We love Piedmont for its breathtaking beauty, and because it is home to one of our favourite towns, Bra. Every two years, Bra hosts an international cheese festival that showcases the best artisanal cheese from across the globe. For the three-day event, the town transforms into a cheese paradise, with producers and affineurs offering samples of their goods from street stalls. When the world opens up again, this is the festival to add to your itinerary.

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Piedmont sits in the north-west corner of Italy. As a whole, the region is a culinary dream, home to white truffles, traditional chocolate, wine, bread, fruit, vegetables and, of course, formaggio. Here are our must-try local dishes:

Tajarin al tartufo bianco – the famous nine-yolk pasta is swirled in butter and pepper, and finished with freshly grated white truffles. Simple food at its best.

Salsiccia di Bra – there is no polite way to put this: salsiccia is raw sausage made of veal and pig fat. Enjoy it with an aperitivo and a squeeze of lemon.

Raw milk cheese – no Italian region boasts more traditional cheese than Piedmont. Try local Toma, Robiola, Murazzano, Castelmagno and Bra Duro. And don’t miss the wine! Piedmont is one of the best wine-producing regions in Italy. Our favourite? A glass of local Barolo.

Osteria del Boccondivino is our favourite place to eat with our cheese friends – it has a simple ambient setting and a traditional menu of the region.

Osteria Murivecchi serves sensational, seasonal Piedmontese dishes. The tavern is unpretentious and feels like a home away from home. Be sure to check the specials board, it changes every week.

Ristorante Le Torri has one of the best views and experiences, serving traditional fare with a modern twist. Time your reservation with the sunset!

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As for the perfect day in Bra: start with coffee, then stroll down the cobblestone streets and take in the architecture. Drive or hike to the terraces of vineyards, then spend the evening with a local wine, cured meat and cheese, and a bowl of pasta.

Time moves slowly in Piedmont, and the best way to experience it is like an Italian, with pure presence.

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