Welcome to Puglia, Italy’s hidden gem. Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, this region is a paradise for food lovers. Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a culinary treasure trove. It’s a place where food is a celebration of life, tradition, and local bounty. From the whitewashed hill towns to the sun-kissed coastline, Puglia offers a unique dining experience. Here, you’ll find a rich tapestry of flavors, shaped by the land and the sea.

This guide will take you on a gastronomic journey through Puglia. We’ll explore the best local restaurants, where authentic cuisine and warm hospitality go hand in hand.

Whether it’s a family-run trattoria or a Michelin-starred restaurant, the focus is always on quality, authenticity, and flavor. So, get ready to savor the best of Puglia’s culinary delights.  Your table awaits in Puglia, Italy!

Discover Puglia’s Culinary Delights

Puglia’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. It’s a place where age-old traditions meet the freshest local ingredients. From the olive groves to the azure sea, Puglia’s landscape is a larder, brimming with natural bounty.

Why Puglia’s Cuisine is Unique

Puglia’s cuisine is a testament to its rich history and diverse landscape. From the hearty dishes of the inland areas to the fresh seafood of the coastal towns, each meal tells a story. The region’s fertile soil and mild climate make it a haven for olive groves, vineyards, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

The Puglian kitchen is a place of innovation, yet deeply rooted in tradition. It’s where age-old recipes are passed down through generations, and where chefs continue to create dishes that celebrate the region’s unique flavors. It’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss.

Top Picks for Authentic Cuisine in Puglia

Puglia is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Each town has its own unique flavors and dining experiences. Let’s explore some of the top picks for authentic cuisine in this region.

Alberobello: Trulli Delicious Dining

Alberobello, known for its iconic UNESCO-awarded trulli houses, offers a unique dining experience. The local restaurants serve traditional Puglian dishes, often cooked in wood-fired ovens.

The rustic, home-style cooking is a reflection of the town’s rich history. Don’t miss out on the local specialty, “orecchiette al ragù di braciole“, a pasta dish with meat sauce. Top restaurant: Evo Ristorante

Matera: Cave Restaurants and Ancient Flavors

Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its ancient cave dwellings. Many of these caves have been transformed into unique dining spaces. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional flavors and innovative culinary techniques. Be sure to try the “crapiata“, a hearty soup made with legumes and grains. Top restaurant: Ego Ristorante or Baccanti Ristorante

Lecce: Baroque and Gastronomy

Lecce, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’, is a city of art and gastronomy. Its baroque architecture provides a stunning backdrop for its vibrant culinary scene. The city is famous for its “rustico leccese“, a savory pastry filled with mozzarella, tomato, and béchamel. It’s a must-try when in Lecce.  Top restaurant: Bros’

Otranto: Seafood with a View

Otranto, a charming coastal town, offers fresh seafood with a view. The restaurants here serve a variety of dishes, from grilled fish to seafood pasta. Don’t leave without trying the “risotto ai frutti di mare“, a creamy risotto with a mix of local seafood. It’s a true taste of the Mediterranean. Top restaurant: Retro Gusto

Seasonal and Local: Puglia’s Food Philosophy

In Puglia, the food philosophy is all about seasonal and local. The region’s fertile soil and sunny climate produce a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains. These ingredients form the backbone of Puglian cuisine.

Restaurants in Puglia take pride in using locally sourced ingredients. From the olive oil to the wine, everything is produced within the region. This “zero kilometer” approach ensures the freshness of the food and supports local farmers. It’s a win-win for the palate and the planet.

A Taste of Puglia’s Street Food

Puglia’s street food scene is a culinary adventure in itself. From bustling markets to quiet alleyways, you’ll find vendors selling delicious bites that reflect the region’s rich food culture. Try the “panzerotti“, a deep-fried turnover filled with tomato and mozzarella. Or savor the “sgagliozze“, crispy squares of fried polenta. These simple yet flavorful snacks are a testament to Puglia’s ability to turn humble ingredients into mouthwatering treats.

Puglia’s Must-Try Dishes

When in Puglia, there are certain dishes that you simply can’t miss. These are the flavors that define the region, the recipes passed down through generations, and the meals that locals love.

Here are a few must-try dishes:

• “Orecchiette con le cime di rapa”: Ear-shaped pasta with turnip tops.
• “Fave e cicoria”: Fava bean puree with chicory.
• “Bombette pugliesi”: Rolled meat filled with cheese and herbs.
• “Rustico leccese”: Savory pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella.
• “Pasticciotto”: Custard-filled pastry, perfect for dessert.

