Food N' Wine Vacations Blog

Slovenia, although a small European country, is not one to be overlooked. It offers a magnificent blend of cultures and experiences influenced by its surrounding countries.

This multifaceted influence seeps into the gastronomy of the country as well. Unique dining and wine tasting have a mix of Austrian, Italian, and Balkan flavors, a mouthwatering journey only attainable in Slovenia.

Filled with snow covered mountains from the Swiss Alps and crystal-clear turquoise water, Slovenia is a must- see destination. This hidden gem is the first country in the world to be considered a green destination. Fast flowing rivers and gaping waterfalls are all attributed to the clean and green Slovenian environment.

European cities can feel overwhelming and crowded but, the country’s size makes it much easier to navigate through. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is an eccentric experience wrapped in vibrant street art and multi colored buildings.

The country’s picturesque views of Lake Bled, a tear shaped lake filled with crystal blue water and a mountainous backdrop, and the beautiful coastal sunsets, make for amazing photos.

If the views aren’t enough Slovenia’s green environment offers a variety of hikes and nested deep, underneath the ground is the Karst region. These underground caves are completely enveloped rivers that have formed into eye catching constellations of limestone bedrock.

Slovenia is a remarkable country that should appear on the bucket lists of travelers worldwide, don’t forget to include it on yours!

An ancient kingdom of hilltop castles, walled villages, and fairytale scenery, Portugal is still one of the best kept secrets in Europe. Once you discover this magnificent country you will wonder how it has remained so quietly unexplored by even the most experienced traveler. A Portugal vacation is a step into history, an adventure for today, and an experience you’ll cherish. Yesterday and today blend seamlessly to offer you the trip of a lifetime.

Discovering Portugal has never been easier. All of her charm and beauty, culture and magic are ready to dazzle and invite you. Medieval castles and palaces, unique art and architecture, superb wines and outstanding foods, her colorful people, rich history, cafes and culture await you in this magnificent country on the Iberian Peninsula.

Vast and Varied Geography

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, and largest city,  has long been known as Rainha do Mar, or Queen of the Sea. It’s easy to recognize her royal standing as you gaze out upon the Atlantic from one of Lisbon’s hilly perches and see the waves draw their white cat before crashing to the shore. Somewhat warm summer days are relieved by the ocean breeze.

Portugal’s southern sandy beaches are a tourist haven, no matter what time of year. And along the northern shoreline you’ll find a surfers paradise. Sleepy fishing villages dot the coast and transport you to a simpler time, the fishermen auctioning off their catch of the day and boats bobbing languidly in the harbor.

In the northwest corner of the country you’ll find the terraced vineyards of Douro Valley, known for producing some very popular, and outstanding, wines. Follow the Douro River toward the Atlantic and you’ll come upon the second largest city in Portugal, Porto. For all of the cosmopolitan attractions available to you in Porto, the vibe is decidedly laid-back.

Medieval Sorthela is made up of granite homes built in amongst giant boulders, following the rocky terrain of the area. The Alentejo region offers pastures fed by marshlands, endless waves of wheat fields, and untamed coastal beauty. Cork oaks and olive trees dot the sun drenched land, as they have for centuries.

A Colorful History

From her large cities, like Lisbon and Porto, to small villages and towns not even on the map, Portugal preserves her history with reverence and respect. Nearly every stop you make in your travel to Portugal has some testimony to her medieval past, seafaring culture, and the many religious influences that left their mark on this colorful country.

Historical sites, magnificent castles, and walled cities can be discovered all over Portugal. Narrow streets and alley paths wend their way to celebrated landmarks of Portugal’s heritage, as well as less obvious remnants of days gone by.  Long ago, Muslim culture dominated the region, but as the Moors were pushed out of the Iberian Peninsula in the 9th century, their influence was replaced by Christians.  Many of her mosques were converted to Christian churches so little historical Muslim evidence remains, but the Moorish influence is still present in other ways.

When the Catholic church expelled all Jews from Spain in the late 15th century, Portugal became home to many Jewish communities. There are several Jewish cultural heritage sites throughout the country, the most impressive being the old Jewish Quarter in Belmonte. Your Portugal vacation will enrich your life and expand your knowledge of historical events.

Dining in Portugal

A Portugal destination vacation is a foodie’s delight. From the traditional to the eclectic-nouveau, Portuguese food is like none other. Her proximity to the sea provides the freshest of seafood, produce is enjoyed in season from nearby farms and orchards, and meats, both cured and fresh, are prepared in flavorful and unique ways, with pork being the staple.

