A Taste of Piedmont

This 10-day journey is a sensory immersion into the soul of Piedmont. A region where elegance, tradition, and terroir converge. From the tranquil shores of Lake Maggiore to the vineyard-laced hills of the Langhe and the refined grandeur of Turin, each destination reveals a distinctive blend of history, culture, and cuisine.

Uncover Italy’s quieter, deeper charm: hear echoes of noble families in majestic villas, breathe in the earthy scent of truffle-laden forests, and savor meals where each ingredient tells a story of craftsmanship and pride. Whether truffle hunting in the Roero hills or walking the silent island of San Giulio, every moment reveals another layer of Piedmont’s soulful identity.

This is a journey designed to balance discovery with leisure, offering guests exclusive experiences and intimate access to Northern Italy’s most iconic landscapes. It invites you to slow down, connect deeply, and taste life the Piedmontese way—generously, genuinely, and always with heart.

Signature moments from your journey through Piedmont

• Elegant Lakeside Welcome in Stresa
  Begin your trip on the shores of Lake Maggiore with a private welcome dinner.

• Private Boat & Island Exploration
  Cruise by private motorboat to the Borromean Islands and San Giulio Island, with guided tours and stunning views throughout.

• Michelin-Starred Culinary Experiences
  Savor refined regional cuisine at restaurants including Laqua by the Lake, Guidoristorante, Il Cambio, and more — each with thoughtful wine pairings.

• Truffle Hunt in the Roero Hills
  Venture into the woods with expert hunters and dogs in search of prized white truffles, followed by a tasting of local delicacies.

• Exclusive Wine Tastings in Historic Cellars
  Explore the UNESCO-listed Underground Cathedrals of Coppo Winery and visit Fontanafredda, birthplace of Barolo royalty.

• Stay in the Heart of Wine Country
  Relax in La Morra, surrounded by vineyards and walkable village charm.

• Balloon Ride Over Langhe Vineyards
  Glide silently over the rolling hills of Barolo during a sunset hot air balloon flight, an unforgettable aerial perspective!

• Hands-On Cooking Class
  Discover the flavors of Piedmont with a hands-on cooking experience. Learn traditional techniques from a local chef, prepare regional specialties, and enjoy the dishes you’ve created paired with local wines.

• Discover Turin’s Royal Grandeur
  Visit the Reggia di Venaria palace, explore local cafés, and enjoy a walking tour of Turin ending with a traditional bicerin.

• Small Group Experience
  Travel with a maximum of 20 guests, enjoying private access, insider experiences, and the attention of a dedicated tour leader.

Italy’s Quiet Jewel of Taste and Tradition. Tucked in the northwest corner of Italy, Piedmont is one of the country’s most refined and soulful regions. A land of misty vineyards, truffle-filled forests, regal cities, and culinary excellence. Framed by the Alps and bordering France and Switzerland, Piedmont has long been a crossroads of cultures, reflected in its elegant architecture, rich gastronomy, and deep-rooted traditions.

This is the birthplace of Barolo and Barbaresco wines, the Slow Food movement, and the prized white truffle of Alba. Its capital, Turin, offers a unique blend of French-influenced sophistication and Italian flair, while the countryside reveals medieval hill towns, Romanesque chapels, and grand noble estates.

Unlike more touristed parts of Italy, Piedmont offers a quieter, more immersive travel experience where every meal, glass of wine, and cobbled path invites you to slow down and savor. Whether wandering the lakeside promenades of Stresa, hunting for truffles in the Roero hills, or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant inside a royal villa, Piedmont delivers a sensory journey steeped in authenticity, elegance, and heart.

