Barolo & the Langhe Hills – Independent
Walk through the heart of one of Europe’s finest wine-producing areas... From the scenic Tanaro valley following paths through fertile farmland to the forested Langhe hills, before crossing a ridge, after which the landscape opens up to reveal a wide valley covered with a patchwork of vineyards and hazelnut groves, with views northwards to mountains of the Italian Alps, as you walk down into the famous wine producing area of Barolo.
Castles and characteristic Piedmontese villages punctuate the landscape en route to Alba, a thriving market town and ‘the white truffle capital of the world’, and with comfortable hotels, good restaurants and excellent wines including Barolo and others from adjacent areas of Barbera and Dolcetto as well as delightful white wines from neighbouring Asti, you'll discover there is plenty on this trip that can be enjoyed at any time of year!
Duration: 5, 6, 8 or 9 days
Itinerary
Founded in 1198, Mondovì overlooks the Maritime and Ligurian Alps, the Langhe Hills and the fertile plains stretching all the way to Turin. Stay in 12th century building with wonderful view.
Mondovì is divided into 2 centres: Piazza and Breo. Make your way to Piazza Maggiore and look inside the Jesuit church of San Francesco Saverio. The grand interior is a sight to behold with its red faux-marble columns, stucco friezes and spectacular trompe l’oeil painting on the domed ceiling. The printing museum, ceramics museum, 13th-century Torre Civica and the cathedral of San Donato are also worth visiting.
Modern guesthouse in 12th century building, with wonderful views
Travel by train to Ceva (15 mins) and walk up to a ridge affording superb views of both the Maritime and Ligurian Alps. Pass farmland, mixed woods, fields of lavender and other medicinal herbs, before descending down into a valley. Ascend along forest tracks to another ridge, the site of an important battle during the French Revolutionary Wars led by Napoleon. Pass through fertile fields, then descend to a secluded valley before another brief ascent to the small hamlet of San Luigi (11.1 miles, 6.5 hours) and your 4* family-run country hotel.
A small cluster of traditional stone houses tucked into the hills of Italy’s Piedmont region. Surrounded by vineyards and forests, it’s a serene spot for those looking to experience the slower rhythms of country life, not far from the celebrated wine towns of the Langhe. You will be staying in a country hotel, close to the village.
Newly renovated, family-run hotel
Pass through a remote valley and then ascend along forest tracks to a ridge and continue on to the charming medieval village of Murazzano. Explore the town, then follow a ridge via hazelnut groves, fields and mixed woods, enjoying superb views of the Alte Langhe, before reaching what is locally referred to as the ‘Village of the Roses’, or the ‘Pearl of Le Langhe’, Bossolasco. Then continue on, enjoying wonderful views, to the hamlet of Bossolaschetto (13.9 miles, 7.5-8 hours). Alternative shorter route by road which is good as a wet weather option (9.3 miles, 5.5 hours). Stay in a family-run B&B in beautiful setting with pool.
This town was the site of significant Resistance battles between 1943 and 1945. In the period after the war, many politicians, businessmen, writers and poets settled here. Notable sights include the parish church of St John the Baptist and ‘The Angel of the Alta Langa’, an abstract aluminium sculpture of an angel. There are several annual festivals here, including a flower festival in June, and the chestnut festival in October.
Friendly, family-run B&B in lovely setting, with wonderful restaurant
Follow paths across hills, through woodland and meadows, flower-filled in spring and early summer. Emerge amongst vineyards of Nebbiolo (grape variety used for producing Barolo), before arriving at the small bustling ‘wine town’ of Monforte d’Alba (8.2 miles, 5.5 hours). Comfortable 3 * hotel accommodation in town centre or 4* converted Bourbon villa with pool, gardens and views of the Alps (upgrade).
This charming hilltop town offers scenic views, historic architecture and culinary delights. It is part of the prestigious Barolo wine-producing area and offers an excellent variety of wine cellars and restaurants, from elegant settings to the more rustic osteria serving seasonal local dishes. Cultural events include the Jazz festival, the food festival in July; and open-air Summer concerts, plays and films at the Horszowski Auditorium.
