Fly&Drive Monferrato
The Gentle Heart of Piedmont
Fly&Drive 3 Nights’ Itinerary Through Vineyards, Castles and Timeless Villages
There are places where time seems to slow down, where every hill tells a story and every village preserves centuries of traditions. Monferrato, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, is one of those rare destinations where history, wine culture, spirituality and authentic Italian lifestyle blend into a unique travel experience.
Just a short drive from Turin, this gentle land unfolds through endless vineyards, medieval castles, Romanesque churches, historic residences and charming villages surrounded by nature. Every road leads to a new discovery: a noble castle still inhabited by its owners, an ancient abbey hidden among the hills, a family-run winery producing world-class wines, or a traditional trattoria where recipes have been passed down for generations.
This self-drive itinerary has been designed for travellers who wish to explore Monferrato at their own pace, enjoying breathtaking landscapes, genuine hospitality and unforgettable culinary experiences. Each day combines cultural heritage, local gastronomy and exclusive tastings, allowing guests to discover the authentic heart of Piedmont.
For a tailor-made quotation, please contact Riviera Monferrato: https://riviera-monferrato.com/
SUGGESTED PROGRAM
Day 1 – Arrival in Monferrato
Castles, Noble Families and Monferrato Wines
Arrival in Monferrato and check-in at a charming country hotel surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.
The journey begins with the discovery of one of Monferrato's elegant historic residences, such as the magnificent Castello delle Quattro Torri di Arignano, where centuries of noble history come alive through beautifully preserved halls, courtyards and gardens. The visit becomes even more memorable thanks to the stories shared directly by the owners, offering an authentic glimpse into aristocratic life in Piedmont.
Enjoy a typical monferrino lunch in a traditional Monferrato restaurant, where local recipes celebrate the region's rich culinary heritage with seasonal ingredients and carefully selected local wines.
In the afternoon, continue to a prestigious local winery. Guided by expert winemakers, discover the vineyards, production areas and underground ageing cellars before enjoying a tasting of the estate's finest wines, learning about the unique grape varieties that have made Monferrato internationally renowned.
Return to the hotel.
Overnight in Monferrato.
Day 2 – UNESCO Landscapes and Spiritual Heritage
Abbey of Vezzolano & Wine Traditions
After breakfast, drive through scenic vineyard roads towards the extraordinary Abbey of Santa Maria di Vezzolano, one of the finest examples of Romanesque-Gothic architecture in Northern Italy. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, the abbey fascinates visitors with its sculpted cloister, remarkable frescoes and centuries of spiritual history.
Lunch in a traditional local trattoria, where authentic Monferrato flavours meet genuine hospitality.
In the afternoon, continue to Cocconato, one of Italy's most beautiful hilltop villages, renowned for its food traditions and artisan producers. Here, enjoy a visit to a historic local dairy, where generations of cheesemakers have preserved the authentic flavours of Monferrato. Guests discover the production techniques behind traditional Piedmontese cheeses before indulging in a tasting of carefully selected cheeses paired with artisanal cured meats and other regional delicacies, celebrating the area's extraordinary gastronomic heritage.
Take some time to stroll through the charming streets of Cocconato, enjoying panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and hills before returning to the hotel.
Overnight in Monferrato.
Day 3 – The Hills of Don Bosco and Italian Distilling Excellence
Faith, Craftsmanship and Liquid Gold
This morning head towards Colle Don Bosco, birthplace of Saint John Bosco and one of Piedmont's most important pilgrimage sites. Nestled among peaceful hills, the sanctuary, museum and historic birthplace tell the inspiring story of the saint's early life while offering spectacular panoramic views across Monferrato.
Lunch in a characteristic Monferrato restaurant featuring traditional regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, discover one of the region's historic artisan distilleries, where time-honoured techniques and generations of expertise have transformed local grape pomace into some of Piedmont's most celebrated spirits. During a guided visit, guests explore the production areas, traditional copper stills and atmospheric ageing cellars, learning about the craftsmanship behind grappa, brandies, vermouth and herbal liqueurs. The experience concludes with a guided tasting of a selection of premium spirits, offering a deeper appreciation of one of Piedmont's oldest artisanal traditions.
Return to the hotel for a relaxing final evening.
Overnight in Monferrato.
Day 4 – Historic Villages and Departure
After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore one of Monferrato's charming villages, browse local artisan shops or simply admire the vineyard landscapes one last time before departure.
Suggested accommodation
To fully experience the authentic atmosphere of Monferrato, guests stay in carefully selected boutique hotels, historic country houses or elegant agriturismi, all members of the Riviera del Monferrato hospitality network, offering warm hospitality, local character and a perfect base for exploring the region.
Info&Booking: https://riviera-monferrato.com/


