Emilian Mountains: Local Flavours, Castle & outdoors

The 9-hour itinerary across the Apennines mountain range includes visits to the production sites of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. You will also enjoy a guided tour of a medieval castle and experience a farm nestled in the mountains, where you can savor a delicious traditional lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll have a short hike on the Bismantova Plateau, which offers breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys.

Meeting point:

Our meeting point is at 8:00 am at Reggio Emilia’s central train station, located in Piazzale Guglielmo Marconi, in front of the main entrance. 

Itinerary:

Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Farm:

Our first stop will be at the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, where we will witness the production process and have a guided tasting of the famous cheese. 

Canossa’s Castle:

Explore ancient ruins and learn about Matilde di Canossa, a remarkable female leader from the Middle Ages. The castle, perched on sandstone, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.

Balsamic Vinegar Production:

Our second stop will be at an “Acetaia” where you will learn about the production process of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar and enjoy a guided tasting. Afterwards, we’ll take a scenic drive through Apennines National Park to a farm in the mountains.

Lunch at a local farm:

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring  “tigelle” – flatbread with cured meats with cheeses and “tortelli” – stuffed ravioli with ricotta and spinach. Vegetarian option available. Includes water, coffee, and local wine.

Following our meal, we will have time to stroll through the forests surrounding the farm, where we may encounter free-range pigs and other animals. Together with the owner, we will also explore a 100-year-old chestnut orchard.

Pietra di Bismantova:

Our final stop will be the iconic “Pietra di Bismantova,” a rock formation shaped during the last Ice Age and mentioned by Dante Alighieri. We will embark on an easy 30-minute hike to the top, where we can enjoy a panoramic 360-degree view of the surrounding valleys and peaks..