Itinerary among the DOC, IGP and Slow Food presidia flavours of the Rimini Riviera
Romagna is a generous land, where hospitality can also be seen in the fragrances and flavours that for centuries have recounted its identity.
In this itinerary — about 50 kilometres long — we cross the hills of the Conca Valley to discover typical products, traditions and small treasures to be savoured slowly.
Good journey and bon appetit!
First stop San Giovanni in Marignano: where piadina becomes an experience
A few kilometres from the sea, among golden fields and medieval walls, lies San Giovanni in Marignano, the “Granary of the Malatesta”.
A town rich in history and charm, today also guardian of one of the most beloved symbols of Romagna: the Piadina IGP.
Here you can visit Piadina Experience, the world's first museum dedicated to the piadina.
An interactive and sensorial journey that starts in the Neolithic age and arrives to the present day, amidst flour scents, cooking tales and immersive technologies.
You will be able to “knead” with your hands, “fly” over Romagna in the footsteps of Fellini, discover the production cycle from a panoramic tunnel and, of course, finish with a tasty piadina filling.
Second stop San Clemente: between wine and ancient walls
Leaving San Giovanni, the road leads us towards San Clemente, a village of Malatesta origin surrounded by walls that still enclose its ancient heart.
Nearby is Castelleale, the fortified villa-farm wanted by Leale Malatesta in 1388: a precious testimony of mediaeval architecture and seigniorial power.
But San Clemente is also a land of wine.
This is the birthplace of some of Romagna's most prized grape varieties: Sangiovese, the protagonist of the famous Sagra del Vino, and Rebola, obtained from the “Grechetto gentile” vine, a white wine with a fruity bouquet and velvety flavour.
Perfect with an aperitif with friends or to accompany a fish dish while watching the sea at sunset.
Third stop Montescudo - Monte Colombo: the land of potatoes and gnocchi
The journey ends amidst the gentle landscapes of Montescudo-Monte Colombo, an area that smells of history and authenticity.
The two localities, today united in a single municipality, still preserve the traces of the Malatesta lordship and an extraordinary agricultural heritage.
The symbolic product of this area è the potato of Montescudo, listed among the traditional food products of Emilia-Romagna.
From its firm texture and strong flavour come iconic dishes such as the potato dumplings, celebrated each year in the Sagra della Patata e Festa degli Gnocchi in August.
An event that smells of home, with historic recipes such as potato and bean soup, baccalà with potatoes and even the amazing potato ice cream!
Tips for true professionals
- Explore at a slow pace. Wear comfortable shoes and take the time to walk through the historic centres: the narrow stone streets, courtyards and craft shops tell stories you won't find on maps.
- Stop by the local markets.From May to September many villages host food and wine markets: the ideal place to take home a little bit of Romagna, including honey, wine and ceramics.
- Take the perfect sunset photo. The panorama from Montescudo - Monte Colombo at sunset offers one of the most beautiful views of the Riviera: a moment to immortalise, with a glass in hand and the right light.