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Piedmont: Monferrato and Canelli – The Underground Cathedrals

Monferrato, Italy

Duration

4 days 3 nights

Formula

Individual Departures

Group Size

2 people

PIEDMONT: MONFERRATO AND CANELLI – THE UNDERGROUND CATHEDRALS

A journey through rolling hills, ancient hamlets, and hidden treasures in the heart of wine country.

Immerse yourself in the culture of Piedmont, Italy, as you explore Monferrato, a land of gentle hills, historic hamlets, and age-old winemaking traditions. This authentic corner of northern Italy offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, heritage, and Piedmontese culture rooted in centuries of agricultural and enological excellence.

At the heart of your Monferrato tour lies the town of Canelli, known as the capital of Spumante and home to the extraordinary Underground Cathedrals — majestic wine cellars carved into tuff rock, stretching for kilometers beneath the town. These incredible spaces are a must-see on any Canelli Underground Cathedrals tour, and are now proudly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This short but unforgettable getaway invites you to experience the essence of Piedmont culture:

Walk through UNESCO-listed vineyards and rolling hills that change color with the seasons.
 Join guided visits to historic wineries and explore the underground cathedrals — true temples of wine hidden beneath the surface.
Enjoy tastings of iconic wines like Asti Spumante and Barbera, paired with artisanal local delicacies.
Take part in an immersive Monferrato Underground Cathedrals tour, blending wine, history, and culture in one extraordinary experience.

This is more than a wine trip — it’s a cultural journey into the heart of Piedmont Italy, where tradition, taste, and timeless beauty come together in perfect harmony.

Itinerary

Itenirary

Day 1 - Friday, June 19, 2026

Welcome to Monferrato – Relax amidst nature, flavours, and landscapes

Individual arrival in the heart of Monferrato. Upon arrival, check-in at Villa Morneto Relais (or similar accommodation).
In the afternoon, free time to relax and enjoy all the comforts of the hotel: panoramic swimming pool, green spaces, and breathtaking views over the surrounding hills.

Monferrato, the pearl of Piedmont, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unspoiled landscapes and the perfect harmony between nature, culture, and food and wine traditions.

A day dedicated to relaxation and well-being, immersed in the peaceful hills of Piedmont.

In the early evening, enjoy a welcome aperitif with a tasting of local products — the perfect way to start this journey with an authentic flavour of the region.

Overnight stay.
Itenirary

Day 2 - Saturday, June 20, 2026

Vineyards, authentic flavours, and nature to experience

After breakfast, begin the day with a deep dive into the scents and colours of the territory:
a guided visit and wine tasting in a local vineyard and cellar in the heart of Monferrato, to explore the region’s winemaking soul — a blend of tradition and innovation.

After the visit, enjoy a light lunch in the cellar. Alternatively, for those seeking a more immersive experience in nature, there’s the option of a scenic picnic with a basket full of local delicacies, paired with fine local wines — an authentic and relaxed way to savour the Piedmont countryside.

The afternoon is free — ideal for exploring nearby hamlets and trails, discovering the surroundings, or simply unwinding back at the Relais.

In the evening, enjoy an à la carte dinner at the Relais restaurant, where each dish celebrates the culinary excellence of the region.

Overnight stay.
Itenirary

Day 3 - Sunday, June 21, 2026

Historic hamlets and authentic flavours of Monferrato

After breakfast, depart for the visit of one of the many charming hamlets of Monferrato, true treasures of history and tradition.
We recommend a stop in Casale Monferrato, an elegant town rich in artistic heritage: the Cathedral of Sant’Evasio, the impressive Castle of the Paleologi, the old town’s picturesque streets, and the artisan shops that tell the story of true Piedmontese identity.

At the end of the visit, you may enhance the experience with a tasting of traditional cold cuts and cheeses at the atmospheric Borgo Affinatori in Stalla, located in the village of Castello di Annone — a true journey through the most genuine flavours of the local rural tradition.

In the afternoon, return to the Relais and enjoy some free time to relax — whether by the pool, in the peaceful gardens, or simply admiring the panoramic views.

To end the day in style, a gourmet dinner can be arranged at the renowned I Due Buoi restaurant, located about 7 km from the Relais and set within a historic residence. A fine dining experience to conclude your stay with elegance and taste.

Overnight stay.
Itenirary

Day 4 - Monday, June 22, 2026

The Underground Cathedrals and the charm of Piedmontese sparkling wines

After breakfast, check out and depart for Canelli, the historic capital of Italian sparkling wine.

In the morning, visit to the prestigious Contratto Winery, one of the oldest and most renowned sparkling wine producers in Piedmont, active for over 150 years.
A unique experience inside the evocative Underground Cathedrals — galleries carved into tuff rock, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the guided tour, you’ll discover the history, the secrets of the traditional method, and the identity of the famous Alta Langa DOCG sparkling wines.

The visit concludes with a tasting of four Alta Langa labels, accompanied by a refined selection of local products: artisanal breadsticks, salted hazelnuts, salami, and cheeses from small local producers.

A perfect ending that brings together culture, taste, and territory..

End of services.

The fee includes / The fee does not include

  • 3 nights stay at Villa Morneto Relais or similar with accommodation in a Classic room (subject to availability) with breakfast included
  • Welcome drink with tasting
  • Visit to a local winery with tasting of 3 wines and light lunch (or picnic basket, depending on availability and weather conditions)
  • 1 dinner at the restaurant of Relais Villa Morneto, excluding drinks
  • Guided tour of the village of Casale Monferrato (entrance fees not included)
  • Cheese and charcuterie tasting at Borgo Affinatori in Stalla, in Castello di Annone (drinks not included)
  • Guided tour and tasting at the Contratto Winery in Canelli - duration 120 minutes - with tasting of 4 Alta Langa DOCG sparkling wines accompanied by breadsticks, salami, cheese and hazelnuts from small local producers
  • Private transfers or car hire for the entire duration of the mini-tour (various transfers can be arranged on request)
  • Meals and drinks not specified in the programme
  • Any tourist tax; visits and entrance fees not specified in the programme

Tour's Location

Monferrato, Italy
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