Accommodations

This journey features a handpicked selection of boutique four-star and five-star hotels that embody the charm, heritage, and refined hospitality of Northern Italy:

• Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromées - Stresa (3 nights)
  

• Corte Gondina Boutique Hotel - La Morra (4 nights)
  

• Grand Hotel Sitea - Turin (2 nights)
  

Included Meals

This trip is designed to celebrate the culinary excellence of Piedmont, with an emphasis on quality, regional flavors, and unforgettable settings:

• Daily breakfast at your hotel

• 6 lunches, including Michelin-starred restaurants, elegant countryside bistros, and scenic lakeside terraces

• 4 dinners, featuring:

  • A private welcome dinner in Stresa

  • Savor your own creations after a cooking class in Langhe region

  • A gourmet experience at Alessandro Mecca in Grinzane Cavour Castle

  • A farewell dinner at Piano35 in Turin (1 Michelin star)

Rates & Group Size
Rates are based on a minimum of 16 guests, with a maximum of 20. Pricing may be adjusted if the minimum number of participants is not met.

Payment Terms
To secure your place on this highly customized journey and confirm hotel accommodations, 40% is due at the time of booking. This payment also includes a €160 per person administrative and planning fee. Final payment is due on August 7, 2026.

Cancellation Policy
Because of the exclusive nature of this trip and the customized arrangements made on your behalf, all payments are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to travel, you may transfer your spot to a replacement traveler. In that case, your payment would be refunded (minus the €160 per person administrative and planning fee).

We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel protection to protect your investment and give you peace of mind in the event of unexpected changes. While we don’t sell travel insurance directly we suggest recommend either Travel Safe or Faye. 

Please note: 

Additionally, depending on your card type, there is a 3.0%-3.9% processing charge when paying with a credit card. If you prefer to pay with a check, include "Arlington Club: Piedmont" in the memo and send it to:

InquisiTours

933 University Street

Walla Walla, WA 99362

The nearest major international airport for this journey is Milan.

Your Piedmont program begins in Stresa and concludes in Turin, with private transfers included to and from Milan.

Arrival

Please plan to arrive into Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Milan Linate (LIN) no later than October 18, 2026.
Private transportation from Milan to Stresa on Day 1 is included and takes approximately 90 minutes.

Departure

The tour concludes on October 27, 2026 in Turin. You may choose to:

• Depart directly from Turin (TRN), or

• Return to Milan, with private transportation included. The drive from Turin to Milan takes approximately 120 minutes, so please plan departure flights accordingly.

If you need flight assistance, we recommend working with a Travel Agent. Contact Alyssa Willard at 503-636-5684 or at alyssa@travelcruisedesk.com. Let her know you are traveling with the Arlington Club.

If you’re planning to arrive early or extend your stay in Milan, it’s a wonderful way to ease into (or reflect on) your time in Italy.

Milan offers exceptional dining, culture, and access to the fashion district and historic center. Below are a few hotel recommendations that align beautifully with the spirit of this journey. InquisiTours is happy to assist with reservations and can also arrange private airport transfers.

5* Properties:

Portrait Milano
One of Milan’s most sought-after luxury boutique hotels, located in the heart of the fashion district just off Via Montenapoleone. Elegant, intimate, and impeccably serviced.

Park Hyatt Milan
An exceptional location, steps from the Duomo and Galleria. Classic luxury, spacious rooms (for Milan) and ideal walkability to many iconic landmarks.

Bulgari Hotel Milan
A serene, ultra-luxury retreat in the Brera district with a private garden. A favorite among fashion insiders for its refined and discreet atmosphere.

Casa Baglioni Milan (Brera)
A stylish boutique hotel in Milan’s most charming neighborhood. Quiet, design-forward, and home to Michelin-starred dining, just a short walk to the Duomo.

Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
A peaceful, all-suite boutique hotel in the design district, offering spacious accommodations and a tranquil environment.

4* Properties

Hotel Spadari al Duomo
A warm, welcoming boutique hotel just steps from the Duomo. Ideal for walkability and thoughtful service in a relaxed setting.

Senato Hotel Milano
A refined boutique property near Brera and the fashion district, offering a calm, elegant environment with excellent access to the city center.

Room Mate Giulia
A chic boutique hotel near the Duomo with contemporary Milanese design. Smaller in scale, lively in spirit, and perfectly located.

