Camino lies northwest of Casale Monferrato, perched at an elevation of over 260 meters above sea level. Its strategic position commands views of the right bank of the Po River, the Vercelli rice fields on the plains, and the rolling hills of Lower Monferrato. Visitors can enjoy a variety of landscapes and opportunities for walks through diverse natural settings, from the vineyards on the hills to the banks of the Po, within the protected River Park, with Monviso and the surrounding mountains forming a spectacular backdrop on clear days.
The village has a history spanning thousands of years, with Roman and later Germanic origins. Camino weathered the Middle Ages and the centuries that followed, preserving its emblem: the castle, owned by the Scarampi family since 1300. Originally built in 1010 with sturdy walls and a 44-meter-high tower, the manor is surrounded by a large park dotted with centuries-old trees and is one of the most important and best-preserved fortresses in the Alessandria area. Part of the “Castelli Aperti” (Open Castles) initiative—a cultural program promoted by the provinces of Cuneo, Asti, and Alessandria with the support of the Piedmont Region—it can be visited during special events or by appointment. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone both architectural and cultural renovations, reflecting a succession of styles, decorations, and furnishings that blend harmoniously, offering a fascinating insight into its history and that of the territory it continues to overlook.
Camino is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Parish Church of San Lorenzo, dating to 1329 and rebuilt in the 18th century, and San Gottardo, likely from the 12th century but enriched with 15th-century frescoes, along with many others.
Just outside the village lies the hamlet of Rocca delle Donne, a superb vantage point overlooking the great river and the surrounding plain. Its name derives from an ancient convent founded in 1167 and closed at the end of the 15th century. The convent has a particularly colorful and lively history, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.
