Gorgonzola is Novara's best-known cheese. Sweet or mature, it can be enjoyed on its own or used in many recipes. The PDO consortium has been based in Novara since 1970 and protects a product appreciated all over the world. Novara contributes a major share of national production, and visitors can taste, buy or arrange delivery of this local speciality.
Rice is another hallmark of the area. More than 500 growers cultivate around 31,000 hectares in the Province of Novara. Together with Pavia and Vercelli, it forms one of Europe's most important rice-growing districts. The surrounding rice fields create the celebrated chequered sea, while Paniscia combines rice with Savoy cabbage, borlotti beans and salame della duja.
Wine has been produced in the hills of Novara since pre-Roman times. Local protected denominations include Ghemme DOCG, Sizzano DOC, Fara DOC, Boca DOC and Colline Novaresi DOC. Nebbiolo is the leading grape and gives the region its distinctive character.
Other favourites include Pane di San Gaudenzio, a traditional cake with a pastry base, and Biscottini di Novara, made from flour, eggs and sugar and baked twice according to a tradition dating back to the sixteenth century.
Available options include transfer with a local companion and vehicle rental. For information and bookings, call +39 335 5741437.