From Bologna: Parma Parmigiano and Prosciutto Private Tour

THE CHEESE FACTORY 2 stars-Our family of 5 (3 teenagers) visited this cheese plant. All but one area of the tour was explained behind glass windows. It was not what we thought we were in for but made the best of it. At 4 madonne caseificio dell'emilia we had a very informative tour although dry and not very friendly in my opinion. Once you are at the plant it is not a private tour. One of the others on the tour noticed women were not working in the production line. She asked, are there any women workers? The response was, “This work is too heavy for women. Women can’t do this job.” All the women on your looked at one another in shock. I had to respond, that I carried 50 pound toddler twins on my hips with no problems. Nevertheless, a little more passion, and desire to interest the group would have been welcomed. I truly felt like we were on a conveyor belt. The tasting of the products themselves was kept rather sterile. They walked us into a room and no explanation of anything in front of was offered, we had to ask. We felt that maybe we could’ve sat down and been walked though the plate. Standing there with a plate of cheese and no explanation did not make for a good experience at all. Once we receive a begrudging response the woman simply left. There was no direction of there being a shop to visit. I went back to ask about purchasing a wheel and was told customs would not allow it to be shipped I later found out on the subsequent part of the tour this was not true. The cheese was good. THE HAM FACTORY - 5 stars This tour saved the day. Our guide was very engaging and thoughtful of the group. Mattia was excellent and well-trained guide, he was able to let us enter the working and productive world of a ham factory; very nice and above all kind servers who went above and beyond to ensure we had an amazing meal experience, and the hams presented were all delicious. highly recommend going to Salumificio La Perla. I would give them 10 stars if I could. OUR DRIVER A very nice gentleman who wanted us to feel welcomed. He was very respectful and we appreciated his efforts and safe ride in the rain. It was our first time in this region and he did not speak English. A two hour silent drive where we wish we could have learn more about the region. Given the experience the overall I don’t think the price of the tour is in line.