La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 The Truffle Route (Tour code: 15108)

A visit to Tenuta Cucco offers an immersive journey into the heart of the Monferrato region, at a historic winemaking estate nestled among centuries-old vineyards. The experience begins with a welcome glass of local wine and a light aperitif—an elegant introduction to the flavours of this remarkable landscape. A guided tour follows, taking guests through the Cru Cerrati vineyard and the storied Vigna Cucco, a treasured plot over sixty years old that borders the estate. Though modest in size, this vineyard produces grapes of exceptional quality, forming the foundation of some of Piedmont’s most iconic red wines.

Lunch is served in the estate’s refined dining hall, featuring a menu inspired by traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Each course is thoughtfully paired with a selection of exceptional regional red wines, chosen to enhance both flavour and aroma while expressing the true essence of the land. After lunch, a visit to the estate’s ageing cellar offers a glimpse into the slow, deliberate process of maturation in oak barrels, where wines quietly develop the depth and complexity that define Tenuta Cucco’s craft. This experience is a sophisticated blend of culture, tradition, and gastronomy, set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most captivating wine regions.

An exclusive visit to Canelli reveals the hidden world of the Underground Cathedrals—magnificent cellars carved into rock and now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These historic spaces, at the heart of Italy’s sparkling wine tradition, offer a rare opportunity to explore where fine Moscato d'Asti and Metodo Classico wines are carefully aged beneath the surface.

The guided tour is followed by a curated tasting of regional wines, each offering unique aromas and refined characteristics. The experience continues with a traditional lunch at a highly regarded local restaurant, where dishes are crafted using seasonal ingredients in the time-honoured style of Piedmontese cuisine. This seamless blend of history, viticulture, and gastronomy creates a deeply enriching experience, ideal for those with an appreciation for cultural heritage and fine wine.

Set out on an authentic truffle-hunting excursion through the unspoiled hills of Monferrato, a unique opportunity to experience one of Piedmont’s most treasured traditions. Accompanied by a skilled truffle hunter and expertly trained dogs, the adventure begins with a walk through the woodland landscape in search of this rare delicacy. Along the way, the ancient art of truffle hunting is revealed—from identifying ideal conditions to understanding the vital role of the dogs’ extraordinary sense of smell.

Following the hunt, the itinerary continues with a tasting at one of the region’s esteemed wineries. Guests are introduced to the area’s finest wines and the stories behind their production, gaining insight into the craftsmanship that defines this celebrated winemaking region. The experience concludes with a traditional lunch, featuring classic Piedmontese dishes with truffles as the centrepiece. A harmonious blend of natural beauty, culinary heritage, and oenological excellence, this experience offers a lasting connection to the soul of Piedmont.