The small town of Stroppo nestles high in the alpine mountains of the Piedmont region of Italy. A picture postcard town surrounded by enchanted, misty emerald forests and snow-capped mountains, this pretty alpine town sits in a commanding location which any artist, poet or writer would be inspired by. The Piedmont region closely borders both France and Switzerland with architectural influences of both found in the mountain villages.
Wooden shutters grace the fronts of houses in the main street, as brightly coloured geraniums sprinkled in every window box brings the town to life.
Depending on which time of year you decide to visit Stroppo, various activities await.The area has cold winters and hot dry summers with July being the driest month. Mountain biking is particularly popular in the spring and summer months, allowing you to ride the mountain passes and through the forests where peace, solitude and natural beauty will delight.
The cycle terrain can be challenging, but the reward of some of the most magnificent views in the region makes it worthwhile. Walking and hiking within the fairy-tale forests is also a popular pastime with panoramic vistas from the top of the mountains absolutely breath-taking. In the late autumn and winter months ski resorts are reachable by car.
The nearest resorts are just outside Stroppo, Canosia – Pra La Grangia, Sampeyre, Pontechianale and Argentera. All have exceptional skiing facilities and remarkable views over crystal clear lakes, forests and mountains.
A ten minute drive from Stroppo is the pretty town of Elva, home to one of the most well preserved Romanesque churches in the area. The 15th century French/Flemish painter Hans Clemer painted intricate frescoes depicting scenes from biblical life, these works are available to see in the choir and apse of the church and should not be overlooked. These masterpieces named him the title Master of Elva and it is easy to see why.
A drive into Cuneo, one of the larger cities in the region will take approximately one hour from Stroppo. As well as many places of interest to see such as the Centro Storico (historical centre) lined with quaint artisan shops and restaurants, the Piazza Galimberti, Torre Civica and the Cattedrale di Nostra Signora del Bosco it also has an intriguing past which is worth exploring further.
No visit to Piedmont would be complete without sampling some of the regions local delicacies, from local cheese, truffles and wine to the famous rum filled chocolates of Cuneo.