Cascina delle Langhe

Rustic Charm in Italy’s Wine and Truffle Region

Set walking distance to the village of Castina via a road of rambling hills, vineyards and olive groves, this 150-year-old farmhouse’s restoration is one for the books. The generous stone estate sits in a manicured, three-hectare garden with seating and bocce courts, a 14m x 3m pool, shaded porticos and sun-drenched verandas, with views over the fertile countryside. The region is home to fine wines, truffles, and dozens of Saturday farmers’ markets, not to mention striking distance from the Ligurian coastline (65km) and the celebrated Roman-era spa town of Acqui Terme (35km).

The four-bedroom, three-bathroom Piedmont villa sleeps eight, and its spacious kitchen and common living/dining areas are built around a classic courtyard, making it an ideal space for easy entertaining and outdoor eating. The home’s bedrooms are upstairs, with views of the landscape and garden, and there’s an independent apartment with a kitchenette, living room and charming loft with two additional beds. Furnishings elevate the old-stone styling, and fireplaces, French doors and antiques add to the rustic ambiance.

Outdoors, unwind on the shaded portico or sunbathe on the veranda, swim in the shade of a fringed palm in the oversized pool, play bocce, or stroll the stone-walled gardens for an authentic, Italian country experience.

Around

A short walk from the town of Castino, a scenic village with local shops, a pizzeria and a pasta shop, the house is located in Langhe, a slice-of-authentic-Italian-life area of cultural, culinary and natural diversions. The local pasta shop is famed for its Agnolotti, the pizzeria turns out delectable pies, the village café is perfect for aperitivo or coffee hour, and the celebrated town of Alba, home to the world’s coveted white truffles and Michelin-starred dining spots to match, is a quick drive away (20km).

The house makes a great base for exploring Piedmont’s wine country, too. Both Barolo and Barbaresco are less than a half hour from the property, and Asti is a bit further, all towns adding lively markets and historical architecture to their wine country allure. The Roman thermal bath town of Acqui Terme is known for its healing waters and architecture, and beachcombers can reach the Ligurian Coast in about an hour.

Location

Castino, Langhe, Piedmont, Italy. Nearest airport: Milan (185km)

Best time to visit

April to November