The Portuguese commonly feast on five- and six-course meals, especially in the cooler northern regions. Cheese, typically a soft white variety, is served with the fruit course. Usually made from sheep's milk, the cheeses are quite delicious. Portuguese soups and stews are also very popular on a traditional menu. In your travel to Portugal, you must enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal.

Olive oil from Portugal is a high quality product that’s becoming a popular export. Enjoy the fruity and rich flavor drizzled on warm bread, fresh from a stone oven. Sweets and pastries are often enjoyed by the Portuguese people. Luscious custards, tender, flaky tarts, marzipan, cookies, cakes and ice cream are ever-present throughout Portugal.

You’ll find cultural influences in dining depend on the region. In the north, for instance, meaty, robust meals are common. In the sunny south of Portugal, local fare has a definitive Mediterranean influence. One single dish is enjoyed throughout Portugal. Cozido is a boiled dinner, made with beef, pork, or chicken, and always includes cabbage, carrots, potatoes, turnips and some kind of sausage. Depending on the region, you may find chickpeas and lamb, more root vegetables, or even pumpkin.

Wines of Portugal

As you might imagine, given the vast array of agricultural climates, Portugal produces some interesting wines. The most famous, of course, being the Port wine variety. Another popular wine from Portugal is the Vinho Verde, a light crispy white that’s quite easy on the palate. No Portugal vacation would be complete without a sampling of the fantastic wines produced here.

The Douro river region produces many fine dessert wines, including the aforementioned Port, but the dry wines from this region-reds, whites, and rosés-are emerging for the world to take notice. The reds are full-bodied and robust, while the white wines are reminiscent of a white burgundy.

Other wines to try are Castelao wines, similar to Italy’s Barbera, Tinta Roriz from tiny Colares, which will remind you of your favorite Cabernet Sauvignon, with hints of clove, cedar and blackberry. Wines from Alentejo include Herdade do Esporao, both red and white varieties, which is fast becoming popular outside of the region. Fortified wines, such as Port and Madeira, are still the leading wines in this prolific wine-producing country.

Travel to Portugal

Portugal destination vacations are life-changing. Nowhere else in the world will you find such diversity. From her breathtaking landscapes, rich history, delectable foods, outstanding wines, and warm, and colorful people, Portugal vacations offer so much more than you’d expect.

From the sun-baked terrain of the Alentejo region, to the lush and verdant hills surrounding Sintra, come discover beautiful, vibrant Portugal. A Portugal vacation is truly a traveler’s dream and a dreamer’s ideal destination. Discover the most authentic and colorful places to visit in Portugal.

The autonomous community of Andalucia, in southern Spain is the cradle of iconic Spanish Culture. Stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the Sierra Morena mountain range, Andalusia, the birthplace of Flamenco, has also given the world Spanish guitar, the sport of bullfighting, and world-renown sherries. From the miles of hilly terrain, dotted with olive trees, comes the liquid gold we know as Spanish olive oil. With the Mediterranean Sea to the east, and the Atlantic ocean to the west, it’s no wonder the widely-known Spanish dish, Paella, saffron scented and bursting with goodness from sea and land, originated in Andalucia.

The rich history and culture of this region of southern Spain involves many religions and ethnicities. As the original melting pot of the world, Andalusia’s geographical gateway between the continents of Africa and Europe provided the earliest travel routes for ancient civilizations. Throughout the centuries Greeks, Romans, and Moors have all left their influence on the culture of Andalusia. Wherever their roots began, many people call the Andalucia home, living together and enjoying sun-drenched southern Spain and a love of life that comes naturally to this region.

Seville

The exciting town of Seville, fabled to have been founded by the Greek god Hercules, has much to offer. An energy-infused vibe permeates this city and Seville’s active nightlife thrives.

The royal palace of Alcazar, built by the Moors more than 1000 years ago, and used today as a royal residence, is an architectural jewel.

The Barrio Santa Cruz, once the Jewish quarter, is made up of labyrinthian streets and alley-ways. Whitewashed homes, whose balconies overflow with colorful flowers, and squares, nearly hidden from view by the delightfully scented flowering orange trees, make up the area. It’s easy to recognize how the allure of this area could inspire such legendary operas as Carmen, The Barber of Seville, The Wedding of Figaro, and Don Juan.

The Art of Flamenco

The art of Flamenco includes Spanish guitar-playing, singing, dance,, finger-snapping, clapping, and vocalization. Uniquely Andalusian, Flamenco was first recognized as an art form in the early 18th century. This fiery combination of guitar, voice and dance is popular all over the world, but best enjoyed in Andalucia, the birthplace of Flamenco.

