From Franciacorta to Barolo and Truffles 2024

 

• Day 1: Arrival and Lake Iseo: As you arrive in Milan, you are filled with excitement and anticipation for the week ahead. After a long journey, you are met by a private transfer that will take you on a scenic drive to the stunning Lake Iseo in the Franciacorta district (home to Italy's best bubbles)!. As you check into your suite, you are surrounded by breathtaking views of the tranquil waters and picturesque towns that line the shores. You indulge in a delicious dinner at a local gourmet restaurant, savoring the flavors of Italy and the warmth of the hospitality that awaits you.

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• Day 2: Franciacorta and Lake Iseo: As you set out on day two, you can feel a sense of calm and relaxation wash over you. You're completely immersed in the beauty of Italy, with nothing to think about but the next glass of wine you'll be sipping. Today, you'll be exploring the renowned wine region of Franciacorta. You'll visit the esteemed Enrico Gatti winery for a private tour and tasting with the owners. As you sip on the delicious wine, you can taste the passion and dedication that goes into each bottle, and all your troubles and worries seem to drift away. You'll enjoy a light lunch near the serene waters of Lake Iseo, soaking in the beauty of the region. The peacefulness of the lake, combined with the exquisite food and wine, makes you feel truly content and carefree. As the day winds down, you'll return to Como for dinner at a local restaurant, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible moments of relaxation and joy.

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• Day 3: Piedmont and Barbaresco: As you check out of your hotel, you know that today will be another unforgettable day on the tour. You'll be heading to the stunning region of Piedmont, known for its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and delicious wines. You'll start your day with a private tour and tasting at Poderi Colla in Barbaresco. As you walk through the vineyards and taste the wines, you'll be transported by the rich history and tradition of the winery. You'll enjoy lunch at a local Trattoria with the Colla family, who will share their passion and knowledge of the region with you. Finally, you'll check into a boutique Relais, ready for the adventures that await you in the days ahead. In the evening, you'll dine at a secret den known only to local winemakers, enjoying an unforgettable meal and sharing stories with those who have dedicated their lives to crafting the perfect wines of the region.

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• Day 4: Conterno Fantino and Einaudi: Today the morning begins with a visit to some of the top growth vineyards of Monforte d’Alba, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Langhe hills. You'll savor a delicious family style lunch at the winery having visited the vineyards and cellars with the owners of Conterno Fantino. Moving onto Einaudi in the afternoon, you'll enjoy a private tour and tasting at the Einaudi winery, where you'll learn about the history and production of their world-renowned wines before enjoying a casual dinner in the historical town of Dogliani.

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• Day 5: Truffle Hunting or Cookery Class: it's your choice, either a cooking class or truffle hunting experience. Whichever you choose, you'll get to experience the true essence of Langhe through its food. If you choose the cooking class, you'll learn how to prepare local dishes using traditional methods and ingredients. The class will take place in a charming kitchen, surrounded by the beautiful countryside. You'll get to taste the fruits of your labor for lunch, and savor the flavors of the region. Alternatively, you can opt to follow a truffle hunter at work, accompanying him and his trained dog through the woods in search of the elusive white truffle. You'll learn about the history of truffle hunting in the area, and gain insight into the techniques used to find these rare delicacies. After the hunt, you'll have the opportunity to taste the truffles in a delicious meal paired with local wines. Whatever you choose, you're sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for the culinary traditions of Langhe.

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• Day 6: Alba and Marcarini Winery: today you'll visit the charming town of Alba, where you'll stroll through the streets and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this picturesque place. After some Spritzes and a light lunch you'll then drive to La Morra, where you'll meet the owners of the Marcarini winery for a private tour and tasting. In the evening, you'll enjoy a gala dinner with Matteo Sardagna, the owner of Einaudi and six cru Barolos, which will be a fitting end to a wonderful week.

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• Day 7: Departure from Italy: As you bid farewell to Italy on your final day, you can't help but feel a sense of sadness at leaving behind such a beautiful country and the incredible memories you've made during this unforgettable week. You'll take with you the sights, sounds, and tastes of the stunning region of Piedmont, the charm and history of Lake Iseo, and the relaxation and beauty of the Franciacorta wine region. You'll remember the private tours and tastings at some of the most prestigious wineries in Italy, the intimate meals shared with passionate winemakers and their families, and the cooking classes and truffle hunts that immersed you in the local culture. You'll recall the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vineyards, the delicious food made with fresh local ingredients, and the warm hospitality of the Italian people. As you board your flight, you know that this trip to Italy will be a memory that will stay with you for a lifetime, and you'll look back on it with fondness and gratitude for the experiences you had and the friendships you made. You leave Italy with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of life, the importance of taking time to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures, and the magic of travel that can bring us together with people and places we may have never otherwise known.

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