Il Giro del Vescovado

A walk through vineyards and wineries

Il Giro del Vescovado is one of the most beloved gourmet walking tours in the Colli Tortonesi. It takes place in Costa Vescovato, a small town in the Province of Alessandria nestled among the rows of vines that produce the famous Derthona Timorasso. The route covers approximately 10 kilometers with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for families and four-legged friends (dogs on leashes).

Eight stops to taste the territory

The heart of the event lies in the eight stops scattered along the path, showcasing products from local producers. The route passes through six local wineries — Giacomo Boveri, Terre di Sarizzola, Valli Unite, Luigi Boveri, Andrea Tirelli, and Daniele Ricci — alongside the Gedeone craft brewery and the Apicoltura Dietro il Monte apiary. The absolute star is Timorasso, the iconic white wine of the area, paired with cured meats, cheeses, and traditional Piedmontese dishes.

Between roads, dirt paths, and vineyard shortcuts

The trail alternates between paved roads, dirt paths, and shortcuts through the vines, with a free shuttle service available for the most challenging sections. Departures are staggered in small groups, allowing participants to enjoy each stop at a leisurely pace while discovering corners of the hilly landscape that are otherwise inaccessible.

The final celebration

At the end of the day, the festivities move to Montale Celli, a hamlet of Costa Vescovato, where the church square and the local Pro Loco welcome participants with music, street food, and final toasts. It is a moment where the public and producers come together in a spirit of sharing that captures the essence of the event.

A growing project

Launched just a few years ago by the Incontri DiVini APS association, in collaboration with the municipal administration and the Pro Loco, Il Giro del Vescovado has grown with every edition, attracting hundreds of walkers from across Italy. It is a tangible way to promote the viticultural heritage of the Colli Tortonesi and the identity of a borderland between Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, and Emilia.