Overview
Snow, lakes and medieval villages
The province of Biella offers unforgettable experiences for all tastes, from the snow-covered slopes of Bielmonte to historic villages, nature reserves, hill-top sanctuaries, castles, and food and wine delights, with polenta concia being the most popular dish.
Biella lies at the foot of the Alps and is medieval at heart: the historic centre of Piazzo is located on a rocky ridge that looms over the rest of the town, which was later built and named Biella Piano. Don’t miss the Romanesque baptistery of St John the Baptist in Piazza Duomo, where you can also find St Stephen’s Cathedral. The most beautiful church, however, is the Renaissance basilica of St Sebastian. The cloister of the adjacent monastery houses the Museum of the Biella Territory.
Near Biella is Ricetto di Candelo, a still intact, walled medieval walled village. Towards the Biellese Alps you can find the Sanctuary of Oropa on the Sacro Monte, where the locals venerate the Black Madonna.
To be surrounded by nature, we recommend visiting the Parco Burcina Natural Reserve or Oasi Zegna, true natural paradises. Lake Viverone, the third largest lake in Piedmont, also offers beautiful walks and views. History buffs, meanwhile, should head to Masino Castle, the former residence of the Counts of Valperga.
