Well hello love!
I’ve spent the past 5 days in the Piedmont region for the sole purpose of learning more about the food and wine in the area as I really didn’t know too much about it. I can honestly say, this is now one of my favourite regions and I can’t wait to come back again one day! I did a lot of research about where to base myself to explore this area and Alba kept popping up. It’s really like a fairy tale village. Cobblestone streets, towers, flags everywhere and really friendly people. So, if you decide to come to this area here’s my tips:
eat/drink
Cafe Teatro – for breakfast. Super cute, friendly and pastries to die for!
Gina la Piadina – for lunch. Basically, choose from a pile of fillings and they put it in a kind of wrap thats almost like an incredibly thin pizza base. My airbnb host suggested I go there as it’s like a traditional sandwich for the region – you won’t be disappointed.
La Piola – my number one choice for dinner! Here’s my review and I dare you not to go!
shop
This isn’t a shopping area like Milan or Florence but instead, take your time and get lost in the myriad of laneways which are filled with boutique clothing, perfumeries, chocolateria’s, enoteca’s and I’m happy to say, not a souvenir shop in sight!
I did happen across the market on Saturday morning which amused me. If filled every street in the village and you could buy everything from bags, to zippers to Australian underwear?
do
A wine tour of the region. I highly recommend contacting Matteo at Langaround who will give you a day to remember, in case you missed it here’s my review.
I also did a day trip to Turin which was lovely. That is a serious shopping city but also stunning to wander around full of history. It’s highly influenced by the French and is the true royal city of Italy.
I also timed my trip to coincide with VinumAlba which is best described as a wine festival to celebrate the region with some food stalls and music thrown in! I highly recommend going to give yourself a great understanding of the different wine varietals and also have some yummy food as well. FYI – there’s also a major White Truffle Festival in Alba in October which would be awesome to go to also.
stay
Alba is pretty tiny so as long as you choose somewhere within the city walls you’ll be fine. I stayed at a charming AirBNB called L’ortodellerose and it was perfect. Large bedroom, lounge area, kitchen and bathroom and Paola even supplied breakfast and washed my clothes!
Alba was an amazing experience and I absolutely plan to go back again one day and explore the area further. A dining experience at the 3 star Michelin restaurant – Piazza Duomo is at the top of my foodie wishlist!
Be fabulous xx
well hello lovie 