8 days
From US $1,295
Self-guided Piedmont Bike Tour
Explore the rich flavors and rolling landscapes of Piedmont on a cycling tour that blends gentle adventure with cultural discovery.
Starting in elegant Turin, Italy’s first capital, you’ll ride along riverside paths and through lush parks, soon reaching the foothills of the Alps and charming towns like Pinerolo and Saluzzo. These historic gems, with their cobbled streets and medieval charm, offer a peaceful glimpse into the region’s past.
As you pedal deeper into the countryside, the scenery unfolds into a tapestry of vineyards, orchards, and castles. Ride through the Langhe and Roero, renowned for world-class wines like Barolo and Barbaresco, and stop to savor local delicacies in towns like Bra, Alba, and Pollenzo—the heart of the Slow Food movement. Taste, explore, and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of life in this gastronomic paradise.
The journey continues into the Monferrato hills, where panoramic views, noble estates, and tranquil villages await. You’ll pass through picturesque towns like Asti and Moncalvo, and end in Terruggia or Casale Monferrato, surrounded by vineyards and framed by the distant Alps.
Ideal for leisure cyclists, this tour offers a perfect mix of activity, culture, and culinary delight. Each day brings new scenery, flavors, and memories—making Piedmont a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Turin
Terruggia
casual
easy to moderate
50km / 31mi
6
Turin International Airport (TRN)
Turin International Airport (TRN)
Min. 2, Max. 10
Highlights
Wine & Gastronomy in the Langhe
Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Barolo and Barbaresco, stopping to taste world-famous wines in historic cellars. Savor truffle-infused dishes in Alba and discover Slow Food heritage in Bra and Pollenzo. The Langhe region offers a feast for the senses—perfectly paired with every pedal stroke.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns (subject to availability) | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Turin | Best Western Hotel (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Pinerolo | Agriturismo il Torrione | B | 51km / 32miles | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Saluzzo | Hotel Antiche Mura | B | 46km / 29miles | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Bra/Cherasco | Ascheri hotel | B | 63km / 39mi or 69km / 43 miles | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Alba | Hotel Calissano | B | 39km / 24mi or 61km / 38mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Asti | Locanda Ferro Uno | B | 50km / 31mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Terruggia | Hotel Ariotto | B | 52km / 32mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Terruggia | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Turin
Welcome to Turin, Italy’s elegant first capital and your gateway to Piedmont.
Once industrial, now cultural and refined, the city charms with its grand boulevards, leafy parks, and regal architecture. Cycle-friendly and laced with rivers, Turin invites you to explore at your own pace—ride along the Po, admire the iconic Mole Antonelliana, or relax in a historic café.
With its blend of Parisian flair and Italian soul, Turin sets the perfect tone for the journey ahead.
Your bikes will be delivered to your hotel, along with all the other accessories you need to start your Piedmont cycling adventure.
Day 2: Pinerolo
Leave the city behind as you follow peaceful bike paths alongside the Po River and its quiet tributaries.
Pass the romantic Valentino Park and the impressive Stupinigi Palace, once a royal hunting lodge, before pedaling through green parks and gentle countryside.
At the foot of the Alps, Pinerolo welcomes you with cobbled streets and historic charm. Once home to Italy’s most prestigious cavalry school, this town offers a serene place to unwind after your ride.
Day 3: Saluzzo
Ride through a patchwork of orchards and vineyards as you make your way toward the curious Rocca of Cavour, a lone hill rising dramatically from the flat plains.
This natural oddity is a protected reserve, perfect for a photo stop. Continue through quiet country roads to reach Saluzzo, a medieval gem with winding alleys, noble palaces, and hilltop views.
It’s the kind of town where time slows down—and you’ll want to linger.
Day 4: Bra/Cherasco
Today’s ride takes you deeper into Piedmont’s past. Stop to explore the castles of Manta and Costigliole before cycling on to Fossano’s elegant old town.
From here, head to Benevagienna, where Roman ruins reveal ancient secrets. Then it’s on to Cherasco, a town of seven centuries of history and charm, or to Bra, birthplace of the Slow Food movement.
Whether you're drawn to art or appetite, you’ll end the day in a town that knows how to savor life.
Day 5: Alba
Welcome to the Langhe, where vineyards rule the hills.
Cycle first to Pollenzo, home to the University of Gastronomic Sciences, then head toward Barolo, where the noble wine of the same name was born. Stop at the wine castle to sip a glass and take in the views before continuing to Alba, famed for its white truffles and medieval towers.
If you're feeling energetic, detour through La Morra and Grinzane for sweeping vistas and even more wine country charm.
Day 6: Asti
Today you cross into the Roero region, a landscape of rolling hills, castles, and quiet villages.
Pedal past the fairytale silhouettes of Guarene and Cisterna, where a peasant museum tells stories of rural life. Then roll onward to Asti, where cobbled streets, Gothic churches, and Baroque palazzi await.
Known for its sparkling wine and storied Palio horse race, Asti combines historic splendor with a festive spirit. Raise a glass—you've earned it.
Day 7: Terruggia
Climb into the heart of Monferrato, where the hills ripple with vines and every bend offers a postcard view.
Pause in Moncalvo to admire the panorama, then continue through this UNESCO-listed wine region to Terruggia.
Take a dip in the pool or pedal a few extra kilometers to Casale Monferrato, a Baroque beauty on the banks of the Po.
Day 8: Terruggia
After breakfast, your Piedmont cycling adventure comes to a close. Until next time—arrivederci!
A group transfer from Terruggia to Turin is included in your tour price.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $540
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $200
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Musing or similar
Included in your trip price
Cannondale or similar
Included in your trip price
Zeroundici or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Turin, which is a major Italian city and is served by the Turin international airport.
Departure
Your tour ends in Terruggia, located some 75kms (45 mi) east of Turin. A group transfer to Turin is included in your tour price.
Weather
Piedmont is a fantastic cycling destination from April to September, with the peak months—May, June, July, and September—offering ideal conditions: mild weather, green landscapes, and buzzing local life.
April marks a pleasant start to the season, while August can be hot and quieter due to summer holidays.
The months of January to March and November to December are considered off-season, with colder temperatures and limited support for cyclists.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
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