Wine and Dine: Puglia’s Vineyards and Pairings

Puglia’s fertile soil and sunny climate make it a haven for wine lovers. The region is known for its robust reds like Primitivo and Negroamaro, which pair perfectly with the hearty local cuisine. When dining in Puglia, don’t hesitate to ask for wine recommendations. Local restaurants often have a deep understanding of how to match their dishes with the region’s wines, enhancing your dining experience.

Dining Etiquette and Tips for Enjoying Meals Like a Local

In Puglia, dining is a leisurely affair. Meals are often long, with multiple courses, and are seen as a time to relax and enjoy good company. Don’t be surprised if your dinner starts late and lasts for hours. Embrace the laid-back pace, savor each dish, and soak in the convivial atmosphere that is so characteristic of Puglia’s dining scene.

Sustainable and Slow Food in Puglia

Puglia’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in the principles of the Slow Food movement. This approach emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Many restaurants in Puglia are committed to sustainability, often growing their own produce or sourcing from local farmers. This not only ensures the freshness of the food but also supports the local economy and reduces the environmental impact.

Planning Your Culinary Adventure: Practical Tips

When planning your culinary adventure in Puglia, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. These can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. 

Making Reservations

For popular restaurants, especially in peak tourist season, making a reservation is highly recommended. This can often be done online or over the phone.

Best Times to Dine

In line with Italian tradition, lunch is usually served from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, and dinner from 8 pm onwards. For the best experience, try to align your dining times with these local customs.

Dietary Accommodations

Many restaurants in Puglia are accommodating to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s always a good idea to check in advance or communicate your needs to the staff.

Conclusion: Your Table Awaits in Puglia

In conclusion, Puglia offers a rich and diverse culinary scene that is sure to delight any food lover. From the rustic charm of Alberobello to the seafood delights of Otranto, there’s a table waiting for you in Puglia. So why wait? Start planning your Puglia adventure today!

Visit our hand-curated tours through Puglia!

• Short Escape to Puglia Self-Guided E-Bike Tour
• Puglia 4-Night Discovery Bike Tour
• Italy – Hidden Gems of Puglia 7 Night Bike Tour

All Italy Self-Guided Bike Tours with Pure Adventures

Pure Adventures tours, celebrating 30 years of hand-crafted, self-guided tour experiences! ~2024

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In the fall, Piedmont transforms into a vibrant palette of red, orange, and yellow hues. It’s a sight to behold, with the region’s rolling hills and vineyards bathed in autumnal glory. But the allure of Piedmont in the fall goes beyond its stunning landscapes. It’s a season of rich flavors, from the prized Alba white truffles to the region’s world-renowned wines. So, if you’re looking for a unique fall getaway, let’s delve into why Piedmont should be your next fall destination.

Discover the Magic of Fall in Piedmont

Piedmont in the fall is a feast for the senses. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the region is alive with activity. From truffle hunting in the misty forests to wine tasting in the vineyards, there’s something for everyone. And with fewer tourists around, you can enjoy a more authentic and relaxed experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of fall in Piedmont.

The Off-Season Advantage: Savings and Solitude

Visiting Piedmont in the fall offers a unique advantage. As the summer crowds thin out, you’ll find a sense of solitude and tranquility that’s hard to come by in peak season. What’s more, the off-season often means lower prices. From accommodations to attractions, you can enjoy significant savings. It’s a win-win situation: fewer crowds, more savings, pleasant temperatures, and an authentic Italian experience.

Truffle Hunting: A Quintessential Piedmont Experience

Fall in Piedmont is synonymous with truffle hunting. The region is famous for its Alba white truffles, a rare and prized delicacy. Join a truffle hunt with a local guide and their trained dogs. It’s a unique, earthy adventure that culminates in a delicious reward. This is a quintessential Piedmont experience you won’t want to miss.

Wine Harvest Season: Sip and Savor

Autumn in Piedmont is a wine lover’s dream. The region is home to some of Italy’s best wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. The fall season coincides with the wine harvest. It’s the perfect time to visit vineyards, witness the wine-making process, and sample the fruits of the season. The experience is both educational and delightful, making it a must-do for any wine enthusiast.

