My Best Wilderness Locations in Italy (for Swimming and Bathing) With Video

For most travelers, nothing quite beats the thrill of an outdoor adventure. That feeling you get when you step out of the busy urban life is unprecedented. A serene wilderness out there where nature is at its best can be breathtaking.

Factor in a destination with water where you can swim and or bath, and you have more to look forward to. Well, Italy has a fair share of some of the best picks you can consider. You will have many options at your disposal. We have put together four of the best wilderness destination picks for your next trip. If you are planning to enjoy your next getaway, then keep reading to find your perfect next stop.

Golfarone waterfall

Waterfalls have their own way of making any hike worthy. And this particular one offers an impressive climax to a wilderness adventure. The scenery spot is in a quite remote place in Val d’Asta in Appenninno.

How to get there

This waterfall is about 500 meters off the road; you will need to hike along an isolated path from Civago. The path leading to this waterfall is not marked, but it is rather apparent that you can hardly miss it.

Then wade through Secchiello stream to access the 15-meter high waterfall. Look for the right route so as not to become over exhausted. Below it you will find several hops with shallow but very clear water pools.

What to do once your’e there

Once there, you can have a great time cooling from the heat of the day in the wilderness. The only problem is that since 2017, people cannot swim in these pools. This resulted from numerous injuries as people were jumping off the waterfall and injuring themselves in the shallow pools below. Nevertheless, this small yet fascinating destination offers an ideal stop with its crystal clear water pools.

Only make sure not to go down there with sandals. Trekking down the slope to the waterfall is not as easy as a family walk. Consider bringing with you some ideal hiking boots. If you like being out in the wilderness, then this waterfall is worth a try. It offers all the serenity you would ever ask for in a spot away from the crowds.

Poiano Springs – Fonti di Poiano

#fontidipoiano #villaminozzo #modena #stream #apennini #toscoemiliano #tuscany #emiliaromagna #sportcam

Un post condiviso da Emilia Delizia (@emiliadelizia) in data: Ago 2, 2018 at 1:41 PDT

These springs offer yet another impressive destination to check out in Italy. They are located in the Villa Minozzo region. The source and the flow itself are quite amazing, with around 600 liters per second flow. The water is highly saline with minerals, both physically and chemically. It has a high level of sodium chloride, which makes it unique and intriguing scenery to visit. The interest in this spot isn’t new; it has been a cause for curiosity since the 1600s. The spot has an even longer history since about 2 million years ago; this area was under the sea. Then the sea evaporated, leaving the salinity in the hills.

It all started with the quest to exploit the area’s salinity. These waters have several therapeutic indications like constipation in the digestive organs, moderate liver dysfunction, and gallbladder disease. Others include diabetes and obesity among others. If you are looking for a relaxing on a picnic day out in the wilderness, then this is it.

How to get there

You can access them off the bridge Gatta in Castelnovo ne’ Monti town, Le Salse locality. Once you leave the town (which is not hard to find once you are in Italy) and proceed down, head for the banks of river Secchia. It only takes about two hours to reach the springs. The sources stand out thanks to their copious and whitish flow. You can take different routes through the woods, or reach it with a car if you so wish. Then enjoy a nice lawn where you can play.

What to do there

Among the things, you can enjoy include the beautiful fish in the flow. The short walk to the scenic destination takes you through paths that let you see the springs from different points. You will find perfect spots to enjoy the sun and relaxing shades under trees. Then there are tables where you can enjoy your lunch.

There’s also a bar and restaurant with impressive services. And yeah, you can take a bath in the end part of the stream as it enters the Secchia River. Among the reasons why these springs are worth a hard look is that they flow all year around. And every time of the year, the scene and the experience is always breathtaking.

Lago Santo Modenese

#lagosanto #cimone #italy #emilaromagna #glaciallake #altitude

Un post condiviso da Emilia Delizia (@emiliadelizia) in data: Ago 11, 2018 at 11:39 PDT

Italy has many exciting destinations to check out, and this lake is one of the top options on the list. The lake is about 1,501 meters above sea level, and formed from partly glacier and partly landslides. At 1250m perimeter, about 20 meters at its deepest point, and around 550 meters it’s the largest natural lake in the Apennines. The lake has three tributaries flowing into it, one flowing from Boccaia, the other from the Serra coast. And the last stream flows from a grassy 150m long, 600m long Borra dei Porci terrace that hangs about 150m above the lake surface.

Accessing this lake is easy from the nearest and largest village – Pievepelago along Brenner road. From here, you can turn to state road that connects to Passo delle Radicci as you head out to the wilderness Then you will find signs for the Tagliole village and Lake Santo. If you are coming from Abetone, you can make use of a recently opened road along the Dogana Nuova region.

Turn to the left, with the Monte Modino massif on your right side, then cross Valle delle Tagliole and several other villages as Ronchi, Rotari, and others. Along the lake’s shores, you can park your car in a large parking lot available. You can reach it easily from a car park in only a few minutes.

What to do there

This makes a scenic destination for anyone seeking to enjoy the Italian wilderness away from the heat of the city. Have an adventurous time and enjoy the cool, clear and fresh waters and fantastic scenery out here. From swimming to bathing, diving and just kicking back and relaxing, the fun is almost endless. There is always a reason to visit this lake; it has a rich history that you can want to relive. But it’s the lovely scene and the fun out there that will blow you away.

