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Po River Delta - Emilia Romagna Experience Italy's Impressive Emlia Romagna Region

Small Group · Modena

Emilia Romagna Biking - The Bread Basket of Italy

8 Days Veneto · Italy

The Overview

Overview

Once the bread basket of the Roman Empire this rich fertile land along the Po River is an agrarian wonderland waiting to be savored.This tour offers a flat easy biking terrain with little to no traffic and is packed with culinary side trips.    Enjoy guided tours & tastings of the Reggiano & Parmesan cheeses, prosciuto and balsamic vinegar and private tours that give insight into the medieval towns we stay. Our memorable hotels are situated in these medieval centers and our one farm stay offers us a beautiful pool and 9-hole homemade links golf course on the grounds.

We meet at the train station in Mestre or Chioggia and transfer by van to start our first ride. We highly suggest staying a night or two before the tour in Chioggia for a fascinating stay with easy boat access to Venice if you like. We can also suggest wonderful B&B's in th the medieval center for half the price of staying in Venice.

If you wish to stay in Venice or elsewhere we can meet you at the Mestre train station.

Be dressed to ride as we start riding immediately after crossing the Chioggia Bridge and immediately start exploring the canals that lead to the Po River Delta. Our destination is in sight once we see the Este Castle of Mesola.

Duration

8 days

7 nights

Starting From

EUR 1,980

Per person for two travelers

Tailored to your departure and group.

Once the bread basket of the Roman Empire this rich fertile land along the Po River is an agrarian wonderland waiting to be savored.This tour offers a flat easy biking terrain with little to no traffic and is packed with culinary side trips. Enjoy guided tours & tastings of the Reggiano & Parmesan cheeses, prosciuto and balsamic vinegar and private tours that give insight into the medieval towns we stay. Our memorable hotels are situated in these medieval centers and our one farm stay offers us a beautiful pool and 9-hole homemade links golf course on the grounds.

Regions
Veneto · Italy
Tour Style
Small Group
Departs From
Modena
Meeting Point
Mestre/Chioggia
Included Meals
Daily breakfast · 8 lunches · 8 dinners
Day by day

Itinerary

Follow the route as you read. The map traces each day of the journey, moving with you from place to place.

Veneto

Chapter 1 · Days 1–3

Welcome to Veneto

The Veneto region in Italy is one of the most remarkable and romatic regions. It offers visitors a journey through the land of Palladio, Giorgione and Titian, through enchanting mountains and vine carpeted valleys, to some of Italy's most romantic cities. A land of rolling hills, rivers, lakes and impressive architecture; Veneto is a stunning region in…

Explore Veneto
Day 1

Veneto, Venice

The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds — photo 1 The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds — photo 2 The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds — photo 3 The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds — photo 4 The Po Delta, Pomposa Abbey, Delta wines & Migratory Birds — photo 5

We meet at the train station in Chioggia and transfer by van to start our first ride. We’ll fit everyone with their bikes and embark on our first ride within the Po Delta. We start riding immediately after crossing the Chioggia Bridge and soon start exploring the canals that lead to the Delta. Our ride features a unique ambience, with hundreds of birds that live in the lagoon (purple herons, mallards, moorhens, coots, and, recently, the cormorants). The wetland area has a unique vegetation such as oak, pine, the tamarisk, beech and cane. The bike paths are completely flat and mainly car free. Lodgings for 2 nights at a family run farm offering us the unique experience associated with the agriturismo. Full lap pool, tennis courts and 9 hole home-made golf course on the farm. Dinner: Our farmstead makes it's own salamis, game and vegetables and will be our host for two memorable nights--a favorite amongst locals

Where we meet Mestre/Chioggia
Day 2

Veneto

Exploring the Po Delta

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Exploring the Po Delta — photo 1 Exploring the Po Delta — photo 2 Exploring the Po Delta — photo 3 Exploring the Po Delta — photo 4 Exploring the Po Delta — photo 5

