We unfortunately have to leave Italy tomorrow, but just wanted to give a shout out to 2 different day trips we took. Both recommended by Rick Steves for good reason.
From Bologna we took an 8 hour tour with Italian Days to Parma and visited a Parmesan-Reggiano cheese factory, then a small production Basalmic Vinegar farm (with food) then a Prosciutto factory with a fantastic lunch, including lots of wine afterwards. The guide/owner was so enthusiastic and fun. It was a highlight of our trip.
From Florence we took a 8 hr. day trip with Tours by Roberto out to the Tuscany countryside. We visited two small Tuscany hill towns then Roberto’s farm called Madonna Bella, where we learned about making olive oil in a small production way. Then a fantastic lunch with wine with views overlooking the beautiful town of Siena. Another highlight of our trip. We are going to miss Italy. Trip report soon.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5823 posts
Tammy, thanks for sharing. We already have two small group tours booked with Roberto for next May. We anre staying in Siena. I'm excited already.
Looking forward to your trip report. Where to next?
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
6676 posts
For those who do not "know" Roberto Becchi, he is a long time RS local guide. He also works with Sarah Murdoch of Adventures with Sarah. He appears in some of the RS episodes, and he co-authored a spectacular short movie on Prime. It is among the most beautifully filmed movies I've ever seen. The movie is "Tuscany beyond Expectations".
You can purchase his wines and olive oil and have it shipped to the U.S. I did that during COVID, when travel was shut down.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11847 posts
Tammy this is great! We are planning a couple of weeks in Emilia-Romagna this fall some will look into Italian Days. Small group, I presume?
We loved our Tour by Roberto back in 2010.
Posted by
OP
Last Frontier aka Alaska 🏔️
3611 posts
Pat-we did not have time for Siena this trip, but can’t wait to make it back there. Next up is Andalucia, Spain in February 2025.
Jules-Robero told us about his documentary, now we can’t wait to see it. But, I thought he told us it was called Tuscany Beyond Expectations?
Laurel-our tour had 10 people, it was the perfect size!
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
6676 posts
Tammy, you are correct! I'll fix it. Warning! If you watch it you will immediately book a return trip to Tuscany!