On the belvedere trail between vineyards, historic villages and the Narrated Castle

Roddi, Verduno and the La Morra area.

A scenic ridge of great landscape beauty, stories of personalities tied to wine and truffles and, at the end, a storytelling visit inside one of the most mysterious castles of the Langa.

The route

The route will begin in the historic center of Roddi, whose medieval origins are clearly visible in the layout of the old quarters, in the radial arrangement of the houses and, above all, in the mass of the castle that rises and dominates the silent village.

Leaving behind us the top of the hill dominated by the castle, we reach a scenic hilltop ridge that lets us follow the “Bar to Bar” trail; to our right we admire the profile of the Roero hills crowned by towers and castles that once belonged to important noble families, and to our left the backdrop of the hills in the production area of the prized Barolo.

Once we reach the historic center of Verduno, we will visit the site of the belvedere, a panoramic esplanade where the medieval castle once stood, later replaced by the current castle with its baroque lines: we are now in Pelaverga territory, a rare and distinctive grape variety, whose history is closely linked to the court chaplain of the House of Savoy, the Blessed Sebastiano Valfrè.

We will follow the path of the Madonna del Loreto, a quiet little church set among vineyards that at this time of year display the autumn colors of their leaves.

At this highly scenic spot we will have a packed lunch, after which we will return to Roddi along a secluded, bucolic valley immersed in autumn colors.

Telling Tales of Castles and Wines at the Castle of Roddi

On the way back, anyone who wishes can take part in a storytelling visit to the mysterious Castle of Roddi, brought to life by characters from the past who will share untold stories and curiosities.

Visitors will be accompanied by the housekeeper Mariuccia and will be able to immerse themselves in the ancient, evocative atmosphere of the manor.

At the end of the visit, a wine tasting with the local producer Cadia is planned.

An excursion of great landscape, historical and geological interest

Program

Meeting at 9:45 AM in Roddi d’Alba (Cn), Piazza Umberto I.

Departure 10:00 am.

Packed lunch.

Return in the early afternoon.

Info

Route length approximately 14 km.

Total elevation gain 410 m.

Loop route.

Excursion of great interest: scenic, naturalistic, geological and historical.

Excursion led by tourist guide and AIGAE environmental hiking guide, Piedmont Region, with narration of the territory.

We recommend trekking boots, comfortable and suitable clothing, a water supply, and optionally walking poles.

In case of expected bad weather, contact Terre Alte or consult the website.