- Duration
- 9
- Activity Level
- Moderate
- Group Size
- 20
Flavors of PiedmontItinerary
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Turin, Italy | Monteu Roero
Upon arrival to Turin Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the property.
Arrive to your peaceful oasis for the week, Villa delle Nocciole—a private estate with stunning panoramic views and welcoming hospitality. Interior spaces offer thoughtfully curated furnishings, warm earth tones and touches of local craftsmanship creating an ambiance of understated refinement. Guest rooms are elegantly appointed, providing a cozy sanctuary to unwind and recharge after enriching days of exploration.
Take time to unpack and settle in before meeting fellow travel companions for a relaxing dinner crafted by the property's private chef featuring Piedmont's premium local ingredients. Whether dining al fresco under the stars or in the charming dining room, every meal at Villa delle Nocciole is a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (D)
Day 3: Monteu Roero
After breakfast set off on a truffle hunting excursion at a nearby farm. Meet Luca and his trusty canine companion before venturing into the picturesque woodlands in search of the prized fungi. The dog's keen senses will help guide the way—nose to the ground trying to detect the distinct aroma of the underground tubers. During the walk gain insight from Luca into age-old techniques and time-honored traditions of truffle hunting, passed down through generations.
Following the hunt return to the farm for a delectable lunch. Bid Luca and his furry friend a heartfelt goodbye then depart for a vineyard visit.
Nestled in the lush hillside is a historic winery that's been producing extraordinary varietals for 17 generations. Join the proprietor for a tour and tasting followed by dinner at the property's ciabot, a former vineyard storehouse.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,L,D)
Day 4: Canale
Awaken to songbirds greeting daybreak followed by a traditional Italian breakfast with fellow travel companions.
Change into comfortable clothing for this morning's activity—an easy e-bike cycling excursion to Canale. On the way, stop at Monteu Roero’s church and attached café for refreshments. Continue to a popular winery for a fruit tasting with grape juice.
Arriving in charming Canale, wander the bustling market to procure ingredients for this afternoon's cooking class back at the property. Enjoy lunch on your own before returning to the villa by minivan. There will be time to refresh before joining together for an interactive cooking class with your private chef followed by dinner.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,D)
Day 5: Monteu Roero
One of today's highlights is an excursion to a local cheese producer. Roll up your sleeves for hands-on activities including herding and milking the farm's friendly goats. Learn traditions and techniques surrounding cheese making, concluding the visit with a tasting at the farm's aging grotto.
Later visit a local farm and winery for a wine tasting and lunch hosted at the owner's home.
For those seeking a leisurely afternoon adventure, return to the villa walking the grand chestnut path—an impressively scenic walk alongside a chestnut forest, home to one of the oldest European chestnut trees. Alternatively return to the property by motor coach.
The remainder of day and dinner is at leisure. Embrace free time to bask in the sunshine by the outdoor pool (open May-September) or sip a glass of wine under the pergola.
Dinner options include the nearby trattoria, Belvedere—only a short walk from the villa, or craft a light meal at the property using ingredients procured during yesterday's market visit.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,L)
Day 6: Turin
This morning depart for Turin by motor coach for a guided walking tour. At the heart of Turin lies its historic center, a treasure trove of Baroque architecture and grand boulevards that bear witness to the city's illustrious past as the seat of the House of Savoy, one of Europe's most influential royal dynasties. Strolling along the elegant avenues and picturesque squares you'll encounter architectural masterpieces including Palazzo Reale, the Palazzo Madama and the iconic Mole Antonelliana, whose towering spire dominates the city skyline.
This vibrant hub of innovation and creativity has a thriving foodie scene, lively markets, and trendy bars and restaurants that reflect the city's dynamic spirit. Enjoy lunch on your own with time to explore independently.
Tonight features a special treat—a giropizza (literally a “tour of pizzas”) at the property. Our specially trained pizzaiolo (pizza maker) will craft an array of wood-fired pizzas featuring a variety of authentic flavors including black truffle, a typical Piedmontese topping.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,D)
Day 7: Bra | Pollenzo
Today discover Bra, a gastronomic paradise and birthplace of the Slow Food movement—a global grassroots organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture, preserving culinary traditions and celebrating local food cultures. Immerse yourself in the ethos of Slow Food while exploring Bra's lively markets and artisanal shops, then gather for lunch at Osteria Boccondivino.
After lunch continue to Pollenzo to visit the University of Gastronomic Sciences, an institution committed to promoting a holistic understanding of food that goes beyond mere sustenance to encompass its social, cultural and environmental significance. This unique university offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to gastronomy, blending academic rigor with hands-on experience to explore the multifaceted world of food in all its dimensions.
Enjoy a guided visit to The Wine Bank, a hub of research and innovation where scholars, winemakers and enthusiasts come together to exchange ideas, share knowledge and advance the science of winemaking. The facility's extensive collection of varietals spans the length and breadth of Italy's wine regions.
Return to the villa for a casual dinner followed by an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,L,D)
Day 8: Alba
After breakfast set out for Alba by motor coach. This city of 100 towers was a strategic center of trade and commerce during the Roman Empire—its favorable location along important trade routes facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas, contributing to Alba's economic prosperity and cultural vitality.
Renowned for its picturesque avenues and historic landmarks above ground, Alba holds a hidden treasure beneath its surface—the Roman undergrounds. Touring this ancient network of tunnels, chambers and galleries offers a fascinating glimpse into Alba's rich history. One of the most remarkable features of the Roman undergrounds is their architectural sophistication, with well-preserved arches, vaulted ceilings and intricately carved stone walls that bear witness to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient builders.
Lunch is on your own before returning to the villa for a final afternoon to indulge in the tranquil surrounding. Relax by the pool, play a round of bocce on the lawn or take a restful nap on a chaise.
Later prepare for a gourmet affair—a special farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, capping off a memorable week exploring this captivating area.
Overnight: Villa delle Nocciole (B,D)
Day 9: Monteu Roero | Turin | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary group transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Activity Level: 3
Moderate
Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.
• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always be possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.