Piedmont, known in Italian as Piemonte, is one of Italy's most fascinating and rich regions and a magical season to visit is in Autumn. Located in the northwest of Italy and boarding France and Switzerland, this region has so much to offer. With the arrival of autumn, Piemonte's landscape is transformed into a palette of warm and enveloping colours, the hillsides are covered in grape-laden vineyards, and the scent of truffles wafts through the air. This article will explore the wonders Piemonte has to offer in autumn, with a focus on three key elements: truffles from Alba, Piemonte wine and the unique natural beauty on offer.

The white truffle of Alba: a Pi emonte treasure

Truffles are small tubers that grow just a few centimetres underground, thriving near oaks, hazelnut and chestnut trees and are Pie monte’s most famous food. The white truffle of Alba is particularly special due to its incredible flavour and limited quantities. The ‘white gold’ grows wild deep in the forests of Langue surrounding the town of Alba. Each truffle is individually sniffed out by expert truffle hunting dogs and then carefullydug up by skilled hands. With a delicious pungent flavour these little delicacies are thinly sliced and added to pastas, risottos and many more local dishes.

The International Fair of the White Truffle of Alba

October marks the beginning of the white truffle season, and the city of Alba becomes the beating heart of this precious tuber. The International Fair of the White Truffle of Alba, held every year from October to November, attracts visitors from all over the world. During the fair, it is possible to participate in tastings, enjoy cooking shows, and purchase high quality truffles directly from local truffle hunters.

Truffle dishes to try: a delicate yet intense flavour

Restaurants in and around Alba offer a wide range of traditional dishes enhanced with white truffles. Among these, the most iconic are tajarin al tartufo, a local type of egg pasta, and truffle risotto. A must-try while in the area.

Piemonte wine: grape harvest and tastings

Piemonte has had a serious winemaking culture since the middle ages. There are almost 45,000 hectares of vineyards in Piedmont, and thanks to its geographical location, protected between the Alps and the Apennine mountains, they have enormous success in cultivating indigenous grapes. The wines from Piemonte include reds made from Nebbiolo, and Barbera and whites made with Moscato, Cortese and Arnies.

The grape harvest in the Langhe and Monferrato

Some of the world's most renowned wines originate in the Langhe region of Piemonte Italy , such as Barolo, Barbaresco and Nebbiolo. During the grape harvest, the vineyards are in full swing, and many wineries open their doors to visitors to let them experience the grape harvest. A period of intense activity where winemakers and grape pickers work together, and ancient techniques are kept alive. Strolling through the colourful vineyards and soaking up the atmosphere is a truly unforgettable experience.

Events and wine festivals not to be missed

October is full of wine-related events in Piemonte. Among the most important are the Barolo & Friends Event, held in Barolo, and the Douja d'Or, a wine competition that rewards the best wines of Piemonte. These events offer the opportunity to discover new labels, meet producers and participate in guided tastings. A fantastic experience for any wine lover wanting to deepen their knowledge and try the latest wines.

Piemonte’s natural beauty: from fruitful mountains to glistening lakes

Piemonte is a land of extraordinary natural beauty where the immense River Po commences its journey at the foot of the Monviso, creating lush lowlands and green picturesque hills. The National Park of Alpe Veglia and Alpe Devero are excellent examples of the natural beauty of Piemonte, where you can immerse yourself in unspoiled nature. Not least, are the magical lakes nestles between its mountains, such as the charming Lake Maggiore or the tranquil Lake Orta.

The hills of the Langhe and Monferrato: unparalleled beauty

The hills of the Langhe and Monferrato, a UNESCO heritage site, offer breathtaking views in autumn, with the vineyards tinged with red, orange and yellow. These picturesque areas are perfect for hiking and biking, with routes passing through historic villages, castles and wineries, making a delightful family holiday or getaway.

The Piemonte Alps:   great hiking for all

If you prefer mountains, the Piemonte Alps offer wonderful autumn hiking, with landscapes ranging from golden forests to snow-capped peaks. Just over an hour from Turin you will find a snowy wonderland known as the ‘Milky Way’ with seven ski resorts that are very popular with tourists and locals alike, among them, is Sestriere.

Before you leave Fiumicino airport, can start to savour the many wonderful Piemonte products from the Duty Free Store such as delicious wines, olive oils and sweet treats. Home to the renowned white truffle, as well as world class wine, Piemonte has everything the food and wine loving traveller could wish for. With stunning green rolling hills, majestic lakes and snowy peaks, go and lose yourself in its natural beauty. Boun Viaggio!

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