Fontanellato: a Castle and a Labyrinth in Parma Countryside

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Parma countryside, the medieval Rocca Sanvitale castle in Fontanellato stands as a captivating remnant of Italy’s storied past. Beyond its impressive stone walls lies a curious labyrinth, winding through serene bamboo groves and offering both tranquility and a delightful challenge to those brave enough to enter. Visitors can explore the castle’s richly frescoed halls, uncover its fascinating history, and lose themselves in the maze’s twisting paths – but what secrets might they discover along the way?

Key Points

• Rocca Sanvitale, a 14th-century castle in Fontanellato, offers a private tour showcasing its well-preserved frescoes and the history of the noble families that resided there.

• The Labyrinth of Fontanellato, with over 7 kilometers of pathways, provides an opportunity for visitors to experience serenity and tranquility in a lush bamboo setting.

• The art collection at Rocca Sanvitale features Renaissance frescoes and works by renowned Italian artists, offering an immersive experience into the cultural heritage of the region.

• The Parma countryside surrounding Fontanellato is characterized by rolling hills, rustic farmhouses, and quaint villages, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

• Tour package options for Rocca Sanvitale and the Labyrinth of Fontanellato include entrance tickets, private guided tours, and the possibility of breakfast and lunch inclusions.

Exploring Rocca Sanvitale

Nestled in the heart of Fontanellato, the Rocca Sanvitale stands as a magnificent 14th-century castle, its imposing walls and towers commanding attention.

Visitors can explore the castle’s intricate rooms and corridors, marveling at the well-preserved frescoes that adorn the walls. The private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the castle’s rich history and admire its impressive collection of art and furnishings.

From the grand halls to the intimate chambers, every corner of the Rocca Sanvitale whispers tales of the noble families who once called it home.

Embarking on this tour allows travelers to step back in time and enjoy the captivating legacy of this iconic Italian landmark.

Navigating the Labyrinth

After exploring the captivating Rocca Sanvitale, visitors now venture into the renowned Labyrinth of Fontanellato. This unique experience allows them to wander through a maze of lush bamboo, getting lost in the twists and turns.

Some key highlights of navigating the labyrinth include:

1. Appreciating the intricate design, with over 7 kilometers of pathways leading to the central tower.
2. Embracing the serenity and tranquility as you lose yourself in the verdant surroundings.
3. Testing your problem-solving skills to find the exit, adding a delightful sense of adventure to the experience.

The Labyrinth of Fontanellato is a must-visit attraction, perfectly complementing the castle tour and offering a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Parma countryside.

Discovering the Art Collection

The Rocca Sanvitale’s private art collection captivates visitors with its diverse array of masterpieces. Housed within the castle’s grand halls, the collection showcases an impressive range of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries that reflect the noble family’s refined taste and passion for the arts.

Visitors can admire the intricate Renaissance frescoes adorning the walls, as well as works by renowned Italian artists. The tour guides provide insightful commentary, bringing the artworks to life and sharing the fascinating histories behind their creation.

Wandering through the collection is a truly immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time and offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of this remarkable Italian landmark.

Parma Countryside Charm

Beyond the castle walls, the Parma countryside unfolds in a tapestry of rolling hills, rustic farmhouses, and winding lanes. This scenic region is a testament to the enduring beauty of Italy’s heartland.

Visitors can enjoy the local way of life by:

1. Exploring quaint villages, where time seems to move at a slower pace and the aroma of freshly baked bread lingers in the air.

2. Indulging in the renowned Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and other regional delicacies at family-run trattorias.

3. Enjoying a leisurely stroll or bicycle ride through the verdant landscape, stopping to admire the picturesque vistas that inspired famous painters.

Embracing the Parma countryside’s charm is an essential part of the Fontanellato experience.

Choosing the Tour Package

Visitors to Fontanellato have several tour package options to choose from, each offering a unique way to experience the castle and labyrinth. The most popular package includes entrance tickets and a private guided tour of the Rocca Sanvitale, the Labyrinth, and the castle’s art collection. Priced at €192.31 per group, this option provides a personalized experience without the crowds. For those seeking a more inclusive experience, a package with breakfast and lunch is available. No matter the choice, visitors should note the non-refundable policy and plan their transportation, as the tour meeting and ending points differ.

Tour Options	Inclusions	Price	Availability
Castle & Labyrinth Tour	Entrance, Private Tour	€192.31+	Confirmation in 48 hrs
Breakfast & Lunch Package	Tour, Meals	Varies	Confirmation in 48 hrs
Pickup Service	Meeting Point or Pickup	Varies	Confirmation in 48 hrs

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers opting for the Fontanellato tour have the flexibility to either head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup service.

The meeting point is located at the Rocca Sanvitale, in Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, 1, in the heart of Fontanellato.

At the tour’s conclusion, visitors are guided to the Labirinto della Masone, situated at Str. Masone, 121, also in Fontanellato. This offers the convenience of a coordinated start and end point.

The tour is conducted as a private experience, catering exclusively to your group, ensuring a personalized and hassle-free exploration of Fontanellato’s historic castle and renowned labyrinth.

1. Meet at the iconic Rocca Sanvitale in the town center.
2. Tour the castle and art collection before heading to the labyrinth.
3. End your journey at the impressive Labirinto della Masone.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as the historic Rocca Sanvitale and Labirinto della Masone present some accessibility challenges.

However, most travelers can still participate and enjoy the experience. Visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces, stairs, and narrow passages throughout the castle and labyrinth.

While the sites may pose difficulties for those with mobility issues, the tour operators are happy to provide assistance where possible.

Reviews and Ratings

According to Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the Fontanellato tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 9 total reviews.

Travelers seem to have thoroughly enjoyed their experiences, though no specific 5-star, 4-star, 3-star, 2-star, or 1-star reviews were reported.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic Rocca Sanvitale, wander through the famous Labyrinth, and discover the venue’s impressive art collection.

Notable highlights of the experience include:

1. Captivating guided tour of the Rocca Sanvitale and its well-preserved interiors.
2. Navigating the intricate Labyrinth, a true test of one’s navigation skills.
3. Admiring the diverse selection of art and artifacts housed within the castle.

Since You Asked

Can I Request a Refund if I Need to Cancel?

Unfortunately, the Fontanellato Tour is non-refundable, so there are no cancellation refunds provided. The traveler cannot request a refund if they need to cancel their reservation for this tour.

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

Unfortunately, the information provided doesn’t specify the exact start and end times for the Fontanellato Tour. The tour is a private experience, so the schedule may vary based on the group’s needs and preferences.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

The tour is open to all ages, though it may not be suitable for young children. The private tour is designed for groups, so families with kids can participate together. However, there’s no specific information on minimum age requirements.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Fontanellato Tour. The tour guidelines specifically state that it’s not wheelchair accessible and most travelers can participate, but there’s no mention of bringing pets along. It’s best to leave your furry friends at home for this one.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is fixed at €192.31 per person, regardless of age or student status. Group size is the only factor that affects the overall tour cost.

The Sum Up

Fontanellato offers a captivating blend of history, art, and nature. Visitors can explore the stunning Rocca Sanvitale castle, then challenge themselves in the enchanting 7-kilometer labyrinth amidst serene bamboo groves. This unique destination in the Parma countryside invites travelers to enjoy the region’s cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, creating an unforgettable experience.