Day 6:

We started our exploration of Piedmont in the town of Barolo. This small but mighty town is celebrated for its production of one of Italy’s most esteemed wines, the Barolo.

From Barolo, we ventured to the nearby town of La Mora, where the Agricolo Brandini Vineyard awaited. Known for its exceptional wines, the vineyard offered a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the art and flavors of winemaking.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by picturesque vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. The serene beauty of the landscape set the perfect backdrop for a memorable wine tasting experience. We learned about the vine-to-bottle process, cultivation to harvest and aging. We also explored the cellars and barrels, gaining insights into the winemaking techniques that make Agricolo Brandini wines truly special.

Our wine degustation continued through a very sophisticated lunch made with regional products. It was a very valuable learning experience.

Day 7:

The Piedmont weather got the best of me. I decided to stay in Genoa to rest, it allow me to meet a very nice pharmacist that recommended typical Genovese restaurant in the city.

After an early train ride we arrived in Torino. Our day begins at the heart of coffee culture – Lavazza. Founded in 1895, Lavazza has become synonymous with Italian espresso excellence.

We had the great opportunity to visit the production center and learn about the Lavazza brand all that while enjoying delicious coffee. We then departed to the Lavazza Museum. The Lavazza Museum takes you on an immersive journey through the history of coffee, showcasing the company’s evolution and the art of coffee-making. From vintage coffee machines to interactive exhibits, you’ll gain insight into the intricacies of coffee cultivation, processing, and brewing.

After immersing ourselves in the world of coffee, we venture out to explore the captivating city of Torino. We began our city exploration at Piazza Castello, the beating heart of Torino. Admire the grandeur of Palazzo Madama and the Royal Palace, two magnificent landmarks that showcase the city’s past.

Free Day:

During this free day I explored Genoa a bit more and allow myself a small shopping spree. A relaxing day to recharge my batteries.

Our day began in the charming town of Santa Margherita Ligure, a vibrant coastal gem known for its pastel-colored buildings and picturesque harbor. We wandered through its narrow streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere and admiring the elegant villas that dotted the landscape.

Next on our itinerary was the world-famous Portofino, a place that truly embodies the essence of the Italian Riviera. As we approached the harbor, we were greeted by a panorama of pastel-colored houses, luxurious yachts, and a backdrop of lush green hills. We hiked up to Chiesa di San Giorgio, a small yellow church on top of the hill, to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the charming village below. We then wandered through the picturesque streets, discovering hidden boutiques, stylish cafes, and elegant piazzas that exuded an undeniable sense of glamour.

Leaving Portofino behind, we set sail for the secluded and enchanting village of San Fruttuoso. Nestled in a small bay, accessible only by boat, this ancient fishing village welcomed us with its pristine pebble beach. We  enjoyed a leisurely swim, and took a nap on the big rocks, basking in the serenity of this hidden paradise which almost made us miss the boat to our fourth location.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the charming village of Camogli, known for its colorful houses and vibrant maritime culture. The town’s pebbly beach and picturesque harbor were lined with fishing boats and tempting seafood restaurants.

Our day exploring Santa Margherita, Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli was a whirlwind of coastal beauty, historical treasures, and unforgettable experiences. From the glamorous streets of Portofino to the hidden coves of San Fruttuoso and the colorful charm of Camogli, each destination offered its own unique allure. This was the best day of this program.

DAY 1:

After a beautiful night in Rome, the eternal city that effortlessly merges ancient ruins with a modern cosmopolitan vibe, Malwina and I got on our way to the airport to start the Hospitality in Genoa Program. After a smooth flight, we stepped off in Genoa, excited to begin our Genoese adventure. It was now time for Malwina and I to separate to discover our apartments. My apartment nestled in the heart of the old town, welcomed me with its cozy ambiance and true Genovese architecture. To get to it we had to walk through Genoa’s vibrant squares and narrow alleyways, which at first looked spooky, to unveil a beautiful little “piazza” and the huge green door of the building.

It was now time to meet with others from the group around a nice plate of pasta. We all got to know each other and laugh about our struggle to get to Genoa. Later that day we all had to meet Piazza di Ferrari for a brief orientation and gather over dinner. We savored traditional Ligurian dishes such as pesto Genovese, focaccia bread, and fresh seafood delicacies. Our taste buds danced with joy as we explored trattorias tucked away in the city’s charming corners, discovering new flavors and indulging in the simple pleasures of Italian cuisine.

DAY 2:

We all met again for a tour of the city. We embarked on a walking tour of Genoa’s captivating nooks and crannies. The city surprised us at every corner with its maze-like streets, picturesque harbor, and splendid medieval architecture. We then took the train to Nervi a close by city on the water. The weather was beautiful and the city reminded me of my hometown. As we strolled along the picturesque promenade, we couldn’t help but marvel at the crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking cliffs that hugged the coastline. We all agreed we would come back during our free day to enjoy it a bit longer.

Later, we took the train back to Genoa to learn about Genovese cuisine and cook a delicious meal. I enjoyed it so much, learning about the products and getting a taste of what slow food represents was truly eye opening. We all left the stomach filled and new recipes in hand.