SLOW FOOD FESTA

Our welcome lunch takes us to an artisan cheese farm in the Alte Langhe hills, where we'll enjoy a buffet featuring fresh cheese and salumi. Then it’s to the town of Barolo for a stroll to the castle and a lesson in the 19th century origins of Barolo. Next is our first private, in-depth tasting of Barolo wine, dubbed “the king of wines and wine of kings,” at a top-notch estate. Dinner is in the elegant medieval town of Alba. L, D

In October, truffle hunters, gourmands, and restaurateurs convene in Alba for the annual truffle market. This morning we'll have free time to go to truffle market and to scour Alba’s gourmet shops for truffle spreads, truffle oil, truffle books, and whole tubers. In the afternoon it's off to Barbaresco, where we'll explore Piedmont's other regal red wine. We'll visit the Marchesi di Gresy, an historic estate that creates excellent single-vineyard cru. Dinner is in Alba at a Slow Food restaurant, where we'll hunt for truffles on the menu. B, D

Meet a real truffle hunter and his dog, who will provide an in-field demo of dog training and truffle hunting and explain why truffles are so rare, expensive, and good! The afternoon takes us back to the heart of Barolo wine country, where we'll have another chance to learn about cru, terroir, barrique, and other wine-making concepts currently in vogue as we enjoy another Barolo wine tasting. Then it's back to Alba for a sumptuous dinner. B, D

Day 4 – Slow Food's Salone del Gusto

This morning we'll transfer to Turin, regional capital of Piedmont, where the Salone del Gusto takes place. Here we'll browse the hundreds of booths, tasting samples of cheeses, cured meats, honeys, and chocolates while talking to artisan food craftsman from around the world. We'll investigate the Slow Food Convivium projects, which seek to preserve disappearing species, then gather for a tasting of wines in their enoteca. B

Day 5 – Turin’s Splendor

For several centuries, the kings of Piedmont lived in Turin. The royals left behind a legacy of opulent architecture fit for kings. Today guests can choose between returning to the Salone del Gusto for more epicurean fun, or exploring the city of Turin, including its 18th century cafes with the world's best hot chocolate, and the Museum of Cinema for a spectacular view of the city. And of course, royal palaces beckon. B, D

Day 6 – Arrivederci!

Goodbye, and assistance with your travel plans. B

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