Piedmont Barolo Wine Hills cycling

Check in at your hotel and check out the town on an evening stroll through beautiful Alba, the capital of hilly Langhe territory, famous for its prized white truffles, hazelnuts, peaches and first-rate wines. Relish in the historic old town centre of pre-Roman origin and inspect remains of the polygonal Roman city, parts of the ancient fortified gate and ruins in marble and mosaics.

Roll through the Langhe region's gentle hills and delightfully green countryside. Stop for a winery visit and sip some delicious Barolo reds or sample up to 30 varieties at the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo. The WiMu at Barolo Castle makes for another interesting stop but make sure to have just a bit, as there’s still a ways to cycle before you reach Benevello! The final climb will be well worth your effort, when you arrive at tonight’s comfortable, stylish accommodation housed in a renovated historic farmhouse.

Challenge: 48 km / 30 mi, 900 m ascent, 600 m descent

The plan for today includes two options: a route going north into the hills near Cassano Belbo or a longer panoramic ride to Mombarcaro, at nearly 1000m above sea level the highest village in the Langhe region. Clear winter days afford views all the way to the sea. If you prefer to take a break from cycling today, choose a winery to visit or rest and relax at your hotel.

Challenge: 31-68 km / 19-42 mi, 600/1500 m ascent, 600/1500 m descent

Embark on the route from Benevello to Acqui Terme with a relaxing section along the Bormida River. Have a look around the ancient villages of Cessole and Bubbio and marvel at the medieval monastery and sturdy sonte bridge in Monastero Bormida. Once in Acqui Terme, hit the old town for some Italian-style shopping or relax as you ‘take the waters’ at the spa.

Challenge: 50 km / 31 mi, 800 m ascent, 700 m descent

First off, decide whether to head north or south this morning. The northern loop coincides partially with tomorrow’s route and leads to stunning wine villages like Fontanile, Alice Bel Colle and Strevi. Select a ‘trattoria’ for lunch, sip a bit of wine and crunch on ‘grissini’. The southern loop is slightly tougher and takes you to panoramic Ponzone, where you can stop to replenish your energy with coffee and local delicacies at a village bar. Leave time later to further explore Acqui Terme’s city centre before moving on tomorrow.

Challenge: 34-37 km / 21-23 mi 485/700 m ascent, 850/700 m descent

Today you ride to Asti, famous the world over for its sparkling Spumante wines! Heading north you roll through hills carpeted with vineyards. Try to spot Chris Bangle’s 'Big Benches' open-air art installations and stop off in the town of Nizza Monferrato to linger on quiet lanes.

Challenge: 53 km / 33 mi, 850 m ascent, 900 m descent

From Asti to Alba you take the historic Via Francigena cycle route, following it out of town past little villages and imposing castles such as Govone, Guarene and Magliano Alfieri. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castello Govone, like Turin’s Venaria Reale, was the royal residence of the Savoy dynasty. Guarene Castle has been turned into a 5-star hotel.

Challenge: 38 km / 24 mi, 600 m ascent, 700 m ascent

Your self-guided cycling trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Extra nights can be booked pre- or post-tour.