September in Emilia: the season of the grape harvest, flavours and so much to discover!
September is one of the most enchanting months for exploring the hills of Reggio Emilia. Summer slowly gives way to autumn, the days become milder, and one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the year arrives in the vineyards: the grape harvest. It is a season of transition, characterised by colours that are still intense, fragrances, flavours and a more leisurely pace. It is the ideal time to treat yourself to a weekend in Emilia-Romagna and discover a region where nature, history and culinary excellence have coexisted for centuries.
From Albinea to the lands of Matilda, September invites you to travel at a leisurely pace, alternating between walks through the hills, visits to villages and castles, food and wine tastings, and moments of relaxation surrounded by greenery.
The grape harvest in the hills around Reggio Emilia
With the arrival of September, the vineyards that characterise the landscape of the Reggio Emilia hills enter one of the most important periods of the year. It is the time of the grape harvest and the early stages of a process that will give rise to the region’s wines. Lambrusco is undoubtedly the best known: a wine deeply rooted in the identity of Emilia and the conviviality of its cuisine. Visiting this region during the grape harvest allows you to experience the landscape at a special time of year, when the countryside is still green but the first hints of autumn are beginning to appear.
It is also an excellent opportunity to visit local wineries and producers, learn about the different styles of Lambrusco and discover just how much of an integral part of this region’s culture wine is.
From grapes to Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
In the hills around Reggio, however, the grapes also tell another story. It is the story of cooked must and of the’Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia PDO, one of the finest treasures of Italian gastronomy. Here, time takes on a completely different meaning. The must is placed in barrels, and a long process of ageing, racking and patience begins. Year after year, the product develops complexity, aromas and unique characteristics.
A visit to a vinegar cellar gives you an insight into just how closely this tradition is linked to the history of the families of Emilia and the region in which it originated. During a stay at Borgo, you can experience this first-hand, stepping into a place where balsamic vinegar continues to be produced according to a tradition handed down through the generations.
Discover the tastings and experiences dedicated to Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
Parmigiano Reggiano and the flavours of the Food Valley
No trip to the hills of Reggio Emilia would be complete without discovering Parmigiano Reggiano. Visiting a cheese dairy first thing in the morning allows you to witness the various stages of production and learn about one of the products that best encapsulates the culinary identity of Emilia. Lambrusco, Parmigiano Reggiano and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar can thus form the central theme of a true culinary journey through the heart of the Food Valley. And for those who wish to take a little piece of this experience home with them, a selection of Borgo products is also available at the Borgo Balsamic Vinegar Shop.
A weekend in September in the hills of Reggio Emilia
- Canossa and the lands of Matilda
The milder temperatures make September a particularly pleasant time to explore the area. Not far from Reggio Emilia lies the landscape of the Matildic lands, dominated by castles, parish churches and ancient villages. Canossa Castle is undoubtedly the most famous site, but an itinerary could also include Rossena, Quattro Castella and numerous scenic routes winding through the hills. It is an area that invites you to pause, take in the scenery and discover a part of Emilia still off the beaten track. - Albinea and the Reggio Emilia countryside
Albinea is an excellent starting point for exploring this part of the province of Reggio Emilia. Behind the plain, the first hills form a landscape of vineyards, historic villas, small villages and country lanes. From here, you can reach Reggio Emilia, set off to discover the lands of Canossa, or spend a day on food and wine tours visiting wineries, dairies and local producers.
Where to stay near Reggio Emilia for a weekend in September
For those who wish to turn their visit into a holiday, September is also the ideal time to choose accommodation nestled in the tranquillity of the hills. The Residences of Borgo They are situated in Albinea, amidst the lush countryside of the Reggio Emilia area, and offer an intimate and refined alternative to a traditional city break.
A historic residence, a centuries-old park and the vinegar cellar all form part of the same experience: in the morning, you can set off to explore Reggio Emilia and the Matildic Hills, whilst on your return you can relax in the tranquillity of the Borgo. An option particularly suited to those looking for a a romantic break near Reggio Emilia, a charming bed and breakfast surrounded by nature, or simply a few days to savour fine food and beauty.
September: the perfect month to slow down
Perhaps this is precisely what makes the hills around Reggio so charming in September. There’s no need to pack every day full of activities: simply follow the rhythm of the countryside. A morning stroll, a visit to a vinegar cellar, a lunch showcasing the flavours of Emilia, a few hours spent exploring castles and villages, and finally a return to the tranquillity of the countryside.
It’s a different way of travelling, consisting of simple and authentic experiences, in the heart of an Emilia that still has the power to surprise.
Discover the Borgo holiday homes and plan your stay in the hills around Reggio Emilia.
