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Salt. Such a simple thing. But centuries ago, it was an outrageously precious commodity – and where salt flowed in one direction, gold flowed in the other.
For hundreds of years from the Middle Ages onwards, mule trains loaded with sea salt would labour up from the coast to the heights of the Ligurian Apennines to return loaded with grain, wines and cheese. This network of became known as the Via del Sale: the Salt Road. We trace it seawards, from the plains of Piedmont back down to the sparkling Mediterranean.
The trail takes us via the vine-clad slopes of a UNESCO World Heritage Site wine region where we taste the famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Along our way we encounter a landscape of medieval castles, unspoiled historic villages and small Romanesque churches. And appropriately for a trail so inextricably linked to food and drink, we get to savor the best of this region’s classic cuisine.
Our goal? The aptly named Riviera of Flowers, where citrus groves thrive in the jasmine and bougainvillea-scented air right by the sea.
Meet at the Hotel Genova in Torino (Turin), then drive to Monforte d’Alba, a fortified town overlooking vineyards, with distant views of the Alps. Welcome Drink and Dinner tonight.
Monforte d’Alba, Hotel Villa Beccaris
Today we explore the Barbaresco Hills, cultivated with Nebbiolo grapes, used in making prized Barbaresco wine. We start from Barbaresco’s imposing 12th-century brick tower, and hike to Neive, a perfectly preserved hilltop village, and one of ‘i borghi piú belli d’Italia’ (the most beautiful hamlets in Italy). We complete the day with a wine tasting.
Monforte d’Alba, Hotel Villa Beccaris
Spend the day exploring the hills of Langhe-Roero, walking from our hotel through a succession of gentle slopes planted with vines. Quaint farmhouses, picturesque villages and noble castles perch on every undulating fold and contour, making this one of Italy’s prettiest landscapes.
Monforte d’Alba, Hotel Villa Beccaris
Driving south, we follow ancient roads to the small town of Torresina, where we walk along green paths following fast flowing streams through hazelnut woods. This wild and remote area is described by Beppe Fenoglio in his books about the Italian Resistance of World War II. Today, the mountains are mostly inhabited by shepherds. We taste the unique local cheese, handmade from the milk of the rare Langhe sheep.
Costa San Luigi, Hotel Le Piemontesine
In the morning, drive to the Liguria coast, a journey that offers superb views of the countryside and the coast. The trip gives us a chance to admire how the landscape changes as we approach the Mediterranean. In the afternoon, hike from medieval Castello Gavone in Perti to historic Finalborgo, then on to our inviting hotel by the sea.
Finale Ligure, Hotel Punta Est
Appreciate the vivid “Riviera of Flowers” driving to the Plateau Manie. This lovely area of high ground is home to a range of rare plants and wildlife, including the fragrant Italian bellflower. We’ll walk with spectacular views of the Ligurian Sea. Farewell Dinner at our hotel.
Finale Ligure, Hotel Punta Est
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Finale Ligure railway station.