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Taste your way on a 9-day self-guided walking holiday through Italy's celebrated Piedmont region, an adventure designed for the discerning palate and the wandering soul. This hotel-to-hotel walk invites you to wander at your own pace through the tranquil, vine-cloaked hills of the Langhe, a gastronomic paradise famed for its revered Barolo wine. Your journey will lead you through honey-hued hamlets and majestic landscapes, from the hazelnut-clad hills of Benevello to the panoramic vistas of La Morra, culminating in the enchanting village of Monforte d'Alba. Discover the heart of this UNESCO-recognised corner of Italy on a sublime self-guided hike through Barolo country.
Your journey begins in peaceful Benevello and follows along the Tanaro river and through oak woods alive with birdsong. Transition to the heart of the UNESCO-protected Langhe famed for ...
Your journey begins in peaceful Benevello and follows along the Tanaro river and through oak woods alive with birdsong. Transition to the heart of the UNESCO-protected Langhe famed for its Barolo. Its expanse stretches with vines, storybook castles, and hilltop villages such as Grinzane Cavour and Castiglione Falletto with their carefully tended vineyards. Explore Serralunga d’Alba’s dramatic fortress and saunter through Alba's harmonious piazzas leading to La Morra, the “balcony of the Langhe. Each day is richly infused with challenges and rewards; whether it’s tasting fine wines, trying regional cuisines, or soaking in breathtaking vistas of Benevello’s vine-clad hill where your journey culminates.
This exciting trip includes 7 nights in 4 star hotels on a twin-share basis. Stay in our handpicked hotels, each full of charm and unique contrasts. From a stunning wine estate in Fontanafredda, once owned by Italian royalty, to a beautifully restored 19th-century family villa in Benevello, complete with a converted chapel and an exceptional restaurant. Meals are included specified in the itinerary. This is a self-guided tour offering you the freedom to walk and explore at your own pace in whichever order you choose.
Immerse yourself in the flavors, beauty, and history of Piedmont as you wander its sun-drenched hills and savor its world-renowned wines and delicacies. Let this enchanting journey awaken your senses and leave you with memories as rich as the land itself.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Benvenuti a Benevello! We recommend arriving at your hotel in time to enjoy a swim in the heated outdoor pool before dinner.
The Relais Villa d'Amelia is lovingly restored from a late-19th-century farmhouse to a luxury Relais in Benevello. Within its exquisite embrace, 37 stylish rooms blend antique charm with the modern comforts of its facilities, including lush gardens, a top-notch gourmet restaurant, a lavish spa, a heated outdoor pool, and Turkish baths; all crowned by panoramic views over rolling Langhe hills.
Approx. 14 km (9 miles), 3-5 hours walking
Following a short transfer, set off along a peaceful trail and watch the slow-moving waters of the Tanaro River. As you walk, you can pick up sudden rustles breaking the quiet. It’s none other than pheasants and partridges slipping through the oak woods.
Continue to Roddi, home to the former “University of Truffle Dogs,” the same grounds where Lagotta Romagnolo’s pups once trained to sniff out truffles worth more per kilo than gold. The Grinzane Cavour, crowned by its wonderful 13th-century castle, now UNESCO-listed is one more point to explore. The views here reach beyond the Langhe hills notable for Italy's most celebrated Barolo wines.
As the day fades, the road leads to a storybook wine estate cradled among rolling, vine-covered hills. Fontanafredda was founded in 1858 by Italy’s first king, Vittorio Emanuele II, as a gift to his beloved Rosa Vercellana. Your accommodation, Hotel Le Case dei Conti Mirafiore, is set here for easy access to the wine cellars.
Charming and set at the Epicenter of Piedmont’s UNESCO Langhe Barolo vineyards, Hotel Le Case dei Conti Mirafiore is housed in a restored 1930s building with spacious rooms, air-conditioning and a vineyard backdrop. Also, within its expanse are three excellent on-site restaurants that offer the perfect treat after touring the estate’s iconic wine cellars.
The cellar doors of Fontanafredda cellar swing open this morning for a tasting. Take a tour to see its vaulted 19th-century cellars where the world-famous Barolo continues to age gracefully today. The very land you stand on is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage landscape for its unique marl-rich soil which allows Nebbiolo grapes to thrive remarkably. From here, stroll to the wine village of Serralunga d’Alba with its striking 13th-century castle.
First built as a fortified noble residence, the castle still retains its dramatic drawbridge entrance which you can cross. Alba is also within easy reach; although taking a taxi means you have more time to stroll back through the vineyards later. But first, take a leap into Alba itself (the region's gastronomic capital) and experience its crimson-hued piazzias and elegant, portico-lined streets filled with wine bars, hazelnut pastries, and the scent of slow-cooked tajarin pasta.
Approx. 15 km (9 miles), 3-5 hours walking
BKick off the morning with a steady climb through neat rows of Nebbiollo vines to the hilltop medieval village of Castiglione Falletto. The views from its ramparts spill onto a patchwork of vineyards and afford wide, uninterrupted viewing. It may also interest you to know that each plot you see is carefully named and known for producing wines with slightly distinct flavors depending on the soil and position on the slope. Head on the tiny hamlet of Annunziata to see its frescoed chapel and then the beloved farmhouse trattoria where you may try its signature handrolled Tajarain pasta.
