The Parma Lowlands Food Experience
The Lowlands of the Province of Parma consist in the plain north of Parma: the area that goes from the Via Emilia to the Po river, the lowest part above sea level of the whole province. It is a territory to discover and enjoy at a slow pace, characterized by the respect for ancient traditions, rich in history, art and genuine food.
Our route to the discovery of the Parma Lowlands starts crossing by car the strip of land running from the Parma Morta Reserve to Maria Luigia’s Woods in Torricella, near the meandering of the Taro river , to reach Zibello and Polesine Parmense, places where it seems as if time has stood still.
After a visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory – the king of cheeses has been produced in this area since medieval times – it will be possible to visit a farm devoted to the recovery of ancient local races, from the white mantled cows to the ancient pig breed “Nera Parmigiana”, observe the farm animals, the vegetable gardens and the vineyards. The masterpieces of the local culinary tradition, such as Culatello, Fiocco, Spalla di San Secondo, Salami, Strolghino, are produced and refined in the magnificent cellars of an ancient fortress of the early XIV Century, perfectly restored and endowed with a fine restaurant, where it is possible to enjoy the best of the Parma cuisine. Few people know that this is the area in the world where the greatest variety of cured meat products is obtained from pigs!
During the visit you will be able to understand the features and origins of the different products, the characteristics and the history of the king of cured meat, the PDO Culatello of Zibello, the secret of which lies in the careful selection of the meat and aging, favoured by the autumn fog and the sultry summers. The visit ends with a rich tasting or lunch, a real joy for the senses!
Departure: suggested time 7.50 am; private tours can start at whatever time requested *
Duration: 8 h
This is the duration of the guided service from guide pick-up to guide drop-off.
Inclusions
- Professional local guide
- Admission fees
- Tasting of 12, 24, 30 and 36 months old Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and fresh ricotta cheese
- Lunch: Large selection of cured meat (Culatello of Zibello DOP, Coppa, Pancetta or Lard, Salami strolghino), traditional fresh egg pasta, homemade focaccia, salad, traditional desserts, local wine, coffee and water.
- Option 1 includes Transportation
Exclusions
- Option 2 does not include Transportation
You must provide your own transport and follow the guide in a separate car.
Know Before You Book
- Dogs are not allowed inside the facilities
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes without high heels
Meeting Point
- Credito Emiliano in Via 25 Luglio 29/E 42049 Calerno Provincia di Reggio Emilia Italia
Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included in the “Price including transportation” option (Option 1). When Travelers select the “Self-Drive Price” option (Option 2), we’ll see them at the Departure Point, they must provide their own transport and follow the guide in a separate car.
*Suggested pick-up time: 7.30 am when in Parma; 7.15 am when in Modena; 7.00 am when in Bologna.
For tours departing after 9.00 am from Parma and after 8.30 am from Bologna, a flat-rate supplement is applied. Please let us know about your needs and preferred starting time, we will let you have a tailor made itinerary and cost.
Our immersion in Parma Lowlands may continue in the afternoon with various options for the visit: from an itinerary dedicated to the most significant places in the life of the great composer Giuseppe Verdi to a relaxing sailing experience along the Po river, to discover stories and anecdotes about the Great River.
To people interested in Art and History – or just curious! – we suggest a visit to one of the many castles in the area, rich in stories, legends and artistic treasures, whilst to the true gourmets we advise a visit to a winery followed by tasting or a memorable experience dedicated to traditional cuisine to learn how to make fresh pasta or to make a real menù, from appetizer to dessert, following the traditional recipes.
Contact us to request a customized tour.