From our farmstead we set off on our loop that quickly passes the Abate Tower (a medieval water scooping machine) and soon arrives at our first stop of Goro, a town characterized by fishing; mainly sole, mussels, clams and eel. You will be at the wide floodplain which harbors several species of bird life. Here we soon embark on a boat cruise into the complex waterways that are home to hundreds of migratory birds and site of an ancient lighthouse. After lunch we set off for the Pomposa Abbey, one of the most important in northern Italy, famous for the Carolingian manuscripts preserved in its rich library, one of the wealthiest of Carolingian repositories. We then tour one of the few wineries in the Delta region and enjoy a wonderful wine tasting before a short cruise back to our Farmstay. A little golf anyone? Lodgings same as previous night. Dinner: Another locals favorite serving excellent Tuscan cuisine & offering outstanding wines.

Day 3

Veneto

Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles"

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles" — photo 1 Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles" — photo 2 Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles" — photo 3 Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles" — photo 4 Destra Po to Ferrara "The City of Bicycles" — photo 5

This is the longest ride that we embark on all week and it can start from several points along route. Since it is completely flat I am sure most recreational cyclist can complete the Ferrara Este Castlejourney. However, if you wish to start farther up the river we can easily accommodate your idea of a day on the bike. We again pass by the Abate Tower and soon find ourselves along the Destra Po (right side of the Po River) and at the fascinating Castle of Mesola. We then hug the Po River and pass points of interest such as Sarravalle the "Gate to the Delta". As we ride the higher banks of the river we pass a small village with a Venetian look and take in the beautiful views over the Delta and have a chance to examine the several fortresses, churches, hydraulic contraptions, bird life, islands, and the massive Cavo Napoleonico started in 1808...

Italy

Chapter 2 · Days 4–8

Welcome to Italy

There is nowhere on earth quite like Italy. From the vineyard-covered hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, from the art and history of Rome and Florence to the quiet fishing villages of the south, this is a country that gets under your skin and stays there. Come for the landmarks, stay for the long lunches, the warm welcomes, and the feeling…

Day 4

Italy

Destra Po to Ferrara

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Destra Po to Ferrara — photo 1 Destra Po to Ferrara — photo 2 Destra Po to Ferrara — photo 3 Destra Po to Ferrara — photo 4 Destra Po to Ferrara — photo 5

On day 4 we first enjoy a fascinating private city walking tour that gives us insight into an amazing Este Family, it's many architectural wonders including the castle that dominates the city. Our guide also examines Ferrara's fascinating Jewish history that dates back to the middle ages. Visitors can appreciate the countless landmarks that pay tribute to this heritage firsthand. The Ghetto area has remained intact both in look and layout throughout various restorations and is now a pedestrian area complete with

historical markets and boutiques. We then have plenty of time to explore town with an afternoon optional loop ride that starts around the medieval wall and then unveils the medieval and renaissance remains of the Este dynasty.

Lodgings: A beautiful XV century palace, once residence of Counts Beccari-Freguglia, . The atmosphere of the hotel is magical & there are lots of fun cafés and romantic quaint squares nearby.

Dinner: Excellent trattoria specializing in local favorites & night free

Day 5

Italy

On to Mantova

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
On to Mantova — photo 1 On to Mantova — photo 2 On to Mantova — photo 3 On to Mantova — photo 4 On to Mantova — photo 5

We continue our ride along Po River to San Benedetto Po before setting off for the beautiful center of Mantova, a city well worth traveling thousands of miles to see...this day's ride is as long or as short as you would like to make it. It starts with an optional 19km out of Ferrara from your hotel then along the Burana Canal the "biker's highway". Once back on the Po we are sure to notice the river gets much wider and is featured by the Tontola Island. We later see the 17th century fortress that marked the border to the Ferrara province. From here we leave the Emilia Romagna and enter the Mantova Province of Lombardia only to return the next day. Lodging: 1 night at the 3-star Hotel located in the historic center of Mantova Dinner: An outdoor trattoria in the square

