Ready to experience a day out of time?
Then join us on a journey to discover the Baraggia region of Vercelli, one of the last and most significant examples of grassland in the Po Valley, where surprising treasures lie hidden among rice paddies and the remnants of Italy’s last savanna.
- An Oasis of Peace – The tour will begin with a visit to the Benedictine Castle-Monastery of San Pietro in Lenta, a medieval fortified religious complex that was part of a network of fortifications along the road leading from the plain to the Valsesia Valley.
We’ll soak up its evocative atmosphere as we explore the ricetto, the crenellated walls, the cloister, and the crypt, which houses several frescoes dating back to the 15th century. - Seven Castles in One – After leaving Lenta, we’ll head to Buronzo to visit the Consortile Castle.
In the 14th century, the family of the Lords of Buronzo split into seven distinct branches, each of which occupied and controlled a separate portion of the building. Over time, the various family branches gave rise to an equal number of residential blocks developed around the oldest core, always preserving shared spaces and assets, gradually creating a true village.
An extraordinary feat of social and architectural engineering, unique in its kind, which—through sieges, destruction, restorations, and changes in ownership—has been passed down to the present day.
The visit will be enhanced by a pleasant stop, during which we’ll have the chance to taste a risotto that symbolizes local tradition and hospitality. - Between History and Intrigue – The final stop on our itinerary will take us on a journey through the history of the Castles of Rovasenda, a pair of fortified structures dating from different eras.
Their history and origins reveal the roots of the region and conceal a gripping tale of pride, love, family rivalry, and revenge—one you absolutely won’t want to miss.
Along the way, we’ll make a brief stop in Arborio to admire “Risegno,” the largest land art installation ever created in an Italian rice paddy, as part of the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the selection of the Arborio rice variety.
At the end of the tour, the day will conclude with free time to continue exploring the city center on your own, which is coming alive with Risò—the International Rice Festival—its Village, its pavilions, and its events.
Transportation: GT buses from Vercelli, Turin, and Milan
Time and meeting point:
- Vercelli: 10:00 a.m. – in front of the train station
- Turin: 8:30 a.m. – Corso Bolzano
- Milan: 8:30 a.m. – Lampugnano Bus Terminal (MM1 Red Line), Via G. Natta
Scheduled return: For Turin and Milan, departure from Vercelli at 7:00 p.m.
Includes:
- GT bus
- Licensed guide
- Rice tasting
- Admission fees