Polle di Molbacco

Polle di malbacco #versilia #tuscany #hiking #riverside #italy

Un post condiviso da Emilia Delizia (@emiliadelizia) in data: Giu 13, 2018 at 1:02 PDT

For a place with fresh and cold bathing water, this is where you need to enjoy a hot summer day out in the wilderness. Here, you will find natural pools for an unparalleled experience. It only takes a few minute hike from Versilia. But finding these pools can prove challenging, make sure to have sensible shoes on. Also, be careful with the stepping-stones. You don’t want to bear an excruciating trek back to your villa.

So, how do I get there?

There are many routes to get to these pools. One of these is crossing Pietrasanta, and proceeding right along the riverbank. Head straight to and past Vallecchia, then cross a bridge and take to the right. Another option is approaching from Pietrasanta, head to Querceta, once you reach the second traffic light, proceed to the underpass and take the route to Monti, past Pozzi and Ripa.

Once you get here, the path is mostly the same. When you get past Corvaia, you will find a fork in the river, with an iron bridge to the right, go for the left-side road. This one will take you past Seravezza, Riomago as well as Molbacco. Keep going right ahead, around 1.2 km past Molbacco, you will come to the first pool on your left. There’s also an ample parking space. Proceed for another 2 km, you will find a sign on the left. You can park here and proceed on a footpath that descends about 10 minutes through the woods to Molbacco.

What to do

You can have fun in these pools, bathing and swimming to cool off the hot sun in the wilderness. It’s best to bring with you a packed lunch. And come in the late morning hours for the best experience. Molbacco pools are among the best destinations you can go for, there’s a lot to see and do. The experience is outright unique.

Apparently, Italy has a whole lot to offer for virtually every adventurer. And these four destinations offer some of the best treats by far. You can always step out there and have all the fun in the cool water. Have a scenic view of the virgin wilderness and enjoy the ample environment away from the cities. The fun is ever flowing out there; go and have a share of this bliss.

Where to Buy Balsamic Vinegar in Modena.

Emilia Romagna are most famous for its food and with a particular attention to balsamic vinegar. if you want to buy genuine and high-quality balsamic vinegar, these regions of Italy are famous for it. You can easily buy balsamic vinegar in Modena, Bologna, and Reggio. Today specifically, we will share with you 5 different stores where you can buy balsamic vinegar in Modena. The stores which we have highlighted are all within walking distance of the city center enabling you to buy balsamic quite easily.

1)Enoteca Ducale:

Address: Enoteca Ducale, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 41121 Modena MO, Italy

Enoteca Ducale is located on the Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. It is within 250 meters of the city center. As a result, it is easily reachable on foot. It sells the balsamic vinegar from the brand Acetaia Leonardi. If you’re looking for authentic balsamic, this is the store which you should visit. They offer tasting options which help you in choosing the right balsamic. In addition to that, the owner is hands on. The owner likes to interact with the customers and is happy to answer all the questions. As a result, if you know very little about balsamic but will like to explore more; this is the perfect place to visit. They have also balsamics in all variants ranging from the fancy ones all the way up to 100 years old. Thus, you will be able to choose from the entire range as per your requirement. Enoteca Ducale is famous for its amaretti and Lambursco, so don’t forget to try it out. The happy to assist owner makes this balsamic tasting bar a much better option as compared to others.

• What to buy: Amaretti, Lambruco, balsamic vingar, upscale wines from Italy and champagne.

• Working Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (Monday Closed)

2)Mercato Albinelli:

Address: Via Luigi Albinelli, 41100 Modena MO

Mercato Albinelli is the perfect place to buy not just balsamic but also other local produce. The market is full of vendors selling fresh local produce. Also, there are quite a few vendors selling balsamic as well as Italian wine. It is located right in the city center and therefore is hard to miss. Most of the vendors selling balsamic vinegar will offer free tasting sessions. You can easily try out the different balsamics before finally picking one. Also, you can buy each and every type of balsamic vinegar from the latest ones up to 50-year-old as well. You can also buy certified DOP Traditional balsamic vinegar. We can’t recommend a single vendor here, but many stalls have balsamic vinegar on stock here, so it is worth to ask around and taste it. The best thing about buying balsamic from this place is that you can taste the balsamic variants from different vendors before finally choosing the one which you like.

• What to buy: Certified DOP Traditional balsamic, 12 and 24 years old.

• Weekday Working Hours (Monday to Thursday): 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM

• Weekend Working Hours (Friday & Saturday): 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6 PM – 12 AM (Sunday Closed)

3) Acetaia di Giorgio:

tasting of balsamic vinegar — trying the balsamic vinegar

Address: Via Sandro Cabassi, 41100 Modena MO, Italy

At Acetaia di Giorgio you will not just buy vinegar but head on to a culinary journey. It is a family operated business for decades. If you like traditional balsamic vinegar, this is the place to go, in fact they are producers of certified traditional and you can buy directly at their villa. Right from the time when you enter the gates to the time you head out, it will be a personalized tour which will not just offer you insights into the balsamics which they have on offer but also educate you regarding balsamics in general. The gracious personal tour will leave you wanting for more. The aged balsamics are well worth the price. The family has been in the business for more than 150 years which ensures that you are able to get some of the finest aged balsamic vinegar in Modena. You should definitely try out the 24 year old Ciliegio and the Giorgio Primo, and Carlotta during your tasting session. Moreover, it is just located at a distance of 900 m from the city center which makes it easier to reach. Thus, if you’re looking for traditional balsamic vinegar with rich authenticity, this is the place which you should definitely visit. You will be surprised not just by the quality of balsamic but also the hospitality on offer.

