First stage San Giovanni in Marignano the 'gateway' to the Conca Valley

A mediaeval village, embraced by fortified walls and rich in agricultural history: wheat and wine have always been the protagonists here, so much so that it earned the nickname “granaio dei Malatesta” (the Malatesta granary). Not to be missed is the Festa delle Streghe (Witches' Festival) in June, which evokes ancient rituals linked to harvests, amid magic and mystery.

Things to discover:

• Walk along via XX Settembre, the beating heart of the historic centre, where the Civic Tower stands like a stone guardian, and the entrance to the village greets you with its ancient charm.
• Enter the Church of Santa Lucia, a place of peace and spirituality
• The Teatro Massari è a true architectural jewel, one of the most ancient in Romagna.
• The Piadina Experience è the first museum in the world dedicated to the piadina.

Second stage Montefiore Conca, a fortress that can be seen from afar

Chestnuts and extra virgin olive oil tell of the autumn flavours of this village. Here, the tradition of oil-making dates back to the 13th century and harvesting in the chestnut grove is an ancient ritual.

Cheese lovers cannot miss the local pecorino cheese, produced according to a complete supply chain. The porchetta di Montefiore, fruit of the work of young farmers è a speciality that is appreciated throughout the Conca valley.

Must-see:

• The Rocca Malatestiana, imposing with its severe lines that can be seen as far as the sea
• The Church of San Paolo 14th century, a must for art lovers
• The walk around the walls to discover the beauty of the village and relax in an area surrounded by greenery.

Third stage Mondaino, Monte dei Daini

Mondaino, with its semicircular square has a medieval atmosphere. In autumn, the sfossatura del formaggio di fossa festival celebrates one of the most typical products of the area. At the Mulino della Porta di Sotto, you can buy this prized cheese and discover the secrets of its preparation.

Not to be missed:

• Major Square, with its perfect circular shape
• The Church of St Michael Archangel, whose legend has it that a temple dedicated to Diana, goddess of the hunt once stood here
• The Rocca Malatestiana, which today houses the Town Hall, the Palaeontological Museum and a fresco dating from 1480-85 attributed to Bernardino Dolci, the “Madonna del Latte”.

Advice from a true pro

The must-see events: 

• in September, the New Year of Wine and the Palio della Pigiatura in San Giovanni; 
• in October, the scent of autumn with the Festival of Chestnuts and Healthy Eating in Montefiore Conca; 
• in November, intense flavours with Fossa, Tartufo e Venere in Mondaino.