Piedmont and Cuneo Bring the Flavors and Traditions of Italy’s Mediterranean Alps to New York
NEW YORK, NY — Tourism leaders from Italy's Piedmont Region and the city of Cuneo gathered at the Consulate General of Italy in New York on Tuesday, June 30th, to present one of Italy's most authentic and undiscovered destinations to media: the Cuneo region, known as the "Mediterranean Alps," and the celebrated 27th Fiera Nazionale del Marrone (National Chestnut Fair) taking place October 16–18, 2026. (See www.Marrone.net/en/ )
The special event introduced media, travel professionals, and guests to the extraordinary landscapes, culinary traditions, and cultural heritage that make Cuneo one of Northern Italy's most compelling year-round destinations.
Distinguished speakers included:
• Paolo Bongioanni, Regional Minister for Agriculture, Food and Tourism of the Piedmont Region
• Patrizia Manassero, Mayor of Cuneo
• Gabriella Giordano, President of ATL del Cuneese
Located between Turin and the French Riviera, Cuneo is the largest province in Piedmont and a natural gateway between the Alps and the Mediterranean. Along the French border, nearly twenty valleys unfold beneath the towering presence of Monviso, the iconic 3,841-meter peak known as the "King of Stone." Here, visitors discover an extraordinary blend of alpine landscapes, historic villages, elegant cities, and centuries-old traditions that continue to define local life.
Known as the "Mountains of the Sea," the Maritime, Ligurian, and Cottian Alps benefit from a unique microclimate created by their proximity to the Mediterranean coast, just one hour from Nice Airport. The region's remarkable biodiversity is protected within the Maritime Alps Natural Parks, where forests, alpine meadows, and scenic trails provide year-round opportunities for exploration.
Winter transforms Cuneo into a premier alpine destination, with 15 ski resorts and more than 350 kilometers of slopes, including the renowned Riserva Bianca in Limone Piemonte and the Mondolè Ski Area. During the warmer months, the region becomes a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Among its most iconic routes is the Alta Via del Sale (Upper Salt Road), a historic mountain trail connecting Piedmont to the Ligurian coast and now considered one of Europe's most spectacular cycling and trekking experiences. Nearby, the Gardetta Plateau offers visitors the rare opportunity to walk among prehistoric dinosaur footprints at over 7,500 feet above sea level.
At the heart of the province lies the city of Cuneo, an elegant destination built on a plateau between the Stura River and the Gesso stream. The city's grand Piazza Galimberti, historic arcades, and charming Via Roma invite visitors to explore artisan boutiques, historic cafés, and pastry shops where local traditions thrive. Among the city's most beloved specialties are the celebrated Cuneesi al Rhum chocolates, a symbol of Cuneo's distinguished confectionery heritage. Food and wine remain among the region's greatest attractions. As the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, the Cuneo region is home to exceptional products including Castelmagno DOP and Raschera DOP cheeses, Crudo di Cuneo ham, premium Piedmontese beef, Cervere leeks, and the renowned Marrone di Cuneo PGI chestnut.
The presentation also spotlighted the 27th Fiera Nazionale del Marrone, Italy's premier autumn food and wine festival, which transforms Cuneo's historic center into a vibrant celebration of regional cuisine, artisan craftsmanship, local wines, and Alpine culture. The fair has become one of Italy's most important gastronomic events and highlights the internationally acclaimed Marrone di Cuneo PGI chestnut, a product with historic ties to New York dating back to the 1930s, when Cuneo chestnuts were already being exported to American markets.
The event also featured a preview presentation of Urban Souls: Cuneo–Manhattan – A View of the Cities, a photographic exhibition by Pier Renzo Lingua that will be unveiled in advance of its public presentation. The project creates a visual dialogue between two urban worlds that may seem distant at first glance—Cuneo and New York—revealing unexpected connections through images that capture not only architecture, but also the spirit of each city. Through intimate observations of everyday life, urban rhythms, and the relationship between people and place, the exhibition invites viewers on a personal and evocative journey shaped by memory, imagination, and perception. The exhibition is curated by the Fondazione Genta Giandomenico, under the leadership of its President, Gianmarco Genta, reflecting the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering cultural dialogue, artistic excellence, and international exchange.
Following the presentation, guests enjoyed a tasting of marrons glacés paired with Moscato d'Asti and Asti Spumante, offering a flavorful introduction to the region's rich culinary traditions
Combining pristine nature, world-class outdoor recreation, exceptional gastronomy, and elegant cities rich in culture and history, the Cuneo region embodies what local tourism leaders describe as "authentic luxury"—a destination where genuine experiences, hospitality, and quality of life create unforgettable journeys for modern travelers.
Learn more: https://www.visitcuneese.it/en/
[Find an article in the premiere July/Aug 2026 edition of Beauty Wellness and Tea where we also highlight beauty and wellness aspects of the chestnut. Coming July 6.]
