Emilia Romagna Food & Hike

Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8 km) 
Ascent: 1,300 feet (400 m) 
Descent: 1,800 feet (550 m) 
Walking Time: approx. 4 hrs 

Our first full day sees us follow the panoramic ridge of Croce Arcana which is steeped in WWII history. Learn about the Gothic Line and partisan battles as you walk through wild landscapes. A packed lunch is included. In the afternoon, visit Azienda Agricola I Rodi for a tasting of local produce and a tour of their smallholding. Later, enjoy a three-course dinner at the hotel. 

We’ll spend the day exploring Bologna, affectionately known as La Grassa (the Fat one) because of its culinary traditions. A guided walk through the historic centre of the city takes us by medieval towers, through Piazza Maggiore and Mercato di Mezzoample, and ends with a sampling of salumi (cured meat) and crescentine (small, round flatbreads) with a glass of local wine. There’ll be free time to explore and find lunch before returning to the hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel that evening. 

Distance: 3 miles (5 km) 
Ascent: 330 feet (100 m) 
Walking Time: approx. 4 hrs 

This morning we leave the hotel on foot for a circular walk through woods and by waterfalls, discovering ancient chestnut-drying huts and wooden sculptures by a local artist. Back at the hotel, experience a pasta-making demonstration with the chef before dinner. 

Today we take a guided tour of Modena, famed as the birthplace of balsamic vinegar and for boasting a rich operatic heritage. After exploring the city, there’ll be a visit to the Pavarotti Museum and a tasting menu lunch at Europa 92, Pavarotti’s favourite restaurant. We’ll also stop by the Ferrari Museum at Maranello en route back to the hotel. 
Dinner will be at Il Mirtillo Nero, a traditional osteria in Fanano (approx. 300 m from hotel). 

Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km) 
Ascent: 820 feet (250 m) 
Walking Time: approx. 4 hrs 

Explore two of the largest lakes in the Modena Apennines and discover their natural history with the help of our expert local leader.  Lake Santo is the larger and more popular of the two, situated at a slightly lower altitude, while Lake Baccio is known for its unique oval shape. We’ll stop to enjoy a well-earned picnic packed lunch (included) by one of the lakes and en route back to our transfer, visit a local cheesemaker to sample their delicious produce. Dinner will be at the hotel. 

Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km) 
Ascent: 65 feet (20 m) 
Walking Time: approx. 4 hrs 

Our final day takes us on a walk to Lake Ninfa, a natural lake famed for its autumn colours. Lunch is included at a mountain refuge (rifugio) before making our way back to the hotel. 

We’ll round off our Italian adventure with a farewell dinner featuring a mountain-style barbecue where guests cook their own ingredients on a hot stone and raclette – a Swiss dish of melted cheese that is served with tasty accompaniments like potatoes, pickled vegetables, and cured meats. You’ll also have a glass of wine included to toast to the end of your holiday. 

Depart after breakfast.