Following your visit to Annunziata, continue through small, sunlit villages and hills covered in vineyards on your way to La Morra, perched high above the valley. Each place you have visited today offers captivating views, La Morra known as the “Balcony of the Langhe’ isn’t any different, with views that cascade over the vineyards. If the weather is clear, you may even see the distant Alps in the background.
Your accommodation for today is set within Uve Rooms & Wine Bar, a boutique gem located in the center of La Morra. Rooms here come with premium bedding, rooftop views; and comforts like air-conditioning, minibars and a sun terrace. Beyond that, the hotel features an enchanting courtyard where you can enjoy both under-the-stars dining and aperitifs; an acclaimed wine bar and Italian restaurant, all within a prime location for vineyard trails and views.
Today abounds with plenty of wine tasting opportunities at La Morra. Interestingly, La Morra sits right at the heart of the Barolo zone and surrounded by some of its most celebrated crus, including Brunate and Cerquio. Start at the lively town center and peruse the charming enotecas and wine bars with opportunities to sample Barolo right where it was born. Local legend even claims Julius Caesar passed through these hills and tasted the region’s wine.
You may also choose to linger a little longer in the main piazza where a panoramic terrace opens across a rolling patchwork of vineyards, protected as a UNESCO world Heritage Landscape. From this point, a circular walking trail loops gradually through the vines; take the time to soak in the ever-changing views over the Langhe hills and, on clearer days, all the way to the Alps.
Approx. 17 km (11 miles), 4-6 hours walking
Today starts with a descent through a quiet, poplar-lined stream to Talloria Valley. As you gain distance, the ochre-colored Castle of Barolo comes into view, rising above the village and its famous vineyards. The castle was built in the 16th century, but today, it houses the WiMu Wine Museum, celebrating the rich history of Barolo, the “King of Wines.”
If you wish, detour to nearby Novello, favoured as a summer treat by residents of Alba for its cooler air and wide views. Then, follow through the vibrant wildflower-lined countryside until you reach your opulent villa in Monforte d’Alba. With views stretching out over Barolo hills, Monforte d'Alba below, and distant Alps, Villa Becaris impresses in an opulent 13th-century villa (now a 4-star charmy hotel) from the hilltop with 23 refined rooms boasting frescoed ceilings and park-facing terraces.
Wake up to fragrant scents from the surrounding garden, views over medieval Monforte, the surrounding Langhe hills, and on exceptionally clear days, even glimpses of Mont Blanc on the horizon. Today is free to do as you please; and you may choose to relax in the sparkling swimming pool, or just soak up the sun and scenery from the sheltered courtyard.
If you prefer to explore, Monforte opens up in narrow winding streets that climb onto the hillside toward the old quarter. Take advantage of the inviting wine bars you will find along the way to taste local Barolo and, perhaps, other regional favorites.
Approx. 16 km (10 miles), 3-5 hours walking
Energize with breakfast at the hotel before a short transfer up to Serravalle Langhe to join the Sentiero della Tanaro trail. Boots on ground, start along cool shades of hazelnut, oak, and poplar trees, then through a winding path amidst hazel groves. This part is also home to the prized Tonda Gentile variety which is considered among the best in the world for confectionery.
With a few more miles to cover, you arrive at the quiet hilltop village of Albaretto della Torre, crowned by its 13th-century Duecentesca tower; now remains as part of a medieval fortress. Use the opportunity to enjoy lunch before setting out again along wide open views to Benevello. Spectacular is most befitting for the scenery along this path, as you can look back and see Alba and the whole Tanaro Valley spread behind you, with lots of hills, vineyards, and countryside visible.
Savour one last breakfast in beautiful Piedmont, a perfect moment to reflect on your incredible journey before bidding farewell. Depart at your leisure making your own way for your onward journey.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure and finish point is Benevello.
- The closest airport to Benevello, Piedmont, is Cuneo Airport (CUF), located approximately 39.4 km away. Other nearby options include Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) at 63 km and Turin Airport (TRN) at 73 km.
-Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation at Benevello in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
The trips run from May through to October. In the early and late departures you will need to be prepared for slightly lower temperatures, with highs of 23 degrees in May and 20 in October. There is more chance of rain in October, but the trip only runs into the early part of the month. In July and August the temperatures are likely to reach highs of 28/9 degrees celcius, there will still be the chance of rain, but it will be reduced. Facilities in some of the hotels such as the pools may not be available for early and late season departures.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
This is a self-guided tour, as such there will be no group or tour leader and you are free to complete the walks at your own pace. Your luggage is transferred and route notes and maps are provided. Please note: the walking and luggage transfers included in this tour are subject to a minimum of 2 people (in total) booked on the departure. A supplement (payable in advance) to cover these transfers and sole occupancy of a room will apply if only 1 person travelling on a departure date. Please bear in mind that although this is a self-guided holiday, the atmosphere in the hotels tends to be quite social and they will sometimes place walkers together at breakfast and dinner. We have suggested that 8yrs is the minimum age for this trip, but as it is self-guided and you will be leading your own family we will ultimately leave this decision up to you.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 100 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 100 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 100 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 100 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.