A week long Autumn & Winter Escape in Monferrato

🍂 A 7-Day Autumn & Winter Escape from Il Ritiro. Staying at Il Ritiro in Vignale Monferrato isn't just about relaxing in our lovingly restored villa—it's your gateway to the very best of Piedmont. From rolling vineyards to medieval villages, world-class wines to seasonal delicacies, here's how to make the most of a week in Monferrato during the crisp autumn or cozy winter months.

Day 1: Arrival & Local Charm 🏡🍷

• Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Il Ritiro and settle in. Enjoy a glass of Barbera or Ruchè on the terrace and take in the serene hills.
• Evening: Explore Vignale Monferrato's historic streets, then enjoy a warm dinner at a local trattoria with hearty Piedmontese dishes like braised beef or risotto al Barolo.

Day 2: Vineyards & Wine Tastings 🍇🥂

• Morning: Visit nearby wineries in Vignale, Montemagno, or Nizza Monferrato. Autumn is harvest season, so you may see grape pressing and cellar activity.
• Afternoon: Lunch at a vineyard enoteca, followed by tastings of the region's signature wines.
• Evening: Return to Il Ritiro for a cozy night in, enjoying a glass of your favorite wine.

Day 3: Casale Monferrato & History 🏰☕

• Morning: Explore Casale Monferrato, visiting Duomo di Sant'Evasio and Palazzo Gozzani di Treville.
• Lunch: Taste tajarin pasta or castagna desserts at a local café.
• Afternoon: Stroll through medieval streets or take a short drive to nearby villages for more historic architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy an early aperitivo before returning to Il Ritiro or maybe a nice dinner at Trattoria Serenella.

Day 4: Alba & the Langhe Wine Country 🍂🍷

• Morning: Drive to Alba, the heart of the Langhe region, known for truffles, Barolo, and Barbaresco wines. If in season, join a truffle hunting tour.
• Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely meal in Alba, paired with a local Barolo.
• Afternoon: Explore hilltop villages like Barolo and La Morra for scenic views and vineyard visits.
• Evening: Stop at the fresh pasta shop in Montemagno and get dinner supplies then return to the villa and savor a cozy pasta dinner, perfect for chilly evenings.

Day 5: Asti & Sparkling Wine 🏛️🍾

• Morning: Discover Asti, with its medieval streets and the panoramic Torre Troyana.
• Lunch: Pair Asti Spumante with seasonal dishes at a local trattoria.
• Afternoon: Visit nearby wineries for tastings and cellar tours—autumn harvests and winter indoor tastings offer a warm, intimate experience.
• Evening: Stop at a pastry shop for panettone or amaretti biscuits before heading home.

Day 6: Turin Day Trip 🏙️🍫

• Morning: Drive to Turin (~1 hr 15 min). Visit the Mole Antonelliana, Egyptian Museum, and historic cafés.
• Lunch: Try traditional Piedmontese dishes like bagna cauda or polenta with local wines.
• Afternoon: Stroll Via Roma for shopping or visit the Royal Palace.
• Evening: Return to Il Ritiro and relax with a warming glass of wine.Maybe walk down to Osteria Luna for a relaxing dinner by their fire.

Day 7: Markets & Farewell 🌿🛍️

• Morning: Sleep in, enjoy breakfast at the villa, and visit a local Sunday antique or farmers' market in Casale or Alessandria.
• Lunch: Savor a final meal at a village trattoria, enjoying seasonal dishes and local wines.
• Afternoon: Pack and take one last stroll around the rolling hills before departure, leaving Monferrato's beauty lingering in your memory.

Tips for Autumn/Winter Travel ❄️🍂

• Layers: Bring warm clothing—autumn mornings are crisp, and winter evenings can be chilly.
• Daylight: Plan outdoor activities early due to shorter days.
• Seasonal Delights: Autumn offers truffles and grape harvests; winter brings hearty dishes and cozy wine tastings.
• Wineries: Many offer indoor tastings by the fire—perfect for cooler months