Breathtaking Fall Foliage and Scenic Bike Tours

Piedmont’s fall foliage is a sight to behold. The region’s landscapes, especially in the UNESCO-awarded Langhe and Roero region, transform into a canvas of red, orange, and yellow hues. For those who love outdoor activities, self-guided Piedmont bike tours through these rolling hills and vineyards provide a unique way to experience the region. The cooler weather and stunning scenery make for a memorable fall trip.

Festivals and Events: Celebrate the Season

Fall in Piedmont is a time of celebration. The region hosts numerous festivals and events, such as the Alba White Truffle Fair, that bring locals and visitors together in a festive atmosphere. These events provide a glimpse into local customs and traditions. From truffle-themed menus in local restaurants to historical reenactments in ancient castles, there’s always something exciting happening in Piedmont during the fall.

Piedmontese Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses

Piedmontese cuisine is a highlight of any visit to the region, especially in the fall. The cooler weather is perfect for enjoying hearty dishes like risotto al tartufo and brasato al Barolo, made with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The region’s food markets are filled with fresh produce, including chestnuts and pumpkins. Don’t miss the chance to sample Piedmont’s renowned cheeses, like Robiola and Castelmagno, and indulge in the region’s chocolate and hazelnut products, like Gianduja. Truly, a fall trip to Piedmont is a feast for the senses.

Romantic Getaways: Cozy Up in Piedmont

Fall in Piedmont is a dream for couples seeking a romantic escape. The region’s luxury accommodations, from rustic farmhouses to elegant villas, are more affordable in the off-season, offering a secluded and intimate experience. Imagine cozy evenings by the fireplace in traditional Piedmontese inns, leisurely walks through charming medieval towns, and picnics amidst stunning fall landscapes. The tranquility of the countryside, the beauty of the autumnal scenery, and the region’s rich culinary offerings make Piedmont the perfect fall destination for romance.

Cultural Immersion: History and Heritage

Piedmont is a region steeped in history and culture, and fall is an ideal time to immerse yourself in its rich heritage. From exploring the homes and museums of famous Italian writers to participating in workshops on traditional crafts, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences.

The region’s historical castles, fortresses, and monasteries, such as Sacra di San Michele, are less crowded in the fall. This allows for a more intimate exploration of these sites. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a lover of literature, Piedmont in the fall offers a cultural journey like no other.

Piedmont, Italy is the perfect fall bike tour destination: Embrace the Autumnal Charm of Piedmont

In conclusion, Piedmont in the fall is a symphony of colors, flavors, and experiences. From truffle hunting to wine tasting, from scenic bike tours to cozy romantic getaways, the region offers a unique and unforgettable autumnal journey. So why wait? Embrace the charm of Piedmont this fall and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Deluxe Self-Guided Piedmont Wine Country Bike Tour – e-bikes available!

Why Pure Adventures? We’re celebrating 30 years of self-guided bike tours in 2024, with bragging rights to being one of the original pioneers of self-guided bike tours in North America. 

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Piedmont, Italy is the perfect fall bike tour destination – contact us to learn more!

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These elusive fungi, buried beneath the soil in select European regions, are a gastronomic delight. They’re prized for their unique aroma and flavor, transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. But where can you find the best truffle spots in Europe? And how do you navigate the intricacies of truffle seasons or the art of finding and eating these gourmet treasures?

This guide will take you on a journey through Europe’s truffle-rich landscapes. From the fragrant truffle grounds of Italy and France to the lesser-known truffle havens, we’ll uncover the continent’s best truffle spots. So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie, an aspiring mycologist, or simply curious about this fascinating world, let’s embark on this truffle adventure together.

The Allure of European Truffles

Truffles have a certain mystique that sets them apart from other ingredients. They’re not just a food, but a symbol of luxury and indulgence.

Their unique aroma and flavor, coupled with their scarcity, make them a sought-after delicacy. The thrill of the hunt, the anticipation of the find, and the joy of tasting a freshly unearthed truffle – it’s an experience like no other.

Truffle Varieties and Seasons

Europe is home to several types of truffles, each with its unique characteristics. The most prized are the black Périgord from France and the white Alba from Italy. The black Périgord truffle, known for its intense aroma and complex flavor, is at its best from December to February. The white Alba truffle, famous for its delicate taste and intoxicating scent, shines from October to December.

