‘I went to Italy’s Bologna for an olive oil massage and tasted bolognese I’ll never forget’

Taking in the breathtaking vistas of lovely Bologna, the expression la dolce vita (“the sweet life”) come to mind. Foodies flock to northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna area, of which Bologna is the capital, for its abundant Bolognese and mortadella sausage cleaned down with sangiovese red wine. The mediaeval Mercato di Mezzo even includes street indications representing the food available, such as Vicolo dei Ranocchi, Alley of the Frogs! The terracotta-tinged city is likewise a magnet for history enthusiasts thanks to its leaning towers and centuries-old porticos, which are now on UNESCO’s World Heritage list– not to point out the earliest university on the planet. It may not bring in the traveler varieties of Florence, Tuscany, Rome and Venice, however its remarkable culture, architecture and night life make it a must-visit. Bologna’s beautiful terracotta architecture (Image: Getty) A high-end remain About 14 miles far from Bologna lies Palazzo Di Varignana, a luxurious resort and health spa nestled in the Bolognese hills above the town from which it takes its name. Providing 300 hectares of vineyards, orchards and olive groves, where it produces artisan red wine on tap and extra-virgin olive oil, this Italian gem is paradise in the world. Palazzo Di Varignana lies in the Bolognese hills Guests pick from spectacular personal vacation homes or modern-day suites, each within striking range of the first-class resort’s winding health tracks, where you’ll find flowering gardens, 7 outside pool, a driving variety, squash and tennis courts and a putting green. Every experience here is the height of high-end, however it’s friendly and far from pompous. Time to unwind Palazzo Di Varignana has a remarkable day spa with a Turkish bath, Finnish sauna and every massage, facial and body treatment you can consider. I was dealt with to the signature olive oil routine massage (from ₤ 75 for 50 minutes). My therapist Rene utilized smooth brushstrokes and arm movements to assist the oil soak up into my skin. An hour later on, every niggle and knot was launched and I was left in a state of pure happiness. Unwind in the glamorous day spa Foodie paradise Guests at Palazzo Di Varignana can tuck into a yummy spread of continental deals with at breakfast time, from crispy prosciutto to cold meats and cheeses. For a fast treat, the Naama Cafe– a Turkish pastry shop in Bologna– is ideal for spiced sugary foods and pistachio pastries. Back at the resort, there are 3 appealing dining establishments serving regional meals, such as Bolognese cutlet and fresh tortellini instilled with home-grown extra-virgin olive oil. One night, a captivating waiter who appeared like George Clooney advised the tomato and buffalo mozzarella salad starter. I existed with an entire cheese. No grievances here! What to see Once you’ve absorbed Bologna’s thrills, consisting of the incomplete Basilica of San Petronio and the MAMbo Modern Art Museum, check out the vibrant middle ages town of Dozza. This hill sanctuary has actually patched streets, an ancient fortress with a legendary dragon inside and among Italy’s finest enotecas (white wine stores). We checked out the winding lanes to have a look at the vibrant murals on practically every structure. Arty murals in Dozza (Image: Getty) A red wine trip of the area is a must, too. We visited our resort’s own winery, which produces sangiovese superiore (made from just sangiovese grapes), pinot noir, chardonnay and gleaming brut, in addition to the nest extra-virgin olive oil. Professionals taught us the genuine method to taste the oil, finishing our lips and permitting it to rest on our taste to experience the bitterness, spice and fruity aspects. The oil and white wine can be bought at the store. You’ll never ever wish to purchase the grocery store things once again. How to book Palazzo di Varignana provides spaces from ₤ 205 per night, based upon 2 grownups sharing on a B&B basis. Easyjet provides flights from London Gatwick to Bologna from ₤ 29.99. READ NEXT: Click here for today’s leading showbiz news Inside the Love Island vacation home in South Africa you can lease from ₤ 319 per night Ferne McCann and fiancé Lorri Haines talk pregnancy and those voice keeps in mind in joint shoot Inside award winning designer Kelly Hoppen’s sensational Cotswolds Manor as she shares ideas on revamping on a budget plan For the current showbiz exclusives, register to our day-to-day OK! Newsletter Story Saved You can discover this story in My Bookmarks.Or by browsing to the user icon in the leading.