Comfortable hotel, centrally located
Converted Bourbon villa with outdoor pool, gardens and views of the Alps
Optional walk along the crest of the hills behind Monforte affording wide views of the Barolo vineyards, to Castiglione Falletto. Continue on to Serralunga d’Alba (or up through a scenic valley), before returning to Monforte (9.9, 8.4 or 7.3 miles, 6. 5 or 4.5 hours).
Comfortable hotel, centrally located
Converted Bourbon villa with outdoor pool, gardens and views of the Alps
A ridge route leads down into a wide ‘bowl’ in the hills covered with some of the area’s most renowned vineyards. Continue to the small town of Barolo, with its wine museum and renowned enoteca, where you can enjoy a tasting of the region’s famous wines. Continue through vineyards up to La Morra, overlooking much of the area, and noted for its fine Baroque churches and palaces (5.5 miles, 3.5 hours). Guesthouse accommodation or 4* boutique hotel with pool and spa (upgrade).
Another picturesque hilltop town, La Morra has a number of fine churches, a belltower and several charming restaurants serving top notch dishes from the local area. Just outside La Morra is the Renato Ratti Museum of Wines of Alba. Housed in a former Benedictine Abbey, it takes you through the history of wine production in the region.
Guest house in centre of La Morra
(room only)
Boutique hotel with pool and spa
Descend through vineyards to picturesque Verduno, and then continue along a ridge to Roddi. Continue down into the Tanaro valley and on to Alba, Europe’s white truffle capital (9.5 miles, 5 hours). Optional circular walk (6.5 miles, 4 hours) in the surrounding vine-clad hills. Comfortable 2* hotel accommodation or 4* palazzo in historical centre (upgrade).
This ‘City of 100 Towers’ (although only around 20 survive) is the world’s white truffle capital and home to global industries such as Miroglio (textiles) and Ferrero (confectionery). Its cobbled streets are a joy to explore, lined with some of the best delicatessens in the region, some entirely dedicated to selling white truffles.
Located in the historic centre of Alba
Elegant palazzo in the heart of the historic centre
…to enjoy a circular walk (6.5 miles, 4 hours) in the surrounding vine-clad hills and more time to explore this fine town and indulge in its exceptional cuisine and wine.
Located in the historic centre of Alba
Elegant palazzo in the heart of the historic centre
Trip Planner
Walking & Terrain
Walking: Moderate. The walk lengths vary from 3 hours to a maximum of 7 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from individual to individual, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing or rests.
Terrain: Gentle, rolling hills with several ascents and descents. The paths are varied: strade bianche, woodland tracks, vineyards, ridge paths, and tarmac lanes near towns. Terrain may be more rugged at times so please make sure that your footwear provides sufficient ankle support. There are no vertiginous walks.
All ATG trips include facilities and options so that you can arrange to walk as much or as little as you like – or not at all - and your Route Manager will be able to advise you on public transport or taxi options.
Walking & Terrain
Walking: Moderate. The walk lengths vary from 3 hours to a maximum of 7 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from individual to individual, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing or rests.
Terrain: Gentle, rolling hills with several ascents and descents. The paths are varied: strade bianche, woodland tracks, vineyards, ridge paths, and tarmac lanes near towns. Terrain may be more rugged at times so please make sure that your footwear provides sufficient ankle support. There are no vertiginous walks.
All ATG trips include facilities and options so that you can arrange to walk as much or as little as you like – or not at all - and your Route Manager will be able to advise you on public transport or taxi options.
Additional activities available locally
This is a wonderful area offering additional local experiences - some can be booked to fit in with your chosen itinerary, whilst for others you may wish to customise your trip to have an extra leisurely day or two to enjoy.
