Buongiorno

Our trip starts with your guides meeting you at the Milan Malpensa Airport at 10 am. Milan is a diverse city and it’s location on the Po Plain makes it the headquarters for many of the famous Italian brands. Designers, artists and photographers are also drawn to the city, all of the Italian designers have retail outlets in Milan. Culturally, there are many interesting buildings, palazzos and art galleries. Arrive a day or two earlier, adjust to the time zone and enjoy the fashion capital, the city of glamour.

After a short transfer to Piedmont (literally the foot of the mountain), we will assemble our bikes and head out on a short warm-up ride. Our first ride in Italy allows us to shake off some travel legs and test out your bike for your Giro d’Italia cycling holiday. We’ll stick to the valley and ride through some of the villages. We’ll also head up a small climb, part of tomorrow’s stage to test your low gears.

Our accommodation for the next 2 nights is a 4-star Castello hotel with private grounds, a swimming pool and a wellness centre. Perched on the hillside, before the alps, it once served to protect the underlying village. Piedmont is a rich food production area with fertile plains. The highlight regional product is its black and white truffle.

Tonight, our welcome dinner will be prepared with the finest local ingredients and served with an accompanying regional wine. This evening is a great social opportunity to meet your fellow guests and your staff. Most importantly, have your questions answered by your helpful staff.