This morning, we’ll sleep in and have some leisurely time in this beautiful medieval village, then we’ll regroup to explore this enchanting borgo with its ancient castle, impressive noble residences, and charming piazzas that overlook the Tyrrhenian sea. You’ll stop at one of our favorite restaurants in Fiumefreddo Bruzio, tucked away in the maze-like streets of the town, where you'll push up your sleeves for your first hands-on cooking class. You'll sample delicious tastings made with local ingredients from small producers which are guaranteed to be IGP, DOP, and/or Slow Food certified, and environmentally sustainable.

We’ll have an afternoon break, then will drive out of town to a multi-generational family business dating back to 1910 which is praised for its high-quality signature sweets made with figs. We will learn how figs are used to create some of Calabria’s most treasured sweets including the much-loved Crocette, named for its cross shape. After sampling some of these delicious treats, we will return to our hotel. 

Overnight Fiumefreddo Bruzio.

Today you will meet my friend, Lucia, for a visit to her family's olive grove. You'll learn about their commercial production (and awards!), and see how they integrate their family's dairy farm into the oil business.

You'll learn how to tell good olive oil from the fakes, then will have a picnic-style lunch on-site, complete with local specialties and of course - their olive oil. After lunch, you'll return to your hotel.

Overnight Fiumefreddo Bruzio. 

This morning, we will check out of our Fiumefreddo Bruzio hotel and head to a nearby company that has mastered the perfect summer drink with an unmistakable taste of clementines from the Piana di Sibari. This brand was created precisely to enhance the local product that is famous throughout the world for its organoleptic qualities. Without any preservatives, colorings or gluten, this Calabrian product is for everyone. 

From there, we will learn about another local specialty - Sibari rice. This rice is among the best rice varieties in Italy and known for its unique characteristics. Immersed in an area known since antiquity for the fertility of its fields and the healthiness of its thermal springs, it is no coincidence that this land produces what is known as "White Gold of Calabria."

Next, we will check into our hotel in Bernalda, an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Basilicata. You will love getting to experience this charming medieval village.

Overnight Bernalda.

This morning, we'll meet Mariangela, a local celebrity chef, for a walk through Bernalda to visit her favorite places. We’ll mingle with the locals and stop in her preferred cheese shop and the local vegetable market to gather up all the fresh and delicious ingredients for our special meal. 

Then, we'll return to the borgo and split into groups and make a collective lunch. Following our feast, you'll have time to rest, relax, and enjoy the town of Bernalda.

Overnight Bernalda. 

This morning, we’ll visit the Amaro Lucano Museum for a private guided tour of this unique interactive museum. After we’ve learned a bit about this popular amaro, we’ll enjoy a mixology class with a local barman who will let us in on some of his secrets for creating the perfect cocktail which we’ll get to make, and of course sample!  

We’ll have a light lunch, then will return to the hotel for a break. You’ll have time to rest, pack, or explore the town, then we’ll reconvene for a farewell dinner in gorgeous Matera.

Overnight Bernalda. 

You’ll have breakfast, then at 8:00AM, the group transfer will depart for the Bari airport. 

Arrivederci bella Italia! 

Please see our city guide for ideas of things for you to see and do here while in the Riviera dei Cedri.