Making the Most of Your Time

Making the Most of Your Time

The region was the site for the 2006 Winter Olympics, which is a good reason to pay a visit—even now that the games are history. Lots of work, and many euros, went into development and renovation, the effects of which linger well after the handing out of the last medal.

Turin is an underrated travel destination. If you like the idea of an Italian city with touches of Parisian sophistication, Turin is likely to strike your fancy.

Turin's residents will tell you how much it lifts their spirits when, on clear days, they have views of the surrounding mountains. In them you'll find exceptional hiking and climbing. Along the Piedmont-Valle d'Aosta border, the Gran Paradiso National Park has beautiful, well-marked trails. Farther north is Monte Bianco, which should be a priority; you can ascend it by cable car, or, if you're an experienced climber, make a go of it with professional guides. If food and wine is your thing, also schedule a day or two on the less lofty slopes of the Langhe, south of Turin.