Discover Gabiano: Labyrinth, Village Paths and the Po Landscape

Gabiano between the Hillside, the Po Valley and the Rural Landscape

Gabiano combines the hillside setting of a historic town with an open, rural landscape along the Po. The Castello di Gabiano stands in a commanding position above the Po Valley; at the same time, the hills of Gabiano open onto the green valley floor of the Rio Gaminella. In the surrounding countryside, cultivated areas alternate with meadows, woods, vineyards, vegetable gardens and orchards. This allows you to discover Gabiano through its history, landscape and opportunities for activity, while combining different interests.

The Labyrinth in the Park of the Castello di Gabiano

At the heart of the park lies the labyrinth of the Castello di Gabiano. It is a historic monument and is one of the very few documented labyrinths in the historic gardens of Piedmont. It was designed in the 1930s by the architect Lamberto Cusani. Particularly characteristic is the contrast between the strict geometric lines of the castle complex and the natural character of the park. As a result, the labyrinth does not stand in isolation but is closely connected with the design of the park area.

Church, Bell Tower and Historic Furnishings

Another cultural highlight is the Chiesa di San Pietro Apostolo. The church is designed in the Neoclassical style and has a Gothic bell tower. Inside are 19th-century frescoes by Paolo Maggi and a carved walnut choir from 1738. The Chiesa di San Pietro Apostolo was rebuilt from 1690 to 1692 after the earlier building had been at risk of collapsing in 1688.

Hiking through the Village and Hills

The Camminata della Mimosa follows a scenic path to the Castello di Gabiano and passes through the old village of Gabiano. The circular route is approximately 12 kilometres long and includes around 300 metres of ascent. Spring, autumn and winter are recommended as the best seasons for this tour. If you would like to combine a hike with an insight into the town centre, this route offers a clearly defined opportunity to bring together the village, hillside and landscape in a single day’s experience.

A Longer Route by Mountain Bike

Cycling also offers a distinct focus. The route “Gabiano, tra fiume e collina” leads through the vineyards around the Castello di Gabiano. It is a 22.82-kilometre mountain-bike route that includes Gabiano. Compared with the approximately 12-kilometre Camminata della Mimosa, it therefore provides a longer route option for planning active days.

History, Alpini and Regional Cuisine

A sturdy fortification was built on the hillside of Gabiano in the 10th century. The Museo delle Truppe Alpine «Carlo Monti» offers a distinct historical perspective. It displays documents on the history and development of the Italian Alpini Corps from its foundation through the period between the two world wars. These include uniforms from 1872 to 1945, hats, helmets, weapons, bunks, stretchers, mule equipment, radio and telephone equipment, as well as sledges from the Russian campaign.

The local identity also includes a culinary tradition shaped by Gabiano’s historical importance as an important transit point along the Po. It combines recipes from Monferrato and Vercelli cuisine.

Discover More Destinations

For further travel planning, you can also view Lobbi, Garbagna, Carrosio, Sala Monferrato, Rocca Grimalda, Montaldo Bormida, Olivola and Fabiano.

For the higher-level travel overview: Alessandria.