Jerez

Jerez is a quaint, old town popular for it’s food market, narrow avenues, Royal Equestrian School, and sherry. The town of Jerez is home to some of the most magnificent horses and superbly talented riders in the world. Jerez is known for their superior breed of equine. The town is also well-known as a top producer of sherry. Bodegas throughout the area invite visitors to sample the finest sherries produced in Jerez.

Cordoba

Andalucia produces more than half the world’s olive oil. The hillsides around the charming city of Cordoba are rich with olive trees, and the weather in this part of Andalucia is the ideal climate for growing olives. When thinking of olive oil, many people consider Italy the top producer of the finest olive oils. Italy actually purchases most of it’s olives from Spain, importing and converting to oil under Italian labels.

The by-ways of Cordoba are centuries old, but built in a unique way to keep the residents comfortable. The narrow streets and white-washed buildings create a cool respite from the often-intense sun. Balconies and windows overflowing with flowers, and patios are essentially outdoor living rooms where families enjoy time together.

Moorish influence is seen all over the region, however the great Mosque of Cordoba, or Mezquita, is truly spectacular. In the 8th century, the Mesquite was a shared place of worship. In the 1600’s a Roman Catholic Cathedral was built inside the Mezquita, where it remains today.

During a period that coincided with the Middle Ages in Europe, Cordoba played host to the Golden Age of Jewish Culture. For almost 500 years Jewish culture thrived educationally, economically and religiously in Andalusia, and it's impact is still felt today. 

White-Washed Villages

Strategically erected on hilltops throughout the area are the Pueblos Blancos, or “White-Washed Villages”. These small towns are seemingly untouched by the fast-pace of the region’s larger cities and offer an easy, relaxed immersion into Spanish culture.

La Sierra de Aracena

Breathtakingly unspoiled, La Sierra de Aracena is a natural park located northwest of Seville, is Andalucia’s treasure. Crystalline streams and lush woodland give way to stunning views. Walnuts and chestnuts flourish amidst groves of olives and orchards, prolific with fruit. Beyond the forests you’ll find rocky ridges bearing citrus and wildflowers. Hiking the Sierra de Aracena is a visit to Eden.

Cuisine of Andalucia

The popular ‘tapas’ featured in so many upscale eateries in the US and around the globe, originated in Andalucia. Small plates with local specialties allow you to taste at your leisure and experience some of the traditional Andalusian dishes.

Many foodies and gastronomes consider Jamon Iberico to be the finest ham in the world. The meat comes from prized black pigs, many of whom live freely to roam the hillsides of Andalucia, grazing on acorns in the fall. The climate cures the hams like no other on earth. The finished product is the pride and passion of Andalucia, and Spain.

In addition to the ham, tapas, and aforementioned paella, the region is known for a delicacy known as rabo de toro estofado, or bull’s tail stew. The unfortunate bull who falls to the matador provides the tail for the stew and it’s traditionally served at the next day’s bull fight. The region’s beautiful and bountiful produce contribute to the best (and authentic to Andalusia) gazpacho you’ll ever taste.

Do you want to learn about a unique Travel experience in Andalucia? Read about The Splendor of Andalucia

The wines of Piedmont, Italy are as diverse as the region itself. Cool air from the Alps combines with the warm, sun-drenched Mediterranean climate, to produce a varietal playground for wine lovers. Manicured landscape gives way to rolling, vine-clad hills, heavy with the grapes that make this region so unique. Piedmont is home to more prestigious DOCG wines -the best Italian wines-than any other region in Italy. A wine tour of Italy’s Piemonte is a must for any wine aficionado.

You can’t discuss the wines of Italy’s second largest region without first recognizing the king and queen of Italian wines, Barolo and Barbaresco. Both of these unique reds products of the Nebbiolo grape, and grown in opposite sides of the town of Alba. Barolo is located southwest of Alba and Barbaresco is to the northeast. What a difference a few miles makes!

Barbaresco, the more northern area, has soil which is limestone based, thus producing a softer wine, that carries less tannins. The Nebbiolo used to make Barolo wines grow in sandstone, creating a thicker skin and a bolder wine. Both are unique and specific to the Piedmont wine region.

With five distinct wine-growing areas in the Piedmont region, you might expect more wines worthy of your time, in addition to the king and queen. Other notable reds of the region are Barbera, a versatile and pleasing wine, and Dolcetto d’Alba, which is a dry red, in spite of the name, which translates to “little sweet one”. Both of these reds are a source of pride in the Piemonte region. 

