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The heart of Italy’s northwestern Piedmont region is a gastronomic paradise. It is well known for its white truffles and, of course, for producing the most venerated of Italian wines. Most importantly, the robust, age-worthy Barolo. This noble wine region encompasses the town of Barolo and ten nearby municipalities including La Morra, Alba, Monforte d’Alba and Asti. Nebbiolo vines blanket the winding roads. The rolling vineyards, ancient castles, panoramic vistas, and the distant snow capped Alps are just a few reasons to visit. After all, the area is delightful.
The Small List
Best Hotels
La Villa Hotel – La Villa Hotel, a hidden Italian gem, is one of the top small hotels in Piedmont. The grounds are beautiful and spacious. The Monferrato vineyards surround the hotel. The views of the Alps are, of course, stunning. This country chic 16th century palazzo and boutique hotel, with only 15 rooms, was originally a winery. Today, it is now the perfect country hideaway overflowing with charm.
Relais Sant’Uffizio – This elegant 16th century property in the heart of Monferrato is surrounded by vineyards and red brick villages. Additionally, the Relais was once a monastery where the Dominicans used to grow silkworms and produce a very good wine for Mass. Now, it is a beautiful hotel, luxury spa, and a 1 Michelin Star restaurant – Locanda Sant’Uffizio Enrico Bartolini.
Best Restaurants
Locanda Sant’Uffizio Enrico Bartolini – Inspired by concepts such as authenticity, seasonality and experimentation, this 1 Michelin Star restaurant features a contemporary cuisine. The menu showcases the chef’s traditional flair and innovative style. The regional delicacies spotlight the precious truffles of the area, Piedmont’s selected local produce, and fine wines.
Bovio Restaurant – Bovio has an informal but elegant environment. You can see spectacular views over the vineyards and castles of the Langhe through large windows.
Trattoria della Posta – The chef is an expert in both Italian and international cuisine and is very interested in food experimentation by keeping the local roots steady yet aiming for absolute quality.
Things to Do
Barolo Chapel – Wind down the hill from La Morra and through the rolling vineyards to the Capella del Barolo or Chapel of the Madonna delle Grazie, which was built in 1914. The color splashed art installation is spectacular. Above all, it is a popular destination among hikers, picnickers, and photo takers. The chapel’s vivid facade stands in stark contrast to nature’s muted hues.
Truffle Hunting – Spending a morning or an afternoon with a truffle hunter and his dog is a real treat. Gianfranco is the “trifolau”. He was born into a family of truffle hunters. The fragrance of truffles is thrilling. We hoped to uncover the “grey diamond”. The scents and silence of the forest, as a result, are mesmerizing.
Vietti Winery – Vietti is located in the heart of the Langhe hills, at the top of the village of Castiglione Falletto. It is a small medieval village located in the heart of Barolo region. Winemakers for four generations, their vineyards include some of the most highly prized terrains within the Barolo wine growing area. They produce a large range of wines, all made from the indigenous grape varieties of Piemonte. Most importantly, schedule a private tasting on their panoramic terrace and visit their historic wine cellars today!