Susa

A Comprehensive Guide to Susa: Ancient Wonders and Alpine Beauty

Susa, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Alps, offers a captivating blend of ancient history and breathtaking mountain scenery. Located in the Piedmont region of Italy, just west of the majestic Gran Paradiso National Park, Susa is a gateway to exploration for those seeking both cultural immersion and outdoor adventure.

This guide will delve into the wonders that await you in Susa, providing a detailed overview of what to expect when visiting this historical gem:

I. History and Culture:

  • The Roman Legacy: Susa boasts a rich history dating back to the Romans. Explore the remnants of their past, including the Roman Bridge (Ponte Romano), a testament to their impressive engineering skills.
  • The Royal Palace of Susa: This ancient castle, now mostly ruins, served as the residence of the Roman Emperors and was a key location for trade and travel.

II. Things to Do:

Susa offers a variety of attractions for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike:

  • Embrace the Outdoors:

    • Hiking and Trekking: Venture into the surrounding Alps, with numerous trails for all levels, from gentle walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Gran Paradiso National Park is home to stunning alpine landscapes, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
    • Climbing and Mountaineering: With world-class rock formations and mountains, Susa is a haven for those who love to climb. Several routes cater to both beginners and seasoned climbers, offering an exhilarating experience in the heart of the Alps.

  • Discover History:

    • Explore the Archaeological Sites: Susa’s historical significance extends beyond the town itself. Visit the Roman ruins, including the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, a reminder of Susa’s time as a Roman settlement.
    • Visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Susa: This museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the Roman period and the medieval era, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

  • Immerse Yourself in Culture:

    • The Fortress of Susa: Discover the impressive history of this 11th-century fortress with its breathtaking views of the Alps. Explore the ancient walls and towers and learn about its past as a crucial defense point for the town.
    • Historical Churches and Monuments: Immerse yourself in the architectural and historical beauty of Susa’s churches and monuments. Visit the Cathedral of San Giustino, the Church of San Lorenzo and the Abbey of Sant’Antonio di Ranverso.

  • Immerse Yourself in History:

    • **Visit the Museo di Arte e Storia (Museum of Art and History) to explore the artifacts from the past.

  • Experience the Culture:

    • Take a cooking class: Learn to make traditional Piemontese dishes like agnolotti, polenta concia, and vitello tonnato while in the heart of the Alps.
    • Attend a local festival: Susa has many vibrant festivals throughout the year celebrating its local traditions, food, and music.

III. Explore the Region:

  • Visit the Roman Bridge (Ponte Romano): This impressive bridge, built by the Romans around the 1st century BC, is still standing today and connects the two sides of the town.

  • Explore the Fortresses of Susa:

    • The Forte di Fenestrelle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a massive complex with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
    • Fortress of Exilles: This fortress, perched on a cliff overlooking the Dora Riparia valley, offers breathtaking panoramas and a fascinating glimpse into its past as a military stronghold and prison.

  • Take a scenic drive: Explore the picturesque landscapes around Susa, with stops in nearby villages like Avigliana, Oulx, and Cesana Torinese.

  • Hike to the Sacra di San Michele: This historical abbey and monastery is a must-see for its architectural beauty and its location overlooking the town of Susa, atop a mountainside.

IV. Exploring the Historic Town:

  • Wander through the charming streets: Discover the beauty of Susa’s medieval architecture, cobblestone alleys, and local shops by strolling through its historic center.
  • Visit the historical churches: Explore the architectural and religious significance of the Church of San Lorenzo, the Cathedral of San Michele, and the Abbey of San Martino di Avigliana.

V. Cultural Sites in Susa:

  • The Sacra di San Michele: Explore the history of this breathtaking abbey, with its impressive architecture and fascinating past as a monastery and then a fortress.
  • Museo di Arte e Storia (Museum of Art and History): Delve deeper into the rich history of Susa through its collection of artifacts from the Roman era.

