Piedmont - Road

Home to some of the best wines on the planet, the area of Piedmont in northern Italy is also known for excellent road cycling routes that meander through the vineyards, as well as being the home of the Slow Food movement. And in fall, the town of Alba comes alive with the world-famous Fiere del Tartufo, or white truffle festival. This 8-day trip will sample some of the epic road riding while taking part in the incredible gastronomic opportunities that Piedmont is known for. We'll stay at Slow Food-endorsed Albergos, experiencing the sustainable farming lifestyle firsthand. A private visit to the Italian Wine Bank, with a tasting at the country's heritage collection in a 14th-Century grotto, and dining at legendary local Osterie. Special tours of our favorite Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera vineyards, and a visit to the Slow Food market and Torino's amazing daily market makes this a cycling trip that you'll never forget. 

Included:
.. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all days
.. Local Wine and Drinks with meals
.. Airport and hotel transfers
.. 8 nights SlowFood endorsed Albergos, double occupancy
.. 2 Wine Tastings in Piedmont
.. Van transfers/Shuttles
.. Bike guide, all days
.. Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Insurance

Not Included: 
.. Bike Demo and repairs
.. Gratuities

Day 1 (Saturday):   You'll meet your guide in Torino (Turin), where you'll
take a private van to the wine region surrounding Alba. Check into the
hotel, assemble bikes or get fitted for your demo. Relax, walk around the
village, and have dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 (Sunday):   We'll do a local loop through the Roero area close to home,
exploring the quiet roads around winemaking areas like Barolo, Barbaresco,
and the town of Bra, home to the founder of the Slow Food movement. Lunch in
Barolo, a pirvate tour and wine tasting at the Italian Wine Bank, and dinner
in Bra. 

Day 3 (Monday):  Today, we'll ride towards Gavi, home to the area's renowned
white wine. After a lunch in the hill town, we'll head to Acqui Terme, for a
relaxing soak in the natural baths. Dinner in Cessole.

Day 4 (Tuesday):   A loop that begins in Barolo, but reaches further into the
Langhe region, taking advantage of some of the vineyards that we have formed
special relationships with. Lunch at vineyard, dinner in Serralunga.

Day 5 (Wednesday):   Today, we'll head toward the coast of the Mediterranean,
to Liguria, riding the steep hill passes over the coastline. Lunch at an
osteria in the mountains, seafood dinner on the coast.

Day 6 (Thursday):   The area of Monferrato has a history dating back to Roman
times, and it's capital of Asti is home to some of Italy's most important
wines - Barbera and Moscato. We'll ride the high hills of Alta Monferrato,
stopping in at our favorite vineyards and having dinner in Asti that night. 

Day 7 (Friday):   Alba is home to the Langhe's gastronomic tradition. Each
October, it hosts the world's most famous truffle festival. We'll ride
around the outskirts of Alba, then head into the city for lunch and an
afternoon to wander the streets. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 8 (Saturday):   Any serious foodie knows that the city of Torino is the
heart of Italy's Slow Food tradition. An option to explore the markets
(Europe's largest daily market) and the city's cultural offerings shouldn't
be missed. Or, stay in the wine country and get one last ride before heading
home. Dinner in Torino.