Murazzano: Wind, Towers, and Cheese That Tastes of History

If you’re currently relaxing at our accommodations in Pollenzo, today we invite you to hop in the car and "head up." And we mean up. Let’s leave behind the manicured vineyards of the Lower Langa (Bassa Langa) and aim for the Alta Langa, where the air turns crisp, the landscape grows wild, and the undisputed star of the show is Murazzano.

Murazzano is nicknamed the "Shield of the Langhe." Why? Because it sits proudly at 700 meters above sea level, windswept and fierce, watching over everyone from above. Here is why you absolutely cannot miss it.

The Tower: Views for Days (and for Instagram!)

The first thing you’ll spot as you arrive is the Medieval Tower. It stands 33 meters tall and, believe me, climbing it is an experience. Once at the top, if the day is clear, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: on one side, the Alps look like they’ve been painted against the sky; on the other, the rolling expanse of the Langhe. The village elders say that on the clearest days, you can even catch the shimmer of the Ligurian Sea.

The King of the Table: Robiola DOP

You can't say "Murazzano" without saying Robiola. But be careful: don’t call it just "cheese!" This is one of Italy’s oldest culinary treasures (word has it that Pliny the Elder was a fan). Made with sheep’s milk from the Langhe, it tastes of wild herbs and high-altitude pastures. Insider tip: If you see a Robiola wrapped in a vine leaf, you’ve found the "real deal"—the old peasant tradition used the leaf to keep the cheese moist and flavorful.

Witches and Legends: Watch Your Step!

The Alta Langa is the land of the Masche (Piedmontese witches). In Murazzano, legend has it that these figures would appear to travelers as black cats or sudden gusts of wind to play pranks or scare those who disturbed the silence of the woods. There is a magical, almost suspended atmosphere here. Walking through the narrow streets of the historic center, built from local stone, feels like stepping into a book by Cesare Pavese or Beppe Fenoglio.

What to See (Besides the Tower)

• The Sanctuary of Madonna di Hal: A little piece of Belgium in the Langhe! Legend says a Flemish soldier, miraculously healed, brought the cult of the Black Madonna of Hal here. It is a silent, beautiful spot.
• The Safari Park: If you have kids (or are just a kid at heart), a safari park is located just minutes from the center. You can see lions, tigers, and zebras—a bizarre but fun contrast to the sheep grazing nearby!

When to Go? The Festival is a Must!

If you want to see the village at its finest, mark your calendar for the Mostra della Robiola di Murazzano (usually at the end of August). It’s a true celebration: stalls of local producers, flowing wine, music, and that old-fashioned village fair atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the community.

Why Go There From Pollenzo?

In about 35–40 minutes by car from our rentals in Pollenzo, you’ll transition from orderly wine hills to hazelnut groves and the high pastures of the Alta Langa. It’s the perfect day trip for those wanting to discover the most authentic, "off-the-beaten-path" side of our region. Plus, imagine the pleasure of returning home in the evening, after enjoying that cool mountain air, to unwrap a Robiola bought directly from the producer and pairing it with a fine glass of wine from the Banca del Vino.

Ready to Set Off for Murazzano?

Forget the highway: today we’re traveling on the SP661, a road made for those who love driving with an arm out the window and eyes full of beauty.

The Photo Op: Belvedere Langhe About halfway there (just over 20 km in), you’ll find a tiny detour (about 500 meters) that leads to the Belvedere Langhe viewpoint.

• Why stop: As the name suggests (Belvedere means "beautiful view"), the vista is stunning. It’s the perfect spot to photograph the hills sloping down toward the plains before the final "climb" to the heights of Murazzano.

Recommended Itinerary:

1. Departure: Leave Pollenzo heading toward Bra/Dogliani.
2. Wine Country: You’ll pass through the Dogliani area (home of the famous Dolcetto wine). If you have room in the car, a stop at a local cellar is always a great idea.
3. The Climb: Past Dogliani, the road begins to climb gently and the vegetation changes: fewer vines, more hazelnut trees and woods.
4. Stop at Belvedere Langhe: Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view.
5. Arrival in Murazzano: You’ll see the tower on the horizon. Park near the center and get ready for your Robiola tasting!

Practical Tips for Our Guests:

• Temperature: In the Alta Langa, it can be 4–5 degrees (Celsius) cooler than in Pollenzo. Always bring a sweatshirt or a light jacket, even in summer!
• The Route: The total journey is about 35 km, here.
• Timing: I recommend leaving in the early afternoon. This way, you can catch the warm golden hour light from the Tower of Murazzano and be back in Pollenzo for dinner with your stash of local cheeses.

Have a great trip!