• What to buy: 25 year old Ciliegio

• Working Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM

4) Acetaia Malpighi showroom:

Address: Piazza Roma, 41121 Modena

Acetaia Malpighi showroom is located within a radius of 200 m from the city center. Thus, it is at a walkable distance from the city center. The hostess not only provides you with insights into the balsamics on offer but also educates you regarding the actual production process. Thus, you will be able to easily understand how to judge the quality of balsamics as well. The Malpighi family has been in this business for more than a century. Some of the barrels which they use are as old as 1730. You will easily be able to find balsamics which are 40 years old as well. The tasting will provide you with a good idea regarding the ones which you should buy. Generally speaking, if you like a well-balanced taste when it comes to your balsamics, the 25-year-old is going to be the perfect option for you. Thus, when you’re in the city center, this place is a must visit.

• What to buy: 25-year-old Balsamic

• Working Hours: Weekdays Working hours (Tuesday to Friday): 10 AM – 1:30 PM, 2 PM – 6:30 PM

• Weekends working hours (Saturday): 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 2 PM – 7 PM (Sunday & Monday Closed)

5) la consorteria 1966:

Address: Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, 41121 Modena

The la consorteria 1966 is located right at the city center. It is hard to miss when you’re exploring the city. The vinegar tasting is pretty extensive as they have on offer every type of balsamic ranging from 12 years old to 60 years old. Moreover, during the tasting, they will explain to you not just the different types of vinegar but how the aging process affects all of them. They also have on offer specialized vinegars like the balsamics which are aged in Cherrywood. Thus, when it comes to variety, la consorteria 1966 definitely provides you with plenty of choices. The hostess is well versed in English and will suggest you the suitable type of balsamics depending on your reactions to the 1st one which you taste. Thus, instead of experimenting, they will provide you with the tasting options which you are most likely to prefer. La consorteria 1966 is the place where you should definitely try out unique balsamics like balsamic aged in cherrywood. If you would like to explore some of the most unique balsamics on offer, this is the place to be.

• What to buy: Cherry wood only balsamic

• Working Hours: 11 AM – 6 PM (Sunday Closed)

Thu, when you are visiting Modena, there are plenty of stores where you can explore many unique variants of balsamic. These are the 5 places which not only offer you some of the best balsamics but also are within walking distance of the city center which helps you explore all of them within a day without traveling far and wide. Most of them allow you to ship the balsamic directly to your home country rather than carrying it with yourself. Thus, you will not have to worry about the packaging and the bottle. You should definitely visit these few stores when you are in Modena to get your hands on some of the finest balsamic.

My best Gelateria in Modena

Though you might have tasted gelatos from other cities such as Rome, for sure you have not tasted anything close to the ones you will eat in Modena. Bet you, Modena has the best gelaterias in Italy. Therefore, if you do not know what to eat in Modena, the right answer is to eat there gelato. It would be great if you checked some of the best gelaterias in Modena.

1. Gelateria Bloom

Gianluca Degani, the founder of gelateria Bloom is committed to delivering additive and chemical free gelatos. He manages to offer creamy, breathtaking ice creams. Clearly, the classics such as almond (mandorla) and pistachio meet customer expectations.

Each season, he comes up with new recipes. That creativity alone is a reason enough why you should never make a mistake of leaving Italy without tasting Bloom’s gelato. Italy is popular for its special ice cream flavors, and gelateria Bloom isn’t an exception.

More than 30 percent of gelato’s menu is either vegan or dairy free. The gelateria also has gluten-free options. Thus, you are likely to get anything that suits you.

Most customers like their ice cream. In fact, they would not mind going for more especially for their rich flavors such as peach. This gelateria will not disappoint you in whatever flavor you like.

The gelateria offers the “Take 5” offer, which includes: Schezwan pepper, Vanilla, fior di latte, grapefruit marmalade and cardamom. Alternatively, you can have their Zabajone (eggnog) with candied Sicilian tangerines and Caluso Passito wine.

You can as well have their 2788, which includes lime zest, Tonka beans and peach jam infused with juniper. The pistachio or lemon in a brioche bun has an incredible taste. You will also clearly notice that they make their gelato out of fresh ingredients.

Bloom gelateria is located via Taglio 16/A, 41121, Modena in Italy. It opens every day from 12.30 to 10 pm. It operates odd hours to ensure you have you after dinner dessert or ice cream.

Gelateria Bloom is worth a visit. Once you taste their gelato, everything else will be secondary. Gelateria Bloom offers a true definition of what ice cream should be.

2. Gelateria Pomposa

gelateria pomposa Modena — gelateria pomposa

Since its inception, gelateria Pomposa has been offering ice cream flavors and frozen yoghurts with extra touches. Their gelatos are vegetarian-friendly, as well, with unbelievable flavors.

Once you taste the pistachio or stracchiella from Gelateria Pomposa, you cannot resist getting another. They are yummy.

One thing you will notice when you get inside is high hygiene standards. Plus their great customer service – really friendly. And did you know that they offer free delivery? Yes, you can make an order of your favorite chocolate or any other flavor, right from the comfort of your home.

