Le Langhe Oltre la Siepe

Family Farmhouse Restyled as Wine Country Retreat

Rising from a striped quilt of vineyards as far as the eye can see in the UNESCO-designated denomination of Langhe, this traditional stone farmhouse has been opened up and redesigned by an architect studio in Milan, transforming the agricultural structure into a wine country estate stay.

A heritage structure surrounded by vines, this former farmhouse welcomes guests into its stony embrace, each of its three levels set high above the fertile countryside, offering expansive views across a green sea of UNESCO-classified vineyards, a panorama interrupted only by the distant Alps. The farm’s original bricks and Langa stones have been retained, with contemporary add-ons in wood, stone and iron. Windows across the lodge’s three levels offer total immersion in the vines, a land of rich Piedmontese vintages and bright bubbles that’s the stuff of oenophiles’ dreams. A pool tops the hilltop lot, backed by a thick Leyland cypress hedge, and deep patios and the interior relaxation space were designed to frame the vast vineyard views. Rooms are spare and simple, and a designer kitchen features a fireplace opposite the dining table, a piano and of course, access to the wine cellar, stocked with local bottles. There are six bathrooms.

Around

Located overlooking the classic Piedmontese town of Nieve, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, the property is included in the UNESCO classified wine-growing region of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, and is part of the namesakE wine route that winds through the hills around the village. Countless cellars produce Barbaresco, Moscato d'Asti, Barbera, and Dolcetto d’Alba wines, and tasting rooms, bars, wineries, and restaurants are eager to showcase the region’s famed vintages. 

In addition to wine, the area is famed for its truffles, the white truffle in particular, and guided tours allow guests to join the Langhe’s dog-led truffle hunting teams into the dense woods of Piedmont in search of this culinary gold. The medieval village of Nieve itself is cobbled and pretty, its ancient villas clad in vines and flowers revealing the region’s affluence from its wine trade and its historical clock tower is worth a visit, along with its church. 

Constant warring between Nieve’s village neighbors, Asti and Alba, throughout history, means much of Nieve has been destroyed in battle and rebuilt, with an 18th-century church and many municipal buildings revealing an interestingly photogenic mish-mash of architectural styles and periods. Alba is a short drive from Nieve, the heart of the Piedmont’s truffle trade, with a historical heart worth strolling and a massive cathedral. Asti is famed for its sparkling wine, and its exclusive Palio horse racing event held annually each September. The medieval village resembles others in the region, surrounded by a dense forest landscape broken up by rolling, vine-covered hills. Outdoor enthusiasts can wander forest trails on foot or bike, and autumn is a great time to visit Piedmont to witness the wine harvest and take in the forest when it's aflame in reds and golds.

Location

Neive, Cuneo, Piedmont, Italy. Nearest airport: Turin (45km); Genoa (70km)

Best time to visit

April to November