Langhe on-the-road: unmissable places to see
The Langhe is a renowned area of Piedmont, famous for its natural beauty and culinary traditions, best explored at a leisurely pace. For this reason, a road trip through the region is the perfect way to fully experience its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and the remnants of a past that still lives on in ancient castles, centuries-old churches, and nature trails. If you’re planning this type of trip, we hope to give you some useful inspiration to make the most of your journey!
Why take a tour of the langhe: what to see and do
A tour of the Langhe is not just a journey through time but also an immersion into local flavors and food and wine traditions. For example, Grinzane Cavour Castle, located among the hills of Barolo, is not just an impressive medieval structure it also houses museums dedicated to the history of wine and Piedmontese culture, offering an experience that blends art, history, and fine wine tastings. Similarly, the Church of San Martino in Neive, with its centuries-old frescoes and distinctive architecture, tells the religious and artistic history of the region.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Wine Trail around Barolo is a true invitation to walk among ancient vineyards, small villages, and landscapes that look like paintings. Along the way, local wineries offer tastings of the Langhe’s most famous wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco. White truffle, a symbol of Alba, also deserves a stop: markets and festivals provide the opportunity to savor this precious ingredient paired with local specialties. The most famous fair is the International Alba Truffle Fair, but throughout the autumn, other well-known events take place in Moncalvo, Trisobbio, and Casale Monferrato.
Unmissable stops in the langhe
A typical Langhe itinerary starts in La Morra, a small hilltop village offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the Barolo Valley and its surrounding vineyards. Just a few kilometers away lies Barolo itself, renowned not only for the wine that bears its name but also for WiMu (Wine Museum), an interactive space that narrates the history of viticulture in the region.
Continuing towards Alba, the heart of the Langhe, you’ll find cobbled streets and lively squares where tradition meets modernity. Here, in addition to the famous truffle fair, you can admire historic buildings such as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Town Hall, which stand as testaments to the city's long and fascinating history.
A well-rounded road trip should also include Monforte d’Alba and Verduno, two villages that offer scenic cycling and hiking trails in unspoiled nature. Finally, Serralunga d'Alba Castle dominates the landscape with its imposing medieval structure, providing breathtaking views and a perfect opportunity to learn about the noble history of the Langhe.
Langhe: where to go and when to visit
Choosing the right time to explore the Langhe can enhance your experience even further. Spring is ideal if you want to see the vineyards in full bloom and enjoy trails like the Barolo vineyard route in mild, refreshing weather. Summer brings long, bright days and numerous outdoor events, from vineyard tastings to village festivals filled with music, art, and culture.
Autumn, however, transforms the hills into a spectacle of warm colors and rich flavors: it's harvest season when the vineyards turn red and gold, and the time to celebrate truffles, mushrooms, chestnuts, hazelnuts, and other signature local products. Even winter has its charm: the villages take on a quiet, intimate atmosphere, while the snow-covered landscapes create an enchanting setting, perfect for a romantic getaway or for rediscovering the beauty of a silent, timeless scenery.
If you're interested in a road trip through the Langhe but don’t have a suitable vehicle, you can rent one from a Locauto office in Piedmont or Liguria, making it easier to reach this beautiful region:
