Welcome to Fornelli: A Hidden Gem in Italy
Day 1: Explore the Village and Surroundings
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Chiesa di San Rocco, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century. Located in the heart of Fornelli, this church is a testament to the village's religious and cultural heritage. (Free entry)
- Lunch: Head to Osteria del Borgo, a local trattoria offering traditional Molisan dishes like cavatelli pasta and grilled lamb. Average cost: €10-€15 per person. Address: Via Roma, 12, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 123456.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through the Via dei Portici, a historic street lined with arches and small shops. Don't miss the opportunity to chat with local artisans and purchase handmade souvenirs. (Free)
- Dinner: Enjoy a simple yet delicious meal at Pizzeria La Fontana. Their wood-fired pizzas are a must-try. Average cost: €8-€12 per person. Address: Piazza del Municipio, 5, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 678901.
- Accommodation: Stay at Agriturismo Il Casale, a budget-friendly farmhouse offering rustic rooms with stunning views of the countryside. Cost: €30-€40 per night. Address: Contrada Colle delle Api, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 234567. Website: www.agriturismoilcasale.it.
Day 2: Discover Nature and History
- Morning: Visit the Riserva Naturale di Montedimezzo, a protected natural reserve just a short drive from Fornelli. Hike through lush forests and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Entry fee: €5 per person. Address: Località Montedimezzo, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic with local cheeses, bread, and wine purchased from Alimentari da Giovanni, a family-run grocery store. Cost: €5-€10 per person. Address: Via Garibaldi, 8, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 345678.
- Afternoon: Explore the ruins of Castello di Fornelli, a medieval fortress that once guarded the village. While the castle is mostly in ruins, its location offers breathtaking views of the valley below. (Free entry)
- Dinner: Dine at Trattoria La Vecchia Fornace, where you can savor homemade pasta and seasonal vegetables. Average cost: €12-€18 per person. Address: Via Dante Alighieri, 3, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 456789.
- Accommodation: Return to Agriturismo Il Casale for another peaceful night. Cost: €30-€40 per night.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Farewell
- Morning: Attend a cooking class at Cucina con Nonna Rosa, where you'll learn how to make traditional Molisan recipes. Cost: €25 per person. Address: Via Cavour, 10, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 567890. Website: www.cucinaconnonnarosa.it.
- Lunch: Enjoy the fruits of your labor during the cooking class. (Included in the class fee)
- Afternoon: Visit the Museo della Civiltà Contadina, a museum dedicated to rural life in Molise. Learn about traditional farming techniques and tools used by past generations. Entry fee: €3 per person. Address: Piazza Umberto I, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy.
- Dinner: End your trip with a farewell dinner at Ristorante Da Peppino, known for its hearty portions and friendly atmosphere. Average cost: €15-€20 per person. Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 7, 86094 Fornelli IS, Italy. Phone: +39 0874 678123.
- Accommodation: Spend your last night at Agriturismo Il Casale. Cost: €30-€40 per night.
Additional Expenses to Enhance Your Trip
- Car Rental: Renting a car will provide flexibility to explore nearby towns and attractions. Estimated cost: €30-€50 per day. Recommended rental agency: Hertz Italy.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour of Fornelli or nearby archaeological sites for deeper insights into the region's history. Cost: €20-€30 per person.
- Local Wine Tasting: Visit a local vineyard for a wine-tasting experience. Cost: €15-€25 per person.