TASTE Italy’s North Scenic Splendor
Heart of Piedmont & Lombardy Region
September 20, 2025- September 27, 2025
Where Scenic Rides Meet Authentic Flavors
Destination: Cuneo to Lake Como
Price: $4895 per person
Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights
Style/Level: Point to point, Classic, Intermediate
Average Temperature: High: 72F Low: 59F
4 and 5-Star Accommodations
A $200.00 deposit is required to secure your spot. Click Book Tour
Have questions or need more details before deciding? Click learn more.
Embark on an unforgettable bike tour through the picturesque regions of Piedmont and Lombardy, cycling through charming towns like Cuneo, Bra, Asti, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Como. The journey takes you from the alpine foothills of Cuneo, with its French-inspired architecture, through the rolling vineyards of the Langhe region, where food culture and Asti’s medieval charm await. Enjoy wine tastings and indulge in regional delicacies, from truffle-infused dishes to artisanal cheeses. The tour culminates with breathtaking views of Lake Como, where dramatic climbs and peaceful lakeside roads offer a perfect finale. With every stop, you’ll experience the rich cuisine, history, and culture of Northern Italy, making this an ideal adventure for cyclists seeking a blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion. For non-cyclists, the daily itinerary will feature tailored options such as scenic walks or hikes, historic tours, and engaging activities like cooking and wine classes. Each experience is customized to suit the group’s preferences, ensuring an enriching and memorable adventure for everyone.
Tour Highlights
Pedal serene trails winding through lush vineyards, hazelnut groves, and chestnut forests, immersing yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Lombardy and Piedmont’s countryside.
Stay in exquisite 4-5 star hotels and authentic Agriturismos, offering a true taste of local life and culture.
Fuel your journey with Northern Italy’s flavorful meat dishes, white truffles, and artisanal cheeses, all paired with world-class wines like Barolo and Barbaresco during our exclusive tastings at prestigious vineyards.
Discover the beauty as you pedal both Lake Maggiore and Lake Como in a single adventure immersing yourself in picturesque towns and timeless charm.
Master Italian Cooking: Learn the art of crafting the perfect saffron-infused risotto in a hands-on cooking experience with our local friends.
Ride a portion of the legendary Tour of Lombardy, ending at Ghisallo’s iconic Lombardy Cycling Museum.
Itinerary
Day 1 Saturday September 20, 2025: Welcome to Italy
Upon your arrival, our guides will be waiting to greet you at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). Two scheduled shuttles will transport participants to the charming town of Santo Stefano Belbo, in the Province of Cuneo, Italy. The first shuttle departs at 1:00 PM, and the last shuttle leaves at 3:00 PM. (Departure times may vary slightly, coordinated with participants' arrival schedules for convenience.) After checking into the hotel, each participant will undergo a bike fitting. In the evening, we’ll gather for our first dinner together, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and guides while savoring delicious local cuisine. We will conduct a safety briefing and discuss the details of our week-long tour and plans for Day 2.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2 Sunday September 21. 2025: Warm Up Ride
Cyclist: Today’s ride takes us towards the small town of Bene Vagienna, then up to Bra as we follow ancient Roman roads through picturesque wine villages in the Langhe region of Piedmont. After lunch, several post-ride options are available before dinner. We will stop for lunch and have free time to explore this charming old town. Afternoon options include additional cycling, tours, or simply relaxing before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 Monday September 22, 2025: CUNEO TO ASTI
Cyclist: Today’s ride takes us out of the Barolo and Barbaresco wine region and into the Province of Asti. The famous cycling route to our next hotel runs through the Langhe region of Piedmont, an area known for its scenic hills and vineyards, charming villages, and rolling landscapes. After lunch, several post-ride options are available before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
Day 4 Tuesday September 23, 2025: ASTI TO BIELLA
