Discover the Territory of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato
In 2014, the wine-growing landscape of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since then, tourism has been growing steadily while keeping intact the authenticity of an area still rich in hidden corners and unique experiences.
Geological Origins and Land Transformation.
Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato are distinguished by their special geological features, which have influenced these lands’ history and agricultural and economic development.
- The Langhe is characterized by soils composed mainly of clayey and sandy marls of marine origin. About 15 million years ago, these hills were submerged by an ancient sea, which resulted in mineral-rich soils perfect for growing vines.
- The Roero is the result of more recent erosion than the Langhe. Here are the famous Rocche, spectacular sandstone formations created by the action of the Tanaro River some 250,000 years ago. This conformation has created a rougher terrain, ideal for the cultivation of orchards, hazelnut groves, and vines.
- Monferrato has even more ancient origins, with sedimentary formations and river deposits dating back over 20 million years. It is a land where viticulture has taken deep root, with varieties such as Barbera that have found their ideal habitat here.
The territory of the rolling hills of the Langhe
The Langhe are famous for their breathtaking landscapes and production of renowned wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco. Their rolling hills offer a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for slow tourism.
Historical Development of the Langhe
Due to its strategic location between Piedmont and Liguria, the Langhe has experienced a rich history of cultural and commercial exchange. In the Middle Ages, it was contested between different lordships, such as the Savoy and the Marquis of Saluzzo. With the arrival of modern viticulture and the recognition of DOCGs, this area has become one of IItaly’s main food and wine hubs.
What to see in the Langhe
- Historic Villages: Visit world-famous places such as Barolo, La Morra and Monforte d’Alba
- Castles and History: Discover Grinzane Cavour Castle, Serralunga Castle, Barolo Castle.
- Slow Experiences: Walks through the vineyards, Vespa tours, and tastings in the best wineries. Experience the sweetness of the landscape with “people-friendly” experiences.
Fun fact: The Langhe is home to the Slow Food movement, a concept reflected in local lifestyle and tourism experiences.
The wild charm of the Roero
Separated from the Langhe by the Tanaro River, the Roero has a rougher and wilder landscape, with spectacular rock formations and a wide variety of cultivation.
Roero Historical Development
The Roero has always had a more agricultural identity than the Langhe, with an economy based on cultivating vines, hazelnuts, and fruit. The presence of the Rocche has made the area less accessible, maintaining a more unspoiled nature. Over the centuries, its medieval villages have experienced the influence of powerful local families, such as the Roero of Asti, who gave the region its name.
What Characterizes the Roero?
- Rocche del Roero: Impressive rock walls and unique gullies.
- Typical Productions: Wines such as Roero Arneis and Nebbiolo are born here, flanked by orchards and hazelnut groves.
- Outdoor Activities: Perfect for hiking, biking,g and authentic food and wine tours.
The Roero is about discovering, perhaps with a food and wine itinerary or riding a nice bike: it is the perfect area for outdoor activities and is particularly suitable for families.
Ask us for advice on visiting the wineries of Roero Arneis or Roero red wines: a nice winery lunch in the Langhe and Roero will be the real treat for your Langhe and Roero tour.
Monferrato tra tradizioni e sapori autentici
Il Monferrato è una terra di grandi vini e castelli medievali, con una storia affascinante e un’atmosfera genuina.
Sviluppo Storico del Monferrato
Il Monferrato è una delle più antiche regioni vitivinicole d’Italia, con tracce di coltivazioni già in epoca romana. Durante il Medioevo, divenne un importante centro feudale con potenti signorie locali. La sua tradizione vinicola è profondamente legata alla Barbera, ma anche ad altri vitigni autoctoni come il Grignolino e il Ruchè.
Zone del Monferrato:
- Monferrato Casalese: Dominato da Casale Monferrato, ricco di storia e cultura.
- Basso Monferrato Astigiano: Una zona collinare con piccoli borghi incantevoli.
- Alto Monferrato di Acqui Terme: Famoso per il vino Gavi e le sue acque termali.
Perché Visitare il Monferrato?
- Enogastronomia: La patria della Barbera e della cucina tradizionale piemontese.
- Castelli e Torri: Un territorio ricco di antiche fortezze e dimore nobiliari.
- Esperienze Autentiche: Ideale per chi cerca luoghi meno turistici ma di grande fascino.
We at SlowDays have three ways to discover the area: First, the Langhe food and wine. Then, we have proposals for hiking and walking itineraries. For those who are looking for some original ideas, we have our proposals to experience Langhe Roero Monferrato with an E-bike Tour or a magnificent Vespa Tour.
The three proposals are often intertwined, creating rich possibilities. It is almost obligatory to indulge in pleasant stops during a walking tour or on a Vespa or bicycle tour, just as visiting wineries in the Langhe becomes an enjoyable interlude between visits to castles, villages, and churches. There is a wealth of things to see in Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato, with plenty to enjoy and visit.
