Italy is peppered with villages – some with populations numbering less than 100 – that never cease to surprise with artistic masterpieces hidden in churches, unique local dishes, and sublime landscapes. The crème de la crème of the hamlets is recognized by the association ‘I borghi più belli d’Italia’ – the most beautiful villages in Italy. New entries are added to the list each year, with 14 joining the ranks in 2023.

These often underestimated destinations are worth the detour, so if you’re planning a trip to Italy this year, make sure to include some of these villages in your itinerary. Guarene lies in Piedmont’s fertile, gastronomic heartland. The hilltop town is encircled by forests of oak and hazel and row upon row of vines. It sits in the historic UNESCO-designated Roero area, famous for producing fragrant red wines from Nebbiolo grapes and fruity whites from Arneis.