The Langhe
The Langhe is a rolling hill region in southern Piedmont, stretching across the provinces of Cuneo and Asti. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, this area is famous for its vineyards, which produce some of Italy’s most prestigious wines, including Barolo, Barbaresco, and Dolcetto d’Alba. But the Langhe is not just about food and wine—its medieval villages, castles, and breathtaking landscapes create a unique scenery that transforms with every season.
From the bustling town of Alba, the truffle capital, to charming historic villages like Barolo, La Morra, and Neive, every corner of this land tells a story of agriculture, culture, and the art of fine living. The Langhe offers a variety of experiences, from wine tastings in historic cellars and vineyard hikes to visiting castles and wine museums that celebrate the region’s rich heritage.
The Most Beautiful Villages of the Langhe
Alba: The City of White Truffle
Alba is the most important town in the Langhe, and every autumn it becomes the world capital of white truffle, hosting the famous International White Truffle Fair. Beyond its gastronomic excellence, Alba boasts a medieval historic center, featuring towers, churches, and noble palaces.
Barolo: The Village of the King of Wines
Barolo is synonymous with the renowned wine that bears its name. This small village is home to the WiMu – Wine Museum, located inside the Falletti Castle, as well as numerous historic wineries where visitors can taste the prestigious Barolo DOCG.
La Morra: The Balcony of the Langhe
From La Morra’s panoramic terrace, you can admire one of the most breathtaking views of the Langhe. The village is known for producing Nebbiolo wine and for its Giant Benches, artistic installations that provide unique perspectives of the rolling hills.
Monforte d’Alba: Where History Meets Music
Monforte d’Alba has a unique charm, featuring a natural amphitheater that hosts open-air concerts. Its steep, winding streets lead to historic churches and palaces, while local restaurants serve traditional Piedmontese dishes paired with the region’s finest wines.
Neive: The Most Enchanting Medieval Village
Listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy”, Neive has preserved its medieval character, with stone houses, ancient towers, and artisan shops. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll through cobbled alleys and vineyards, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Langhe.
Unmissable Experiences in the Langhe
Winery Tours and Tastings
The Langhe is one of the best destinations in Italy for wine tourism. Local wineries offer guided tours with tastings, where visitors can learn about the production process of Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera d’Alba. Some wineries are housed in historic castles, while others are in modern estates surrounded by vineyards.
Vineyard Walks and Giant Benches
Walking through the rolling hills of the Langhe is a truly unique experience. There are several hiking and cycling routes winding through the vineyards, with stops in the most picturesque villages. Along the way, you’ll also find the Giant Benches, artistic installations created by the Big Bench Community Project, offering panoramic viewpoints over the landscape.
Visiting the Castles of the Langhe
The Langhe is dotted with medieval castles, many of which are open to the public. Some of the most fascinating include:
- Grinzane Cavour Castle, home to the Piedmont Regional Wine Cellar.
- Serralunga d’Alba Castle, a well-preserved 14th-century fortress.
- Barolo Castle, which houses the Wine Museum (WiMu).
White Truffle and Piedmontese Cuisine
The Langhe is world-famous for its white truffle, one of the most prized ingredients in Italian cuisine. In autumn, restaurants serve dishes featuring fresh truffle, while visitors can also take part in truffle hunting experiences with expert trifolau (truffle hunters) and their trained dogs.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Tajarin with Truffle – Thin handmade tagliatelle, served with butter and truffle shavings.
- Plin – Small, delicate ravioli filled with meat, served with roast sauce or butter and sage.
- Brasato al Barolo – Slow-braised beef, cooked in the prestigious Barolo wine.
The Langhe in Every Season
Spring and Summer
Spring is the perfect time for vineyard hikes and village visits, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings festivals and open-air events, with numerous celebrations dedicated to wine and local cuisine.
Autumn
Autumn is the most magical season to visit the Langhe. The foliage transforms the hills into a palette of reds and oranges, the harvest season fills the wineries with activity, and the Alba White Truffle Fair—the year’s most anticipated gastronomic event—takes place.
Winter
The winter atmosphere makes the villages even more enchanting. It’s the perfect season for wine tastings in cozy cellars and traditional dinners by a warm fireplace, enjoying Piedmontese specialties.
How to Get There & Where to Stay
How to Get to the Langhe
- By Car: The Langhe is easily accessible via the A33 Asti-Cuneo highway.
- By Train: The main railway station is Alba, with connections to Turin and Asti.
- By Plane: The nearest airports are Turin Caselle (TRN) and Milan Malpensa (MXP).
Where to Stay
- Farm Stays & Wine Resorts – Many wineries offer accommodations surrounded by vineyards.
- Boutique Hotels – Castles and historic residences transformed into charming hotels.
- B&Bs in the Villages – Intimate stays for those who want to experience life in historic centers.