Cyclist: This morning, we cross the Po River at Casale Monferrato, a town rich in architectural heritage. We pedal through one of Europe's largest rice-growing regions, passing through several small farm villages, including San Nazzaro Sesia, home to an 11th-century Benedictine abbey. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local rice producer to learn about the crop's history and harvest techniques. Those wanting to burn off those extra calories can continue biking to our hotel, while others can enjoy the late afternoon in the enchanting retreat in Biella, where tranquil forests and serene natural surroundings create the perfect haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. A traditional dinner awaits you this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Day 5 Wednesday September 24, 2025: BIELLA TO LAKE ORTA
Cyclist: This morning we venture to a ride nothing short of spectacular, blending serene landscapes with achievable climbs and picturesque views. You can expect rolling hills and gentle slopes of the Biella Alps, passing lush forests, charming villages, and meadows with snow-capped peaks in the distance. As we descend, the landscape becomes more cultivated, with expansive vineyards and farmlands leading toward the region of Verbania. The route takes us through quaint villages like Agliano Terme and Orta San Giulio, offering a glimpse of local culture and history. As we approach Lake Orta, stunning panoramic views of the Alpine foothills and the shimmering lake emerge, framed by towering mountains. The ride concludes with a peaceful scene at Lake Orta, where the lake’s deep blue waters reflect the surrounding forested hills and the charming medieval town of Orta San Giulio.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 Thursday September 25, 2025: LAKE ORTA TO LAKE COMO
Cyclist: Starting at Lake Orta, the route follows the lakeside, offering us stunning views of the calm waters and surrounding mountains, with glimpses of local farms growing fresh produce. As we leave the lake, the road ascends gradually through rolling hills and lush forests, passing charming villages where local trattorias serve traditional Piedmontese dishes such as agnolotti and hearty stews. Panoramic views of Lake Maggiore unfold as we continue our journey with local markets offering fresh fish and artisanal cheeses from the region. A stop at our good friend Vineyard will allow us to savor local Lake Como wines, paired with regional delicacies, for an authentic culinary experience. The final stretch to Hotel Asnigo leads you into Chernobbio, where the journey ends with a sense of accomplishment and beautiful views over the lake, completing a ride rich in both scenery and local food culture.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Dinner on your own
Day 7 Friday September 26, 2025: Tour di Lombardi
Cyclist: EOur final ride the legendary ascent to Ghisallo, offering a achievable rewarding climb and culminating at the Santuario di Madonna del Ghisallo, a famous cycling shrine and the Lombardi CyclingMuseum in Ghisallo. This historic route is filled with cycling heritage, with iconic climbs from the Giro di Lombardia etched into the landscape. The ride concludes with a thrilling descent, providing a final glimpse of the breathtaking Lake Como and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Tonight we will enjoy our last meal together as we reflect on our fantastic week together.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 Saturday September 27: Bye-Bye Italy
After breakfast transportation will bring back to the same airport of arrival.
Inclusions and Details
Accommodation/Meals:
Thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the character of the region
Airport and Luggage transfers on first day and last day of tour
Luggage transfer between hotels
Meals: Daily breakfast, snacks at all stops, with lunches and dinners included except on designated "on-your-own" days as listed.
Wine is included during the welcome and farewell dinner events. However, all other alcoholic and specialty beverages are not covered.
Activities:
All activities listed in the tour itinerary for cyclists and tours/excursions designed as daily options for non riders on tour.
Entrance fees to historic sites, parks, and exclusive events related to the tour.
Gratuities for baggage handling, porters, and hotel services
Bike and Gear:
The bikes included with the price of the tour will be high-performance carbon road bikes equipped with electronic shifters and hydraulic disc brakes. They feature 30mm wide tires, ideal for both comfort and performance on various terrains.
E-bikes are also available for an additional charge of $200.00 for those who prefer an assisted ride.
GPS
2025 Taste Series Bike Jersey; T-Shirt, Water bottle, Tote Bag
Support:
Expert bilingual guides with extensive local knowledge. Support vehicle that follows the day’s route, distributes refreshments, and offers lifts.
Pick-up and drop-off before and after your tour from predetermined meeting points for non-riders
Daily bike maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
NOT Included:
Airfare
Few Lunches and Dinners listed as “on your own” days
Travel Protection
Gratuities for Guides