Plain and Po River

There is a stretch of land between the foothills of the Apennines and the banks of the Po, where the winter mist takes on a poetic quality and the summer sun illuminates an endless mosaic of fields, canals and historic villages.
This is the Reggio Emilia plain, stretching from the bustling vitality of the Via Emilia to the tranquillity of the Great River.

The journey begins along the ancient Roman route of the Via Emilia.
Here, towns such as Reggio Emilia, Cavriago and Sant’Ilario tell a story of trade and culture.
It is a vibrant area, where historic squares meet contemporary architecture (such as Calatrava’s famous bridges) and where life bustles amongst historic shops and al fresco aperitifs.

As you head north, the plain opens up to reveal unexpected gems.
Villages such as Correggio, Guastalla, Novellara and Gualtieri were once veritable princely courts.
Strolling beneath their endless arcades or admiring the views from their monumental squares means immersing oneself in a past of nobility and beauty, where the art of the great masters has left an indelible mark.

Further north, the landscape becomes flat and tranquil.
This is the Bassa, the land of Don Camillo and Peppone, of Ligabue and the Naïf painters.
Here, the great River Po dominates the landscape with its majestic banks, perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle. Places such as Boretto, Brescello and Luzzara offer a haven of peace, amidst silver poplar groves and sunsets reflected in the water.

You cannot claim to know the plain without having tasted its treasures.
This is the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, of the lively, sparkling Lambrusco, of sweet-and-sour pumpkin tortelli, and of the prized Traditional Balsamic Vinegar.
Every trattoria and every dairy along the way is a must-visit for anyone seeking the authentic flavour of rural tradition.