V. Experiences in Susa:

  • Explore the local museums: Learn about the history of the region, the art and architecture of the town, and the local people and their culture by visiting:
    • The Fortresses of Susa: Explore the ancient Roman ruins, the medieval fortresses and the historical castles.
  • Discover the culinary scene:

Sample traditional Piemontese cuisine, which is known for its hearty dishes and use of local ingredients.

  • Experience the nature: The historical sites in Susa offer a unique opportunity to explore the region’s past and present.

V. Food and Drink:

  • Traditional Dishes:

Enjoy delicious regional specialties like polenta concia, a creamy dish made with local cheese and tagliatelle al ragù.

  • Local Wine Production: The region surrounding Susa is renowned for its winemaking traditions. Explore the vineyards of the area or visit a nearby wine bar to sample the best of Susa’s local wines.

Traditional Cuisine:

  • Polenta: This creamy cornmeal porridge is a staple in Susa and is often served with a variety of toppings, such as funghi porcini (porcini mushrooms), cheese, or butter.

Local Food Experiences:

  • Visit the local markets: Find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other ingredients from the surrounding areas.
  • Sample local delicacies: Try vitello tonnato, a dish of thinly sliced veal served with a creamy tuna sauce.

Food & Wine Festivals:

  • Sagra del Vino: This annual festival in the Piedmont region celebrates the region’s winemaking heritage.
  • Festa di San Michele: Enjoy a variety of local wines and delicacies. Enjoy the traditional food and drink of Susa, while learning about its history and culture.

Local Cuisine Destinations:

  • Wine Bars & Restaurants:

Experience the local flavors at restaurants like La Torre, Al Fresco, and Trattoria del Castello. These establishments often offer a chance to sample regional dishes and learn about the winemaking process.

Food & Wine Experiences in the Surrounding Areas:

  • Take a cooking class: Learn to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients.
  • Visit a winery: Enjoy a tasting of local wines and explore the vineyards where they grow.

V. Exploring the Local Culture:

  • Discover local wineries: The towns surrounding Susa are renowned for their production of Barbera, Barolo, and Nebbiolo grapes.

Visit the historic Fortress of Susa, a testament to the town’s past as a crucial strategic point. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the ancient Roman history of the region.

  • Wine Tasting Experiences: The region is also home to many wineries, where you can sample the local wines and cheeses.

Enjoy traditional dishes:

  • Visit the cheese shops in the nearby villages: Experience the local flavors, and learn about the cheesemaking process.

  • Explore local markets: Discover a variety of local produce.

  • Local Products:

Enjoy the local specialties of the region’s wineries:

  • Barolo: This is a full-bodied red wine made from the Nebbiolo grape. It’s known for its complex flavors and aromas, with notes of rose, cherry, truffle, and tar.

  • Barbera: Another popular red wine from the Piedmont region, this variety is known for its bright acidity and fruity flavors.

  • Festa di San Carlo Borromeo: This festival celebrates the feast day of the patron saint of the city. Enjoy a unique opportunity to learn about the local culture.

VI. Food and Wine Trails: Explore the scenic wine trails that wind through the vineyards.

VII. Accommodation Options:

  • Charming hotels and B&Bs: Choose from charming hotels and bed & breakfasts, offering a variety of experiences and price points.
  • Camping grounds and guesthouses: Many options are available for those who prefer to be closer to nature.

VIII. Exploring the region: Enjoy the rich history and culture of the region’s vineyards.

  • Agriturismo (farm stays): Experience the local life and cuisine by enjoying a stay at a farmhouse with lodging accommodations.

  • Explore the surrounding Alps: Visit the majestic Gran Paradiso National Park, explore the breathtaking scenery, or enjoy hiking, biking, and other activities in the surrounding mountains.

  • Take a trip to the vineyards: Enjoy the local winemaking tradition of this region.

VII. Enjoying the Local Culture:

  • Explore historical sites: Experience the rich history and culture of the town by visiting its many ancient ruins and landmarks.

