Cascina Bricco
Piedmont – what or where is that? Don’t worry if that was your initial reaction. Ours was the same – even though we have been regular visitors to the Tuscany for quite some time.
Our first day trip from Siena to Piedmont was in the summer of 2002 and it turned out to be a rather difficult one for that day was spoiled by thick fog. Consequently we did not get to see those lovely valleys, the large vineyards and hazelnut plantations, the Torri Saracene or the breathtaking view of the Alps. However, we got to meet locals and they told us full of enthusiasm all about the fascinating landscapes. Their narratives piqued our curiosity – we had to come back!
After we had enjoyed every season here the idea of building a second home became too hard to resist. Some time had passed until we found a suitable place that would allow us to rent out apartments to other people who share our fascination with Piedmont.
To us, the most important thing was to find a place with a good infrastructure, nearby shopping and dining options. Nonetheless it should also offer tranquility, splendid views and decent temperatures during in summer.
These wishes were fulfilled in the province Asti. Olmo Gentile is a small village situated 650 meters above sea level. It consists of many farms, has a mom-and-pop store, a restaurant and offers spectacular views of the French Alps with the mountain Monte Visto, the Swiss Alps and the mountain range of the Apennines.
Due to a refreshing sea breeze it never gets too hot in the summer – Olmo Gentile had once been the summer residence of Acqui Terme’s bishops for a reason.
It is beneficial to bring a car and have some knowledge of Italian – mass tourism and its consequences have luckily not yet invaded this beautiful region.
Most of the structural alteration works have been done allready. Architect Mister Morbelli is currently doing the finishing touches. However, the renting of apartments can already begin.
During the remodeling process we were committed to using solar energy technology. Heating and warm water are powered by solar energy at Cascina Bricco. Thanks to the support of greensystems we were one of the first who put a solar collector into operation in Piedmont.
All work has been done by local craftsmen. The furniture was bought from a furniture dealer and a carpenter from Vesime.
Since recently, also the salt water pool (24' x 12') can be used, which is located on the headland below the Cascina Bricco.
