Villa Dolcetto is part of a borgo set in a Piedmont vineyard that is well-known for its excellent wines, specialising in the Barolo variety, just 9km from Alba.
You can walk through the vineyards, which reach an altitude of 300m, and enjoy the spectacular views all around you – the landscapes of the Piedmont wine region have recently acquired UNESCO World Heritage status. Hazelnuts and lavender are also grown across the beautiful estate. You can also visit the owner’s winery which is around a 45-minute drive away near Nizza Monferrato.
If you don’t mind the hills then it’s possible to walk to the local village in around 20-30 minutes or it’s just a five-minute drive. Dine in an authentic trattoria or osteria and visit a local winery. There are more restaurants to be found in other local villages and a grocery store around 5km away. Visit some of the atmospheric Farmer’s markets in La Morra (6km), Gallo (6km), Alba (9km) and Bra (11km) to pick up plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as regional cheeses, meat and fish.
One of the major draws of this area is of course the wine-tasting. The villa concierge can help you book vineyard visits - it is best to request appointments rather than just turn up, especially for smaller producers and also in the busier autumn months. Try some of the Barolo and Barbaresco labels of the Langhe but also look out for lesser known but equally excellent wine-makers around Roero and Monferrato. The Piedmont region produces the highest number of DOCG wines in Italy.
This is also a region known for its wonderful gastronomy – when dining in authentic restaurants you are sure to try home-made pastas such as agnolotti and tajarin, high-quality veal and Piemontese beef. The nearby town of Alba (9km) is well-known for its exquisite white truffles and they are celebrated annually at the popular International White Truffle Fair. You will also notice a number of Michelin starred establishments in and around Alba and its surrounding villages.
There is a slow-pace of life across Piedmont – shops tend to close early afternoon to allow you to enjoy picnics in the vineyards or bike rides to local villages and historic castles. There are so many picturesque walks through the countryside as well as museums to visit and towns to explore.
You may even want to venture as far as the city of Turin, the first capital of Italy, to discover how its been transformed since the 2006 Winter Olympics. It’s not only loved due to its proximity to the Alps for winter sports, but also for its historic palaces and museums as well as its riverside setting and vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene.
The Region
The Piedmont region, nestled in the northwestern part of Italy, is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty, historical charm, and culinary excellence. With its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse range of activities, Piedmont is a must-visit region that leaves an indelible impression on all who venture here.