Maison Borella (Navigli)
A charming canal-side hotel offering a romantic, local Milan experience, away from the busiest areas but still easily accessible.

Please let us know if you’d like assistance securing a reservation or arranging transfers. We’re happy to coordinate everything for you!

As you prepare, it may be helpful to know that daily life in Italy follows a slightly different rhythm than in the United States. Lunch is typically served between 12:30–2:30 pm and is often a more leisurely, multi-course experience, especially in wine regions like Piedmont. Dinner tends to begin later than many Americans are used to, with restaurants commonly opening around 7:30 or 8:00 pm (and locals often dining closer to 8:30 pm). Meals are meant to be savored rather than rushed, and service reflects that pace. It’s part of the charm — and one of the reasons the experience feels so immersive.

Welcome to Italy!

Upon arrival at Milan Airport, enjoy a private transfer to the charming town of Stresa on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, this serene destination is the perfect introduction to Northern Italy’s refined charm.

In the evening, gather for a memorable welcome dinner hosted in a private dining room within the hotel. Indulge in exquisite regional cuisine and toast to the adventures ahead.

Overnight Stay: Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees

Relaxed Morning in Stresa
Start your day at an easy pace, enjoying a leisurely breakfast and time to explore Stresa’s lakeside charm at your own rhythm.

Lunch at Laqua by the Lake – 1 Michelin Star
Enjoy a refined lakeside lunch at Laqua by the Lake, where Michelin-starred chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo crafts elegant dishes inspired by the region’s culinary traditions. Overlooking the shimmering waters, this gastronomic experience blends sophisticated flavors with heartfelt Italian hospitality.

Guided Visit of Orta San Giulio & San Giulio Island (Approx. 3 hours)
After lunch, embark on a guided exploration of Orta San Giulio, a village nestled on the shores of Lake Orta. A charming shuttle train carries you to the heart of the village, where your private guide will lead you through cobbled streets, lively piazzas, and lakeside promenades, sharing the rich history of this hidden gem.

From the main square, board a private boat to mystical San Giulio Island, home to a serene monastery and the centuries-old Basilica di San Giulio. The island’s tranquil atmosphere invites quiet reflection and awe.

Evening at Leisure
Return to Stresa for a relaxed evening to unwind at your hotel, enjoy a lakeside stroll, or dine at your leisure.

Begin your day with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a day immersed in beauty and history.

Step aboard your private motorboat from Stresa and set out on an unforgettable journey to the Borromean Islands, a trio of stunning islets set like jewels in Lake Maggiore.

Accompanied by your expert local guide, explore:

• Isola Bella, home to the opulent Borromeo Palace and its extraordinary Italianate gardens, where terraces bloom with rare plants, white peacocks roam, and every corner offers a postcard-perfect view.

• Isola Madre, known for its serene botanical gardens and exotic plant species—one of the oldest and most enchanting gardens in Italy.

• Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), with its quaint lanes and authentic charm, still home to a small fishing community.

Lunch at Il Verbano – Isola dei Pescatori
Enjoy a 4-course meal at Il Verbano, a refined restaurant set on Fishermen’s Island. Celebrated for its Michelin-starred cuisine, the menu highlights fresh lake fish, local ingredients, and timeless Italian flavors—paired with three glasses of carefully selected wine and panoramic views over the water.

Following your island explorations, return to Stresa by private boat and enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before setting off for a day of discovery through one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions.

Transfer by Private Minibus
Travel through the scenic landscapes of Piedmont, passing rolling vineyards and charming hilltop villages as you make your way toward the Langhe and Monferrato regions.

In Monferrato, explore a traditional Infernot—a unique underground wine cellar hewn directly from the soft local stone. These historic cellars, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage, are a testament to the area's winemaking traditions and craftsmanship. Learn how generations have used these hidden spaces to age and protect their finest vintages.

