Experience
White Gold
Hunting for Truffles in Piemonte
The Langhe region of northern Italy is quite simply the epicentre of gourmet delights. Journey through the diverse cultures and terrains of the area, sipping exquisite wine and unearthing precious ‘white gold’ along the way.
Partake in a demonstration of the traditional dégorgement of a vintage cuvee by hand. The cellar master will keep your glass topped up as you dine on Michelin-star food. Then head out to the picturesque rolling hills of Monforte d’Alba, a charming hilltop town with windy streets and historic buildings overlooks the far-reaching landscape of grape vines – a tranquil setting for a wine tasting.
Spend a morning in the woods with a truffle expert, a Trifulau. Learn the habits of dog and master in uncovering these priceless subterranean gems before you sample the intense flavours of white truffles. The chef will explain the characteristics of this most coveted and expensive fungi.
Float gently above the rolling hills during a sunrise hot air balloon flight, then round off a perfect long weekend with an unforgettable private dinner on a panoramic terrace with a breath-taking view.
Day 1
• Upon your arrival at Turin airport, you’ll be met by your driver for a private transfer to your accommodation in Santo Stefano Belbo
• Later this afternoon, visit an historical winery producing local fine wines for a private visit of the cellar, followed by an unusual vertical tasting of different vintages amidst the stunning rolling hills
• Mark your first evening with a private gourmet dinner on a panoramic terrace of a medieval tower in Barbaresco
Day 2
• This morning venture out on a private truffle hunting experience with an expert “Trifulau” (truffle hunter in the local dialect) and his faithful canine assistant (“Tabui”)
• Stroll through atmospheric woodland in search of the precious tuber, while learning about the art and tradition of truffle hunting in the Lange, where the most delicious truffles grow
• Depending on the success of your hunt, afterwards you will enjoy sampling some of the precious fruits of your labour
• This afternoon do not miss the International Alba White Truffle Fair – this is one of the top global showcases for haute cuisine and Italian excellence, and we have arranged prized entry tickets for you
Day 3
• Early this morning, take flight on an enchanting journey through the skies of the Langhe aboard a hot air balloon
• Alternatively if you prefer to remain on terra firma, discover the Langhe while driving a vintage car – a timeless trip through the flavours and fragrances of these unique territories
• This afternoon discover the truffle’s characteristics through a sensory analysis. This is a full in-depth experience guided by the judges of Sensory Analysis at the National Centre for Truffle Studies
Day 4
• Enjoy a lazy morning and perhaps a stroll in the beautiful surrounding countryside of Monforte d’Alba
• If time allows, enjoy a slow cooking masterclass with a Michelin-starred chef, followed by a relaxed lunch
• Check-out and travel independently to Turin airport for your return flight
Relais San Maurizio
Classic and contemporary influences blend at this 17th century hilltop monastery in the heart of Piedmont’s wine-producing Langhe-Roero region. This is a gourmet and spa hotel offering a Michelin-starred restaurant, state-of-the-art medical and wellness centre, swimming pool and gym.
The hotel’s leafy gardens are one of the property’s main draws — wind down on a bench and soak in the views of the surrounding vineyards or sway yourself to sleep in the hanging nest chair. Gregarious gardener Salvatore leads tours of the herb garden and grounds, talking guests through the different species of plants. At the rear of the hotel is a heated outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views of the Moscato vineyards.
The well-equipped medical and wellness spa has a fitness centre, a Finnish sauna scented with rosemary and a relaxation area with terrace that looks out over the surrounding vineyards. Organic detox teas are prepared here, made with herbs from the garden.
Rooms are spread over two buildings. The Monastery rooms feature accommodation in the monks’ ancient cells and in the former stables. Original characteristics have been preserved where possible, including wooden floors and a washboard dating back to the 17th century. The décor here is classic, with wooden furniture, black and white prints and floral headboards. Villa San Luigi houses the luxury suites, which are contemporary with works of modern art decorating the walls, parquet floors and home automation systems featuring air conditioning, entertainment and lighting controlled from tablets.
Small plates, snacks and refreshments are served at the swimming pool. Pre- and post-prandial drinks can be enjoyed at the bar or on the restaurant terrace. The Michelin starred Guido da Costigliole restaurant, located in the ancient monastery cellars, has a terrace with candle lanterns overlooking the Langhe hills and the Alps beyond. The cuisine is Italian with an emphasis on Piedmontese dishes.
Prices for this 4 day tour are from £2,350.
However, we can tailor make this trip for all budgets, just call us to discuss.