Additional activities are paid for locally and most activities can be booked via your Route Manager who will contact you 2 weeks prior to departure, with the exception of truffle hunting, cookery classes and the massage at Hotel Corte Gondina which we'd recommend booking well in advance via the ATG office.
Additional activities for the free day in Monforte d'Alba:
Cooking classes (usually a morning class followed by lunch) - Cost from 80€/person
Wine Tasting - Cost from 20€/person
Bike hire - Cost from 45€/person for 4 hours
Additional activities for the free day in Alba:
Truffle Hunting with a local ‘Tartufaio’ (Truffle Hunter) - Cost from 80€/person
Cooking classes (usually a morning class followed by lunch) - Cost from 80€/person
Wine Tasting - Cost from 20€/person
Bike hire - Cost from 45€/person for 4 hours
Additional activities for other days:
Cheese Tasting at Da Fabiana Hotel, Bossolaschetto (all cheeses made on their farm) - Cost 20€/person. Available weekday mornings.
Wine Tasting also in Barolo and La Morra - Cost from 20€/person
Relaxing Massage at Hotel Corte Gondina’s Spa, La Morra - Cost 90€/person for 1 hour
Your Personal ATG Route Manager
I live in Alba with my family and have an in-depth knowledge of the local area and the produce of Piedmont. I am here to make your trip that extra bit special by sharing this with you – recommending restaurants, arranging wine and cheese tastings or perhaps a cooking class. I very much look forward to welcoming you!
“Marija was extremely helpful, in regular contact, made restaurant bookings for us etc. We enjoyed her excellent and regular assistance.”
"Top marks for Maria, our Route Manager. She went above and beyond in her care for us and wish to ensure our enjoyment and safety, and was full of interesting information about the area we would be walking through, and amusing anecdotes. Cannot praise her more highly."
"Mari went out of her way to make sure we were taken care of. She was pleasant, efficient and very helpful."
Route Book
The ATG Route Book is a detailed, day-to-day guide. The book anticipates your needs with easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer and is the key to the success of an independent holiday with us.
Walking App
Your Route Manager can provide you with a link to download an app to your smartphone. This app provides the GPS track for your route on your phone. You can use this digital support to find your position and navigate the route, even without an internet connection or mobile phone reception.
Accommodation & Meals
You can expect each hotel to be one of the most characteristic, comfortable and best located for travellers on foot, with the character and sometimes the standard varying from place to place.
Star ratings indicate official classification, although many delightful places have no star rating. In more remote areas hotels may be of a generally lower standard in relation to their ‘star ratings’.
Single travellers are accommodated in double rooms for single occupancy for a supplemental charge.
On this route, upgraded accommodation is available at some overnight stops, as specified on the itinerary.
Breakfast is included and there are suggestions in the Route Book about where to buy provisions for a picnic lunch, as well as restaurant recommendations. Dining options often include a choice of restaurants that can be pre-booked for you by your Route Manager.
Food & Wine
Expect rich flavours and full-bodied wines from the cuisine of Piedmont. Olives do not grow well here so they use more dairy fats in their cooking. You are also more likely to find polenta or risotto rather than pasta. Gamey meats and root vegetables are slow cooked and each town produces its own fermented milk speciality. The quantity and quality of wines produced in this region is exceptional. The Route Book contains a section on the cuisine and wines of the region, and a list of recommended restaurants. The Route Manager will be pleased to help you with any requests or advice.
Flora & Fauna
The Langhe has an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna thanks to the abrupt changes in altitude, resulting in a wide range of environments and microclimates. There are 1,500 species of plants, including 44 species of orchid. A good part of the land is set aside for the region’s world-famous vineyards, but there are still significant patches of undisturbed woodland where wild boar, roe deer, foxes, badgers, weasels and more make their home. Alpine and Mediterranean bird species both thrive here, as well as birds of prey in the dense woodlands and wetland species such as herons and little egrets. Our Route Book provides further detail while apps such as ‘LeafSnap’, ‘Flora Incognita’, ‘ChirpOMatic’ and child-friendly ‘Seek by iNaturalist’ can identify the flora and fauna en route.