Pomposa is located in Modena, Italy, via Del Voltone 6/A 41121. Operating from Tuesday to Sunday, from noon to midnight, the gelateria gives you time flexibility. These are great working hours to have your favorite ice cream. They close on Mondays, though.

This gelateria Pomposa offers ice cream flavors such as fiori di buffalo, cream di nocciole. Each has a unique taste. For instance, one half for nocciole has mango gelato and the other limone granite.

This is just of the many reasons that make gelateria the second best. Unlike other gelaterias, Pomposa offers very natural and smooth ice creams and frozen yoghurt. Kids love them and adults likewise.

3. Cremeria Emilia

Did you know Cremeria Emilia offers “Emilia” flavor? Well, you can have that one and many more such as coconut-milk ice cream flavors. You will love this one – its taste is out of this world. Besides, Cremeria Emilia offers great options for vegans. It is also vegetarian-friendly.

Cremeria Emilia is located along Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini 17, 41121, Modena in Italy. Apart from its strategic location, you will love its working hours. They operate on Sundays to Saturdays, as in each day. The only differ in terms of hours. On Saturdays and Sundays, they open from 11am to 12 am. On Mondays to Fridays, they work from noon to midnight. These are pretty good days and hours to have your ice cream or frozen yogurt.

The best part is that Cremeria Emilia offers something extra that others don’t. For instance, have a taste of their chocolate on the low part of a cone. It is really delicious and nice. You have to try it out. In other words, this place is heaven for refrigerated desserts.

Apart from its delicious and different gelatos, this place has an attractive design. Its interior is appealing: pleasing décor, super clean and bright. This attributes matches with their first-rate ice creams: rich flavors and light texture. How about you try the strawberry cheesecake ice-cream, it is super delicious.

Ordering and receiving your order is fast. You will receive your order in just a few minutes. Thanks to their friendly and fast customer service. Even, though they always have long queues, the delicious deserts/ ice-creams/ frozen yogurt are worth the wait.

4. Gelateria k2

gelateria k2 modena

Gelateria K2 is located in Corso Canalgrande 67, 41121, Modena in Italy. This is a strategic location that you can easily access to get your favorite ice cream – even if you are not familiar with the city.

This gelateria has excellent, delicious ice cream flavors in the whole of Modena. In addition, the tastes are classical with extreme strawberry, lemon and chocolate flavors. Also, you can have a little more detailed taste like coconut, almond (roasted), pomegranate, pink grapefruit, cherry and pomegranate.

Besides these numerous, yet delicious tastes, people love K2 gelateria because of their zero-fat ice cream and yogurt. They balance the sweetness of their ice creams also. The Ben Coat, for example, is not extremely sweet and not flat. More so, the gelateria fills the cones with pink, which gives the ice cream a classical taste.

And for sure you have never tasted a yummy Earl Grey like the one K2 offers. This flavor has nuts and lime, just the best. You can try also their Tiramisu and Amaretto flavors, both are divine. The texture is full of air and light, it is not stiff or frozen, just perfect. In addition, the gelateria has the best customer service – polite and professional. In fact, the gelateria always has long queues. But their customer service does promise to deliver your order in the shortest time possible. If you have one wish to make in your life, definitely you should wish to visit gelateria K2.

In conclusion

Of course, Modena has the best gelaterias in the whole of Italy, and you have all the supportive evidence. You have a wide selection such as almond and pistachios, among others. All of these delicious and many flavors, combined with their great customer service meet customer’s expectations. Most importantly, the owners of these gelaterias are highly creative. Just to ensure you get the best out of the best.

The Hidden (Vintage) car museums of Modena

Visit Italy for cathedrals, cuisine and culture, but stay in Modena for vintage cars. Most importantly, visit the vintage museums such as Stanguellini and Museo Umberto Panini. The later displays a variety of racing cars and bikes, while Stanguellini has different vintage vehicles.

Stanguellini Car Museum in Modena

Who are they?

At 72 years of age, in 1981 Dec 4th, Vittorio Stanguellini passed on. He had a great spirit for racing, which he passed to his junior – Francesco. Hence, as a cautious car driver, Francesco’s children have inherited his enthusiasm. The car museum has a name, tradition and flag that need to be secured. Thus Francesca had not option other than adapt great motivation. Therefore, both Francesca and Simone have kept that legacy.

Where is it?

Stanguellini is a car museum located in Modena, Italy. Currently run by Francesco Stanguellini, it has a collection of different car models. These vintage cars include Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Ferrari and Lamborghini, among others.

Most visitors do acknowledge the honor to tour in this museum with the Arturo Vicario – a Stanguellini curator. The museum has a vintage machine store downstairs. Arturo is a precious trove in the history of automotive. He shares his experience with a reputable museum such as Stanguellini and others.

When to visit

Stanguellini museum operates from 9 am to noon, and 3 to 6 pm. It is open from Monday to Saturday and closes on Sundays. However, it would be great and convenient to get a reservation before visiting. The Modena museum opens only by appointment.
This is not the kind of museum to miss especially if you love vintage cars or anything related to it. It has a really interesting collection, as we will discuss in the next point.

What to see

The museum displays top cars such as Colibri, 750 Sport Internazionale, and 750 Corsa. It has a well-displayed collection of these cars and more. Inside, you will learn lots of history about Stanguellini origin, yes more than you have learned from this article. Also, you will view a nice variety of vehicles such as Carrera Panamerica and Mile Miglia, just to mention but a few.