Day 6

Italy Italy

Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 1 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 2 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 3 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 4 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 5

Ride to Modena along “La Strada dei Vini e Sapori della Piantura Modenese”. In English it translates as the highway of wines and wonderful flavors of the region. Need I say any more? Our ride passes by several farms that feature traditional balsamic vinegar, parmagiano and reggiano cheese and milk as well as risotto rice and cereals, Lambrusco wines and much more. We soon find ourselves on the river secchia and a new bike path leads into the medieval center of Modena. Here we enjoy two nights in a 4-star jewel in the heart of the historic center.

Day 7

Italy

Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 1 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 2 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 3 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 4 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 5

Our last full day together begins with an early transfer out to the dairy we tour. You sample the goods after a tour that demonstrates how Parmesan & Reggiano cheeses are produced. We then ride from here down to a small town and enjoy a tour of how prosciuto is produced. Once finished we stop for lunch and soon afterwards ride out to visit and tour at a traditional balsamic vinegar producer. Here we witness the traditional methods that make this a labor of passion. Some vinegars have been aged for 100 yrs and must be aged at least 12 years to be designated as rational; everything else is classified as industrial. Once back in town we enjoy a grand farewell dinner in the medieval center. In the morning we make the transfers accordingly. Lodgings: 4 star Hotel in the heart of the medieval center. Dinner: Outstanding trattoria in the medieval center.

Day 8

Italy

Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 1 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 2 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 3 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 4 Modena, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciuto & Balsamic Vinegar — photo 5

Our last full day together begins with an early transfer out to the dairy we tour. You sample the goods after a tour that demonstrates how Parmesan & Reggiano cheeses are produced. We then ride from here down to a small town and enjoy a tour of how prosciuto is produced. Once finished we stop for lunch and soon afterwards ride out to visit and tour at a traditional balsamic vinegar producer. Here we witness the traditional methods that make this a labor of passion. Some vinegars have been aged for 100 yrs and must be aged at least 12 years to be designated as rational; everything else is classified as industrial. Once back in town we enjoy a grand farewell dinner in the medieval center. In the morning we make the transfers accordingly.

Lodgings: 4 star Hotel in the heart of the medieval center. Dinner: Outstanding trattoria in the medieval center.

The journey ends

Farewell, Veneto

The details

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • 4 nights 4 star & 1 nights 3-star in medieval centers & 2 nights farmstay in Po Delta w/ pool & golf course
  • Five full course dinners and all breakfasts
  • Winery Visit & tasting
  • Private City Tour of Ferrara
  • Balsamic Vinegar tasting and tour
  • Parmesan tasting and tour of working dairy
  • BIKE RENTAL of quality upright 27-speed touring bikes equipped with handlebar bags (your clipless pedals can be mounted- but remember to bring your shoes, bike gloves and shorts.) Quality road bikes are available upon request at an additional charge
  • Route note, maps and marked routes
  • All tour transfers including meet/depart, van support and luggage transfer
  • Multi-lingual guide(s)
  • All entrance fees mentioned in itinerary

What's Not Included

  • Airfare, beverages
  • Trip insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Personal items
  • Guide tips.
In their words

Traveler Reviews

Emily and David Davison Travelled with us

My husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.

Ron and Deb Crosby Travelled with us

Dear Guiseppe and Jesse,

We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.

Hotels

1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.

2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.

3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.

Wine Tour

Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!

The various wineries we visited on tour:

Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.

Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.

Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.

Leon and Michele Travelled with us

The trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.

Bob & Sandy Travelled with us

Jesse & Giuseppe,

Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.

Where you are

Location

Italy Modena

Modena and beyond

8 days through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.

Where we meet

Mestre/Chioggia

Where it starts

Modena

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Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?

Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.

Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?

Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.

How do we start planning?

Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.

When should we book?

The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the best small hotels and the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.

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