Travel Arrangements
Travel arrangements, including flights, for ATG Independent Footloose trips should be made independently.
Outward travel to Mondovì (8-day): There are regular indirect trains from Turin airport train station to Mondovì, changing either at Fossano or Turin Lingotto. From Milan airports, get the bus to the nearest station (Milan Central station for Linate airport, or Turin porta Susa station for Malpensa airport), and then an onward train to Mondovì.
Outward travel to Bossolaschetto (5-day): You will first need to catch a train to Alba. There are regular, direct trains from Turin airport to Alba. From Milan airports, get the bus to the nearest station (Milan Central station for Linate airport, or Turin porta Susa station for Malpensa airport), and then an onward train to Alba. From Alba, take an onward bus or taxi to Bossolaschetto.
Return travel from Alba: There are trains from Alba to Turin Airport train station (journey time approx. 2 hours). Alternatively take the train to Milan Centrale station for onward bus service to Milan Linate, or to Turin Porta Susa station for onward bus service to Milan Malpensa.
Trip Options & Prices
Overview
This 5 day independent walking tour in Piedmont starts in the village of Bossolaschetto high in the Langhe Hills. Discover this wine region of northern Italy with 3 days of walking, a perfect short break for those looking for a dedicated walking trip in Italy combined with wonderful scenery and opportunities for wine tasting.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bossolaschetto
Day 2: Bossolaschetto to Monforte d’Alba*
Day 3: Monforte d’Alba to La Morra*
Day 4: La Morra to Alba*
Day 5: Departure
*The upgrade price option includes upgrades at these locations
Prices (per person)
Overview
This 6 day independent walking tour in Piedmont offers everything on the 5 day itinerary plus extra time in Alba to enjoy an additional walk and explore the town’s culinary delights. Ideal for those looking for a short trip with greater emphasis on the wines and gastronomy of this area of northern Italy.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bossolaschetto
Day 2: Bossolaschetto to Monforte d’Alba*
Day 3: Monforte d’Alba to La Morra*
Day 4: La Morra to Alba*
Day 5: Alba* - free day
Day 6: Departure
*The upgrade price option includes upgrades at these locations
Prices (per person)
Overview
This 8 day independent walking tour in Piedmont is a more in-depth visit of the area. The itinerary starts in the medieval town of Mondovì and includes 5 days walking and one optional walk. Enjoy a weeklong trip in Italy incorporating the best of the area - great walking, views, wine and food.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mondovì
Day 2: Mondovì/Ceva to Igliano (San Luigi)
Day 3: Igliano to Bossolaschetto
Day 4: Bossolaschetto to Monforte d’Alba*
Day 5: Monforte d’Alba* - free day
Day 6: Monforte d’Alba to La Morra*
Day 7: La Morra to Alba*
Day 8: Departure
*The upgrade price option includes upgrades at these locations
Prices (per person)
Overview
This 9 day independent walking tour in Piedmont is our most extensive visit to the area. It includes everything on the 8 day itinerary with extra time in Alba to enjoy an additional walk and explore the town’s culinary delights. A longer trip offering a wider experience of this area of northern Italy.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mondovì
Day 2: Mondovì/Ceva to Igliano (San Luigi)
Day 3: Igliano to Bossolaschetto
Day 4: Bossolaschetto to Monforte d’Alba*
Day 5: Monforte d’Alba* - free day
Day 6: Monforte d’Alba to La Morra*
Day 7: La Morra to Alba*
Day 8: Alba* - free day
Day 9: Departure
*The upgrade price option includes upgrades at these locations
Prices (per person)
Our Independent Footloose itineraries have the flexibility to be customised if you would like to spend more time in any of the places en route; perhaps to incorporate some of the add-ons available locally or just to create a more relaxed pace to your holiday.