Another thing you will love about Stanguellini museum is its great presentation. The personals are willing to spend whatever amount of time with you. Just to ensure you capture everything you want. They will ensure you see the entire car collection.

Definitely, you should make an effort to visit. However, you should book before a visit and teach yourself some Italian language – would you? Nevertheless, this Modena museum is located on a great atmosphere.

Motors tradition

Back then, engineering degrees never existed. So, Francesco’s dad had to teach himself about cars. In fact, Ferrari himself attained his degree in engineering at the age of 62. According to Francesco, they produced these cars from their heart. Also, Enzo Ferrari and Francesco’s dad exchanged advice and opinions.

After work, they used to meet at a trattoria, have few glasses of wine and allow ideas to flow. Eventually, they discovered world-breaking ideas such as Stanguellini Guzzi Colobri. Such a model had a 250 cc engine, which helped it to break 6 world records (at 1963 Monza).

How to book

This is a small workshop and its founders are pioneers of all the racing vehicles. Today, you must visit this museum whenever you visit Italy. You can book by email. Alternatively, you can make a phone call through +39 059 361105.

Museo Umberto Panini

Who are they?

Umberto Panini is one of the members of a successful business family in Italy. He took a step to invest in car collection. Unfortunately, he passed on in 2013. However, his legacy is still ongoing to-date. Initially, Maserati brothers established the Maserati Collection. Later on, Omar Orsi expanded it.

Since its expansion, the collection has kept intact. The Umberto Panini motorcycles and cars collection is still free to anyone. So far, the collection has 60 motorcycles and 40 cars.

Where is it?

Museo Umberto Panini is in Cittanova di Modena, Italy. It belongs to the most elegant Maseratis collections situated in a farmhouse.

What to see

The 1953 Maserati A6 GCS Pininfarina is a highlight from Panini collection. Besides showing cars and motorcycles, people know the farm for the rich Parmigiano Reggiano. This is an Italian cheese. Some people think this museum is just for food. Some people visit the museum just for its cheese, but they find themselves staying for its vehicles. Well, they are wrong because they can find more like cars, tractors, and motorbikes.

In addition, the museum displays the Tipo 61 Birdcage. This collection has an extraordinary frame with 200 tubes made of alloy. It has a frame weighing 38 kilograms and a unique Drogo bodywork. More so, you will come across Maserati 420M58, which is an Eldorado. Stirling Moss used this Maserati to participate in Monza 500 Miglia spots.

When to visit

Museo Emberto Panini operates on Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm. It also opens on Monday to Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm, Italian time. It closes on Sundays. This time is really flexible to suit all customers.

You can reach Museo Emberto Panini by car. When on the exit of Modena Nord, take the Via Emilia and turn on the direction to Reggio Emilia. Alternatively, you can use Google map. It will take you only 20 minutes from Modena city to reach this museum.

How to book

You can visit the collection individually or as a group. However, you can only do so via a reservation. Most importantly, a guide should accompany you. If you want to visit as a group, then you must not exceed 50 persons. The family groups should be a maximum of five persons. You can visit as a family in absence of a guide, but you need permission. You can get authorization via email at west@hombre.it.

The bottom line

Italy has great cultural events, which you can visit when done with their vintage museums. You should not worry about where to spend because the city has many nearby restaurants. In addition, you will find many places to dine and wine such as restaurants, canteens or holiday farms. If you love nature, you can go to the parks, botanical gardens or natural reserves. Either way, just make a point to visit either Museo Emberto Panini or Stanguellini museum.

How To Get a Reservation at Osteria Francescana? Actually, You Can’t

Or rather, you can try. But it might be more complicated than you’d imagine.

The world-famous award-winning, (three) Michelin star holding restaurant has become a celebrity of its own – one everyone who decides to visit Italy has at least once thought about eating at. And with good reason, since the dishes served by Chef Bottura at the Osteria Francescana find their roots in traditional, top-quality Emilian cuisine, but without forgetting to make a move towards the future, innovating and presenting products and produce with a refreshing, new look. The only problem? Booking a lunch or a dinner can be quite the process.

The Osteria’s Fame

In the past few years, Massimo Bottura, the chef behind the Osteria Francescana, has been praised and regarded by the culinary world for a number of reasons: for being true to his roots in his style, mission and choice of ingredients, for bringing innovative ideas – literally – to the table, and for creating new dishes that contribute to create a unique dining experience.
Thanks to this, Chef Bottura’s fame has skyrocketed to the Olympus of Italian haute-cuisine, making his restaurant, one of the most exclusive in Italy, and the best restaurant in the world, according to “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2016”. The waiting list to book a table is of four months, so if you need to book for a specific date, or period of time (based on the days you’ll be in Modena), you need to be prepared.

How to Book

First of all, as we already established, the restaurant is fully booked, and sold out, for the next 4 months. New reservations start on April for the month of July, and so on.
At this link, http://www.osteriafrancescana.it/reservations/ you can see the reservations’ calendar with available dates and, if you skip forward using the arrows, you can see the instructions about booking a table: reservations open on a certain date and time, so if you want to get in early on the waiting list, prepare to call, or email the staff accordingly.
By making a reservation you are in fact inquiring about booking a table, and the Osteria will get back at you in the next 96 hours – enough time to sort the tables and pick clients from the waiting list for that date. If someone cancels their reservation, that’s all the more chance you have for your request to go through, but it can be though.
Being flexible with dates and times is a great way to get in the Osteria’s “good graces” and your reservation is more likely to be confirmed. A great way to show the staff you’re fine with multiple dates, and okay with going either at lunch or dinner is making a call.
For a successful call, remember to be nice and accommodating. Ask the staff if there’s something that can be done to fit you in, pointing out your availability.