Truffle seasons vary across Europe, influenced by factors such as climate and soil composition. Here’s a quick guide:

• Black Périgord (France): December – February
• White Alba (Italy): October – December
• Summer truffles (across Europe): May – August
• Burgundy truffles (across Europe): September – December
• Winter truffles (across Europe): November – March

Remember, the best time to enjoy truffles is during their peak season. That’s when they’re the most flavorful and aromatic.

Truffle Hotspots: Italy, France, and Beyond

Europe is a truffle lover’s paradise. The continent is home to several regions known for their rich truffle production.

Italy and France are the most famous, but other countries also offer unique truffle experiences. Let’s explore these truffle hotspots.

Italy’s Truffle Rich Regions

Italy is renowned for its truffles, especially the white truffles from Alba. These are considered some of the best in the world.

The regions of Piedmont, Tuscany, and Umbria are also known for their black truffles. Each region has its own truffle season and festivals.

France’s Fragrant Truffle Grounds

France is another truffle powerhouse. The Périgord region is famous for its black truffles, often referred to as “black diamonds”.

Provence is also a truffle hotspot, known for its winter truffles. These are celebrated at the annual Truffle Festival in Uzès.

Other Noteworthy European Truffle Locations

Spain’s Aragon region is known for its black truffles. The country also hosts several truffle fairs during the winter season. 

Croatia and Slovenia also have truffle-rich regions. Istria in Croatia is particularly known for its white and black truffles.

Truffle Festivals: A Celebration of the Fungi

Truffle festivals in Europe are a highlight of the truffle season. These events are a celebration of the prized fungi and a chance for enthusiasts to indulge. In Italy, the Alba White Truffle Festival is a must-visit. In France, the Lalbenque Truffle Market is a popular event. Spain’s Soria Truffle Fair is also worth checking out. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to taste truffle dishes, learn about truffle hunting, and even participate in truffle auctions. It’s a truffle lover’s dream come true.

Culinary Delights: How to Eat Truffles

Eating truffles is an art in itself. These gourmet fungi are best enjoyed fresh and are typically shaved over dishes just before serving. The flavor of truffles is intense and earthy, and they can elevate any dish to a gourmet level. From pasta and risotto to eggs and meat, truffles add a luxurious touch. Remember, when it comes to truffles, less is more. A few shavings can go a long way in imparting that distinctive truffle flavor. Click here to learn more about the best ways to eat truffles!

Preserving the Truffle Tradition

The tradition of truffle hunting and consumption is deeply rooted in European culture. It’s a heritage that’s cherished and preserved, ensuring that future generations can also experience the magic of these culinary treasures.

How to Find Truffles: The Hunt

Finding truffles is no easy task. These elusive fungi grow underground, often near the roots of certain trees like oak, hazel, and beech.

Truffle hunters traditionally use trained dogs or pigs to sniff out the truffles. These animals have a keen sense of smell and can detect the strong aroma of truffles even beneath the soil. 

Thinking about going to Europe during truffle season? Consider taking a self-guided bike tour in your favorite truffle destination, combining the best of outdoor activities with culinary delicacies!

Learn More about Pure Adventures self-guided bike tours here!

Self-Guided Italy Bike Tours
Self-Guided France Bike Tours
Self-Guided Slovenia Bike Tours
Self-Guided Spain Bike Tours

Why Pure Adventures? We’re celebrating 30 years of self-guided bike tours in 2024, with bragging rights to being one of the original pioneers of self-guided bike tours in North America. 

Learn More about Pure Adventures self-guided bike tours here!

The post Uncovering the Best Truffle Spots in Europe appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Tapas restaurants may be thriving in Croatia, but the word itself is derived from the Spanish. Translating as “to cover,” the first tapas were literally slices of bread or meat served over top a drink (see our blog post on Spanish and Basque tapas for more details). Like many Mediterranean recipes, Croatian tapas dishes are often based on simple combinations of high-quality ingredients. Menu items like bruschetta, marinated anchovies, green olive paste, and cheese with fig jam create rich, harmonious flavours. Cheese is frequently a featured item, with pag cheese perhaps the most notable. The rugged island of Pag is given a light dusting of salt by sea winds, which settles on the foliage. Only hardy, aromatic plants like sage can survive this climate, so when sheep graze on the vegetation the resulting milk and cheese is uncommonly flavourful. Softer varieties, like honey-dipped cottage cheese, are also delectable and frequently served at tastings.