If you wish to build your own itinerary please complete our customise form and our Sales team will provide you with a bespoke quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
On each route there is an ATG Route Manager, who is there to take care of all the practicalities and ensure the success of your trip. Route Managers have all been ATG-trained, speak English and the language of the country fluently, and live in the local area. Your Route Manager will make contact with you a couple of weeks prior to departure (usually by email) and will then meet you at the start of your trip and will be available during your trip to move your luggage from hotel to hotel, provide local information, make restaurant reservations and do everything possible to ensure that you derive maximum enjoyment from your holiday.
Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that our Route Manager can ensure that you are catered for during your holiday. Most dietary restrictions do not present a problem on our trips and the Route Manager can discuss your requirements in more detail with you at the start of your trip.
The walks are graded according to difficulty but you can walk as much or as little as you like.
Easy: walking along well-established paths and tracks with some short ascents/descents. These trips are suitable for most people who enjoy occasional exercise.
Easy to Moderate: walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour. These trips are suitable for most people who have a reasonable level of fitness.
Moderate: walking along a variety of paths and tracks. Occasional uneven areas. Ascents/descents 1-2 hours. These trips are suitable for those who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.
Moderate to Challenging: walking along varied paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours. These trips are suitable for more experienced walkers who have a good level of fitness.
If you are planning to take an Independent trip as a single traveller, we would ask you to consider the potential dangers of walking alone before making a booking and if necessary discuss this with our Sales team.
Single travellers will be booked into a double room which will carry a single occupancy supplement.
Flights are not included in the price of your ATG holiday and should be booked independently.
The trips in our Independent programme make ideal family holidays for those with children who are old enough (and keen enough!) to enjoy a walking holiday or young enough to be carried in a backpack.
You would need to consider costs for lunches (either a picnic style lunch or lunch in a café as you prefer) and evening meals. Where an evening meal is included at a hotel this is indicated on the trip page. For evening meals not included, the route book provides restaurant recommendations to suit a wide range of budgets. You would also need to factor in any entrance fees to museums, churches, galleries and other sightseeing costs, items of a personal nature, shopping expenditure and transport if you choose to not to walk on some days.
Tourist Tax
This tax is charged per guest per night and the rate is determined by the local council based on the star rating of the accommodation. The rate usually varies from €2 up to €5 per person per night, although the rate can be higher in major cities. This tax is not included in the price of your holiday but where applicable will be payable direct to your hotel in cash.
We are delighted to book extensions for you at either end of your trip. We only book hotels with which we have an established relationship and where we can ensure a high level of service and enjoyment. If you would like an extension hotel booking please indicate this during the booking process and we will contact you with pricing information.
ATG does not provide any form of insurance cover. However, it is a condition of booking that you have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including:
Cancellation/curtailment up to the cost of the holiday (preferably including flights)
Medical emergencies and repatriation
Travel delay / missed departure
Lost or stolen personal belongings
Personal liability
Legal expenses
Natural Disasters
Although most credit card companies offer travel insurance as something that is included when paying the balance with the card, it may be advisable to check that the cover offered is what you expect it to be. Very few companies include cancellation and curtailment or medical expenses. Whatever the insurance policy you have taken out, please read the documentation carefully. Please ensure also that you take it with you on your trip and refer to it in the case of any claim or emergency.
Yes, please click here for what to bring. A packing checklist is also included with your booking confirmation.
Sustainability
ATG was founded on principles of conservation and sustainable development. It was the first company to win the tourism industry’s two top awards: Tourism for Tomorrow (UK) and the World Legacy Award (National Geographic and Conservation International USA) and also the first to have an accredited Environmental Management System.
Everyone who walks with ATG contributes to the ATG Trust, which funds projects that benefit local communities in the regions visited. By supporting these initiatives, ATG promotes sustainable tourism. Past projects have included heritage restoration projects, environmental conservation and educational projects.
Your Route Manager will be able to tell you about the ATG Trust project on this route involving the restoration of the small church of La Madonna di Loretta which stands proudly overlooking vineyards outside the little town of La Morra.
Other trips you may be interested in