  • Visit local wineries: Experience the local festivals, like those celebrating the local wines, a key part of the region’s history.

  • Learn about local traditions: Discover the traditional practices of the region.

  • Enjoy local produce: Explore the local markets to find fresh ingredients for your dinner table.

  • Visit the historic wineries: Experience the history and tradition of winemaking in the region.

Beyond the Wine:

While wine is a major draw, don’t miss these other unique experiences:

  • Explore the Italian Alps: Discover the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Discover the local cuisine at wineries or restaurants. Enjoy local products and learn about the history of the region.

IX. Getting Around:

  • Walking and hiking trails: Enjoy exploring the historic vineyards by foot!

  • Local trains and buses:

  • Driving and cycling:

X. Exploring the Local Wine and Cuisine Scene:

Discover the local produce, like the Barbera grapes, and enjoy a variety of local dishes made with fresh ingredients from the region.

Things to Consider for Tourists:

  • Time of year: The best time to visit the vineyards is during the harvest season (September-October) when you can experience the bustling activity of grape picking and winemaking.

  • Length of stay: Consider spending a few days exploring the different regions and wineries.

  • Transportation: While some wineries are accessible by public transportation, a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding areas and vineyards independently.

  • Accessibility:

Enjoy the local cuisine:

  • Visit the local markets: These often offer opportunities to sample regional specialties and enjoy local culture.

  • Availability of tours: It’s always best to check with individual wineries regarding their tour schedules and availability, especially for agriturismo experiences.

  • Wine tasting and events: Enjoy a variety of wine-tasting experiences and discover the local cuisine and wines.

  • Accessibility of local experiences:

  • Book in advance: Booking wine tasting tours and experiences ahead of time is recommended to ensure you get a spot, especially during peak season.

The Best Time to Visit:

To enjoy the best experience of the Italian Alps’ vineyards, it is crucial to visit during the seasons when they are most accessible.

  • Wine Tasting Season:

  • Accommodation and accommodation options:

  • Local transportation: Consider using a car or bike for your adventures in the region.

  • Visit the local wineries: The best way to experience the “winemaking” culture of the Italian Alps.

Enjoy the local history and culture:

  • Stay at a local guesthouse or farmhouse:

  • Learn about the history of the wine industry:

  • Take advantage of the local events:

Accommodation Options:

  • Hotels: The region offers numerous hotels, each with unique features and catering to diverse budgets.
  • Agriturismi: These are family-run farms that offer lodging and a variety of experiences.

Accommodation & Wine Tasting:

  • Local wineries:

  • Book in advance for wine tasting:

  • Enjoy local festivals:

  • Consider the following when choosing your accommodation:

  • Local Wines: The best way to experience the local culture is by immersing yourself in it.

  • Visit during a local event:

Local Wine and Food Festivals:

  • Experience the local food and wine: The Italian Alps are known for their diverse wines and local cuisine.

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere:

  • Local Products:

  • Experience the “wine” of the region:

  • Local wines:

  • Agriturismo and wineries:

  • Accommodation: Consider staying in a local guesthouse or farmhouse to experience the local culture.

Book a wine tour:

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere:

  • Local Wineries: The local wineries, with their vineyards nestled amidst the mountains, often offer tours and tasting experiences.

  • Wine Tasting & Tours:

  • Local wines:

  • Transportation Options:

  • By car: The region offers scenic drives through vineyards.

  • By train:

  • By bus:

  • By bike:

  • Local Specialties:

  • Visit the local markets: Experience the local culture and enjoy the wine & food.

  • The Gran Paradiso:

Why a local guide?

  • Enjoying the region’s history and culture:

  • A local guide:

  • Can offer insights into the local wines and their production process.

  • Can help you:

  • Local Expertise: Local guides can offer a variety of information about the local wine, such as the different types of grapes used and the unique flavors they produce.

