A FUSION RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT HOLIDAY
This summer, the trend is to blend different types of experiences while on holiday in Italy, creating a perfect combination of enjoyment and relaxation.
The plan for this hot summer is to create a puzzle of experiences that not only satisfies sophisticated palates but also those seeking authentic local cuisine. Food lovers are keen to indulge in Italian culinary delights without any guilt, making wellness experiences just as essential.
In short, “food and wellness” wherever you are. Emilia Romagna, our next stop on the Icon Italy journey, is the perfect place to combine these elements.
From the Bolognese hills and vibrant nightlife to beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and art cities, Emilia Romagna is a multifaceted region. Here, every day is a mix of culture, immersive nature, lively entertainment, gourmet dining and local traditions. The region is also renowned for hosting the prestigious Rimini Wellness event every year, and offers wellness options not only in hotels and gyms, but also in stunning villas equipped with gym areas, allowing you to stay fit even on holiday.
Our journey continues with a focus on experiences to enhance our holidays (we’ve just left behind yoga and meditation in stunning locations in Liguria and Lombardy – read the article here). We find ourselves in Bertinoro, also known as the “Balcony of Romagna” for its breathtaking views, famous for its wine, gastronomy and warm hospitality, which is a hallmark of the entire region.
WELLNESS VILLA: TENUTA BAGNI DE CONSOLI
We arrive at Tenuta Bagni de Consoli (read the interview with the owner in The Magazine No.1), a unique location that combines history with modern comforts. The villa, with origins dating back to the 1600s, takes guests on a journey through time, from Ancient Rome to the present day. Tenuta Bagni de Consoli is a “wellness villa” equipped with a modern wellness area, including a gym, sauna, Turkish bath and a stunning tunnel pool.
At Tenuta Bagni de Consoli, it’s tempting to simply relax and enjoy the slow life in this enchanting setting. But we decided to adopt the “food and wellness” fusion recipe ourselves!
We invited Carlos, who guided us through a week of morning workouts, both outdoors with a view and in the well-equipped indoor gym. The absolute luxury of not needing to leave the villa, enjoying its spaces in complete privacy and having a dedicated personal trainer was a true privilege.
But, of course, we also included food in the villa!
We spent a week enjoying poolside aperitifs, dreaming of our next adventure and planning our next experience. And being in Emilia Romagna, we couldn’t resist opting for a traditional cooking class.
While we could have chosen to have a meal prepared for us by a group of culinary artists who provide traditional Italian dining services across the country, we decided to try our hand at the art of making tortellini ourselves. So, we invited Franca and Simona for a special cooking class.
In the beautiful kitchen of Bagni de Consoli, with Italian music by Maestro Nino Rota (the soundtrack of Fellini’s masterpiece Amarcord) playing in the background, and guided by our friends, we rolled out the dough, prepared the utensils, and paid attention to every detail, trying to live up to the tradition of Italian cuisine, which knows no borders and merges with the concept of well-being.
With aprons on, hands and faces dusted with flour, laughter filled the kitchen, culminating in a delicious plate of homemade tortellini… Food combined with the joy of cooking and eating together with loved ones in the stunning setting of the villa’s patio!
Creating an unforgettable memory? Mission accomplished! ✅
Fun fact: Tenuta Bagni de Consoli takes its name from the ancient Roman baths located along the Via Consolare.
Stay tuned – the second part of this chapter is coming soon. Are you ready?
