Savoring The Culinary Creativity of Romagna

Delicious discoveries await you in Romagna as you explore the many delightful facets of its cuisine. Whether you prefer fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, experiencing centuries-old trattorie and their passionate hosts or reveling in an exceptional home-cooked meal, if you believe in the connection between good food and good living, this trip is for you.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

Immerse yourself completely, in this rare opportunity to fully experience the culinary riches of Romagna, familiar only to the most informed lovers of Italian cuisine. Enjoy the quiet beauty, rich culture, warm hospitality and delicious culinary traditions here, responsible not only for its outstanding home cooking, but also for attracting a great number of stellar chefs. 

Savor delicious food and wine as you explore the cultural treasures of Romagna, known as “La Terra del Buon Vivere” (The Land of Life Well Lived). Connect to the stories behind the meals, through exclusive experiences, and conversations. Meet top chefs who have followed their passion, interpreting classic dishes with innovative flair, while staying true to their values, all of which is truly reflected in the taste of their food and wine. Learn the sources of this richly flavorful cuisine and how to prepare it in both traditional and new ways.

Our small group and slower pace will allow us to relish each moment, learn the hidden stories behind the creation of iconic dishes, and appreciate the intersection of food and culture in Romagna, with discoveries around every corner, and food that has never tasted so good. Buon appetito!

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just enjoy tasting new foods and flavors, this trip will satisfy your appetite for adventure. Guided by the experts at Esperienza and supported by knowledgeable local helpers, we’ll take a deep dive into the stories, culinary traditions and modern interpretations, artisanal flavors and time-honored customs of the amazing region of Romagna. Together, we’ll also discover the beauty of some of Italy’s most charming medieval towns and villages through history and gallery tours, cooking classes and receptions at private museums and homes. 

Influenced by Slow Food Travel Italy and other similar organizations, we’ll also learn more about the preservation of food biodiversity, and the value of local cultures and gastronomies. We’ll meet with farmers, agronomists, foragers, cheese makers, chocolate makers, bakers, vintners, and chefs, all of whom are inspired by the beauty of the countryside and the bounty it produces, and will impress us with their craftsmanship and passion.

Villa Monty Banks

This brand new property is a world in itself. Lovingly restored, the villa was originally built by Monty Banks, a.k.a. Mario Bianchi: actor, director and one of Cesena’s native sons. After making it big in Hollywood, he returned here to craft this elegant estate, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, yet only a short walk from the town.

Arrive by late afternoon in Bologna, where we’ll pick you up at the airport and transfer you via private shuttle (less than 1 hour) to a winery in the countryside. There, you’ll be instantly immersed in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of

Romagna and enjoy sampling local wines with a light meal.

At day’s end, you’ll check into the beautiful Villa Monty Banks, where you can settle in and relax at this extraordinary hilltop hotel.

Wake up to a leisurely breakfast surrounded by breathtaking views. You may choose to visit the spa, take a walk, or simply take in the scenery.

Later, meet your fellow travelers and your host, the founder of Esperienza, Anna Bonavita, for a brief orientation, then depart for Cesenatico. We’ll walk

along the canal designed by Leonardo da Vinci and visit a one-of-a-kind museum showcasing the life of fishermen then have lunch together, featuring the

freshest seafood, caught locally.

After lunch, enjoy a walk along the canal until you reach the Adriatic Sea and some especially charming views! Bring along a swimsuit if you like, or just enjoy the local, laid-back attitude, sure to induce relaxation and quiet joy.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll (passeggiata), followed by dinner on your own at one of the recommended locals’ favorite spots in Cesenatico.

After breakfast, we’ll discover the beauty of one of Italy’s most charming medieval towns, Pennabilli, through guided history and gallery tours and a reception at a private museum.

Master cooking class at Michelin-starred restaurant. You don’t want to miss this one! An unforgettable dinner will follow.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a private, guided visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Biblioteca Malatestiana, where time has essentially stood still

since 1452. Next comes a guided tour of Leonardo’s Rocca Malatestiana which houses a museum dedicated to the history of local food and agriculture.

Lunch on your own with guidance happily provided by your host.

Later in the afternoon, choose to relax by a baroque fountain in the charming Piazza del Popolo. Explore some special local shops or do more sightseeing – the

local opera house will impress you. Alternatively, return to the hotel to take some time to relax at the spa or by the pool. There will still be time left

for afterwards or for your own aperitivo drink, a cultural ritual.

A truly unique and intimate opportunity to experience first-hand several local treasures, as we visit a multi-talented artist and family for a “home cooked” dinner, followed by a private concert.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by slow travel to San Piero in Bagno to meet the avant-garde creators of a beautiful eco-establishment.

Together, we’ll experience foraging and be treated to a lunch of fresh ingredients all produced right there in the garden, including the wild herbs we’ve gathered. Alternatively, in the fall, travel to Citta di Castello to visit Isabella Dalla Ragione’s forgotten fruit orchard for a taste of history, along with several recovered fruit varieties.

Here comes another young Michelin chef, Gianluca Gorini, who’ll offer us late afternoon lessons and dinner in his restaurant. Prepare to be temporarily

spellbound.

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the nearby town of Forlimpopoli. There, we’ll visit the farmer’s market next to the medieval center before proceeding to our master cooking class at Casa Artusi. This is also the home of Pellegrino Artusi, the acknowledged father of Italian cuisine, and author of the famous cookbook “Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well.” Closed-toed shoes required.

Reception and a guided tour at the private house of a famous Romagna painter, Free time to explore on your own until dinner.

Dinner at a small local restaurant featuring local organic ingredients, fresh fish and exceptional dolci.

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart late morning for Rimini, where we’ll immerse ourselves in this ancient Roman city on the Adriatic coast, also the birthplace of film genius Federico Fellini. Our guide will introduce us to Rimini’s iconic Ponte Tiberio

and Tempio Malatestiano.

Enjoy lunch on your own followed by free time to shop or explore. Stop by the Grand Hotel

Our farewell dinner will be a celebration, in the home of a local Rimini chef who is famous for her hospitality and refined taste.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the Bologna International Airport for your departure flight. (Transportation information and assistance will be available).

Alternatively, continue on to your own post-trip destination or contact Esperienza for a custom-planned itinerary.