Discover Emilia-Romagna culinary delights with a unique tour focused on the region’s superb food and wine!
Emilia-Romagna, arguably the best-known center of gourmet fare in Italy, famous for its rich cuisine and for the celebrated Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. Stay in Parma for a few nights at the charming Park Hotel Pacchiosi, favourably located a few foot prints from shops, restaurants and cafés. Enjoy a “passeggiata” and explore old-town Parma, visiting Piazza del Duomo, site of a magnificent 12th century cathedral — featuring Correggio’s exuberant fresco in the dome — and the adjacent baptistery.
One day, on a private excursion, with your guide and Food Expert, visit the producers of the region’s celebrated Parmesan. After an early “light” breakfast at your hotel, you will visit a famous producer of Parmesan and discover the complicated procedure to obtain an excellent cheese. The visit will be followed by a tasting session and this will be only your first gourmet experience of the day! A visit to a Parma Ham factory will be your next stop. Here you can delight your palate with different types of ham and salami before heading to Giovanni’s boutique winery. Don’t imagine this to be a luxurious place, but what makes it so special is the authenticity and friendliness of the owner Giovanni and his welcoming staff. Today you will discover their home made wines accompanied by local cheeses, salami, ham and jam tart! You will visit the old cellars and walk through the vineyards till you reach a natural terrace overlooking the stunning Torrechiara Castle.
Another day we will drive to Modena, a small city whose charm far exceeds what anyone might expect. We will enjoy a stroll through the city’s historic center with its magnificent monuments, stylish boutiques and antique churches connected by old-fashioned cobblestone streets. We will admire Piazza Grande with the stunning 9th-century cathedral, considered one of the finest masterpieces of the European Romanesque style, and the Civic Tower, symbol of the city. The three places were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1997. Amazing wine and food pairings can be enjoyed at Osteria Francescana, owned and run by Michelin starred chef Massimo Bottura and rated as the world's best restaurant. In the afternoon we will continue with a detailed visit of a typical “acetaia” where the traditional Balsamic Vinegar from Modena is made. The owner Davide will tell you about vinegar making and prepare for you an excellent “degustazione”. Tasting here is different from any other “acetaia”. You will try the vinegar together with all the local products including fresh vegetables and tomatoes, cheeses, and even ice-cream!