YOUR RATING
last year's survey score

Milk, rennet, and salt: three simple ingredients that embody the soul of a territory and give life to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. The Carpineti area, in the heartof the Reggio Emilia Apennines, is just like that: genuine, authentic, capable of thrilling you with the simplicity of its flavors and the warmth of its people. Rediscover the pleasure of slowing down among rolling hills and breathtaking views with our guided treks led by a local guide, through medieval villages and castles linked to the legend of Matilda of Canossa, on a journey steeped in history and magic. But it's not just the landscape that will surprise you: every step is an invitation to discover Emilian cuisine, made up of recipes handed down with love. Artisanal dairies, fresh pasta rolled out by hand and ready to be filled with tasty fillings, but also the undergrowth and the rooms of castles steeped in history: in the Food Valley, everything smells good.
WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Program
First day
Arrival in the Lands of Matilda
Welcometo the Reggio Apennines, where you can immerse yourself in nature, history, and the authentic flavors of Emilia Romagna. Upon arrival in Carpineti, you will meet your guide, an expert on the area who will share their passion for this land with you. Trekking through the woods and castles linked to the legendary figure of Matilde di Canossa awaits you. But we will also visit dairies where Parmigiano Reggiano, the king of Italian cheeses, is made. You can also get your hands dirty, learning how to make Emilian tortelli. Every day will be a perfect adventure for those seeking an active and authentic vacation in the heart of Emilia Romagna.
Second day
Between Monte Antoniano and dairies
We set off from Carpineti towards the summit of Monte Antoniano with its castle: it will feel like walking in the Middle Ages! We continue through chestnut woods towards the Pieve di San Vitale, an enchanting cornerof the Reggio Apennines: here, in a village inn, we can taste the typical products of the Emilian hills. In the afternoon, we will discover the magic of production and the art of the cheesemakers who transform milk into Parmigiano Reggiano! Visit and tasting at a dairy to witness all the stages of milk processing, from cooking to placing the curd in molds, right up to salting.
Third day
The Pietra di Bismantova and hands-on cooking
We organize transportation to reach the famous Pietra di Bismantova, a mountainin the Reggio Emilia Apennines with an unmistakable shape. We visit the Benedictine Hermitage (where Orietta Berti celebrated her wedding) and conclude our guided circular trek, returning to the hotel to... get our hands dirty! In the hotel kitchen, traditional Emilian recipes have been handed down from past generations and are still prepared today using the same methods and care as in the past. So, are we ready to learn how to make authentic Emilian tortelli? At the end of the course, we will taste the results to decide on the winner and the best filling.
Fourth day
Canossa and its villages
In about half an hour by car, we will arrive at the famous Canossa, where history and legend intertwine, always with the Grand Countess Matilda of Canossa as the protagonist. From here, our guided trek sets off to visit the well-preserved village of Bergogno, but above all to reach the village of Votigno. Back in Canossa, we will taste the delicious Matilde beer produced in Belgium by Trappist monks, discover its legend, and understand the difference between erbazzone and scarpazzone (optional tasting). At the end of the tasting, in the shadow of the famous Canossa castle, we say goodbye. It is the last taste of Emilia, perfect for ending a journey full of emotions and flavors. See you soon and until the next adventure!
travel, meals not mentioned, local transfers, drinks, any entrance fees, and anything not listed under "Includes."
Single occupancy accommodation from €45.
3-star hotel in Carpineti - RE. In a panoramic location, this elegant and comfortable hotel is nestled in the hills of Reggio Emilia. Spacious and well-appointed rooms, wellness area with small whirlpool pools, Turkish bath, and relaxation area. The experience is completed by authentic Emilian cuisine, genuine and rich in flavor. An ideal base for nature, sports, and tranquility.
The province of Reggio is crossed, halfway along its length, by the Via Emilia (SS 9), which runs from west to east. Parallel to the Via Emilia, the Autostrada del Sole (A1 – Milan-Rome) motorway quickly connects Reggio Emilia to the main cities. The SS 63 connects Reggio Emilia, to the north, to the province of Mantua and, to the south, to that of La Spezia, through the Reggio Apennines. The Reggiolo-Rolo motorway exit provides access to the A22 "Brennero" motorway, which connects Emilia-Romagna to Northern Europe. The Terre di Canossa - Campegine motorway exit makes the Canusino area accessible from all over Italy and is the gateway to a welcoming, unique territory, extraordinarily marked by the traces of history.
From Reggio station, there is a bus that stops 2 km from the hotel. Simply notify your guide or the hotel in advance to arrange for a pick-up.
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