Fourteenth stage of the Giro d'Italia 2023: from Sierre to Cassano Magnago

Starting from Sierre, the town located in the sunniest valley in Switzerland, the route climbs the Alps and overcomes an altitude difference of 1,500 metres, reaching the 2,004 metres of the Passo del Sempione. Descending the Italian side, it passes through Iselle and then reaches Domodossola, heart of the most authentic Ossola, which today, as in the past, is the fulcrum of a borderland, a crossroads of cultures and businesses. Located at the crossroads of six Alpine valleys, the city welcomes us with its historic centre of rare beauty where you can find artisan shops and typical products of the Alpine valleys, such as cold meats, cheeses, ancient breads and traditional Walser products accompanied by Valli Ossolane DOC wines. Not far from the city it is certainly worth it to visit the Sacro Monte Calvario, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The road continues along the valley of the River Toce, arriving at Stresa, the 'pearl of Lake Maggiore'. Much of its charm is attributable to its location. Its historical centre, with ancient palaces and noble villas, is reflected in the lake and runs along most of its length. Among the exclusive residences, one cannot but mention the striking Villa Pallavicino, dating back to the 19th century, the Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella and the numerous Liberty-style hotelsthat dot the lakefront, a charming place for romantic walks. The typical cuisine tells us of the close connection between the lake and the mountains, which is reflected in the wide choice of wines that go down well with the vast culinary panorama.

The journey continues in Lombardy, in Varesotto, and it is certainly worth a visit to the Museo del Volo in Somma Lombardo: large exhibition spaces dedicated to man's most archaic dream, that of finally being able to fly. The museum tells the story of flight and the various attempts made by man, through the display of the various 'aircraft' built over the centuries.

Halfway is now close and very little is left to get to Cassano Magnago, dominated by the splendid castle built by Archbishop Ottone Visconti around 1287. To the north of the city is the Boza naturalistic oasis, which is well worth a visit: it is built on a now-abandoned clay quarry. The Oasis is the result of a collaboration between LIPU and the City of Cassano Magnago: the sheet of water, formed by rain after the cessation of excavations, has turned into a significant wet ecosystem over the years, collecting many species of animals and plants.

The ancient food and wine tradition of Cassano Magnago lets you savour many delicacies that come from these parts, such as the excellent Gorgonzola, perhaps accompanied by a passito wine produced in the territory of the IGT Ronchi Varesini.