Tapas dishes can be enjoyed on their own, though as the etymology suggests wine makes for an unparalleled accompaniment. Croatia is geographically close to Italy, and its wine is similarly excellent. Plavac Mali is a regional favourite, a full-bodied red varietal typically high in alcohol and tannins with notes of berry and pepper. Especially if you like Zinfandel, try Plavac Mali. If your taste runs more towards white wines, try the Dalmatian specialty Pošip. This crisp white pairs nicely with fish, making it a nice complement to salty tapas items like sardines and anchovies.

Even if you’re wine connoisseur, you may be less conversant in the nuances of olive oil. Another pillar of Mediterranean culture, Croatian olive oils regularly make the list of the best in the world according to the New York International Olive Oil Competition. Cold-pressed olive oil has a pronounced flavour and can be matched with foods much like a wine. Tapas menus often include olive oil pairings with fleur de sel, balsamic vinegar, and homemade bread. If your vacation has involved some indulgent food and drink, be reassured olive oil is also quite healthy, packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Another nice feature of tapas bars is that in some chefs may prepare the food before your eyes, and offer commentary on their recipe and ingredients as they do. This is perhaps the best way to get insight into the differences between olive varieties, wine pairings, etc. before digging in. For foodies looking to savour every bite, Pure Adventures can arrange tastings of Croatian delicacies to suit your unique itinerary and tastes – check out our Croatia Adventures page to start thinking about the possibilities.

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This is the obvious choice, and one that likely immediately comes to mind. Burgundy is a wonderland for those who like rich and vibrant flavors, and this holds true for cheese as well. A proper pairing of Burgundian wine and cheese brings out notes and characteristics of each that would be hard to notice if you were having either on it’s own. A synergistic culinary experience.

2. Fall Colors

The hills of Burgundy are covered in vineyards in every direction, for as far as you can see. Vineyards are sectioned off for different varieties of wine. While most vines are the same variety, it is the composition of the soil that determines the wine. During the fall months, when the vine leaves turn warm colors, you can see the assortment of colors sectioned off accordingly. The rolling hills covered in orange, yellow and red squares makes for an amazing site, best observed at sunset, with a glass of pinot noir in hand.

3. A Bike Ride

Burgundy has a network of bike paths that weave through the vineyards. Here you can ride through miles and miles of vineyards, from town to town. If there was ever a bike ride that would make you want to ride slower, this is it. And to assist with your slow travel through this magical land of vines, a refreshing glass of Pouilly-Fuissé.

4. Conversation

An old table, maybe friends, maybe strangers, a cheese board, maybe some meats as well — and a bottle of Grand Cru. Rich and deep food and beverages can blend together to bring out equally rich and deep conversations.

5. Rich History

A visit to the Hotel Dieu in Beaune will show you that Burgundy has a rich and meaningful history. This hotel is not only known for its beautiful patterned rooftops, but for the work that its nuns and priests have carried out throughout its rich history. The hotel was a created as a place for the poor and sick to take refuge, a tradition that continues today. Some of the finest wines in Burgundy come from a certain vineyard not far from the Hotel, and all of the proceeds from the sale of its wines benefit the Hotel charity.

6. Fine French Food

What came first, fine French food or fine French wine? This could be a more debatable question than the one about chickens and eggs. But just when you thought French cuisine could not get better, properly paired French wine takes it to another level. Enjoy foie gras paired with a glass of Marsannay.

7. Memories

While too much wine may make some memories blurry (or altogether absent!), the right amount, with the right mix of food, cheese, sights, sounds, and friends, will create memories that will last a lifetime. When you return home and find a bottle of a Premier Cru at your local store, you’ll be able to take it home knowing you have great stories to pair it with!

Explore Burgundy and its wines on the “Trail to Table in Burgundy” tour!
Our 6-day guided tour is for active foodies and features biking and hiking excursions along with immersive food and wine experiences. Explore Burgundy’s markets, bike among the vineyards, sample local cheeses, and enjoy cultural sites, like the Hospice de Beaune. Along with tasting the local wines, like grand cru and priemier cru, we help you get to know the culinary scene as you cook alongside professional chefs and learn during professional wine and cheese tastings.

Get tour details here >

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The word tapa means “cover” and comes from the ancient custom of covering the wine glasses in the taverns with a piece of bread or with a slice of ham. This was to prevent flies or dust from falling into the wine. While it has come a long way from its humble beginnings, the tapa is now a way to understand the diversity, history, and culture of the country. Spain is home to 17 different cultural areas, and even within those areas tapas differ and tell a tale.

