Small-Group Apennines Food, Farm & Outdoors Tour with Castle
Description
Explore the heart of the Apennines National Park on this full-day small-group experience combining food, history, nature, and authentic farm life. Begin with visits to Parmigiano Reggiano and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar producers, discovering the craftsmanship behind Emilia-Romagna’s most iconic flavors. Continue to Canossa Castle to learn about the story of Queen Matilde, then enjoy a scenic drive through the Apennines to a mountain farm, where you’ll savor a farm-to-table lunch made with organic, local ingredients. After lunch, enjoy a relaxed walk through forests, meet free-range animals, and explore a historic chestnut orchard with the farm owner. The day ends at Pietra di Bismantova, a dramatic rock formation mentioned by Dante Alighieri. Choose to take an easy 30-minute hike to the top for panoramic views or relax at the base. A moderate fitness level and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Our first stop will be at the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, where we will observe the production process and enjoy a guided tasting of the famous cheese. The San Giorgio dairy farm is small but efficient and has received awards for its mountain cheese.
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.
History states that the black gold of Emilia-Romagna was truly created in this castle. Visit the “Acetaia” to learn about the process of making Traditional Balsamic Vinegar and enjoy a guided tasting.
Visit a local organic farm for a farm-to-table lunch. Stroll with the owner, meet free-range animals, and enjoy the stunning view of the Apennines. Meal: stuffed ravioli and starter course (cured meats with cheeses or grilled meat). Vegetarian option available. Includes water, coffee, and local wine.
Pietra di Bismantova is a unique megalithic rock formation. From the top, you get a stunning 360-degree view. Wear enclosed shoes with a good grip and follow your guide for safety on the rocky parts.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
The meeting point will be in front of the Central station of Reggio Emilia. We can consider a different pick-up point, based on the client's request.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Tour duration is travel time included
Reviews(4)
This is a must do experience! You get to see so many things in one day. Our guide spoke perfect English and did a great job explaining everything to us.
Alessandro provided us a wonderful experience by visiting family owned businesses. The drive into the country with Filippo was beautiful.
We had a great time being out in the Apennines with Alessandro. He picked is up with his car at the trainstation of Reggio Emilia and from there we started our tour. Alessandro is a great guy. It really feels like you are out with a friend, even if you haven’t met him before. He shows great interest in his tourguests. It’s great to experience his enthousiasm and passion to show you his region. It is so genuine and you cannot help but get enthousiastic yourself about everything the region has to offer. I liked the diversity of the tour. We started in a cheese factory, and we ended with a hike. The fact that we were with just four people and Alessandro made it feel very intimate, and, again, like you are out with friends. The couple that was with us on the tour already invited me to their house in Italy! To conclude, I really recommend to go on a tour with Alessandro if you want to get to know the region and it’s food, nature and history and want to be in the company of great people!
Amazing day tour, especially if you want to get to see the countryside. Very accommodating and knowledgeable about the region's history. I definitely recommend adding on the lunch option the food was some of the best we had on our trip.
Thanks, Sarah it was very nice to show you the around of Reggio Emilia, its nature, food culture and landscape.
