A tour that combines history, nature and food taking place in the countryside to the south-west of Bologna.
We’ll head to the Valley of Samoggia, approximately 40 minutes from Bologna, where we’ll visit a medieval village on top of a hill, which we’ll reach on foot, walking up a trail in the woods, emerging out into the wild landscape of ‘calanchi,’ a geological formation caused by erosion that is typical of the Bologna hills (approx. two-hour walk). We’ll visit a 1,000-year-old parish church and the remains of a castle, learning about the fascinating history of the area.
Then we’ll go visit an agriturismo run by a young woman who has restored her grandparents’ house at risk of crumbling to turn it into a farm, where she now makes flour, wine, honey, grows vegetables and runs a ‘locanda’, cooking seasonal, local, organic food. We’ll tour the farm and have a typical lunch there. The agriturismo is in a lovely spot, with great views of the hilly countryside that surrounds Bologna.
When: April – May – June – September – October; Monday through Thursday. For July and August inquiries, please contact me directly.
Details:
Length: 5 km loop (3.1 miles)
Elevation gain: 115m (380 ft)
Duration: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Please note: You’ll need walking shoes with good grip for this tour – no sandals or flip flops allowed.
*Tour may be modified in case of bad weather.
Rates:
Private guide service: €175 (1-4 pax); €245 (5-8 pax)
Lunch: €25 per person based on a minimum of two people (includes welcome aperitivo, typical handmade tigelle bread with selected local cured meats and cheeses, dessert, and drinks).
*Cooking class may also be arranged at the cost of €75 per person including lunch.
The area where the tour takes place is difficult to reach by public transportation. You have two options: rent a car for the day (approximately €40; I can ride in the car with you so you don’t need to worry about directions); or book a private car and driver (approximately €370).
Book:
Please send an email to bolognauncovered@gmail.com.
Bologna Uncovered 