In the Footsteps of Lidia Poët
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Spend a week exploring northern Italy’s hidden gems, following the life and legacy of Lidia Poët, the country’s first female lawyer. This special itinerary takes you from the historic grandeur of Turin, to the alpine beauty of Perrero and the coastal charm of Diano Marina.
Perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Italian history and evolving sophistication of the 19th century, this journey blends breathtaking landscapes, captivating architecture and Italian hospitality to suit a range of budgets at every stop.
Arrival and Departure Tips
- Arrival Airport: Turin-Caselle Airport (TRN), an ideal starting point for Turin and the Piedmont region.
- Departure Airport: Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), conveniently located near Diano Marina for a smooth journey home.
Day 1 Arrive in Turin and Take in the City’s Historic Charm
Start your adventure by landing at Turin-Caselle Airport, then head into the city centre. Turin is a city of elegance and history, with wide piazzas, grand boulevards, and historic cafés. It’s where Lidia Poët commenced her groundbreaking career, making it the perfect place to begin. Take a stroll around the regal streets and settle in with a cappuccino at a local café.
Where to Stay:
- B&B: Le Tre Madame – A charming and cosy B&B near Piazza Castello, ideal for getting to know the heart of Turin.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour – Family-owned and centrally located, with comfortable rooms overlooking the garden.
- Luxury: Grand Hotel Sitea – Just steps from Piazza San Carlo, this luxurious hotel offers classic decor and top-tier service.
Where to Eat:
- Lunch: Caffè Torino – An historic café in Piazza San Carlo, perfect for sampling Turin’s famous bicerin drink and classic vitello tonnato.
- Dinner: Ristorante Consorzio – Known for farm-to-table dishes highlighting Piedmont ingredients, from handmade agnolotti pasta to locally sourced wines.
Day 2 Discover Turin’s Legal History and Cultural Treasures
Morning: Start your day at the University of Turin, where Lidia studied, before visiting the Palazzo di Giustizia, where her legal career began. Turin’s legal institutions reflect the city’s long-standing role in Italian history. After, stroll through the impressive Piazza Castello and explore the Royal Palace nearby.
Afternoon: Dive deeper into Turin’s culture with a visit to the Mole Antonelliana and National Cinema Museum. With its neoclassical architecture and world-class exhibits, Turin is an ideal place for travellers seeking both beauty and intellect.
Accommodation: Spend another night in your chosen Turin lodging.
Where to Eat:
- Lunch: Eataly Turin Lingotto – Sample Piedmont’s best cheeses, pastas, and wines in this Italian culinary hub.
- Dinner: Ristorante del Cambio – With history dating back to 1757, this iconic restaurant offers refined Piedmontese classics, from Brasato al Barolo to delicate desserts.
Day 3 Head to Perrero, the Alpine Village of Lidia’s Birth
Today, set out on a scenic two-hour drive north to Perrero in the Italian Alps. Nestled in the mountains, this quiet village offers charming stone houses, winding lanes, and spectacular views. Walk around Perrero, exploring its rustic streets and small chapels, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that defined Lidia’s early life.
Where to Stay in Perrero:
- B&B: B&B La Mëisun – Boasting a shared lounge and views of the mountain, B&B La Mëisun is a recently renovated bed and breakfast.
- Mid-Range: Hotel SALEI – This 3-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay.
- Luxury: Agriturismo La Torretta – A beautiful agriturismo nearby with rustic luxury, serving fresh, locally sourced meals.
Where to Eat in Perrero:
- Lunch: Ristorante Da Felice – A traditional spot in nearby Villar Perosa serving classic Piedmontese cuisine.
- Dinner: Agriturismo La Torretta (for guests) – Enjoy a farm-fresh dinner paired with local wines, prepared with ingredients straight from the area.
Day 4 Embrace Alpine Beauty in Perrero
Spend a relaxed day soaking up the alpine beauty around Perrero. Start with a morning hike, following trails through scenic pine forests and mountain landscapes. Perrero’s untouched charm and fresh air make it a perfect retreat from city life.
Where to Eat in Perrero:
- Lunch: Pack a picnic of local cheese, meats, and bread from nearby shops to enjoy among the mountain views.
- Dinner: Locanda Volpe con la pancia piena – A cosy spot in Perrero known for Piedmontese classics like rich stews and polenta.
Day 5 Journey to Pinerolo and Discover Lidia’s Professional Ground
Head south (around 1.5 hours) to Pinerolo, a lively town where Lidia worked alongside her brother in legal practice. Pinerolo’s medieval alleys, Renaissance facades, and artisan shops give it a timeless charm. Visit the Cathedral of St. Donato and the historic courthouse, reflecting on Lidia’s determination to quietly influence local law despite the barriers.
Where to Stay in Pinerolo:
- B&B: Villa Doria il Torrione – A charming villa with lush gardens and comfortable rooms.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Regina – A central hotel with cosy rooms, ideal for easy exploration of Pinerolo.
- Luxury: Hotel Barrage – The luxury 4-star Hotel Barrage is set in a renovated 19th-century cotton mill in the countryside.
Where to Eat in Pinerolo:
- Lunch: Osteria La Mimosa – A beloved local spot with handmade pasta and warm atmosphere.
- Dinner: Ristorante Sinfonia dei Sapori – An intimate restaurant offering dishes like mushroom risotto and game meats.
Day 6 Travel South to Diano Marina on the Ligurian Coast
Drive about three hours south to the seaside town of Diano Marina on the Ligurian coast, where Lidia spent her later years. Diano Marina’s golden beaches, turquoise water, and relaxed pace are perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle. Stroll the palm-lined promenade, breathe in the sea air, and unwind in the town that became Lidia’s peaceful final retreat.
Where to Stay in Diano Marina:
- B&B: B&B Il Viaggiatore – A cosy B&B close to the beach, with a friendly atmosphere.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Helios – A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms and easy beach access.
- Luxury: Hotel Torino Wellness & Spa – A high-end hotel with a wellness spa, rooftop terrace, and Mediterranean-inspired rooms.
Where to Eat in Diano Marina:
- Lunch: Il Basilico – A beachside trattoria known for its fresh seafood and unbeatable views.
- Dinner: Ristorante La Piazzetta – A cosy spot offering Ligurian seafood specialities and pasta dishes.
Day 7 Relax and Reflect by the Ligurian Sea
Spend your final day relaxing on Diano Marina’s beautiful beaches or exploring the historic town centre. Stroll through local markets or enjoy an afternoon gelato by the sea. This day is all about embracing the slower rhythms of Liguria, just as Lidia did in her later years.
Where to Eat in Diano Marina:
- Lunch: La Femme – A beachside restaurant with seafood specialities and Ligurian-inspired dishes.
- Dinner: Locanda Fra Diavolo – End your journey with an elegant meal of fresh seafood, pasta, and local Ligurian wines.
Best Time to Visit
For this journey through northern Italy, spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to early October) are ideal. These seasons bring mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes, perfect for enjoying city sights and alpine trails. July and August are the busiest months, with higher temperatures and coastal crowds. Winter offers a quieter experience, especially in Turin and Diano Marina, though alpine areas around Perrero may have limited access due to snow.
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