To hear Stefano Secchi rhapsodize about Piedmont is to be convinced that you’ve been missing out. Florence and Rome may be wonderful destinations, but as the chef-owner of New York City’s Michelin-starred restaurant Rezdôra knows, Piedmont is unquestionably one of Italy’s culinary crown jewels (if you adore rich wines, fine cheeses, and truffles, that is).
Surrounded by France to the east, Switzerland to the north, and Liguria to the south, Piedmont is in the foothills of the Alps. The region is home to Italy’s best wines—the vineyards of the Langhe and Roero were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and is a top destination for any discerning wine connoisseur. Its Nebbiolo grape is transformed into rich Barolos and Barbarescos enjoyed the world over, while the acidic and mineral-rich terroir also produces enviable Gavi and Arneis white wines.
The home to the Slow Food movement is also a fantastic place to enjoy the food of local artisans and impeccable local produce. Sample the white truffles of Alba, Alpine mountain cheeses, cured meats, hazelnuts—considered by many to be the best in the world—giandujotti chocolate, agnolotti or tajarin pasta, and hearty dishes like beef braised in Barolo. Together they provide the exquisite ingredients for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
While the food and wine are distinguished, so too is the region’s ambience. Piedmont retains an elegant noble charm with historic castles and palaces that dot the landscape and streetscapes and is especially picturesque in the fall as the leaves turn.
The itinerary has been curated by Michelin-starred chef Stefano Secchi, who lived and worked in Piedmont and brings an extensive knowledge of the region as well as deep connections with the area’s chefs, winemakers, and producers. To learn more about his passion and enthusiasm for quality ingredients, watch him in action at his celebrated restaurant, Rezdôra, which was recently named one of the ten best Italian restaurants in the world.
Highlights
- Delve into the culinary richness of Piedmont with chef Stefano Secchi, who will introduce you to chefs and winemakers he knows personally.
- Sample the rich wines of Piedmont at world-class wineries such as Marchesi di Barolo.
- Experience Slow Food at its finest in the region where it was born: dining on exquisite local products from Castelmagno cheese to truffles to hazelnuts.
- Join a chocolate producer for a tour of the production process, followed by a tasting.
- Take a gentle stroll through the forest in search of truffles.
- Enjoy the arcaded city of Turin with its elegant historic cafés and fine cuisine.
Pricing and Details
Read on for the full getaway itinerary. In the meantime, some key information:
- Dates: November 4–11, 2023
- Deposit: $500 per traveler (required upon booking to secure a spot)
- Price: $7,450 (double occupancy); $8,300 (single occupancy)
- Hotel: Turin’s 5-star Grand Hotel Sitea
- To book your trip: Visit here or call 1-877-298-9677
- Questions?: Reservations@academic-travel.com or 1-877-298-9677
- Terms and conditions