More info can be found clicking on the following Quora and Tripadvisor links. Along with inquiries about how to make a reservation and how to contact the restaurant, you can also find other tips, reviews, and frequently asked questions about the Osteria’s dress-code and more.
https://www.quora.com/How-hard-is-it-to-get-a-reservation-at-Osteria-Francescana
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/FAQ_Answers-g187803-d1160010-t918838-I_ll_be_in_Modena_in_a_few_months_how_did_you.html

Alternatives to the Osteria Francescana

Of course managing to find a spot at the Osteria can be done, but if you couldn’t book a table in time, or your reservation didn’t go through, don’t fret: there are more fantastic dining experiences to be had in and around Modena that’ll be sure to leave you a great memory (and after-taste) of your visit to the city.
Here are a couple of alternatives that you can rely on for a great lunch or dinner out, and don’t forget that the internet is always available if you need to look up restaurants and osterie on the spot. Or, you could just look around, and you’ll see plenty of quaint little places with great local and traditional menus.

The Osteria Franceschetta

Chef Bottura also manages this Osteria, with the collaboration of other famous chefs. The menu is rich of interesting, fusion-style dishes that still find their roots in Italian and local, Emilian cuisine, but without forgetting a twist in the presentation, tastes and colors.
Choosing this restaurant will make it so that you’ll still enjoy an incredible experience alongside Bottura’s ideas and creations but in a different ambient, with more affordable options that those of the Osteria Francescana, and a more relaxed booking experience.
Reservation is advised, and can be done through the Osteria’s website:
http://www.franceschetta.it/en/

L’Erba del Re – Award-winning Restaurant in Modena

This restaurant can boast one Michelin star, along with many other awards and great results achieved through the years. If you couldn’t get into Osteria Francescana, the Ristorante L’Erba del Re is an excellent alternative, with traditional and innovative dishes, made with locally sourced and top-quality ingredients. Tasting menus for a well-rounded culinary experience are available.
http://www.lerbadelre.it/

5 Massimo Bottura Dishes that Blow Me Away

Famous Italian restaurateur Massimo Bottura has been at the top for decades but his style has risen in prominence since 2010, when his Modena-based restaurant Osteria Francescana was rated with three Michelin stars. Since then, he has won numerous awards and established himself as one of the world’s top chefs, known for constantly pushing culinary boundaries. His most recent success — receiving the Best Restaurant in the World award by the prestigious The World’s Best 50 Restaurants list in June 2016 — has catapulted him to the very top and made his restaurant the first Italian restaurant to receive this eminent title. I’ve been following his work for a while and while it’s hard to pick an absolute favorite, here are 5 dishes that completely blow me away:

1. Croccantino di Foie Gras

This preparation is just amazing as it incorporate the novelty of eating croccantino (an industrial icecream from the 80s) and the velvety sensation of fois gras. The beauty of Bottura’s cooking is that it reflects his understanding of how textures and flavors combine to produce a perfect melange of tastes and every grown up dream to eat croccantino again.

The Croccantino is a perfect example of this. By combining the crunchiness and light sweetness of the almond and hazelnut crust with the balsamic heart, Bottura elevates the flavor of the foie gras. To boot, the ice cream stick takes the snazziness off what would normally be a high-class dish and gives it a nostalgic feel.

2. Oops I Dropped the Lemon Tart

Massimo Bottura's “Oops! I’ve dropped the lemon tart!” — Oops! I’ve dropped the lemon tart!

I love this dish because it destroys all of our preconceived notions of what a fancy meal is supposed to look like. Turned upside down and purposefully smashed, in this tart Bottura combines the avant-garde taste of haute cuisine with the casual nonchalance of a desert that didn’t turn out as expected.

Bottura’s recipe combines lemongrass ice cream, custardy zabaione filling and a delicious crust spiced with anise, black pepper, cinnamon and juniper. The different components give the dessert layers of flavor, combining the sweetness of the zabaione, the refreshing minty lime taste of lemongrass and the unassuming scent of the crust.

Overall, this lemon tart is an exotic yet familiar addition to any menu. I can’t wait to make it again!

3. Eel Swimming Up the Po River

This appetizer proves that all good food also has a story. The name of this dish references the voyage of the Estensi family in the 16th century from Ferrara to Modena — against the current, the eel gathers a number of ingredients from Veneto, Mantova and the countryside. The dish features a combination of polenta, apple extract, Amarone and saba making for a meal full of history and ripe with regional tastes.

I love this dish because of its feel for the local and its ability to transport you to another place and time. But in addition to appealing to your imagination and drawing upon history, Bottura succeeds in making an excellent dish, full of freshness and novelty.

4. Chicken Chicken… Where Are You?

This is by far one of my favorite recipes, inpired by Bottura’s little daughter, it combines an understated chicken taste with a variety of extravagant vegetables such as Koppert Cress, Daikon and Violet Flower in addition to classics such as Fennel, Scallion and Celery. The elaborateness of this dish is hidden in its style of preparation as well as the effort it takes to integrate a rich chicken taste into this variety of vegetables, but in fact you cannot find solid pieces of chicken in this preparation but just the scent, therefore “chicken where are you?”

