Nestled just over an hour away from Milan, the Gavi landscapes become the ultimate place to infuse your mind with nature and tranquility. This territory is home to La Raia, a place where time seems to go at a slower pace than usual. Having celebrated its 20th birthday this year, La Raia is a haven for wine enthusiasts, art connoisseurs and adventure seekers.

A place where the Rossi Cairo family warmly welcome you to their world still today, this familiar presence is strongly felt. Locanda La Raia is located within the 180 hectares of land where nature becomes the pinnacle of your every day, from a landscape and gastronomic point of view. At the restaurant, Chef Tommaso Arrigoni has signed a menu with dishes that speak of local tradition in which flavours from Piedmont and Liguria coexist, featuring many dishes around the vegetables they collect in their garden from green peans to fava beans, spinach and courgettes. 

The rooms are a palette of colours inspired by the surrounding nature, with contrasting elements like the purple sofa that creates a playful atmosphere in the mix and match with the antique furnishings taken from the family home. And the only thing standing between you and the outdoors are big glass windows that frame the bucolic landscape in front.

Take a morning walk around the estate, passing through the immaculate herb garden and its fifty shades of green, and follow the map that will lead you to an open air museum integrated beautifully in the surroundings. These are part of La Raia’s Art foundation in which Artists translate their critical perspective into works of art such as the works of Remo Salvadori whose project Il sabato piantare il cipresso… is an interpretation of the interaction between human and nature.

Upon your return, a large table spread with home made cakes, savoury delicacies and an assortment of gluten free products await to be enjoyed on the lawn with wild rabbits hopping around. 

During the day make the most of what this territory has to offer, from biking along the roads loved by champions such as Fausto Coppi and Costante Girardengo to a game of tennis or golf in one of three surrounding courses or perhaps take it easy and relax in-house at the intimate spa and outdoor pool nestled in the front lawn surrounded by wild flowers.

This is for you if: You are looking for a natural immersion among the expanse of vineyards that’s not Tuscany. 

Good to know: La Raia is conveniently located just over one hour away from Milan, with daily trains to Arquata Scrivia.

The feel: Calm.

Pillow talk: No matter what time of day it is, head to the lounge for a selection of home baked biscuits and teas. 

Cuisine: Healthy cuisine with a menu that focuses on fresh and seasonal produce from the vegetable garden 

Unmissable experience: Visit La Raia’s wine cellar followed by a lunch overlooking the vineyards.

If you like shopping: In 10 minutes you’ll reach Serravalle Design Outlet where you can find your new Dolce & Gabbana long gown or a Pucci skirt as well as many other Italian designer outfits at up to 70% discount.