Sparkling Wines

Though the reds tend to take center stage in the Piedmont wine region, there are some highly-touted white varieties as well. The ancient grape Moscato Bianco lends it’s flavor to Moscato d’Asti, and Asti Spumonte. Moscato D’Asti, a lightly sparkling wine, is often considered of higher quality than the more heavily sparkling Asti Spumante.

From hundreds of wineries to visit and countless opportunities for a wine tasting, Piedmont wine region is a superb destination for a wine tour.

About an hour north of Milan, and nestled deep in the cradle of the Swiss Alps, lies the breathtaking Lake Como.  Centuries of beautiful scenery, genteel pace, and gracious living have lured people to the shores of Lake Como since the days of Julius Caesar.  Often recognized as a playground for the rich and famous, the towns along the shores of this Italian beauty beckon one and all to relax, enjoy and take in the sights which have charmed many a visitor.  

Navigating Lake Como

The preferred, and most efficient, way to visit the colorful towns and ancient villages set amidst hillside and shoreline, is by ferry boat, or water taxi.  Even the smallest of these quaint hamlets provides a marina so residents and visitors can disembark and enjoy.  

On the southwest tip of Lake Como sits the city of the same name.  Como, Italy is a majestic city full of magnificent examples of architecture, which spans centuries.  The Gothic Roman Cathedral, second century Romanesque church of San Fedele, 19th century villas and Renaissance palaces are just a few of the architectural treats in Como.  There’s even a medieval bell tower, which has been lovingly restored through the centuries.

While strolling the city streets of bustling Como, be sure to visit the enchanting family-owned shops, stop into a cafe and view life unfolding, or enjoy a respite along the waterfront promenade as you reflect on your time in Como. 

Bellagio and Her Villas 

Perched on a peninsula, and cloaked in luxury, it’s easy to see why Bellagio is referred to as the “Pearl of the Lake”.  The many riches of the region are available in Bellagio.  Shop for jewelry, silk, pottery and Italy’s one-of-a-kind treasures.  Enjoy a refreshing gelato in the old world elegance of a sun drenched square.  

Bellagio is home to the spectacular Villa Melzi.  While the villa is privately owned, the proprietors have opened the awe-inspiring gardens to the public.  A tour will delight visitors with the finest example of English style gardens, alongside terraces full of rare and tropical plants and trees.  Artifacts dating back several hundred years are also on display throughout the villa’s gardens.  

Also located near the city of Bellagio, Villa Balbienello is a lovely home, on the tip of a small, wooded peninsula, high above Lake Como.  The grounds of this 18th century villa are open to tourists.  The villa’s loggia showcases the heart of the lake, and a panoramic view of much of the Lake District.  Terraced gardens echo the elements of Lake Como as they spill down the hillside to the shore.   

Facing the peninsula of Bellagio is the Villa Carlota, boasting 17 acres of lush gardens.  The 17th century villa also houses a museum.  Dedicated to the flora of the region, the botanical gardens are home to heirloom varieties of flowers as well as centuries old trees, a rock garden, classic sculpture and much more.   

A Walk through Cernobbio 

For all the bustle of Como, and the luxury of Bellagio, Cernobbio offers a slightly different vibe.  The narrow main street and family-filled piazza, the welcoming trattorias and the residential buildings provide this town, which borders Switzerland, with a neighborhood atmosphere.  The treelined waterfront and quiet streets make Cernobbio a perfectly walkable town.  Many wealthy residents make their home is Cernobbio, evident in some of the more opulent villas throughout the town.

The Charm of Varenna 

If Bellagio is the Pearl of Lake Como, Varenna is surely a jewel of similar prominence.  A small fishing village, dating back to the 12th century, Varenna has a population of just under a thousand residents.  Centrally located along the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna isn’t as developed as many of it’s neighbors, leaving a lush natural playground that is particularly popular as a destination for “Luna de Miele” or, honeymoon.  

The steep lanes, romantic, pine-shrouded promenade, and old-world piazza are just some of the sights for which Varenna is known.  Kissed by the alpine breezes, this unpretentious town and it’s relaxed lakefront cafes offer the ideal spot to sip your favorite beverage and take in the beauty of Lake Como.

Do you picture yourself seating and watching these amazing views? Here is a Lake Como Itinerary

Like a brilliant watercolor painting the rocky and mountainous Amalfi Coast spills forth from unexpected heights onto the shores of the Mediterranean. This famed coastline, stretching from the gulf of Naples to the gulf of Salerno, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, who arrive to bask in the breathtaking beauty of Italy’s prized jewel.