5. 5 Different Ages of Parmigiano Reggiano

I love cheese and considering that parmiggiano reggiano is one of my favorite cheeses, I had to try this dish. It’s definitely very Bottura, combining the avant-garde with a firm connection with local history and tradition.

The recipe consists of five different textures of different ages of parmiggiano reggiano — a souffle, a galette, ‘air,’ as well as foam which all combine in spectacular ways considering that we are talking about the same product. Also, the recipe is easier to make than expected! The trick is to find the cheeses.

How (And Where) To Drive An Exotic Car in Italy

Going to Italy is on the bucket list of almost every person alive. This is because Italy is said to be one of the most romantic places on earth. It’s also home to great fashion trends and has the most exquisite shopping places. On top of the retail therapy and exotic food, Italy offers its tourists the chance to drive super cars on the public roads and also on the racing tracks. Several companies offering this service are available to make your trip to Italy simply unforgettable.

How to Drive an Exotic Car in Italy

You can hire a super car in any agency for a few hours as a driving test or take it on a spin for two days. Every car comes with a driving instructor who is always with you for safety.

Where to Drive an Exotic Car in Italy

1. Maranello and Modena

A test drive in Maranello starts with a private driver picking you up from your hotel and taking you to the heart of Italy of motor sport. This area is also known as the home of Ferrari or Italian Motor Valley. You board your super car of choice right after you pass the Ferrari factory. At this point you get to sit behind the wheel of a Lamborghini or a Ferrari and feel its roar and power. The instructor will sit right by you to give you instructions as you start slow in normal roads. You can increase the speed and use F1 super gear as you get used to the car until you reach the Modena racing track.

At this location you can combine road drive and tracking driving at the Modena autodromo. This is a complete racing track with amazing bends and gradients. The instructor will take the first lap as you watch closely so you can know how to do it. After that you are given back the pilot seat to take four exhilarating laps on the track. You then get to drive the car back to Maranello for thirty minutes before giving it back.

2. Imola Racing Track

The city of Imola is known as the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari. It is famous for hosting formula One San Marino Grand Prix .The Imola racing track is one of the biggest tracks in Italy and is also a tourist attraction. Imola has the biggest Lamborghini academy where people are taught to drive this high-end car safely. The instructor stays with you but you stay in control. The instructors are patient, polite and let you make your own decisions. The benefit of the Imola race track over other tracks is that you get unlimited laps and different super cars.

3. Mugello Racing Track

At Autodromo Internazionale Del Mugello, one gets to learn all the tricks of race cars before test driving one. It is a big race circuit in Tuscany that enables one to take long laps and enjoy the super high speed. The facility is upgraded regularly to meet safety standards because it’s used by a lot of companies and individuals. You can test the power of an amazing GT car in this exhilarating descents and long straights with the guidance of an instructor.

At the Mugello’s circuit it also possible to drive a Formula one car.

4. Monza

Monza circuit is the most famous sports complex in the world because it hosts the prestigious grand prix events .It has long straights and fierce bends that will take your breath away. Monza circuit has 3 tracks; Gran Premio, junior tracks and the Speed track. Get a driving course in the junior track and then get behind the wheel on a fast race in the GT program. Monza circuit is also great for watching famous racers do their thing on track days.

At the Monza’s circuit it also possible to drive a Formula one car.

How to Get An International Driving Permit

If you plan to drive a super car in the public road in Italy you should obtain an international driving permit.

Drivers from outside EU are required to get an international driving license if they are to be allowed to drive in Italy. This license must then be translated into Italian to avoid problems with the traffic police. Anyone who has a USA driving license is eligible for an international one from any AAA club in US or Canada. It does not require a driving test, only an online application with photos and a $15 fee. It must be renewed annually, just like every other driving permit. The process is real fast and comes with minimal hassle.

Modena Trattoria Aldina, a Review

The Trattoria Aldina is a restaurant that offers traditional Emilian dishes, and it’s located in Modena inside a building that houses other businesses, so it’s actually quite easy to miss the entrance. But the restaurant, its address being Via Luigi Albinelli 40, is off the beaten path going towards the city center and as such it’s frequented largely by locals, which is all the more reason to dine here, surrounded by friendly staff and true, homemade local dishes. The atmosphere in here makes it so that it feels like you’re about to have a hearty Sunday meal at an aunt or a grandma’s house, and since the restaurant is on the first floor, the overall appearance of the place is that of a real Italian house. Booking is not possible unless you plan on dining here with a group of people, but it’s fairly easy to be seated – you might have to wait just a little while at most.
The pasta-based dishes are excellent and 8 euros for a dish of tortellini in broth is truly a deal! The quality of the courses offered is amazing, especially when compared to the affordable prices. The ratio between quality and price is outstanding since the dishes of homemade fresh pasta with or without filling (tagliatelle, tortellini, tortelli, lasagne and more) cost only 7/8 euros.

The dishes I decided to order and try are as follows, but the choice spans across most of the traditional dishes and courses of a typical Emilian meal, and it ranges from different kinds of pasta, filled pasta (with diverse and seasonal fillings to satisfy every palate), second courses of meats, including veal, and a choice of side dishes (baked vegetables, mashed potatoes and so on) and cheeses.