Explore Local Wineries:

Local wineries are often open for tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the local wine culture first-hand.

  • Tasting Experiences:

  • Winemaking practices:

  • Exploring the Wine Region:

  • Winemaking Practices:

  • The Gran Paradiso Wine Route:

For those who prefer a more immersive experience of the local wine and food scene, it’s worth checking out the “*winemaking experiences offered by local wineries.

  • Local transportation:

Many local wineries offer accommodation options, allowing guests to enjoy the full beauty of the region.

  • Local Activities:

  • Harvest Festivals:

  • Local produce:

  • Enjoy the local produce:

Explore the diverse flavors and wines produced in the area.

  • Food & Wine Experiences:

  • Wine tasting:

  • Local wines:

  • Winemaking Tours:

  • Winemaking tours:

  • Cheese & Wine Pairings:

These are often offered at local wineries, and provide a unique opportunity to taste the local wine and learn about the process.

Enjoy the local festivals:

  • Local Activities: Explore the local vineyards and enjoy traditional food & wine pairings.

  • Take advantage of local knowledge:

  • Local Produce: Explore the “wine” tasting opportunities at local wineries.

  • Local Cuisine & Wine:

  • Enjoy local specialties, like cheese and cured meats from the Piedmont region.

Learn about the local culture:

  • Wine Tasting:

  • Winemaking Tours:

  • Local History:

  • Visit local wineries:

  • Participate in a grape harvest for a hands-on experience.

  • Enjoy the local history and cultural experiences:

The key to a successful trip is to research which local wineries are open for tours or tastings during your visit.

  • Winemaking & Culinary Traditions:
  • Local Cuisine & Wine:

Some wineries offer “wine and food” pairings, showcasing the culinary skills of the region’s chefs.

  • Vineyard Experiences:

  • Wine and Food Tours:

  • Wine Tasting & Cooking Classes:

Enjoy a local wine and cheese tasting experience.

  • Enjoy the local cuisine:
  • Explore the flavors:

Local Cuisine:

  • Barbera Wine Pairing:

  • Local Cuisine:

Winemaking History:

  • Local Wine Trail:

Wineries in Susa:

  • Explore the Gran Paradiso, and enjoy a variety of activities.

  • Local Cheese & Wine Tasting:

The local winemakers often use traditional techniques passed down for generations.

  • Explore local markets:

  • Local produce:

  • Winemaking Experiences:

  • Other Local Activities:

Enjoy the local cuisine & wines at events and festivals.

Local History & Culture:

  • Visit the Gran Paradiso National Park:

  • The local vineyards:

  • Learn about winemaking:

  • Winemaking Techniques:

  • Local Wineries:

  • Explore a variety of local food and wine options at various wineries.

  • Enjoy the unique experiences offered by the local wineries.

  • Wine Tasting & Cooking Experiences:

  • Gran Paradiso National Park:

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty:

  • Local Winemaking History:

Many local wineries are open for tours and tastings, offering a chance to learn about the region’s winemaking history.

Explore Susa:

  • Wine tasting:

  • Food & Wine Tours:

  • Winemaking techniques:

  • Wine Tasting and Food Experiences:

  • Enjoy the diverse flavors of local wines, cheeses, and other delicacies.

Local Cuisine:

  • The Gran Paradiso:

  • Winemaking history:

  • Learn about the local winemakers:

Visit the “winemaking” region to learn more.

  • Enjoy a variety of local wines:

  • Gran Paradiso National Park: Enjoy the stunning views and fresh air of the Alps.

Local Experiences:

  • Explore the Gran Paradiso: Discover the history and beauty of this renowned mountain range.
  • Visit the local vineyards:
  • Local cuisine:

Enjoy a wine tasting experience:

  • Winemaking:

  • Local Cuisine: Explore the Gran Paradiso Wine Route, which offers a variety of experiences for tourists.

  • Explore the local history: Discover the rich history of the region’s winemaking tradition.

  • **Local Wine Tasting