The Piemonte Shopping Outlet
The shopping Outlet is a popular thing in Italy. Generally, the high street shops are very expensive which is why the 'Outlet' is so in demand. Not wanting to make their own word up the Italians call the shopping outlet, Outlet (you have to say it with an Italian accent and maybe put an vowel on the end 'Outlet-a'). There are a few in Piedmont, but which one is best?
There are three - Mondovi (Mondovicino), Serravalle and Vicolungo. We've been to all three a few times and here's our opinion.
Serravalle (McAurthur Glen) has really well laid out shops and is a beautiful looking place. Customers service can be a bit lacking but overall you should be able to spend plenty. Just don't go during 'The Sales'. It's more expensive, parking is a nightmare and in many of the shops they will make you wait outside (even if it's below zero) letting just a few people in at a time. Check the Website and please, avoid these 'special' days. Food? Great if you're on a diet, take sandwiches! This is Italy and they can't do food! O well, you can't have it all..
The newest is Mondovi, called Mondovicino. It's ok. Parking areas are ok, just ignore the road signs as they make no sense. Not the best selection but they do have an electronics store, something Serravalle doesn't have (men want to look at 'stuff' whilst their wives are looking at even more shoes). Food - poor. Prices, OK. If you are local it's ok but don't bother traveling a distance for it - better to head for Serravalle.
Vicolungo Novara was recommended to us so we gave it a try. The architecture is terrible but layout is good, parking was simple and the prices are really good. A good selection of shops and lots of places to eat and drink. We went midweek so it was very calm. It's very easy to get to (on the autostrada that runs between Turin and Milan) but avoid the special days - Sale days - as they aren't really sales at all and it's so full of people you'll want to scream and leave quickly.
The Kappa shop has a joke to play on you - no prices! You have to select an item and then find the barcode reader to get the price. Other than this the staff in all the shops were nice looking and friendly (I have been in Italy too long..).
So, my advice is: avoid the sales - the prices are in fact higher it seems. Avoid weekends they are full of people - go on a week day (Mon-Fri) and take sandwiches, especially if you're going to Serravalle. Enjoy!
The Outlet Websites:
Mondovicino - not in English!
