A round of golf in the White Truffles' Kingdom

Italy's secret foodie destination? Piedmont. A land of snow-capped peaks, fertile plains and romantic lakes, it is one of Italy's most fascinating regions. As well as sport and nature – which in our case means obviously golf - there are plenty of cultural attractions to be found in the various districts, but there's nothing quite like exploring the whole region on a culinary tour.

Let's start in the area around Langhe, Monferrato and Roero, home to famous Italian wines, such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Langhe Arneis and Barbera.

Nestling in the gentle vine-clad hills, Cherasco Golf Club boasts 18 holes made challenging and spectacular by water hazards. This hilly area is also home of the world's most expensive culinary treasure: white truffle. Truffle season starts in October with the Alba White Truffle Fair. White truffles grow deep in the soil and are difficult to find: a kilogram in autumn 2017 did fetch up to 6.000 Euros! 

More affordable, Piedmont's selection of cold meats is second to none. The typical antipasto will hold various salamis, infused with garlic, rosemary and other herbs. The province of Alessandria features some internationally recognized ones. Here we recommend two stunning local courses. Villa Carolina Golf Club presents two Championship golf courses: La Marchesa, designed by Cornish & Silva, and Paradiso, by Graham Cooke. Both are set in the midst of a green stone pine forest. With its 36 holes perched on the hills, Margara Golf Club is rather short, but it is extremely delicate and accuracy is more important than distance.

We end our journey through the traditional flavours of Piedmont, in the capital Turin, a perfect destination for art and history and, of course, food. If you're a chocolate fan, you're in for a treat: an amazing mixture of chocolate and hazelnuts, Giandujotti bites can be tried everywhere in town.

When you're ready for your next round, the two courses at Torino La Mandria Golf Club are just minutes away. Created in 1956 by John Morrison, the course was later extended to the current 36 holes. It's worth to know that Torino golf club is where the great Italian champions Edoardo and Francesco Molinari grew up since their juniors' years.

Nestled in the gentle rolling hills surrounding Turin, 15 minutes south to city, I Ciliegi Golf Club is a delightful 9-hole parkland course which winds through peaceful cherry orchards. Its rather long fairways and well kept greens, together with plenty of water, make for an interesting round.