Day 5: Romagna Countryside – Borgo Conde Wine Resort , Forli

Day five in Italy gave our group the rare treat of choice—something we all dream about on vacation: a day tailored to your own pace. The morning began gently at our wine resort hotel, sunlight streaming over the terracotta rooftops and vineyards, painting the villa in warm golden hues. Breakfast was a cheerful affair, and Jimmy joined us with a big grin, tucking into fresh pastries and Italian coffee as laughter filled the terrace.

Some of us opted to remain in this peaceful paradise. The spa beckoned with an indulgent organic, wine-infused mud treatment that left skin glowing and spirits soaring. Outside, the Romagna countryside stretched endlessly, its rolling hills dotted with grapevines and fruit trees heavy with the season’s bounty. Tiny town corners peeked out between fields, and the scent of fresh bread from a nearby bakery drifted through the morning air. Loaves of bread lined shelves, and the aroma mingled perfectly with the sunlight warming our villa and the gentle clinking of wine in nearby barrels.

For those hungry for exploration, Ravenna awaited. A guided walking tour led us through its storied streets, where the Byzantine and Gothic rulers left behind dazzling mosaics that have inspired artists for centuries—including Cole Porter’s “Night and Day.” The city, strategically powerful in the twilight of the Roman Empire, revealed its secrets in every gilded church and ornate corner. Here, history came alive as we wandered beneath soaring ceilings adorned with angelic frescoes and sparkling tiles.

By midday, we regrouped at the culinary school tucked within the rolling vineyards. The students welcomed us enthusiastically, giving a peek behind the scenes of their culinary education. Our tour group rolled up sleeves and joined them in prepping pasta, from garganelli to strozzapreti, learning the hands-on techniques that have been passed down through generations. Laughs echoed as dough was rolled, sauce tasted, and hands occasionally got a bit too floury. Jimmy, ever the foodie, was right there, delighting in testing a perfect bite of pasta and pizza as he made sure no flavor went unnoticed.

The kitchen buzzed with energy as plates piled high with fresh, handmade creations. Our group carefully plated the dinner we had prepared, proud of each colorful dish. The evening meal was a celebration of our efforts—every forkful a delicious reminder of Italy’s culinary heritage. As the night deepened, the charm of the countryside welcomed one last laugh: a friend dramatically emerging from the car, the perfect light-hearted end to a memorable day.

From the vines outside the hotel to the wine vats and barrels that hold the fruits of the region, from grapes glistening in the late afternoon sun to the smiling faces of students and travelers alike, day five in Romagna reminded us that Italy’s magic is as much about its food, history, and landscapes as it is about the people who bring it to life.

If you would like to travel to Italy with me as one of your personal guides, we go every spring and fall, before and after high season when there are far fewer crowds.

Send me your email if you are interested in traveling with me through our website:
www.DestinationItalyByCocos.com

Text me your email and I’ll send you a list of the tours we have coming up: 615-474-5689
Or email me at: chuck@CocosItalianMarket.com

Ciao for now,
Chuck

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Here is a video I made to answer the most common questions people have about touring Italy with me:
https://youtu.be/mF4nbTMtXjM

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