Countries: Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican City 

Places visited: Five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Rome, Florence, Milan and Trier; organic and biodynamic farms; seven leading international institutions in the agricultural and organic sector. 

Topics explored: the organic industry; biodynamic agriculture; traditional processing of agricultural products; ecology; emblematic figures and aspects of European culture.

These two fourteen-day study tours in Europe offered a unique experience at the heart of organic and biodynamic agriculture and European culture, combining high-level professional training with cultural discovery. The programme included visits to major international institutions in the agricultural and organic sector, meetings with experts and training sessions on advanced sustainable cultivation techniques. Each visit was designed on a human scale, creating opportunities for practical learning and direct exchange with producers and researchers.

The itinerary extended across five countries – Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy and Vatican City – with stops at biodynamic farms, research centres, organic wineries and artisanal food-processing laboratories. From cultivation to the transformation of high-value agricultural products with geographical indications, participants were able to follow the entire agri-food supply chain, highlighting tradition, quality and innovation.

Alongside the professional dimension, the journey offered a rich cultural itinerary through some of Europe’s most fascinating cities: from Strasbourg to Florence, from Siena to Rome and the Vatican. Participants explored UNESCO World Heritage sites, masterpieces of the Renaissance and symbols of European civilisation, immersing themselves in local traditions, culture and both rural and urban landscapes. These study tours provided a comprehensive experience combining knowledge, inspiration and the pleasure of travel.

One of the participants took the challenge seriously, and she is now a successful biodynamic farmer in Yunnan. See her story here.