Barbaresco, with its Michelin-starred restaurants and world-class wines, is heaven for all culinary lovers. While it’s a popular destination year-round, November brings a special allure: the season of white truffles. The mix of gastronomy, excellent wine and the sought-after tartufo bianco make it the perfect autumn getaway for those living the dolce vita lifestyle.

If your heart starts beating faster at the thought of white truffles and wine, I’ve discovered a place you absolutely need to visit. Have you ever heard of Piemonte? Located in Northern Italy, where the Alps meet the Swiss border, this region is famous for its world-renowned white truffles and exceptional wines. Perhaps you’ve heard of Barolo—the velvety red that always leaves you reaching for a second glass. Besides Barolo, Piemonte is also home to Barbaresco, another iconic wine, and offers a landscape of rolling hills covered in endless vineyards.

Last weekend, we had the pleasure of exploring Barbaresco, a small, enchanting village in the heart of these vineyards. Arriving after dark, I had no idea just how extensive the scenery would be. The next morning, when I threw open the shutters of our suite, I was greeted by a soft autumn breeze and the sight of a medieval castle sitting on the rolling hills. The vineyards stretched as far I could see—a landscape that feels worlds apart from my Dutch roots. It was one of those magical moments that I keep on having since moving abroad.

Of course, I was excited to visit local cantinas and savor their finest selections. One standout was Montaribaldi, a charming, family-run cantina that provided the perfect setting for a unique aperitivo. While the sun set over the vineyards, we tasted an array of wines. We tried bold Barolos to elegant Barbarescos, along with some lighter varieties that added a tasteful contrast. The combination of exceptional wine, breathtaking views, and the warmth of a family-owned vineyard makes the experience at Montaribaldi truly special.

Truffle up

Beyond the wine, Barbaresco’s UNESCO heritage status is also tied to its world-famous white truffles, which are among the most rare and expensive of their kind. From September through December, truffle hunters roam the forests of Piemonte, guided by their expert trained dogs. During harvest season they can cover up to 15 kilometers a day in search of the much wanted Tartufo Bianco. That said, in November, truffle lovers from both Italy and Switzerland come together, transforming the picturesque village of Barbaresco into a glamorous gathering spot. Groups of friends and families travel from all over the country, gathering to celebrate life with exceptional food and wine—a tradition I really love about Italian culture. There’s always a good excuse to come together and drink a glass of something extraordinary.

During this period, you’ll often see groups of sports cars pulling up in front of the wine cantinas with that effortless flair only Italians can pull off, bringing a lively energy to the normally more quiet village. Suddenly, the medieval streets are buzzing with laughter and the style of the fashionable Milanese- all dressed to impress and making the atmosphere feel like something out of a classic Italian film.

Restaurant recommendations

Umano: This month, the menus in Piemonte showcase the season’s finest black and white truffles, so no matter where you’ll go, you’ll be in for a treat. My favorite dining experience however was at Umano, where the combination of great service, warm hospitality, and high-quality dishes stood out. At one point, I found myself surrounded by four glasses of different wines and three plates featuring truffle. I know indulgence might be a sin, but in that moment, it felt more like a blessing. It was simply too delicious to resist. 

Campanac: Another must-visit spot, Campanac restaurant is located right in the heart of Barbaresco village. Known for its sleek, modern dining room and incredible panoramic wine cellar, it offers a fine dining experience worthy of its Michelin guide mention. One dish you absolutely have to try is the poached eggs with white truffle. For some reason, the flavours just work.