On the way, pause for a photo opportunity at one of the region’s famous Giant Benches—whimsical, oversized seats nestled in scenic spots across the countryside. Climb up for a playful new perspective of Piedmont’s idyllic surroundings.

Lunch at the Bistrot – Relais Sant'Uffizio
Delight in authentic Piedmontese cuisine at the cozy bistrot of Relais Sant’Uffizio, located in a beautifully restored former monastery. Enjoy a 4-course menu highlighting local flavors, seasonal ingredients, and warm hospitality. (Drinks not included)

This afternoon, take part in a hands-on cooking class. Guided by a local chef, you’ll learn traditional techniques, prepare regional specialties, and savor your creations paired with local wines.

Overnight Stay: Corte Gondina Boutique Hotel (4*)

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for a day that blends nature, flavor, and elegance.

Truffle Hunting in the Roero Hills
Venture into the scenic Roero hills for a truly Piedmontese experience—an authentic truffle hunt with expert local hunters and their highly trained dogs. Learn about the tradition and skill behind finding these elusive treasures beneath the forest floor.

After your search, enjoy a tasting of truffle products and local specialties, offering a delicious introduction to the earthy, complex flavors that make this region world-renowned.

Afternoon at Leisure in La Morra
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Wander along peaceful vineyard paths such as the Barolo Trail, admire sweeping views of the Langhe hills, or simply take in the charm of La Morra’s tranquil streets and wine shops.

Dinner at Alessandro Mecca Restaurant – Castle of Grinzane Cavour
This evening, dine like royalty within the historic walls of Grinzane Cavour Castle. Chef Alessandro Mecca presents a 5-course tasting menu that reinterprets classic Piedmontese cuisine with creativity and finesse, all against the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding vineyards.

Enjoy a morning breakfast at the hotel before setting off to explore the deep-rooted wine traditions of southern Piedmont.

Travel by minibus to Canelli, where you’ll visit the historic Coppo Winery, home to the legendary Underground Cathedrals—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Carved deep into the tufa hills, these dramatic 19th-century cellars are a stunning fusion of architecture, history, and craftsmanship. As you walk through the vaulted passages, discover how the Coppo family, winemakers since 1892, has perfected the art of fine wine production over generations.

Lunch at Locanda Borgo Vecchio – Neive
Continue to the picturesque village of Neive for an elegant 4-course lunch at Locanda Borgo Vecchio. Set in a beautifully restored stone building with vineyard views, this rustic-chic restaurant offers refined regional cuisine paired with select local wines.

Afternoon at Leisure – Neive & Barbaresco
After lunch, take time to explore Neive and Barbaresco at your leisure—two of the Langhe’s most charming villages. Stroll through their quiet lanes, visit local enotecas, or simply soak in the breathtaking views over rolling vineyards.

Overnight Stay: Corte Gondina Boutique Hotel (4★)
Return to your boutique haven in La Morra for a relaxing evening surrounded by the warmth and tranquility of the Langhe.

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast surrounded by the peaceful rhythms of La Morra.

Visit to Fontanafredda Winery – A Legacy of Love & Barolo
Travel by minibus to the historic Fontanafredda estate, nestled in the heart of the Langhe hills.
Founded in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II as a romantic gift for his beloved "La Bella Rosina," the estate blends royal history with viticultural excellence. Tour the estate and learn about its remarkable role in Italian winemaking—most notably, as the birthplace of the world’s first single-vineyard Barolo in 1964.

Lunch at Guidoristorante – 1 Michelin Star
Savor an elevated Michelin-starred lunch at Guido Ristorante, located inside the Royal Villa of Fontanafredda. With refined Piedmontese dishes served in rooms once graced by royalty, this experience fuses culinary mastery with historic charm.

This afternoon is yours to design. Choose one or simply enjoy time at leisure.

Barolo Wine Immersion
Dive deeper into Barolo’s celebrated wines with an exclusive visit to another renowned winery, selected by Greg Gilbert, for a memorable tasting.

