Taste of Piedmont ~ Self-Guided Tours
May to October 2010 ~ $1395

We’ve lost count of the times that guests, after sampling the cycling and gastronomic opportunities at this peaceful wine country hotel, have asked, "Why can’t we just stay HERE for the entire week?" Now you can. Spend five wonderful nights at Hotel Ariotto in the Monferrato hills. Relax by the panoramic pool, ride a variety of scenic loops or combine both for a truly relaxing and enchanting sample of the Piemontese lifestyle.

Day 1 - Overnight flight to Milan.

Day 2 - Benvenuto! Our driver will meet you. After a short transfer, arrive at Ariotto, assemble and fine-tune your bike and take a test ride through rolling countryside. Enjoy piemontese specialties tonight at your choice of local ristoranti or osterie.

Day 3 - Castello San Giorgio gazes down from its perch as you tackle the short but steep climb to a ridge above the Po river. Choose from 35, 60 or 75 mile loops on quiet country roads linking historic villages. Stop for pranzo in Cocconato, the home of Bava wines, then relax at Ariotto’s pool debating which combination of hot and cold appetizers will grace your place at tonight’s dinner.

Day 4 - A sun rising over the vineyards starts your day along with a warm cappuccino and Susi’s homemade cookies at your leisurely buffet breakfast. Rides of 30, 50 or 65 miles wind southwest today, offering the chance for an unforgettable lunch on the centuries-old Trattoria Tre Colli’s panoramic patio. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a lighter cena tonight, how about a true Italian pizza?

Day 5 - Does life get any better? Ride, relax, eat—repeat. Today’s rides head south between Asti and Alessandria, offering 30, 40 and 65 miles options over gentler terrain. Enjoy a panino of fresh mozzarella and tomato under the shady arcade in San Salvatore, then cruise along the scenic ridge back to Terruggia. Be tempted by cena in Ariotto’s Ristorante della Villa which might feature carpaccio, agnolotti and rabbit roasted with pepperonata. Linger on the terrace with espresso or a local grappa, marveling at the silence of the countryside.

Day 6 - Conzano, Camagna, and Vignale are three historic hilltowns that grace Ariotto’s sweeping view. Today’s route takes us through these unsung villages, following tiny roads with panoramic vistas and bountiful opportunities for snacks and refreshments. There’s an optional climb to the Santuario di Crea for anyone who still has birra in their legs! Just be sure to work up a good appetite for your farewell dinner.

Day 7 - Morning airport shuttles.

Elevation Profile

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Self-Guided Reservation Form