Basque Tapas

Many travel to Northeast Spain to experience the Basque region — known for its cuisine, wines, and countryside. Basque tapas tend to be meaty and hearty, highlighting the farming culture that defines the Basque people. Meats include seafood, beef, and sheep and often come in larger portions due to the climate and the intensive labor required by many traditional Basque jobs. In the Basque region, tapas are often served in the form of Pintxos (pronounced Pinchos), which means “spike” or “brochette”. These elaborate, appetizer-like food whose price is indicated by the size or type of skewer holding it together. Often, these are much more complexly constructed than their southern neighbors’ Pinxtos. Indeed, Pintxos are a testament the pride of Basque culture, highlighting their independence and ingenuity.

Galician and Asturian Tapas

Seafood defines many regions in France, but Galicia and Asturias make seafood their own. Along with the seafood, shellfish, and empanadas that are often considered hallmarks of Spanish dining, Galicia and Asturias are known for their superior cider. Being relatively near the Basque region, Pintxo influences often find their way into the tapas of this region, however, what really defines it is the taste. Often, these tapas are cooked with cider. With rich and decadent tastes, this region is known for decadent, world-renowned Spanish fares that showcase the clash of the old world with the new world.

The Central Plain and Madrid Tapas

Go to Madrid and you’ll be sure to eat well. But the Tapas in Madrid and the wide central plain regions speak to the social culture of the regions. Tapas are often served for free at bars in some of the larger cities, and are always served alongside drinks. These tapas are usually simple, meaty, and highlight complex flavors, like the region’s best ham and manchego cheese.

Extremadura’s Tapas

In some ways like the Central Plain and in some ways completely different, Extremadura combines its love of food and love of friends and family. Extremadura follows the European habit of lighter dinners, which makes Tapas a perfect fit. Extremadura makes the ordinary taste extraordinary — revolving around meaty, simple, and delicious fares. Visitors are encouraged to try Rentinto beef if it is on the menu, as it is unique to the region. Also a hallmark of the region is raciones, or tapas dishes meant to be shared. In Extremadura, being well-fed and well-liked are synonymous with their generous tapas.

Andalucian Tapas

To the south of sunny Spain lies the more exotic fares. Known for its olives, Andalucia also is home to striking and diverse seafood due to its proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar. Tapas were thought to have originated out of Andalucia, originally a piece of ham served with a glass of wine. Since its humble origins, Andalucia has used its ingenuity, cultural diversity, and a wide array of local foods to enhance the tapa to its current glory.

Murcia and Valencia’s Tapas

Go Northwest up the coastline and you will reach Murcia and then Valencia. Where Spanish royalty once lived, Murcia and Valencia show their decadent past in the variety of garden delights and seafood blend together to create rich and colorful small tapas dishes. Salt cod wrapped in roasted red peppers, different types of cured ham, and a regional favorite Clotxinas, all paired with the rich local wines make anyone feel like royalty.

La Rioja Tapas

La Rioja, located just below Basque country, is famous for its Logroño with Laurel street tapas. It is customary, like many United States brewery tours, to get a taste of each unique tapa at each bar along the street, as every bar has only one unique tapa. Tourists and locals alike will visit these streets, order standing at the bar, and try and hit every restaurant along the way. Each tapa comes with a glass of wine, which makes trying every tapa on the street an exciting and fun challenge that many do not complete.

Catalan Tapas

Catalonia, where France and Spain meet, is a land of many influences begging to be its own — a notion that is reflected both in their language and their food. While the majority of Spain serves tapas with a piece of bread and olive oil, Catalan tapas usually come with “pa amb tomaquet”, or bread with tomato. For tomato lovers, the sun-baked, local tomato and fresh bread is not to be missed — as it is a lot more tasty than its more widespread bread and oil companion. Overall, Catalan tapas reflect this merger of two distinct cultures, blending traditional French herbs and flavorings with Spanish seafood and meat favorites.

Spain is full of many unique and wonderful dishes that are there to fill stomachs and delight taste buds. Enough tapas will get you there, but the main focus of tapas is not to fill your belly, but fill your spirit. Designed to be enjoyed with friends and family, tapas are a culinary map of Spain’s diversity and social nature.

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The area attracts cyclists and hikers from all over the world looking for challenging trails to tackle. While at the same time offering down time next to hot springs, breath taking views, while sampling the areas famed wine & food selection. You won’t believe your eyes or your taste buds!

