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The Piedmont hills in northwestern Italy are famous for their truffles and full bodied Barolo and ­Barberesco wines. The Relais San Maurizio, part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux hotel group, gives travellers another reason to visit to this part of the country. By far the most luxurious property Piedmont has to offer, the hotel has a fairytale like setting perched on top of a hill in the charming village of San Stefano Belbo. Views of the surrounding Langhe hills and perfectly lined vineyards greet guests wherever they look. Once a 17th century Franciscan monastery, the sprawling property has 31-rooms which were once monks quarters that have been lovingly turned into upscale guest rooms, each uniquely decorated and featuring flat screen televisions, oversize baths and Etro toiletries.

­Don’t let these modern amenities fool you, however, since many historic touches such as original floors, make you feel transported back in time. Décor such as period carpets and chandeliers, as well as the frescoed room where breakfast is served add to the living in another era feel.

Guests can expect the trademark refined and warm service Relais & Chateux properties are known for and will find that San Maurizio is a destination in and unto of itself. The hotel has a lovely park with ancient olive trees, beeches and spruces that’s ideal for a stroll or jog. For unwinding, there is also the new Via del Sale Medical & Beauty Spa, one of the only ones in the area. An indoor pool, facials, massages and natural body scrubs happen in a serene and posh setting, and after the treatments, guests can lounge on the terrace which overlooks the vineyards. A second outdoor pool also boasts panoramic views. 

Pre-dinner drinks can be enjoyed at the intimate Hemingway cocktail bar or outdoors on the magnificent terrace, and while there are many outstanding osterias in the area, do not miss a meal at Guido da Costigliole, the hotel’s Michelin starred restaurant. Situated in the original cellar of the monastery, the space has exposed stone walls and ceilings, and serves some of the best Piedmontese cuisine around with a lengthy wine list to match. The menu constantly changes and might include choices such as pasta filled with local chestnuts, young duck in an orange caramel sauce and lamb with honey and hazelnuts. During the prized truffle season in the fall which attracts visitors from all over the world, these gems are served in different incarnations. A selection of Piedmont cheeses and handmade chocolates and pastries are an ideal way to cap off what is sure to be a memorable meal.

Though the menu offers plenty of appealing choices, chef Guido is more than accommodating to guest preferences. After several days of eating the ample beef and veal dishes found on every menu, we were craving seafood, not a local specialty, and the chef turned out pristine fillets of John Dory in a red sauce of baby shrimps, calamari and clams.

While the hotel is rich with offerings, it’s also well located for guests to explore the surrounding countryside. The town of Alba, considered the heart of the region, is nearby, and medieval villages with their towering castles such as Barberesco and Neive are also close. The knowledgeable concierge can arrange activities for guests such as going on a truffle hunt with a hunter and his dog, hot air ballooning over the hills, making tasting appointments at any of the hundreds of wineries or setting up a hike with a picnic in one of the many surrounding hiking spots.

Rates start at 280 euros.

Relais  San Maurizio
Localita San Maurizio, 39
12058 San Stefano Belbo, Italy
Phone: (+39) 0141 841900

www.relaissanmaurizio.info­

Shivani Vora is New York City-based writer who covers travels, trends and food for more than a dozen publications including the Wall Street Journal, Fodors.com and Four Seasons Magazine.

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