The Heartland of Italian Food: Heritage Producers

After a relaxed breakfast, leave the city behind with a private driver and accompanied by an Italian food expert, arriving at Cascina Lago Scuro in around 90 minutes. Owned by the Grasselli family since 1700, the cattle-grazed estate is still run in accordance with the rhythms of nature. Gardens with oak, hazel, and magnolia trees fringe this biodynamic, certified-organic farm that supplies some of the best-known Michelin-starred restaurants in Milan and the wider region. Enjoy lunch prepared by the estate’s chef, featuring an array of homegrown produce, cheeses made at the on-site dairy and pastas and breads made with heritage grains harvested from the surrounding fields. Then explore 400 years of agricultural history with the family and their team, through unforgettable hands-on experiences such as foraging, harvesting and cooking.

Later that afternoon, arrive at Antica Corte Pallavicina, a mansion set on the banks of the River Po, via a 25-minute private transfer. It’s home to one of Italy’s most revered producers of cured meat, that was founded by the present owner’s great-grandfather, who left the nearby farm owned by Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. Visit the 700-year-old cellars that are still used as an ageing space for cheeses and salumi. Conclude the visit with a private wine tasting of locally produced wines expertly paired with the producer’s award-winning culatello, before a private transfer back to Mandarin Oriental, Milan. Spend the evening at leisure. The Luminaire can recommend one of many traditional Italian or contemporary fusion concept eateries nearby.