Day 13: Alba circuit

Today, I left the panniers in Alba and struck out for some adventure, planning to cover a lot of miles and see all the Langhe area offered. This route followed the "Alba Circuit" route in Lonely Planet's Touring Italy, although I tacked on an additional 70 km. From Alba, I completed two loops to the south, which took me to numerous wine towns, the most famous of which is probably Barolo. Again the terrain was very hilly and the vineyard-views were endless. My favorite town, and lunch stop, was at La Morra. The overlook at La Morra was awesome and enhanced by the numerous thunderstorm clouds that were amassing in the distance. I had a feeling that the afternoon would be very wet.

My hunch was correct and most of the afternoon was spent riding through rainstorms. I made few stops, but enjoyed the new challenge: this was the first day of significant rainfall. I arrived back in Alba, shivering and glad that I did not have to scout out a hotel. After a hot shower and watching the Giro on TV, I headed out for dinner. As I neared the center of Alba, I noticed a lot of commotion and people out and about, much more so than the night before. To my surprise (and sheer delight!), I had stumbled upon the annual wine festival. Where do I start?? First off, the wine was plentiful: multiple booths were set up where wine was dispensed out of huge oak barrels. Next, the ravioli was in equal supply, just present an empty plate and prepare for more. Finally, entertainment was provided by what seemed to be a glee choir from a local school. They were belting out 80's american pop... it was hilarious. Did I forget to mention that it was all free? Afterwards, I fell comatose at the Hotel Soleluna.

Summary: 140 km (87 miles); La Morra! and a rainy ride followed by endless glasses of wine and plates of ravioli (don't forget the smell of chocolate in the air)