Garessio
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Garessio
Garessio has only a modest number of hotel-style properties, as the town is known more for its historic centre, mountain setting and outdoor activities than for a large accommodation scene. Travellers who prefer established hotels with fuller facilities and reliable guest feedback will find a wider and more practical selection in Ceva, which is the nearest town with a broader choice of well-reviewed hotels within easy reach of the Upper Tanaro Valley.
In Ceva, Hotel Palace offers a dependable base with comfortable rooms, friendly service and a convenient position for exploring the surrounding area (€€). Hotel Il Castello di Bubbio (if you would prefer a strictly Ceva-based second option, I will adjust) provides a traditional stay with well-kept rooms and a relaxed atmosphere in the nearby hills (€€). For those looking for a more modern hotel in the area, Hotel The Originals Langhe Cherasco offers contemporary interiors, good facilities and steady guest satisfaction within driving distance of Garessio (€€€).
In Ceva, Hotel Palace offers a dependable base with comfortable rooms, friendly service and a convenient position for exploring the surrounding area (€€). Hotel Il Castello di Bubbio (if you would prefer a strictly Ceva-based second option, I will adjust) provides a traditional stay with well-kept rooms and a relaxed atmosphere in the nearby hills (€€). For those looking for a more modern hotel in the area, Hotel The Originals Langhe Cherasco offers contemporary interiors, good facilities and steady guest satisfaction within driving distance of Garessio (€€€).
Where is
Where is Garessio?
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The town of Garessio is situated within the Province of Cuneo and has a population of around 3,000 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 621 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Mondovì, Cuneo, Bene Vagienna and Monforte d'Alba. |
Comune di Garessio
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Province: Cuneo
Region: Piedmont Population: 2,832 (in 2024 - source) Size: 131 km² Elevation: 621 metres Close by: Mondovì, Cuneo, Bene Vagienna, Monforte d'Alba Recommended accommodation: La Fornace |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Quattro Passi tra Le Mura (A Stroll Around the Walls)
Listing headline: Quattro Passi tra Le Mura (A Stroll Around the Walls)
What People Ask About Garessio
Is Garessio worth visiting?
Yes, Garessio is worth visiting for its medieval old town, alpine surroundings, and nearby hiking trails. It’s located in the Ligurian Alps and is part of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia”.
What can you do in Garessio?
You can explore the historic Borgo Maggiore, visit churches and small museums, and walk scenic trails in the surrounding mountains. The area is also known for mountain biking and fresh spring water.
How do you get to Garessio?
Garessio is about 40 km from Cuneo and 45 km from Albenga. It is best reached by car via the SS28 road. The nearest train station is in Ceva, with bus connections to the town.
What is Garessio known for?
Garessio is known for its medieval architecture, natural springs, and location in the Alps near the Ligurian coast. It has a long tradition as a spa town and mountain holiday destination.
When is the best time to visit Garessio?
Late spring to early autumn is best for walking and exploring the countryside. Winter can also attract visitors for snowshoeing and quiet stays in the mountains.
Related links
Discover
Discover Garessio
Garessio is a town in the province of Cuneo, located at the foot of the Ligurian Alps near the source of the Tanaro River. It has a long history, with Roman origins and a medieval centre characterised by stone gateways, narrow lanes, and arcaded streets. The town developed as an important stop on routes linking Piedmont with Liguria, reflected in its architecture and layout.
The historic core is marked by the Porta Rose, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and remnants of defensive walls. Garessio is also noted for its natural springs, which contributed to its past as a spa destination. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it provides access to hiking trails and scenic routes, while road connections link it with Ceva, Mondovì, and the coast at Albenga.
The historic core is marked by the Porta Rose, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and remnants of defensive walls. Garessio is also noted for its natural springs, which contributed to its past as a spa destination. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it provides access to hiking trails and scenic routes, while road connections link it with Ceva, Mondovì, and the coast at Albenga.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Garessio
- Borgo Maggiore (Historic Centre) is the oldest part of Garessio, with narrow cobbled streets, stone archways, and medieval houses. The district includes several small squares and historic fountains, and retains its original layout from the Middle Ages. It is best explored on foot and contains artisan shops and cafés set in former noble residences.
- Porta Rose and Town Walls are remnants of Garessio’s medieval fortifications, with the arched gate marking the entrance to the old town. The gate features decorative stonework and a bell tower, and leads into Via Cavour, the main historic street. It is one of the village’s most photographed landmarks.
- Church of San Giovanni Battista stands in the heart of Borgo Maggiore and dates back to the 13th century, though it was later expanded in Baroque style. The interior includes wooden altars, religious paintings, and a vaulted ceiling. It remains in regular use and forms part of local religious festivals.
- San Bernardo delle Forche Sanctuary is located on a hill overlooking the town and can be reached by foot or narrow road. The 18th-century church includes a portico, panoramic terrace, and interior frescoes. It is a popular site for walks and offers views over Garessio and the Tanaro Valley.
- Monte Mindino and Outdoor Trails lie just above the village and offer hiking, mountain biking, and scenic viewpoints. Well-marked paths lead through forests, meadows, and high-altitude pastures. In winter, the nearby Garessio 2000 area offers skiing and snowshoeing on accessible slopes.
Tours and Activities
Garessio Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Garessio Photo Gallery
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Garessio
By Rail: Garessio does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Ceva, about 20 kilometres away, on the Turin–Savona line operated by Trenitalia. From Turin, the train to Ceva takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, while from Savona the journey is about 1 hour. From Ceva, Garessio can be reached in around 25 minutes by car or local bus.
By Road: Garessio is located in the Ligurian Alps, close to the border between Piedmont and Liguria. From Cuneo, the distance is about 55 kilometres, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Savona, the journey is approximately 55 kilometres and also takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes via the Colle di Cadibona route. Parking is available near the centre and around the historic quarters.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Garessio is located in the Ligurian Alps, close to the border between Piedmont and Liguria. From Cuneo, the distance is about 55 kilometres, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Savona, the journey is approximately 55 kilometres and also takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes via the Colle di Cadibona route. Parking is available near the centre and around the historic quarters.
Nearest International Airports:
- Cuneo Levaldigi Airport: About 70 kilometres from Garessio, with a drive of around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The closest airport, offering domestic and limited European flights.
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: Approximately 95 kilometres away, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. A good option for European connections.
- Turin Caselle Airport: Roughly 150 kilometres from Garessio, taking about 2 hours by car. A larger hub with domestic and European services.
Private Transfers
Garessio Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from Garessio, offering a direct journey without the need to rely on infrequent buses or drive the winding mountain roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable service.
From Garessio, the nearest hub is Cuneo, which can be reached in about 1 hour, a distance of 55 km. Turin Caselle Airport is around 1 hour 50 minutes away at 135 km, while Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 115 km. A transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport usually takes 2 hours 15 minutes with a journey of 180 km. For those heading further east, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 30 minutes away, a distance of 200 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Garessio, the nearest hub is Cuneo, which can be reached in about 1 hour, a distance of 55 km. Turin Caselle Airport is around 1 hour 50 minutes away at 135 km, while Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 115 km. A transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport usually takes 2 hours 15 minutes with a journey of 180 km. For those heading further east, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 30 minutes away, a distance of 200 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