The Isle of Capri, just off the craggy peninsula of the Bay of Naples, is glamorous and enticing. The beach town of Positano, precariously perched high above the sea, offers breathtaking views and historic insights into the Campania region. Many more towns and villages make up this travelers bucket-list on Amalfi Coast tours.

Sorrento faces the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. Above the Mediterranean and below rugged peaks, Sorrento is dotted with lemon groves and olive trees, prevalent in Amalfi Coast, Italy. A historic 14th century church, Chiesa di San Francesco and an unspoiled old quarter along with the enchanting cafe lined town square offer visitors a full day indeed.

Take in the view and it’s easy to see how Positano became a favorite resort destination among the glitterati. Visitors flock throughout the year to enjoy this quaint village, built into the face of a hill. Delightful cafes make for a welcome rest stop, as you visit the shops along the steep and narrow streets of town.

Refined and Romantic Ravello, in Amalfi, Italy, is not-to-be missed on Amalfi coast tours. Known for its peaceful and lovely gardens, lush with tropical, native plants and flowers, Ravello is a popular honeymoon destination. Ravello, like the rest of the towns on your southern Italy tour, has its own unique view of the panoramic shores of Amalfi,in Campania Italy.

Between the 9th and 11th centuries, Amalfi was the center of the region’s maritime enterprise. Medieval shipyards still exist in Amalfi, Italy today. The magnificent Amalfi Cathedral, more than 1200 years old, still stands in dedication to St. Andrew, the Apostle. Spend time at one of the many cafes, and enjoy a refreshing limoncello liqueur. Limoncello is a regional favorite and the locals will tell you that’s what sunshine tastes like.

The Isle of Capri is a locavore’s dream. Capri is heavily influenced, in culture and cuisine, by Greece, Rome, France, and Spain. Meals are built around the abundant seafood available year round, as well as farm-to-table fruits and vegetables. Olive oil, another local commodity, completes the traditional gastronomy of the Isle of Capri.

Amalfi Coast tours would not be complete without a stop in the famous southern Italian city of Naples. The hustle and bustle of a big city hasn’t escaped southern Italy’s home of the best pizza. Centuries old architecture and art, as well as opera houses and theatre, make Naples the world's best place to grab a slice-of pizza and life!                                                 

Here is a sample Itinerary for a guided  Amalfi Coast experience.

Gently cupped by the Swiss Alps, Piedmont, Italy is known for it’s breathtaking hill country, fertile farms and vineyards, and historic landscape, which borders Switzerland and France. This second largest region is somewhat influenced by her neighbors, but, be assured, Piemonte, as it is known in Italian, has a rich pedigree, all her own. This beloved region of Italy emanates a distinct and remarkable flavor, which can’t be duplicated.

/discover-piedmont-italyIf there were but one word to describe Piedmont, Italy, it would be “harmonious’. From the seamless way lush, verdant hills roll between the sweeping Alps and picturesque valleys, to the centuries-old techniques, adapted and used by winemakers today, and flawless mixture of both urban and rural cultures throughout Piemonte, voices, old and new, blend in a timeless melody.

Foodies and wine connoisseurs alike will delight in the easy pace of Piemonte. Food is savored and memories made on the palate. The growing, grassroots Slow Food Movement began in Piedmont, where geographic diversity allows for farm-to-table foods to be enjoyed year-round. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of slow-food, be ready to feed your senses, while enjoying food and wine to the fullest.

The white truffle of Alba, a delight of gastronomes everywhere, is rare and specific to the region of Piemonte. These delectable beauties are the most expensive truffles in the world, selling for about $200.00 US per oz. To unearth a white truffle of Alba is to discover a treasure.

The wines of the Piemonte region are as diversified as the landscape. When the ice-cold temperatures combine with the warmth of the Mediterranean, the result is an excellent grape. One of the grape varieties specific to the region is the Nebbiolo, used to produce both the full-bodied Barolo and Barbaresco reds, also known as the king and queen of Italian wines.

The wine-growing region of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful landscape covers five distinct wine-growing areas. In fact, the Piedmont region has been considered the “most favorable” for growing vines and producing wine, since the Roman Empire.

Turin is the crown-jewel of Northern Italy. The medieval architecture, 18th century castle, elegant gardens and public squares grace much of the Left Bank of the Po River. In addition to the historic and elegant cafes, which served as a meeting place for such literary royalty as Puccini, and Neitzche, Dumas and Cavour, Turin has gifted the world with the Fiat sports car, and has been known as the chocolate heart of Europe since the 1600’s. Hot chocolate and chocolate-hazelnut spread were both invented here.