Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Gragnano, the epicenter of dried pasta production. The tour starts with a picturesque bus ride along the Bay of Naples, offering panoramic views dominated by the presence of Mount Vesuvius. Throughout the day, your National Geographic-trained guide will provide intriguing insights into Campanian culture.
Your first destination is the idyllic Valley of the Mills, nestled between the towns of Sorrento, Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Here, you'll have the rare privilege of exploring the historical site, together with a local historian & retired miller who is dedicated to this important restoration project. He will explain in detail the ingenious engineering that powered the mills, a captivating revelation exclusively reserved for National Geographic travelers. As you take a leisurely stroll through this lush landscape, you can connect with the natural beauty that has inspired generations.
The next stop is a renowned pasta factory with deep-rooted traditions. Prepare to be amazed by the creativity of chief pasta maker, Antonino Moccia, and the factory's 140 different shapes of pasta, some of which are patented. Accompanied by the factory's owner, you'll embark on a tour of the museum, hearing intimate stories that have shaped this industry over the centuries.Don your apron and go backstage to the production area to see the pasta-making process step by step, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision that goes into crafting each piece of pasta. You'll discover the meticulous packaging techniques that ensure the final product reaches homes around the world in pristine condition. As a delightful conclusion to your immersive experience, savour the culmination of this intricate process by indulging in a plate of gragnese pasta, allowing the rich flavours and unique texture to transport you to the heart of Italian culinary tradition.
Discover the rich history of pasta and listen to captivating stories from local specialists about how Gragnano, the global hub of dried pasta production, gained international acclaim and ultimately became famous worldwide for pasta production. Learn from a volunteer historian and retired miller who is deeply engaged in the restoration project, as they unravel the secrets of Gragnano's pasta heritage in the Valley of the Mills. Experience an exclusive opportunity to visit restored mills in the Valley of the Mills, a lush green ravine strategically positioned between mountains and the sea on the slopes between Sorrento, Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Go behind the scenes to the production area and witness the pasta-making and packaging process step by step, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision that goes into it. Delight in the sumptuous flavors of gragnese pasta as you indulge in a lunch featuring a delectable plate of this culinary masterpiece