Gourmet cycling tour from Parma to Bologna

The first day of cycling takes us through the hills around Parma. The valley is carved by the Parma stream, the slopes are gentle, and the roads are lined with vineyards where the famous Prosciutto di Parma is produced. We arrive at Torrechiara Castle, which majestically overlooks a medieval village from its hilltop perch, offering a truly evocative panorama. Then, we return to Parma for dinner at a traditional restaurant and spend the night at a hotel.

Today's stage takes you through the production area of ​​Italy's most famous cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano. You'll be in the hills south of Parma and Reggio Emilia, and on the Po Valley to the north. The route then winds through peaceful countryside and villages with well-preserved medieval castles, such as Montechiarugolo and Montecchio. You'll arrive in Reggio Emilia, the birthplace of the Italian tricolor flag. Overnight in a hotel in Reggio Emilia.

You are currently in the Po Valley, surrounded by cultivated fields and vineyards (try the sparkling red Lambrusco!). Soon, you will arrive in the charming village of Correggio, before continuing your journey to Carpi, a town steeped in history that boasts one of Italy's largest piazzas, dominated by the Renaissance-era Palazzo dei Pio. Your day ends in Modena, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its Romanesque cathedral. You can enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant and spend the night in a hotel in Modena.

Modena, the birthplace of traditional balsamic vinegar, offers the opportunity to discover all its secrets by visiting a genuine vinegar distillery ("acetaia"). Afterwards, you can take a beautiful cycle path that will lead you to Vignola, before arriving in Castelvetro, a charming little village perched on a hill. It's the perfect place for a gourmet break, where you can enjoy local cured meats, a good piece of Parmesan cheese, and a glass of Lambrusco! Upon returning to Modena, you can visit the Luciano Pavarotti House Museum before spending the night at your hotel.

Your day's cycling begins with a ride along quiet country roads to Nonantola, where you can stop to visit the Benedictine Abbey, before continuing on to San Giovanni in Persiceto. The city of Bologna is nearby, and you'll be able to see the Basilica of San Luca, which dominates the city skyline, on the horizon. You'll enter Bologna by following the Navile Canal, which will take you through verdant parks and trees to the heart of the city. You can have dinner at a traditional restaurant and spend the night in a hotel in Bologna.

Bologna is an extraordinary city: cultured, dynamic, inventive, and a haven for food lovers. It's known by three nicknames: "La Dotta," meaning "The Learned One," as it's home to the oldest university in the world; "La Rossa," for its red rooftops visible from the top of its towers; and above all, "La Grassa," for its opulent, generous, and family-style cuisine. We therefore recommend exploring it by bicycle and concluding your regional adventure with a delicious lasagna Bolognese and a fine Sangiovese wine. Overnight stay in a hotel in Bologna. It's also possible to book a cooking class for an authentic experience in a private home.

The stay ends after breakfast.