I ordered a classic dish of tortellini in broth, a staple in the Emilian tradition, especially here in Modena, that proved to be excellent and affordable; as a second course, I strayed from the usual that would have customers order more traditional dishes such as pork shin-bone or tagliata, to order a horse meat tartare that was fairly good. As for what concerns the desserts, I tried both the excellent zuppa inglese (a trifle made with layered custard, chocolate cream, and sponge cake dipped in Alchermes) and the panna cotta with a red berries syrup that was quite good – the desserts available might change from day to day but the pillars of Italian cuisine are usually always on the menu, including tiramisu, mascarpone and more.

Great tortellini in brodo at Aldina’s – only 8 euros.

Panna cotta – Zuppa inlgese – Tartare di cavallo – Tortellini

Coffee: Become a Master Barista With This Masterclass in Italy

Being a barista is something that can be done wherever there is a coffee house, but the role finds its roots in the Italian tradition of coffee making, and with the Terzi Coffee School you can finally learn this incredible and refined trade.

The Terzi Coffeehouses of Italy provide the chance to take part in lessons and courses at the Terzi School for Coffee and Foodies, located in Vignola, no matter your starting skill level. Coffee lovers, baristas and tourists who seek a truly Italian hands-on experience will be taught by an English-speaking (other languages available) master barista all about the different types and techniques of coffee making and most of the classes – that range between short, half-day ones, one-day experiences and multi-day classes – also include breakfast, lunch and/or dinner of the best local Emilia Romagna dishes.

The aim of the owner of Caffè Terzi of Italy, Mr. Manuel Terzi, is to spread his knowledge and coffee expertise to anyone who’s willing to learn. The school doesn’t just cater to those who wish to become more familiar with the world of coffee, but also to foodies and food-lovers, and the school offers insight about the best dishes of Italian cuisine, the best pairings between coffee and cheese, information about coffee beans and all you wanted to know about the history of coffee, the methods to harvest and grind the beans, the equipment needed for the Italian techniques as well as the other methods of extraction available and also how to make the perfect drink (you can learn over 125 coffee drinks!), latte art, and the perfect cappuccino.

There are many online courses about the art of coffee making, but the Terzi School offers a first-person experience, with focused training, not detached demonstrations. The participants will take part in the activities and will be engaged in an all-around experience in a friendly atmosphere, with small classes that allow for individual attention for optimal learning. The course will be tailored on your needs, and there are many curricula available on the school’s website to choose from. Registration is easy and the prices range from 35€ for a simple lunch/dinner to join your friends who have taken part in a class (this option doesn’t include the class itself), to 195€ for a 4hrs class where you can learn how to make the perfect espresso or cappuccino, and up to more expensive classes for the coffee die-hards who want to know everything about coffee roasting. Barista classes are available for beginners (3.5hrs/195€), intermediate participants (4.5hrs/250€) or advanced baristas (8hrs/495€), so that anyone with any level of experience can find the course that best fits their wishes.

The world of coffee is wonderful, and perhaps a bit complicated at first glance, but the Terzi School of Italy just opened its doors and it’s a chance to learn all you wanted to know about coffee you just can’t miss.

Pavarotti Museum Finally Opens in Modena

Pavarotti singing in Modena — Pavarotti singing in Italy – source

On the occasion of Expo 2015 in Milan, even Modena, together with Luciano Pavarotti Foundation, decides to exceptionally open to the public the doors of Casa Pavarotti that have been transformed into a House-Museum thanks to a path that will permit his fans to better know Luciano Pavarotti both as famous tenor and man.
The visit of the House-Museum in Stradello Nava is part of the Discover Ferrari & Pavarotti Land tour, organised by Modena to show to the tourists the beauties of the city.

In the past, the Foundation opened the House just for special occasions so it is the first time that everyone is allowed to enter the House transformed into a Museum. This decision has been taken to never forget the name of Luciano Pavarotti, and it is even the main reason that encouraged Nicoletta Mantovani (Pavarotti’s wife) to start the Foundation in 2007, after the tenor’s death.

The Museum remains intentionally more in the dimension of a House because the Foundation wants to show how the tenor lived, in other words they want the public to know Luciano, rather than Pavarotti.
For example, an aspect that surely will help us to know him as a simple man is the area of the House that he decided to consecrate to his horses: here he opened a real horseback riding school and for 11 years, he has hosted a prestigious hurdle jumping competition.
Another peculiarity is that it was Pavarotti who designed the House, and the architects followed meticulously his plans while realizing the construction. So the House reflects the personality of the tenor in each detail; it treasures all his photos and memories with the most important people of his life, his friends, his family, his daughter.
What’s more, visiting the House-Museum you will have the chance to admire the clothes he wore during his most beautiful performances, the videos of the several Pavarotti & friends that took place in Modena as well the innumerable awards he gained during his 40-year-career in many theaters all over the world.

The Museum will be open to the public 7 days a week; the public will have the chance to carry out a guided tour based on a service of audio-guides in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Russian, that will guide the visitors throughout the House.
Some rooms are the same as when Pavarotti was alive, as his bedroom and the kitchen, while some others have been set up with a sort of path that retrace his career, with his works, pictures with famous people and friends, awards and so on.

Transforming the House into Museum has not be so easy, on the contrary it has been a very demanding project for the Foundation, but the target to let everyone know how the so well-known tenor lived his everyday life, has been reached.

If you are visiting Modena you should also consider to visit Enzo Ferrari museum.