Cycling Piedmont: from the Langhe's Vineyards to the Alps' High Peaks

After settling into your hotel in Alba, enjoy a relatively short afternoon ride through its picturesque surroundings. The route leads to the renowned village of Barbaresco, crowned by its iconic tower. Can you resist the temptation to sample the world-famous Barbaresco wine?

This ride winds through the Barbaresco vineyards, offering a perfect introduction to cycling in the Langhe. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views from higher elevations and tackle a couple of steep but short climbs to wake the legs.

Today’s ride takes you deeper into the heart of the Langhe, where every pedal stroke reveals manicured vineyards, hazelnut groves, and the allure of hidden truffles beneath the soil. The constant interplay of ascents and descents offers a dynamic ride, with hilltop views that demand photo stops. From these lofty vantage points, the vistas on the nearby Alps serve as a reminder of what's a bit further down the road.

On Day 3, the journey heads south into the Alta Langa, where expansive views and legendary climbs await. This area boasts the famed “Ascents of the Champions”, honoring cycling legends of the Giro d’Italia. If you're up to it, tackle the grueling Gino Bartali climb from Sinio to Albaretto della Torre. After rolling through scenic villages like Belvedere Langhe, you’ll cross the Tanaro River before arriving in Mondovì, a town where history spans two elevations, connected by a charming funicular.

After a short van transfer from Mondovì to Caraglio, you’ll hop back on your bicycle and begin your first exploration of the Alps. Three distinct itineraries will guide you to Saluzzo, your home base for the next three nights.

The Western Alps’ main valleys, some with roads crossing into France, are framed by dramatic ridges descending from towering peaks. These ridges gradually drop eastward, softening into the fertile agricultural plains of Cuneo. At lower elevations, the gentler ridges create an ideal setting for crossing from one valley to the next—a perfect way to acclimate to the alpine environment, no matter which route you choose.

As you ride through forested landscapes dotted with charming villages, historic sanctuaries, and welcoming towns, the roads offer a mix of engaging climbs and thrilling descents. These routes, steeped in cycling history, include sections celebrated by the Giro d’Italia with a plaque honoring Marco Pantani and feature prominently in the Granfondo Fausto Coppi, one of Italy’s most renowned cycling events.

From Saluzzo, an epic day of cycling awaits as you tackle the magnificent climb to Pian del Re - the "Plain of the King" - the base of Monviso, the most iconic peak in the Western Alps, a pyramidal giant that towers over Piedmont at an impressive 3,841 meters. Reaching Pian del Re delivers a profound sense of accomplishment, especially if you've already glimpsed Monviso’s silhouette from the plains earlier in your journey.

The route takes you along a valley carved by the upper reaches of Italy's longest river, the Po. At 2,000 meters of elevation, forests give way to steep grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, creating a true alpine setting where you might spot marmots or chamois. Climbing done, the source of the Po River is just a short walk away. Turn around and take in the valley you’ve just climbed before enjoying a thrilling descent, with long stretches of open vistas and engaging switchbacks. Along the way, you can pause for a break at Pian della Regina—the "Plain of the Queen"—or in the village of Crissolo to savor a coffee or sample local delicacies.

For those seeking a less intense ride, a visit to the traditional mountain village of Ostana or the charming town of Barge offers equally rewarding experiences without the challenge of a major climb.

The Colle dell’Agnello—“Pass of the Lamb”—stands as the highest paved cross-border mountain pass in Europe, reaching an elevation of 2,744 meters. This legendary climb is anything but docile, with its high altitude and steep gradients challenging even the most seasoned cyclists and ranking it among the elite of cycling’s great ascents, alongside icons like the Stelvio, Izoard, Mortirolo, and Pordoi. Frequently featured in the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, it’s a must for cycling enthusiasts.

From Saluzzo, your ride begins with a warm-up on the Colletta di Brondello before descending into Val Varaita, a stunning valley framed by increasingly rugged and dramatic peaks. The road winds past the picturesque mountain village of Chianale, leading to the final, steeper section of the ascent. As you climb, the western face of Monviso emerges, framed by a panorama that progressively expands to reveal towering peaks near and far. Reaching the small plateau at the summit, where the border with France lies, offers a profound sense of accomplishment. Few places on Earth make you feel so close to the sky.

For those looking for less proximity to the sky, other rewarding routes are available. Consider the climb to the Sanctuary of Valmala, a serene and picturesque destination, or tackle the wild, panoramic Colle di Sampeyre, another spectacular alpine ascent.

After a celebratory evening and a well-deserved night of rest, it’s time to bid farewell to an unforgettable journey through the rolling hills of the Langhe and the majestic peaks of the Alps. A comfortable transfer will take you back to Turin, where you can head home or continue exploring this enchanting region at your leisure—with or without your bike.