Turin, the capital of Piedmont is situated 60 km north of Alba. The port city of Savona, in Liguria, is 70 km south. Alba is halfway between the two cities.
October could be a good time to visit Alba as this is when the annual Truffle Fair takes place. Whatever the season a wine and food experience could be a good idea as the town is said to be the 'gourmet capital' of Italy. As well as Michelin star restaurants, a quiet stroll around this handsome, medieval town will reveal gracious buildings, cobbled streets, a cathedral dating back to the 6th century, museums and shops selling local specialities. Saturday is market day.
We received a warm welcome, even though we arrived later than expected. Our stay was wonderful! The room was clean and comfortable. It is walking distance to many delightful restaurants. We would stay there in the future!
The seminary is located in Alba, a town and comune of Piedmont, Italy, in the province of Cuneo. It is considered the capital of the UNESCO Human Heritage hilly area of Langhe, and is famous for its white truffle, peach and wine production.
In the foothills of the Italian Alps, the elegant rural town of Alba lies in the heart of wine, chocolate (think Ferrero Rocher and Nutella) and white truffle country. In this part of the world the the culinary delights are as spectacular as the landscape. The guesthouse Il Seminario is in a prime location for sampling all the delights Alba has to offer. The house is situated in a tiny cobbled piazza overlooked by the 14th century Church of Santa Caterina.
Once a Dominican convent, the gracious building is still a working seminary for trainee Catholic priests. However, in recent times the diocese has converted an unused section of the building into guest accommodation for tourists and travellers of all faiths and none. A number of rooms in this historic building have been modernised and fitted out with modern amenities. Even though the building is located in the centre of the town the guesthouse is an oasis of peace and serenity.
And white truffle season starts in October!
| Room types | Prices per room from* | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Single with private bathroom | EUR 40.00 | Max €50.00 - breakfast €9.00 |
| Twin beds with private bathroom | EUR 65.00 | Max €80.00 - breakfast €9.00 |
| Double with private bathroom | EUR 65.00 | Max €80.00 - breakfast €9.00 |
| Triple with private bathroom | EUR 85.00 | Max €100.00 - breakfast €9.00 |
Seasonal rates apply to this property. Price excludes city tourist tax of approx. €1.50 per person per night.
Monastery accommodation for tourists and pilgrims.
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