When you think of what to see in the Langhe, you probably imagine hills with perched villages, vineyards as far as the eye can see, and a glass of Barolo at sunset.
And yes, it’s all true. But the Langhe are also much more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through picture-perfect villages, experiences to enjoy, traditional dishes to taste, and, of course, Vayadù guesthouses where you can stay to enjoy every corner of this extraordinary region.
As you may know, I was born in the province of Cuneo, have been a local for generations, and know this area like the back of my hand. I have so many tips for you!
If you’re planning a vacation in the Langhe and wondering “What to see in the Langhe?”, you’re in the right place.
Why choose the Langhe for your next vacation?
The Langhe isn’t just a destination: it’s an experience. And finally, more and more people, both Italian and foreign, are discovering it. Here, time slows down, the views become poetry, and every detail tells a story of tradition and hospitality.
In spring, the rows turn green; in autumn, they explode with warm colors. And between one season and the next, there’s always a good reason to return.
The Langhe is the place for you if you are looking for a place to:
- relax in the hills;
- taste fine wines;
- discover authentic villages and traditional fairs.
What to see in the Langhe: villages and landscapes
Alba: the capital of the Langhe
Alba is the most famous city in the Langhe, known for its white truffle, fairs, and Michelin-starred restaurants, such as the central Piazza Duomo, run by three-starred chef Enrico Crippa.
Stroll among its medieval towers, discover the historic shops, and stop for an aperitif with a glass of Arneis or Dolcetto.
Where to sleep in Alba
Casa Vera, one of Vayadù’s homes, is located right in the heart of the city: elegant, spacious, and perfect for families with children or anyone looking for a convenient base for exploring the area. It has everything: from a fully equipped kitchen (even a Bimby kitchen robot!) to a hot tub, and even a private parking space.
Monforte d’Alba: poetry among the vineyards
Monforte d’Alba is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Its steep streets lead to the Horszowski Auditorium, a natural amphitheater offering breathtaking views of the hills. If you love nature and wine, this is the place to be.
Where to stay in Monforte?
Vayadù has three Ciabot Immersed in the vineyards. In Piedmontese, a “ciabot” is a small building, typical of rural settings, originally intended as a temporary shelter for field workers or as a storage area for agricultural tools. Today, they are country-chic homes, perfect for soaking up the Langhe atmosphere. Our three Ciabots in Monforte d’Alba are:
- Barolo: on two floors, with garden and panoramic terrace;
- Nebbiolo: perfect for families or groups, with two rooms and a terrace;
- Alta Langa: more intimate, cozy, and with a sloping ceiling, ideal for a romantic getaway.
For an even more special experience, you can also book the Finnish hot tub with ergonomic benches and space for 4-6 people, perfect for relaxing while gazing at the vineyards at sunset. Discover them all here!
Fossano: A Different Base for Exploring the Langhe
Fossano is less touristy but has a charm all its own, thanks to the Acaja Castle and the historic center that seems to have come straight from a fairy tale.
If you’re looking for a quiet and authentic place, Nido di Cate is the perfect choice: a small Vayadù apartment, with exposed beams, cozy and full of stories, with a view right of the castle.
Savigliano: for those who also want to visit nearby cities
My Savigliano is convenient for traveling between Langhe, Roero, and Turin.
Here we have Two Arches, a Vayadù home with two apartments next to each other, ideal for groups of friends or families who want to feel at home even when traveling. Or you can choose Casa Flora, with a treadmill and a small balcony perfect for outdoor breakfasts. Or: Casa Fiore, just steps from the center, with a balcony overlooking the rooftops of Savigliano.
What to see in the Langhe: unmissable experiences
Tastings and cellars
When you say Langhe, you think of wine. Visiting the cellars means delving into the stories of the families who have cultivated the vineyards for generations, comparing different vintages, discovering the aromas of the barrels, and perhaps taking home a bottle to open on a special occasion.
