Tucked in the north of the country, between France and Switzerland, Piedmont is, for me, the jewel in Italy’s crown.
The scenery is breathtaking and there are plenty of rooftop bars where you can experience the vistas with a negroni or a glass of wine in hand. At the Turin Palace Hotel, you’ll see ceramic tiled roofs to one side, and snow-topped Alpine peaks to the other. Here, you can really understand the name Piedmont – meaning “foot of the mountain”.
I knew I would be a regular to this region the first time that local aromatic white Alba truffle, foraged that day, was shaved over freshly made pasta in front of my eyes. Home to the wine regions of Roero, Gavi, Langhe and Unesco-listed Monferrato, this is the region of Italy for you if you enjoy wine tasting, outstanding local food and sunset walks among grape vines.
Whether you base yourself in Turin, Asti or Alessandria, here’s everything you need to know before travelling to Piedmont – from the wines and vineyards worth knowing to the best time of year to visit and where to stay.
How to get there
Piedmont can be accessed easily from Turin or Milan’s two airports of Malpensa and Linate, which gives you flexibility in terms of timings and outbound airports. British Airways operates flights to all three airports from London Heathrow and Gatwick. EasyJet runs flights from Stanstead or Gatwick.
Once you’ve arrived in Italy, hiring a car is the best way to navigate the area. Driving south from either Turin or Milan, past rolling hills and vineyards, in an hour or so you’ll find yourself in the centre of the grape-growing region.
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When to go
With the hubbub of harvest and the International Alba White Truffle Fair, autumn really is the best season to visit. From the ochre sunsets and tractor trailers piled high with glistening vine fruit to the chance to try the world-famous tartufi bianchi (white truffles) of Alba, this time of year is heaven for foodies.
Tractors piled high with grapes are a common sight in autumn
(Victoria Grier)
Province: Alessandria
Wine regions: Alto Monferrato and Gavi
Where to stay
Relax in an infinity pool overlooking vineyards
(Victoria Grier)
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