Cycling in the Langhe A tour that excites, among vineyards, castles and breathtaking landscapes

The Langhe area is world-renowned for its beautiful landscapes, centuries-old wine-making traditions and typical food products. There is no better way to explore the hills and wine cellars of Piedmont than a bicycle tour. The itinerary we propose is suitable for everyone: the average gradient of the climbs on this route is between 5% and 10%.

We start in Alba, the city of 100 towers famous for its International White Truffle Fair, which attracts thousands of visitors every autumn. After a tour of the mediaeval old town and a visit to the Duomo and the church of San Domenico, we head south out of the town centre, enjoying a wonderful view of vineyards and rows of trees.

Follow the signs for Barolo, with the first stop in Grinzane Cavour, a small castle village that is definitely worth a visit. Home to theEnoteca Regionale Piemontese Cavour and the Langhe Museum, the castle of Grinzane was the former home of Camillo Benso di Cavour and boasts historic rooms and precious memorabilia. The famous manor is situated on a hill and dominates the surrounding villages of Roddi, Castiglione Falletto and Barolo, offering a beautiful panoramic view.

After visiting the castle, we head towards Monforte d'Alba. And here is the first climb: it is the one that leads to Castiglione Falletto. However, the gradient is around 5% and does not require much effort, which in any case will be repaid by the spectacular view of the castle that towers at the top of the village.

From now on, the vineyards take over: you can enjoy the panorama of endless neat fields all around. And here we are in Monforte d'Alba, a small medieval town of winding alleyways and cobblestones, which has recently become one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Here, steep streets climb up to the square and the famous open-air amphitheatre, with a breathtaking view of the vineyards.

Next stop: Barolo. Leaving Monforte, we take a short descent and, at the first roundabout, start climbing again towards the famous village. A stop at the castle of Barolo, which houses the WiMu (Wine Museum), the most innovative wine museum in Italy, is a must.

After Barolo, the highest point of the entire route awaits us: the village of La Morra. It is a 5.9-kilometre climb, but it will be rewarded by the Belvedere: an authentic open balcony from which you can enjoy the incredible view of the Langhe hills.

From here, there are 3 kilometres of ups and downs to Verduno, known for the production of a special quality of Barolo, Pelaverga. With eyes full of beauty, after a descent towards Roddi you return towards Alba, taking the last stretch along the provincial road already travelled on the outward journey.