The wineries we recommend are:
- Marchesi di Barolo (in Barolo)
A name that has shaped the history of Italian wine. Here you can taste the renowned and prized Barolo in its various expressions and visit the historic cellar beneath the castle. I recommend booking a guided tour in advance. - Poderi Einaudi (in Dogliani)
If you love Dolcetto, this is a must-see. A historic winery nestled in the vineyards, with panoramic tastings and an obsessive attention to quality. - Conterno Fantino (in Monforte d’Alba)
For those seeking top-quality wines in a modern and sustainable setting: solar panels, a green cellar, and wines that speak for themselves.
Fairs and events
What to see in the Langhe is never a problem because this area boasts a calendar of events that punctuates the year and offers experiences that will satisfy both music lovers and foodies.
According to Vayadù, the events not to be missed are:
- International Alba White Truffle Fair (October/November, in Alba)
The highlight of the autumn season. Alba transforms into a fragrant open-air market, with cooking demonstrations, truffle auctions, and tastings; - Vinum (April/May, in Alba)
The weekend when wineries open their doors to visitors. A chance to taste, meet producers, and stroll through the vineyards; - Collisioni Festival (july, in Barolo)
A unique event that brings together international music giants (Patti Smith, Liam Gallagher, Depeche Mode, Lenny Kravitz), literature, and food tastings. Renowned artists and writers perform in the village streets: a mix between a concert and a village festival.
Walks and views
The Langhe are not just to be enjoyed, but also to be explored at a leisurely pace. Here, every road offers a glimpse, and every trail offers a different panorama.
The most scenic places:
- the Giant Bench of Monforte d’Alba.
An extra-large bench where you can feel small before the infinite. It’s part of the Big Bench circuit, designed to invite people to slow down and enjoy the view; - the Barolo Chapel (La Morra)
A deconsecrated church transformed into a work of art by designers Sol LeWitt and David Tremlett. This colorful building stands out among the rows of trees, perfect for a photo stop; - the paths between the vineyards (Monforte d’Alba and surroundings)
Circular routes to explore on foot or by e-bike, to discover hidden corners among the vineyards and hazelnut groves. You can start directly from the Vayadù Ciabots and choose your preferred itinerary.
What to eat in the Langhe: a journey through flavors
The Langhe are the kingdom of Piedmontese gastronomic tradition. Here you eat with all five senses and every dish tells a piece of peasant history.
Must have
- Vitello tonnato
Tender slices of veal served cold with a creamy tuna, caper, and anchovy sauce (no mayonnaise, please!). It’s not an appetizer, it’s a ritual. - Tajarin with ragù or truffle
Thin egg tagliolini, rigorously handmade and usually made with 40 egg yolks per kilo of flour. The version with white truffle is the height of gastronomic luxury. - Plin
Small ravioli closed with a pinch (hence the name “plin”). They’re eaten with butter and sage or, if you prefer, dry and served on a napkin. - Braised beef in Barolo
Veal slowly cooked for hours in Barolo wine until tender. The perfect dish for fall and winter. - Bra sausage
Eaten raw, with a drizzle of oil and pepper, or grilled. It’s a specialty protected by the consortium and unique in its kind. - Bunet
A typical dessert from the Langhe: a chocolate and amaretto pudding with a hint of liqueur. Soft, delicious, and perfect to end a meal.
- Cheeses
Don’t miss the Castelmagno, Robiola di Roccaverano, and Murazzano. Excellent with honey or local jams.
Where to stay in the Langhe: Vayadù houses
If you’re looking for vacation homes in the Langhe that combine comfort and authenticity, Vayadù has the perfect solution for every type of stay:
- Casa Vera in Alba for families with children;
- Ciabot Barolo in Monforte for groups of friends;
- Ciabot Nebbiolo in Monforte for families or groups;
- Ciabot Alta Langa in Monforte for couples;
- Il Nido di Cate in Fossano for those seeking an intimate retreat;
- Due Archi, Casa Flora, and Casa Fiore in Savigliano are ideal for travelers exploring the Langhe and its surroundings.
All the homes are carefully curated by me and my staff, designed to make you feel at home, with just the right amount of charm and elegance.
What to see in the Langhe: in conclusion
The Langhe region isn’t a place to visit just once. It’s a place you return to, season after season, discovering something new each time.
Whether it’s a relaxing weekend, a vacation with friends, or a family trip, Vayadù homes are ready to welcome you.
We’re waiting for you in the Langhe!
