The Alta Valle Tanaro is a valley of the Ligurian Alps, in the province of Cuneo that acts as a natural bridge to the provinces of Imperia and Savona.
It is a territory close to Liguria but also very close to France, so much so that Napoleon Bonaparte crossed it during his first campaign in Italy. An area with a great historical charm that boasts a lush nature and views of rare beauty.
The historic train in Val Tanaro
This territory is known for the Tanaro Railway and for its historic train: but what is it?
The historic train of Val Tanaro is a steam locomotive-driven train that leaves from Turin Porta Nuova for a journey through the heart of the territory and its breathtaking landscapes. Also this year will start on December 8, a great way to spend the day off (or, for the lucky ones, the bridge) on the occasion of the Feast of the Immaculate.
On 8 December the historic train of Val Tanaro will take way at 8.40 in the morning to reach Ormea at 13. The historic train on the timeless track will make several stops along the route: Turin Lingotto, Savigliano, Mondovì, Ceva, Nucetto, Garessio. In addition, stops in Ceva and Nucetto are scheduled for stops, each of 40 minutes.
The departure for the return is scheduled for 16.40 (from Ormea station) with the same stops of the outward journey but, this time, without any prolonged stop; the arrival at Torino Porta Nuova is scheduled for 20.10.
The journey itself is certainly exciting but what the true lovers of trains will appreciate most is the means itself, a diesel steam locomotive equipped with wagons thirties “Centoporte” and luggage: a real journey through the beauty of Val Tanaro but also back in time.
Travel by historic train in Val Tanaro: useful information
Here are some useful information and directions to better organize your trip on the historic train in Val Tanaro!
First of all, if you are a bike lover and, at some point of the trip, you plan to get off and reach the destinations you prefer cycling, You will be free to take your bikes with you at no extra cost and during the trip you can place them in the luggage compartment.
In addition, if you need it, you can also bring luggage with you, following the instructions contained in the general conditions of transport that you can consult on the website of the Italian State Railways Foundation.
Historical train route in Val Tanaro: where to stop and why
During its journey, the locomotive in Val Tanaro has several stops: let’s see, below, what there is to see and where to stop to spend a few pleasant hours discovering the most particular attractions in the area.
Mondovì
Famous for its ceramics, here you can visit the Museum of Ceramics: a place that collects centuries of history of ceramics of the place, explains the evolution and the processing processes. A truly original way to spend your break.
Ceva
A walk in Ceva is always pleasant, and maybe you can stop for a snack or a snack on a very special bench. We are talking about the giant bench of Ceva, a huge yellow bench placed in a panoramic area and part of the Big Beach Community project by Chris Bangle. Bench number 28 offers a panoramic view over the roofs of the city and in the background the fortress of Ceva.
Nape
In Nucetto you can visit the station, completely restored and really fascinating that today is home to the Museo dell’Alta Valle Tanaro and a railway museum. By the way, thanks to the 40 minutes stop, you will have the opportunity to take a look even without ending your trip here.
Garessio
It is defined as one of the most beautiful villages of Stivale and consists of three villages: Poggiolo, Maggiore and Ponte. Its beauty lies in the fact that it preserves the art and beauty of past centuries in its architecture that will leave you breathless.
Moor
Who prefers to enjoy the whole journey the locomotive and get to the terminus, will find Ormea, a charming mountain village whose historic center has the particular shape at heart. Here, in December, they set up the Christmas markets where you can walk during your stop.
And if for you the 8 December is not the ideal date or you prefer to move in another region or area, on the website of the Italian State Railways Foundation you can discover all the planned trips and book the perfect one for you. We just have to wish you a good trip!
Copertina: ferroviadeltanaro