Let's Go To Exilles, Where The Fort Awaits Us

Exilles is a very small village where about 260 residents reside, but with interesting attractions.
Above all, the Fort that takes its name from the village and was born as a defensive system.
Worth visiting in the Borgo is the Chapel of San Rocco, built in 1660.
And then the Parish of St. Peter the Apostle, built in the 11th century and consisting of three naves. Two architectural styles: Gothic and a late Romanesque bell tower.
Park here and continue on foot.

The Fort of Exilles at the moment, unfortunately, cannot be visited inside; you will have to be content with photographing it from the outside. It is one of the largest and most important defensive complexes in Piedmontese history along with that of Fenestrelle.
The Borgo is also worth a visit, however, for the beauty of its alleys and the unique views it offers.
We return to get the car and continue our journey.

We make one last stop for this morning at the hamlet of Ramats, famous for its Celtic and Saracen origins: in short, taking a walk here is a bit like taking a trip back in time. Saffron used to create yellow in paintings around the 15th century was cultivated here for many years.

We have an early lunch because we still have a nice hike to do that will take some time.
Al Cantoun Restaurant in Chiomonte offers traditional Piedmontese cuisine, if in season, you might also find dishes with a nice sprinkling of both black and white truffles.
Here find information on opening hours and the various menus offered. Closed on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.

The Sacra of St. Michael is considered a magical, spiritual place, and not only because it is located on the road that "ideally" connects the dots of Christianity, all the way to Jerusalem!
Legend tells us that all the basilicas, from Ireland to Sinai, as well as the veneration of the saint, served as a weapon for Michael. His sword, struggling against the Devil, caused an invisible fissure that later became a path of faith. It is a legend but one breathes an air of holiness!
It is also said that the 3 shrines-Mont Saint Michel in France, the Sacra di San Michele in the Susa Valley and the Sanctuary of Monte Sant'Angelo in Gargano-are within 1,000 km of each other. Not only that, they are aligned with the setting of the sun at the summer solstice.
A few recommendations: the Sacra is totally uphill, has lots of steps, so comfortable shoes.
OPENING HOURS: The Sacra is open daily with the following hours: Monday - Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. / 1 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Holy Mass)
For more Info.

On the way back, we make a small detour to Giaveno where you will have an aperitif of typical cold cuts and cheeses and can visit the Batu Church and take a photo under the colorful umbrellas that adorn its entrance.

A craft beer and a snack with local products is just what you need after such a busy day.
That's why we go to Giaveno.

Our 3 days were really intense, we enriched our eyes with colors, nature, history. We can return home satisfied