Cycling always offers the chance to learn and discover new places. GranPiemonte 2025 will, for the first time, put the town of Dogliani on the major cycling map, having never before hosted an event of such prestige.
Dogliani for the first time
Dogliani, in the province of Cuneo, will host the race start on October 9. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Langhe and crossed by the Rea stream, the town still preserves its dual identity: Dogliani Castello, perched above, and Dogliani Borgo, developed lower in the valley. Strolling through its streets, one encounters several works by architect Giovanni Battista Schellino, including the striking parish church of Saints Quirico and Paolo, and the former Carmelite convent, today the town hall. Dogliani’s identity is deeply tied to wine: Dolcetto di Dogliani, now a DOCG, is one of the region’s proud symbols. Local traditions also abound, such as the Antica Fiera della Ciliegia (Ancient Cherry Fair) and the Fiera dei Santi with its traditional dish, cisrà, a tripe stew. Dogliani was also home to Luigi Einaudi, Italy’s second President of the Republic, who cultivated vineyards here, thus strengthening his ties to his native land.
Finish line in Acqui Terme
From Cuneo, the race shifts to Alessandria, with the finish in Acqui Terme. As the name suggests, it is one of Piedmont’s most famous spa towns, celebrated since Roman times as Aquae Statiellae. The city’s symbol is La Bollente, a 19th-century shrine that shelters a 74°C thermal spring. The historic center features important monuments such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with works by Pilacorte and Bermejo, and the Paleologi Castle, now home to the Archaeological Museum. Remains of the Roman aqueduct testify to the town’s long history. Back in the Middle Ages, it passed under the control of bishops and later the Paleologi, until annexation by the House of Savoy. Today Acqui blends thermal tourism and culture, with events like the Acqui Storia Prize and the International Biennial of Engraving.
