“Discovery of Witches” Euganean Hills Tour from Padua

Exploring the “Discovery of Witches” Tour in the Euganean Hills: A Fan’s Dream and a Scenic Escape

Our review focuses on a captivating 6-hour tour from Padua that brings the fantasy series “A Discovery of Witches” to life. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing feedback suggest it’s a wonderful way for fans and curious travelers alike to connect with the series’ enchanting settings. What we particularly like about this experience is how it weaves together the series’ fictional locales with real-world Italian charm, offering both a cinematic journey and a taste of authentic regional life.

One of the standout features is the visit to Monselice’s Cini Castle, where the vampire family De Clermont’s residence is brought vividly to life — you’ll walk through rooms adorned with tapestries and armors, imagining the scenes from the series. The other highlight is the wine tasting at Azienda Agricola Loreggian, set amid rolling vineyards, where you can sip local wines complemented by cured meats and cheeses.

A potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to just eight travelers, making for a more intimate experience but possibly less flexible if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group. Also, the tour’s focus on filming locations and landscapes might not satisfy those looking for deep historical or cultural exploration of the region outside of the series theme.

This tour is best suited for TV series fans, lovers of scenic Italy, and those interested in a relaxed, personalized adventure. It offers a blend of cinematic charm, regional beauty, and gourmet pleasures that can appeal to a variety of travelers.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: You’ll visit real villages and castles that served as filming sites, blending fiction with Italy’s picturesque countryside.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide, enhancing the experience with interesting stories and details.
• Delicious Regional Food & Wine: The included wine tasting with local cured meats and cheeses offers excellent value and a true taste of the Euganean Hills.
• Intimate Group Size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect a more personalized and flexible experience.
• Convenient Transportation: Pickup is offered, making logistics easier and more comfortable.
• Balanced Itinerary: The tour offers a mix of sightseeing, history, and leisure that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am in Padua, with a pickup arranged to ease your travel. The first stop is Arqua Petrarca, often celebrated as Italy’s second most beautiful medieval village. Here, we loved the way the narrow streets and ancient architecture transport you back centuries. The guide’s commentary on the village’s history adds flavor to the walk, making it more than just a stroll. The scenery is stunning, with panoramic views of the rolling Euganean Hills.

Next, the journey takes you to Monselice, a fortified town that from the outside looks like a picture-perfect medieval postcard. The town’s walls, towers, and narrow lanes set the scene for the filming locations of the series. The highlight here is the Castello di Monselice, where you’ll step inside the castle that played the De Clermont’s residence. The rooms are furnished with tapestries, armors, and period decor, helping you visualize the fictional vampire family’s home. It’s a well-preserved site that sparks the imagination, especially if you’re familiar with the series.

From the castle, the tour moves into the Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei, an area of volcanic hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and charming medieval villages. The landscape itself is a draw — expect sweeping views and peaceful countryside that contrast beautifully with the castles and villages. The guide shares insights into the volcanic origin of the hills, enhancing your appreciation of the land.

The final stop is the Azienda Agricola Loreggian, a family-run winery accessible via a scenic drive among vineyards. Here, the highlight is the wine tasting, where you’ll sample local wines along with a platter of cured meats and cheeses. According to reviews, the wines are of good quality at very reasonable prices, and the setting offers a relaxing end to your adventure.

What Makes It Special?

Travelers will find this tour uniquely appealing because it combines TV series fandom with regional exploration. The locations are authentic, not just set dressings, which adds real charm. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor have earned praise for making the experience both peaceful and engaging, as highlighted by the review describing the tour as “peaceful, detailed and personalized.”

The inclusion of a wine tasting is a definite perk, especially for those who enjoy regional food and drink. The tasting is complemented by local cured meats and cheeses, giving a full flavor of the Euganean Hills’ culinary tradition. The fact that the whole experience is designed to be intimate — with a maximum of 8 travelers — enhances the personal touch, allowing for more interaction and questions.

Practical Considerations

At $290.36 per person, the price reflects the full-day experience, transportation, guided commentary, entrance fees, and tastings. While it may seem steep compared to free or self-guided excursions, the value comes from the convenience, expert guidance, and access to well-preserved sites. It’s a good deal for those wanting a curated experience without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

The tour lasts roughly six hours, making it doable for most travelers seeking a full but not overwhelming day. The group size limits ensure you’ll receive personalized attention, but it also means booking in advance is recommended, especially since it’s often booked about 40 days ahead.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for fans of the series who want to see the filming locations in a relaxed setting, as well as adventurers who appreciate scenic Italian landscapes, historic sites, and regional cuisine. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer small groups and personalized service. Those seeking a leisurely, scenic, and story-rich day will find this tour offers a nice blend of entertainment and regional charm.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and transfer to the different sites are included, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately six hours, giving you ample time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance to the Castello di Monselice is included, along with the wine tasting, which adds value to the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for families and older travelers alike.

Can I cancel the tour for a full refund?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refunded, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to be a fan of the series to enjoy this tour?
Not necessarily, but fans will appreciate the series-inspired locations and storytelling. The scenery and food make it appealing even without prior series knowledge.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring villages and castles. The tour includes a wine tasting, so bring an ID if required for alcohol consumption.

Final Thoughts

For anyone intrigued by “A Discovery of Witches” and eager to see the series’ enchanting settings, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated adventure. It combines the magic of fictional places with the authentic beauty of Italy’s Euganean Hills, all wrapped in a small-group, personalized experience. The inclusion of scenic villages, a medieval castle, and regional wines makes it a well-rounded day that appeals both to fans and to those seeking a scenic escape from Padua.

While the price may be a consideration for some, the quality of guidance, the scenery, and the immersive atmosphere justify the cost. This is a perfect choice for those who love storytelling, history, and good food, all in one beautifully curated day.