Magnificence and history combine in the Castle of Grinzane Cavour which stands on a hilltop above the little town of the same name in the province of Cuneo.
A castle museum in the heart of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
Just a few kilometres from the truffle capital of Alba and on the road that leads to the home of the world-famous Barolo wine, Grinzane Cavour is about 75 kilometres by car from the regional capital, Turin. Built in the middle of the 11th century, the Castle dominates the beautiful Langa hills which, together with the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato wine-growing region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today the Castle is home to the Langhe Museum and has fascinating historical rooms that reveal the arts and crafts of times long gone with an exhibition of the tools of rural life while fascinating memorabilia from the times of Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, who was Italy’s first prime minister, is kept in what were his private apartments.
Beautiful landscapes and an annual truffle auction
Strolling through the charming streets of the little town with its low houses and its little squares, the atmosphere is one of tranquility. The surrounding landscapes are some of the most beautiful in Italy with the Langhe’s rolling hills, perfectly aligned vineyards and medieval villages perched on hilltops. Since 1999, every year at the beginning of November, the Castle of Grinzane Cavour hosts the “World Alba White Truffle Auction,” an event that draws great chefs and celebrities to the non-profit event. In fact, the proceeds from the sale are donated to charities in Italy and around the world, and to date have raised well over €5million.
Italian excellence and esprit français in the restaurant
Chef Marc Lanteri's Cucina di Confine restaurant in the Castle takes its inspiration from his childhood spent in the small village of Tenda, just over the border in France. The restaurant's rooms have exposed brickwork, terracotta floors, and coffered ceilings, and Lanteri’s cuisine, with true esprit français, is inspired by Piedmontese and Provençal traditions; a border cuisine that blends the best of both styles with locally grown products of excellence. For information: https://www.castellogrinzane.com
