Piedmont: A Slice of Heaven in Northern Italy

For me, Piedmont is Italy’s crowning glory. Nestled between France and Switzerland, this region offers breathtaking scenery and an abundance of rooftop bars, where you can sip on a Negroni or a glass of wine while taking in the panoramic views. One such place is the Turin Palace Hotel, where you can gaze upon ceramic tiled roofs on one side and snow-capped Alpine peaks on the other. It truly captures the essence of Piedmont, which means “foot of the mountain” in Italian.

My love affair with this region began when I witnessed freshly foraged local aromatic white Alba truffle being delicately shaved over a plate of handmade pasta. It was a sensory experience like no other, and I knew then and there that I would be a regular visitor to Piedmont. But it’s not just truffles that make this region special. Piedmont is home to renowned wine regions like Roero, Gavi, Langhe, and Montferrato, which have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you have a penchant for wine tasting, exquisite local cuisine, and leisurely walks among vineyards during sunset, then Piedmont is the place for you.

Getting to Piedmont is easy, with convenient access from Turin or Milan’s two airports: Malpensa and Linate. British Airways and EasyJet operate flights from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Gatwick, providing flexibility in terms of timing and departure airports. Once you arrive in Italy, renting a car is the best way to explore the region. Within an hour’s drive from Turin or Milan, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards at the heart of the grape-growing region.

Autumn is the best time to visit Piedmont, especially during the harvest season and the International Alba White Truffle Fair. The ochre sunsets and the sight of tractor trailers overflowing with glistening vine fruits create a picturesque backdrop for food enthusiasts. This is the time to indulge in the world-famous tartufi bianchi (white truffles) of Alba. And if you’re looking for a place that combines fine dining and relaxation, look no further than Nordelaia. Located in the province of Alessandria, this independently owned hotel offers stunning views of vineyards from its infinity pools and a fine-dining restaurant. The owners even produce their own wine from the surrounding vineyard, showcasing the region’s traditional grape varieties.

Another gem in Piedmont is La Giustiniana, an ancient property just north of Gavi. This magnificent estate has a wine history dating back to the 10th century and is known for its crisp, nutty white wines made from the cortese grape. The lemon-hued La Giustiniana villa, built in the Neoclassical style, offers unparalleled views of the sloping vineyard hills.

Whether you choose to explore the charming city of Turin, the historic town of Asti, or the picturesque province of Alessandria, Piedmont has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, prepare your taste buds for delight, and get ready to embark on a journey through the hidden gem of Italy’s north.

Discover the Beauty and Culture of Monferrato: A Perfect Destination for Wine Lovers

Monferrato, renowned for its picturesque rolling hills, stunning sunsets, and exceptional wines, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its enchanting Langhe region nestled between the provinces of Asti and Cuneo, visitors can explore the magnificent Marchesi Alfieri, a baroque castle steeped in history dating back to 1696. This castle, now the residence of the influential San Martino di San Germano family, also offers seven elegant guest rooms, each equipped with modern en-suite bathrooms. The best part? These luxurious accommodations are surprisingly affordable, with double classic rooms starting at just €140 per night, including a delectable breakfast.

While the Marchesi Alfieri is renowned for its historical significance, it is also instrumental in shaping Piedmont’s rich cultural and wine-making heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a wine tasting session led by the talented head winemaker, Mario Olivero. What makes this experience truly unique is the production of a pinot noir, an exceptional offering in a region primarily known for its red wines. The pinot noir produced here boasts a light and supple flavor that promises to delight your taste buds.

After exploring the fascinating orangerie and gardens of Marchesi Alfieri, venture out to the charming villages of Montforte d’Alba and Castiglione Falletto. For a delightful lunch, make your way to Le Torri, a restaurant that offers breathtaking views and serves classic local dishes like vitello tonnato, veal in a creamy sauce.

If you’re seeking a luxury experience to enhance your trip, consider booking a truffle-foraging excursion or renting a vintage car to explore the undulating countryside in style. Another essential stop is the town of Barolo itself, where you can visit the iconic castle and the Borgogno winery. Borgogno is known for its rebellious approach to winemaking, producing unique labels and wines that are perfect for long aging. The best part is that these exceptional wines come at a reasonable price, allowing you to take home a few bottles of the current vintages or enjoy a glass of nebbiolo while it’s still fresh and fruity. Tours at Borgogno start at just €25, including a tasting of their renowned barolo.

Just a short 3km drive from Barolo town, you’ll find G.D Vajra, a winery famous for its extensive selection of barolo and Barbera D’Alba wines. Established in 1968 by Aldo Vaira, G.D Vajra is a pioneer in organic farming and became one of Piedmont’s earliest certified producers in 1971. Be sure to try their Barbera D’Alba superiore, a floral wine with hints of violet and light smoke. Guided tours at G.D Vajra start at €20 and provide an immersive experience into their winemaking process.

After a fulfilling exploration of the enchanting wine region, head to the heart of Turin, where you’ll find an ancient palazzo just a short 15-minute walk from the iconic spire-topped landmark, Mole Antonelliana. Inside this palazzo, you’ll discover spacious rooms adorned with vintage furniture that creates a stylish Brooklyn-loft ambiance.

Begin your day with a delicious cappuccino at Caffè Torino, an iconic Turin establishment nestled within the Baroque arcades of Piazza San Carlo. Take some time to visit the renowned Museo Egizo, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian antiquities. Turin is also famous for its Lingotto Fiat car factory, which starred in the classic 1969 film, The Italian Job. Visit the factory and take in the breathtaking views from the rooftop’s iconic test track for a small entrance fee of €2.

When the time comes for a satisfying meal, make sure to visit Tre Galline, a historic restaurant that offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. Renowned for its selection of truffles in autumn and a year-round Pietmontese cheese trolley, Tre Galline is a culinary must-visit in the city. Conclude your night with a delightful cocktail at D.ONE, a stunning space filled with vintage furniture. Don’t miss their specialty, the Americano cocktail, a true Torino classic.

While Piedmont is celebrated for its exceptional wines, the region is also famous for its vermouth production. Take a short 25-minute train ride from Torino Porta Susa to Pessione, where you’ll find Casa Martini, the most renowned vermouth house. Immerse yourself in the vermouth-making process, explore fascinating historical archives, and enjoy a Martini cocktail experience. For a truly personalized touch, you can even blend your own unique vermouth to take home as a cherished memento. Tours at Casa Martini begin at just €20 and promise an unforgettable journey into vermouth history.

As you plan your trip to Piedmont, make sure to consider the top-rated selection of hotels throughout Europe. These exceptional hotels offer luxurious accommodations and exemplary service, creating an unforgettable travel experience.

In conclusion, Monferrato, with its picturesque landscapes, renowned wines, and rich cultural heritage, is a destination that will captivate your senses. Whether you’re exploring the majestic Marchesi Alfieri, indulging in wine tastings, or embarking on gastronomic adventures throughout the region, Piedmont promises an unforgettable journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit historical landmarks, sample exceptional wines, or immerse yourself in the fascinating world of vermouth production. With its unique blend of beauty, culture, and delectable flavors, Piedmont is a must-visit destination for any avid traveler.