Lake Garda: Pic Nic in the Vineyard with Wine Tasting — A Deep Dive into a Laid-Back Italian Escape
If you’re dreaming of relaxing amid rolling vineyards with a glass of local wine in hand, this Pic Nic in the vineyard with wine tasting experience near Lake Garda offers just that. Offered by CittàdiLazise, this tour combines the simple pleasure of a picnic with the educational delight of a guided winery tour, all set against the backdrop of Italy’s lush Lombardy countryside. It’s a perfect outing for those who appreciate authentic flavors, tranquility, and a chance to learn about local winemaking traditions.
What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to relax under the canopy of grapevines while indulging in regional delicacies paired with a selection of refreshing summer wines. Plus, the intimate setting — limited to just 4 participants — promises a personal touch that larger tours often lack. That said, it’s worth noting that transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, and the experience might be less suitable if you prefer a more active or extensive vineyard tour.
This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, authentic taste of Italy without the fuss of large groups or rushed schedules. If you enjoy scenic settings, good wine, and a peaceful break from busy sightseeing, you’ll likely find this experience a highlight of your Lake Garda visit. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and meaningful encounters with local producers.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Relaxing Setting: Enjoy a peaceful picnic under the shade of vineyard pergolas, away from crowds.
- Educational Element: Learn about the winery’s passion and history through a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar.
- Wine & Food Pairings: Savor local wines like Custoza DOC or Chiaretto di Bardolino DOC paired with regional cheeses, salami, dried fruit, olives, and bread.
- Authentic Flavors: Discover the unique profiles of Garganega and Trebbianello grapes, emblematic of the region.
- Flexible Experience: Duration is around 2 hours with options for different starting times; weather considerations are noted.
- Personalized: Small group size ensures a private, intimate experience and a chance to ask questions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lombardy.
A Close Look at the Experience
Arrival and Meeting Point
The adventure begins at the Giovanna Tantini Farm in Mischi, just outside Castelnuovo del Garda. This location offers a quiet, scenic entry point into Italy’s countryside. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan ahead whether you’re driving or arranging local transit. The proximity to Lake Garda means you can easily combine this activity with other sightseeing in the area.
The Vineyard Tour
The guided tour of the vineyard and cellar is a cornerstone of the experience. We loved the way the host shares their passion, explaining how the vineyard’s grapes are cultivated with care. The focus on Garganega and Trebbianello grapes reveals how deeply rooted the land is in the region’s identity. Expect to learn about the winemaking process, from grape to glass, in a relaxed and approachable manner.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Picnic and Tasting
After the tour, you’ll settle under a lush canopy of vines. The setting is peaceful, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the scent of ripe grapes creating an ideal backdrop. The curated basket of regional delicacies pairs beautifully with the wines, making for a feast that’s both simple and satisfying. The included bottle of summer wine can be enjoyed during the picnic, and there’s a 10% discount on bottles purchased to take home.
The Wines
You’ll sample some of the best local offerings, including Custoza DOC, Chiaretto di Bardolino DOC, or Ma.Gi.Co Corvina Garda DOC. Each of these wines captures the essence of the land and climate. Many guests noted how the flavors reflected the land’s character, making the tasting as much educational as enjoyable. The real bonus here is the opportunity to taste wines that are often hard to find elsewhere, paired with cheeses, salami, and fresh fruit.
Additional Details
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.
- Group Size: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring a quiet, personalized experience.
- Languages: English and Italian guides are available, catering to international guests.
- Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible.
- Weather Considerations: If the weather turns poor, the picnic can be moved indoors near the winery, ensuring no disruption to your day.
Authenticity and Value
Reviews highlight the genuine nature of this experience, with many appreciating the chance to connect with local winemakers and enjoy authentic flavors. The small-group format makes it feel more like a private tasting than a commercial tour, and the inclusion of local delicacies adds real value for the price. It’s not a large, staged event but a thoughtfully curated moment of peace and discovery.
Practical Tips
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera to capture the scenery. While water is provided, you might also want to bring some to stay well-hydrated. Remember, if you have food intolerances or preferences, communicating these in advance ensures a smoother experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re seeking a slow-paced, authentic experience away from tourist crowds, this vineyard picnic ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting to understand regional varieties and for those craving a peaceful, scenic break. Families with older children might enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, but it’s not suited for vegans due to the regional cheeses and salami. Solo travelers and couples will find it a charming way to spend a couple of hours in the Lake Garda countryside.
Final Thoughts
This Pic Nic in the vineyard with wine tasting offers a genuine taste of Italy’s rural charm and culinary delights. Its highlights include the serene setting, engaging vineyard tour, and well-curated food and wine pairing, making it a memorable way to spend part of your Lake Garda trip. The limited group size and focus on authenticity mean you’ll likely leave feeling more connected to the land and its traditions.
While it’s not a comprehensive vineyard tour or a big wine event, its value lies in the personal touch and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re after a peaceful break with delicious regional flavors in an idyllic setting, this experience will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good wine, natural beauty, and the simple joy of a well-made picnic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation to the vineyard included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the Giovanna Tantini Farm in Mischi, which is just outside Castelnuovo del Garda.
What wines will I taste?
You will sample summer wines such as Custoza DOC, Chiaretto di Bardolino DOC, or Ma.Gi.Co Corvina Garda DOC, reflecting the region’s typical grape varieties.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended. If you have food intolerances or preferences, inform the organizer beforehand.
How long does the experience last?
It lasts around 2 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.
Is the experience suitable for children or all ages?
It’s designed for adults; children might enjoy the scenery but may not find the tasting experience engaging.
Can I purchase additional bottles of wine?
Yes, you can buy other bottles at the winery shop, often at a discounted rate with the included 10% discount.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The picnic will be moved to a nearby indoor area near the winery, so the experience can still be enjoyed.
Is this activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.
This experience strikes a lovely balance of relaxation, education, and regional flavor, making it a charming addition to any Lake Garda visit. For those craving a peaceful, authentic taste of Italy’s countryside, it’s a small investment for a memorable moment amid nature.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wine Tours in Lombardy
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