Experience Emilia-Romagna

Day 1 | Arrive in Parma

Considered one of Italys culinary capitals, Parma is also known as one of the countries celebrated art cities, with famous names like Giuseppe Verdi and Correggio calling it home. After checking into your first hotel we suggest an afternoon stroll through the city center to soak up the atmosphere and see for yourself what makes this such a special place.

Day 2 | Optional Round Trip: Torrechiara Castle | Distance: 28 mi/45 km

Your first day in the saddle takes you on a loop out into the hills surrounding Parma, past ancient castles and quiet towns and villages. The destination for the ride is Torrechiara castle, a stunning structure from the 15th century that overlooks the Val di Parma and a great spot for some holiday photos. The area is also well known for production of salami and prosciutto ham and we recommend tasting these at every opportunity! The ride back into Parma is an easy one and almost entirely downhill.

Day 3 | Cycle Parma to Reggio-Emilia Countryside | Distance: 38 mi/62 km

Today we leave Parma behind and venture into the verdant landscapes of Reggio-Emilia, taking back roads and bike paths through farmland and small villages. Our destination for the day is a small agriturismo in the heart of this beautiful corner of Italy, a fantastic place to unwind and relax in peaceful seclusion. The agriturismo also produces parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar on site, so be sure to try out some of the produce.

Day 4 | Cycle Reggio Emilia to Maranello and Castelvetro di Modena | Distance: 30 mi/48km

Well get underway early today to make time to visit the artistry of a Parmesan cheese maker. The proud Consorzio will explain the intricacies of the production process on our guided tour. Full of cheese and with calories to burn, well set off towards Maranello, a petrolheads paradise and home to the Ferrari factory and museum. The visit here is optional but is not to be missed for any motorsports enthusiasts. After a break here, its onwards to Castelvetro di Modena, a stunning hilltop town and our base for the next 2 nights. The late afternoon is yours to explore the cobbled streets and enjoy the views of the Appennines.

Day 5 | Optional Round Trip: Modena | Distance: 28 mi/44 km

We glide down from the top of the hill to start the ride today, rolling lazily towards the historic art city of Modena, a UNESCO world heritage site. Well have time to explore the town during the day and a visit to the stunning Duomo and Ghirlandina tower are a must. The covered market is another highlight and is a great spot to fill up on fresh ice cream before hopping back in the saddle for the afternoon and riding back to our hotel.

Day 6 | Cycle Castelvetro di Modena to Bologna | Distance: 33 mi/53 km

The final ride of the trip is one of our favorites, with some spectacular scenery on show throughout. The route winds through the Lambrusco vineyards along the foothills of the Apennines, with the jewel in the crown of Emilia Romagna, Bologna, waiting for you at the end. Upon arrival in Bologna, well meet up with a local guide to learn about this cities rich history and prepare a meal together using local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Day 7 | Departure

After a final breakfast of the tour, we say arrivederci! Trip extensions are available on request.