Gastronomic Escape in Italy's Food Valley

RESERVE

Elegant base in Reggio Emilia for Italy’s Motor Valley food adventure with Parmigiano, balsamic, pasta, Ferrari, Lambrusco, and Modena markets.

Immerse in Emilia-Romagna’s culinary heart: hands-on cheesemaking, aged balsamic towers, pasta workshops, Ferrari Museum, F1 dining, sparkling Lambrusco, and vibrant markets in perfect spring weather.

Duration: 8 nights / 9 days

Dates: April 25 – May 3, 2027

Start: Reggio Emilia | End: Reggio Emilia

Group Size: 10 – 16 travelers

Pace: Active, immersive, and lively

RESERVE

Questions? Email us.

what to expect

Experience Highlights

Cheese & Pasta Mastery

Master cheesemakers craft Parmigiano-Reggiano; tour centuries-old acetaias for DOP balsamic aged 12-50 years in historic barrel batteries; hands-on pasta-making of cappelletti and tortelli verdi.

Modena Market Delights

Modena’s Albinelli Covered Market for prosciutto, mortadella, gnocco fritto; private dining of Emilia-Romagna classics in elegant settings.

Gnocco Fritto Tastings

Crispy fried dough pillows with prosciutto and mortadella at markets and private dinners; morning samplings of crescentine paired with Lambrusco for perfect Emilian bites.

Agriturismo Luxury Base

7 nights at Il Borgo del Balsamico or similar: balsamic views, gourmet homemade breakfasts, serene countryside setting central to all excursions in Reggio Emilia’s elegant heart.

Balsamic Tower Legacy

Spring immersion in Motor Valley: authentic producers, family acetaia towers with 100-year mother vinegar, seamless private transfers blending food passion with supercar legacy.

Ferrari & Lambrusco

Ferrari Museum in Maranello with lunch at Ristorante Montana, F1 drivers’ favorite; small Lambrusco wineries pairing sparkling red with regional cuisine.

Savor Italy’s richest food region where cheese, vinegar, pasta, and wine meet Ferrari thrills.

Reasons to Travel to Italy

Taste rare 50-year balsamic from source

Craft tortelli with local experts

Sparkling Lambrusco winery visits

Modena market fresh samplings

Tour Ferrari Museum & F1 restaurant

Luxury agriturismo in Reggio Emilia

The Itinerary

Day by Day Experience

Day 1

Arrival & Welcome

Arrive Reggio Emilia via Bologna/Milan airports; private transfer to Relais Roncolo 1888. Leisure afternoon, relax by the pool, sip wine, savor Italy. Welcome dinner of salumi and Lambrusco.

Day 2

Parmigiano Craft

Watch cheesemakers create Parmigiano-Reggiano from milking to wheels; taste 24-month and aged varieties. Lunch with Lambrusco pairing. Evening aperitivo or free time.

Day 3

Pasta Workshop

Hands-on class crafting cappelletti and tortelli verdi with Emilian techniques and local flours. Savor your pasta for lunch. Afternoon exploring Reggio Emilia’s Duomo and markets.

Day 4

Ferrari & F1 Lunch

40-min transfer to Maranello Ferrari Museum: racing legends and innovation exhibits. Lunch at Ristorante Montana, tortellini in brodo famed with F1 drivers. Relaxed evening return.

Day 5

Balsamic Journey

Tour family acetaia tower: historic attics, barrel batteries with 100+ year mother vinegar. Taste DOP balsamic 12-25-50 years; shop sealed bottles. Evening gnocco fritto tasting.

Day 6

Lambrusco Wines

Boutique winery tour: sparkling Lambrusco tastings matched to cheeses and cured meats. Learn ancestral methods. Private regional dinner back in Reggio Emilia.

Day 7

Modena Markets

30-min drive to Albinelli Covered Market: prosciutto, mortadella, gnocco fritto samplings. Afternoon balsamic revisit or free. Private Emilia-Romagna recipe dinner in local home.

Day 8

Departure

Morning leisure or cooking recap. Depart for the airport, carrying Motor Valley culinary memories and provisions.

The Accommodations

Where We Will Stay

Seven nights at Relais Roncolo 1888

Relais Roncolo 1888

Quattro Castella, Reggio Emilia

A luxury boutique hotel in the 320-acre eco-estate Tenuta di Roncolo, located in the hills of Emilia, at the heart of Italy’s Food Valley and Motor Valley. Within easy reach from Modena, Bologna, and Milan. Ideal for relaxing in quiet luxury, exploring Emilia and enjoying Italian dolce vita in a bucolic Tuscan countryside.

Relais Roncolo 1888

Timeless heritage, lovingly restored

No two rooms are alike. Subtle variations in light, layout, and perspective are a reflection of the unique character of our historic estate. Windows frame views of vineyards, gardens and a vast countryside, offering a connection to our estate’s agricultural roots and enduring relationship with the farm land.

Relais Roncolo 1888

The delicious flavours of Emilia

The seasonal menu draws from local produce and the culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna. Our farm-to-table dining experience reflects our commitment to sustainability and the respect for our land. Flavours are authentic, shaped by tradition and finished with a clean, contemporary touch.

Relais Roncolo 1888

The delicious flavours of Emilia

Whether for a quiet dinner, a lazy lunch, or a moment of celebration, Ristorante Limonaia offers a culinary journey across Emilia and Italy.

Note: Accommodations are subject to change. Hotels may vary based on availability, but will be comparable in star level & services.

