If you are still deciding where to celebrate the holiday season, Tenuta La Marchesa offers the perfect blend of history, world-class gastronomy, and serene relaxation. Located in Novi Ligure, at the heart of the Monferrato region and the renowned Gavi wine zone, our farmhouse stay and wine resort is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Christmas surrounded by nature.
The Origins and History of Christmas Traditions
Before exploring why you should visit us, let’s take a brief journey into the history and origins of this winter holiday.
December 25th History: From Pagan Rituals to Christianity
In 312 AD, Emperor Constantine defeated his rival Maxentius after placing the Sign of the Cross on his banners. The following year, he issued the Edict of Milan, ending the persecution of Christians. Later, on December 25, 336 AD, Christmas was officially established as a Christian holiday.
The date was chosen to overlap and replace the pagan festival of Natalis Solis Invicti (the Unconquered Sun/Mithra), introduced to Rome by Emperor Elagabalus in 220 AD, as well as the celebrations of Saturnalia (December 17–24). Dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture, Saturnalia was traditionally celebrated with grand banquets and gift exchanges.
Where Do Famous Christmas Symbols Come From?
- The Nativity Scene : Created by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223 with the famous “Greccio Nativity,” it evolved into the most cherished Christmas symbol in Italian tradition.
- The Christmas Tree: Popularized during the 16th century in Germanic regions, where evergreen firs were decorated with lights and small gifts, blending ancient pagan solstice rites with Christian symbolism.
- Santa Claus: Traces its roots back to Saint Nicholas of Myra (patron saint of children and sailors) and the Norse god Odin. His modern image, featuring the iconic red suit and white beard, was popularized by Coca-Cola advertising campaigns in the 1930s.
- Christmas Gifts: Derived directly from ancient Roman and Etruscan customs of exchanging auspicious gifts during winter solstice celebrations.
3 Reasons to Celebrate Christmas at Tenuta La Marchesa
If you are wondering where to spend Christmas away from city crowds, our farmhouse is the ideal escape for travelers coming from Milan, Turin, Genoa, or the province of Alessandria.
Farm-to-Table Restaurant with a Custom Christmas Menu
At our restaurant, you can savor authentic Piedmontese culinary excellence. We offer a true farm-to-table menu crafted with ingredients sourced directly from our wine estate and selected local farms across the Piedmont region, the true secret to exceptional dining. (Full Christmas menus are available upon email request).
A Dreamy Wine Resort Stay Among the Vineyards
Our wine resort delivers an experience of pure tranquility: quiet, refined rooms set within 187 acres of rolling vineyards, pristine woodlands, and a private lake. During your stay, you can book guided winery tours featuring tastings of our acclaimed wines: Gavi DOCG, native Piedmontese reds, vinified only stainless steel, and our sparkling Brut and Rosé wines. You can also explore curated local experiences, historic sightseeing, and the scenic Monferrato countryside.
Close Proximity to Serravalle Designer Outlet for Holiday Shopping
Located just 5 miles from our estate is the Serravalle Designer Outlet, Europe’s largest open-air shopping center. It is the perfect location to pair a relaxing countryside getaway with holiday shopping from top luxury brands.
Strategic Location in Northern Italy
| Departure Point | Drive Time | Why Choose Us |
| From Milan | ~1 hour | Ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway with exclusive cellar wine tastings. |
| From Turin | ~1 hour | Perfect for a cozy countryside escape featuring lake walks and fireside dinners. |
| From Genoa | ~45 minutes | Located in the historic Genoese territory, offering a unique blend of Piedmontese and Ligurian cuisine. |
Where to Attend Christmas Mass
Just 1 mile from our wine resort stands the Confraternita della Maddalena, a historic church belonging to a centuries-old brotherhood, where guests can attend a traditional Christmas Mass.
Corporate Christmas Dinners & Farm-Fresh Gift Baskets
Corporate Christmas Dinners in Alessandria & Monferrato
Searching for the ideal venue for your corporate Christmas party or dinner in the province of Alessandria? Tenuta La Marchesa provides elegant event spaces, customized menus, and a warm atmosphere to celebrate your team’s yearly achievements. Contact us to schedule a site visit or request a personalized quote.
Artisan Christmas Baskets with Estate Products
Looking for unique Christmas gift ideas? We curate custom corporate and private gift baskets featuring premium products from our estate:
- Gavi DOCG wines, native Piedmontese reds, and Brut/Rosé sparkling wines
- Extra virgin olive oil from our private family estate
- Pure acacia and wildflower honey from our on-site beehives
- Artisanal fruit jams harvested from our orchard
- Aromatic white and black Indica rice from a boutique local farm (Nationwide shipping across Italy available for all holiday gift sets).
When Does Christmas Fall in 2026? Plan Your Long Weekend
In 2026, Christmas Day falls on Friday, December 25th. This creates the perfect opportunity to plan an extended holiday break: book a seat for Christmas Lunch or extend your stay over the Saint Stephen’s Day weekend for a relaxing getaway from Thursday evening, December 24th to Sunday, December 27th.
Book Your Christmas Farmhouse Stay in Monferrato
Experience the magic of Christmas surrounded by quiet countryside, vineyard views, and the warmth of a crackling fireplace. Fill out the form below to request our complete Christmas menu or inquire about room availability.