Sunset Hot Air Balloon Flight – Barolo (Approx. 3.5 hours)
Begin with a stroll through the charming village of Barolo, followed by a pre-flight briefing and balloon inflation. Then, soar for about an hour over the UNESCO-protected Langhe landscape, gliding above rolling vineyards and hilltop villages.

Upon landing—wherever the wind takes you—celebrate with a traditional aeronaut’s aperitif featuring local salami, cheeses, hazelnuts, grissini, dried fruits, fresh juice, and a sparkling wine toast.

Enjoy breakfast then check out as you prepare to leave the Langhe and journey toward the vibrant city of Turin.

Martini Privilege Tour – Casa Martini (Approx. 2 hours)
Begin your day at the historic Casa Martini, home of the iconic Italian vermouth. Led by expert guides, the Martini Privilege Tour includes:

• A curated exploration of the Casa Martini Museums, including the newly opened section dedicated to vermouth’s botanicals and production process.

• A walk-through of the active production plant, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind Martini’s legendary recipes.

• A guided tasting of three signature Martini products, offering a sensory deep dive into this classic Italian aperitivo.

Lunch at Casa Format – Michelin Green Star
Enjoy a sustainable fine dining experience at Casa Format, a Michelin Green Star restaurant celebrating eco-conscious luxury.
Set within a striking modern space and surrounded by its own organic garden, Casa Format delivers farm-to-table cuisine rooted in simplicity, seasonality, and deep respect for the land — paired with thoughtfully selected wines.

This afternoon, enjoy a relaxed walking tour designed to help you get to know Turin and gently acclimate to the city. Stroll through elegant piazzas, stately avenues, and Baroque arcades, passing refined cafés and historic facades that reflect Turin’s royal past and intellectual spirit.

Overnight Stay: Grand Hotel Sitea

Begin your final full day in Italy with breakfast in the heart of Turin and choose from one of the morning activities. Both options are equally rewarding, just very different. We encourage you to choose the experience that best fits your interests, energy level, and mobility.

Option 1: Mole Antonelliana & National Cinema Museum

One of Turin’s most iconic landmarks, the Mole Antonelliana is home to Italy’s National Cinema Museum. The experience is immersive and engaging, tracing the history of film through interactive exhibits and displays. A panoramic glass elevator (optional) offers beautiful views over the city.

• Time: ~2 hours

• Physical level: Low; elevator access available

Best for:
Guests who enjoy culture, architecture, and museums, and prefer a relaxed, mostly indoor experience.

Option 2: Sacra di San Michele (Abbey Visit)

Dramatically perched atop Mount Pirchiriano, the Sacra di San Michele is a powerful and atmospheric abbey overlooking the Susa Valley, it offers both historical depth and sweeping views.

Visiting the abbey requires walking, stairs, and uneven stone surfaces. This is a more active morning and does require a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with stairs.

• Time: ~4 hours total (including transport)

• Physical level: Moderate; walking, stairs, some uphill sections

Best for:
Guests who enjoy historic sites, dramatic scenery, and don’t mind a more physical experience.

Afternoon at Leisure in Turin
Enjoy your final afternoon at your own pace.
Stroll or cycle along the Po River, relax in the leafy charm of Parco del Valentino, or browse the upscale boutiques and artisanal shops of Via Roma and Via Garibaldi. Turin’s graceful atmosphere invites slow exploration and quiet indulgence.

Farewell Dinner at Piano35 – 1 Michelin Star
This evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at Piano35, Turin’s highest restaurant, where contemporary Piedmontese cuisine is matched by panoramic views over the city and surrounding Alps. Elevated both literally and gastronomically, the setting offers a modern contrast to the historic flavors and timeless landscapes experienced throughout the journey.

Enjoy a final breakfast savoring one last quiet moment in the heart of Turin.

At the appropriate time, a private transfer will take you comfortably to Turin or Milan Airport for your departure flight.

Allow at least 2-hours for the transfer to Milan.