THE DETAILS

Inclusions VS Exclusions

THE DETAILS

Inclusions

Accommodations: Boutique hotel stays offering unique, a comfortable experience

Transportation: All in-country transportation throughout the trip for group experiences

Trip Director: A seasoned MPE director accompanies the group throughout the journey

Daily Breakfast + Select Meals

Tours and Activities: All organized group tours and activities

Guide Gratuities: Gratuities for guides during all organized tours and activities are included

Exclusions

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International Airfaire

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Travel Insurance

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Alcohol and Meals not listed in itinerary

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Personal Expenses (snacks, laundry, additional gratuities, calls, etc.)

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Non-Itinerary Activities: Excursions, or deviations from the trip itinerary

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Visa or Passport Fees: Costs associated with obtaining passports and visas

Ready to experience

Italy in the Spring?

$14,990

Per Person, Single Room occupancy,
No Single Supplement

Reserve your spot for a $1500 deposit

RESERVE

Interested in joining this trip in the future?

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Terms & Conditions

YOUR QUESTIONS

MPE ANSWERS

What is the Guaranteed Departure Supplement?

Our pricing is based on a minimum number of guests to provide exceptional benefits from shared experiences. If a trip moves forward with fewer travelers, a Guaranteed Departure Supplement (GDS) may be added to maintain the full itinerary and standard of service. Once the GDS amount is determined, you’ll have the choice to accept it to confirm your departure or cancel under MPE’s standard cancellation policy. If additional travelers join later, any GDS fees already paid will be refunded in full.

What is the cancellation policy?

Written notice of cancellation must be received by certified mail or email. Cancellation fees are based on the total value of the trip and are as follows: should you, as the traveler, need to cancel your travels:

120+ days prior to departure: traveler will receive 100% refund, less the initial non-refundable deposit.
Less than 120 days prior to departure: no refund will be provided.

What is included in my trip price?

Each MPE itinerary is carefully handcrafted by our experienced team. This includes carefully selected accommodations (typically four- and five-star properties), in-country transportation, guided experiences with local cultural experts, exclusive tastings, and authentic hands-on activities. Also included are entrance fees to scheduled sites, daily breakfasts, select lunches and dinners, depending on the trip, and regional beverages and water with included meals.

What is NOT included in my trip price?

International airfare, travel insurance, activities not listed in the itinerary, hotel incidentals such as minibar use or room service, laundry, meals, and drinks that fall outside the planned itinerary, and gratuities for your MPE Trip Director are not included.

What travel documents do I need?

A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the trip’s start date is required for all guests. Visa requirements vary by destination, so we recommend verifying current entry rules before booking. Non-U.S. travelers should check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country for visa and entry information. Visit the SHERPA website [https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions] to enquire about any specific visa needs.

Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for every trip. Comprehensive coverage protects your investment if plans change unexpectedly or in the event of medical emergencies, delayed travel, or lost belongings. For the best protection, ensure the entire trip amount is paid within two weeks of booking. Note that some “Cancel for Any Reason” policies must be purchased on the same day your initial deposit is made, or within 14 days. We love working with Faye Insurance as well as Global Rescue. Note: Some trips require travel insurance; this is noted on individual trip pages.

Do I need to pay a single supplement?

No! All MPE pricing is based on Single Occupancy. We applaud solo travelers and wish to reward your participation rather than penalize you. However, if you prefer to share a room with a friend, partner, or another traveler, you’ll receive a reduced rate for shared accommodations. While we welcome requests for two separate beds, bed configurations are subject to availability at each property and cannot be guaranteed.

When will my trip be confirmed?

Because MPE experiences are designed for small groups, each departure requires a minimum number of travelers to proceed. You’ll receive confirmation no later than 120 days before departure. If the minimum is not met, you can choose from several options: receive a full refund, transfer to another departure, convert to a private trip, or apply your credit toward future travel with MPE. We recommend delaying the purchase of nonrefundable flights until you receive your confirmation.

Who will lead my trip?

Every experience is guided by an MPE Trip Director—a seasoned travel professional who ensures every detail runs seamlessly. Throughout the trip, we’re joined by trusted local hosts and guides who bring authentic cultural insight, storytelling, and warmth to each destination.

What should I pack for my trip? Is there a dress code?

Once your adventure is confirmed, MPE sends a curated packing list with destination-specific climate information, dress code recommendations for cultural sites, and suggested attire for any special occasions or group dinners. Our goal is to help you feel both comfortable and prepared throughout your journey.

How much free time will I have during the trip?

MPE itineraries are curated to blend immersive group experiences with plenty of downtime. Most days feature guided activities as well as unscheduled hours, giving you freedom to relax, explore independently, or participate in optional excursions tailored to your interests.

What is the process for booking, confirmation, and pre-trip support?

Booking an MPE journey is straightforward. Reserve your spot through our website or with a trip specialist and submit your deposit. You’ll receive confirmation once the minimum number of travelers is reached. Well in advance of departure, our team will send detailed travel documents, packing advice, and will provide personalized support for any pre-trip questions or requests—ensuring you’re well-prepared and confident for your adventure.

Who else will be in my group?

MPE groups are small by design -- typically 8 to 14 travelers. Our travelers tend to be curious, experienced, and independent-minded people who want to be immersed in a destination, not insulated from it. Many travel solo or as couples. Some bring friends or family members. Groups form quickly because the shared experience does the work.

If you have specific questions about the composition of a particular departure, reach out to us directly. We are happy to tell you what we know.

Family-forward note (for trips like Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania):

These departures are well suited to families traveling with children aged 10 and up. Past family travelers have found the pace, the guides, and the group dynamic work beautifully for younger travelers who are ready for an immersive experience. If you are traveling with children, let us know and we will share more about what to expect.

What level of physical fitness or mobility is required?

Every MPE journey invites you to truly experience your surroundings—whether strolling through local markets, exploring ancient ruins, or meandering through hillside villages. Our itineraries include full days of active discovery, with walking on varied terrain and distances that may total up to 5 miles a day, ensuring you see each destination from its most authentic perspective.