of life coexist in harmony. A place to be experienced slowly, letting yourself be guided by the flowing water, the surrounding greenery, and an authentic atmosphere that remains unchanged over time.