With our new Active Foodie tour “Trail To Table In Lake & Volcano District” we take you into oneof the hottest foodie destinations in the world. Here are a few of our favourite food and wine choices in Chile’s lake & volcano district.

Carménère Wine

The history of Carménère is very special. Recognized as the most complex of grapes when it comes to achieving its maturity, this is because it suffered more than any strain from the effects of the phylloxera plague, which affected wine grapes in Europe between 1860 and 1870. Ten years before this happened, however, some rootstock of this grape had been sent to Chile. As a result of the crisis, a large number of enologists emigrated from Europe to Chile, giving a vigorous boost to the emerging and already powerful Chilean winemaking industry. Today there are more than 8,000 hectares planted and recognized as Carménère in Chile.

Casa Silva Lago Ronco Pinot Noir Futrono

Case Silva’s Pinot is one of Chile’s most popular wines. Pinot Noir is the red wine grape of Burgundy, now adopted in wine regions all over the world. The variety’s elusive charm has carried it to all manner of vineyards, from western Germany and northern Italy to Chile, South Africa, Australia and, perhaps most notably, California, Oregon and New Zealand.

Smoked Trout

Food lovers enjoy the Lake District for its specialties such as smoked trout. Take a breather at any number of amazing dining experiences in the lake & volcano district, like the Trawn Restaurant known to serve up the best smoked trout cuisine in the area.

Wild Boar

Along with lamb, wild boar is now one of the lake district’s staple meats, with a taste that has been variously described as ‘gamey’, ‘sweet’ and ‘nutty’. Wild boar meat is often prepared in a similar way to regular pork, but shouldn’t be overcooked as it can become tough.

King Crab

Another lake district delicacy, the naturally buttery, sweet flavour and tender flesh of the king crab makes it a favourite for locals and visitors alike. A typical way of serving king crab is for the shredded flesh to be presented in a soupy stock in its own shell or as a rich and creamy chowder.

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…ignore that inner traveller for too long, they will start showing themselves in odd ways

After all, there’s always that voice telling you things like “who can afford to travel these days?” “I can’t take time off work” or “Who will look after my pets?” It’s extremely easy to talk ourselves out of any situation. But here’s the thing, when we really want something we always tend to find a way to make it happen, don’t we?

In fact, if you’re not careful and you ignore that inner traveller for too long, they will start showing themselves in odd ways. One day you may catch yourself showing up to work in full on cycling gear because you’ve always wanted to tour the vineyards of Italy, but just never let it happen. Or you find yourself breaking out a gourmet meal at the office because you’ve always yearned for an amazing dining experience at a hidden gem somewhere in Croatia. Deny your inner traveler long enough – they’ll show themselves wether you like it or not.

So, to help you avoid any awkward inner traveler appearances we’ve come up with these 5 Things Your Inner Traveler Is Trying to Tell You. Your job – listen up!

1) Buy Less & Experience More.

Let’s say for a second, being the best version of yourself meant less things and more experiences. It could be as simple as foregoing the purchase of that new tablet, for a weekend family excursion, or deciding to hold off on a small reno to discover a new culture abroad. Whatever “experience” means to you, making personal growth a priority and creating memories, is never a negative. (read full blog!)

2) Travel Will Help You Find Yourself

Everyone has a need to find themselves, and getting out of your comfort zone is the best way to do this. (read full blog!)

3) Travel Will Strengthen Relationships

Lives get in the way and we all get busy. There is no better way we can think of to reconnect with loved ones then leaving your daily routine behind, and immersing yourself in a new culture & experiences. (read full blog!)

4) You’ll Sample The Best Food & Wine Anywhere In the World

Destinations like Hungary, France, Chile, Italy & Croatia have some of the very best food and local wine anywhere in the world. Denying yourself these pleasures just wouldn’t be right! (See all tours!)

5) Your Body & Mind Will Thank You

Whichever travel experience you choose, try to work up a good sweat. Combine that with beautiful views and some quiet time – your mind and body will be re-charged and ready to perform at their peak potential on your return home. (read full blog!)

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Along with some kind words about the great experience she had on their tour, Leisha was kind enough to highlight some key spots along their travels pointing out amazing views, museums, food & drink! For those planning or thinking about planning a tour to the area, this is a must read.

Thanks Leisha for sharing your adventure with us, and here’s to many many more happy years of wedded bliss!

Dearest Melanie,

Sincerely,
Leisha Stelken

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