The Mouth of the Volcano is a captivating destination that invites visitors to uncover the rich tapestry of Basilicata’s winemaking legacy. Nestled amidst the volcanic tuff caves, this unique experience showcases the harmonious blend of history, tradition, and the renowned Aglianico grape. As guests step into these subterranean chambers, they’re transported to a world where the land and its people have forged an indelible bond, shaping a culinary heritage that’s both deeply rooted and remarkably innovative. What stories lie within these ancient walls, waiting to be unveiled?

Key Points

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Key Points

  • Explore the historic 500-year-old volcanic tuff caves used for aging wines in Rionero, Basilicata.
  • Uncover the rich history and cultural heritage intertwined with the Aglianico grape variety.
  • Immerse in the captivating stories of local families and their deep connection to the land.
  • Set out on a sensory journey showcasing the region’s culinary traditions through wine and food pairings.
  • Experience exceptional customer care and hospitality, tailored to provide a personalized and memorable tour.

Tour Overview

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Tour Overview

Visitors often embark on a guided tour to experience the mouth of the volcano through 17th-century volcanic tuff caves.

The tour lasts for 2 hours and is available in English, Russian, Spanish, and Italian.

Guests can explore the history of the region, learning about the families and land, while discovering scientific facts through a sensory experience.

Customer care and hospitality are emphasized throughout the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Booking Information

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Booking Information

Priced from €626 per person, the tour offers the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To check availability, visitors can simply inquire about the starting times.

The tour includes:

  1. Degustation of three glasses of wine
  2. A plate of typical cured meats and cheese from the Basilicata region
  3. Customer care and hospitality emphasized throughout the experience

Experience Highlights

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Experience Highlights

The tour journey takes visitors through the history of Rionero and Aglianico, blending scientific facts with sensory discovery.

Guests will hear captivating stories of local families and the land, seeing the connection between this region and its wine production.

Customer care and hospitality are emphasized, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience.

From exploring the 500-year-old caves used for aging wines to savoring a degustation of three local wines paired with typical cured meats and cheeses, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Basilicata’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Wine and Food Pairing

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Wine and Food Pairing

As part of the tour, visitors can enjoy a degustation of three glasses of local wine, carefully paired with a plate of typical cured meats and cheeses from the Basilicata region.

The wine selection showcases the region’s Aglianico grape, with each glass highlighting the unique terroir and winemaking traditions.

The pairing includes:

  1. A robust, full-bodied Aglianico red wine, complementing the savory flavors of the cured meats.
  2. A crisp, refreshing white wine, cutting through the richness of the cheeses.
  3. A smooth, velvety Aglianico rosé, bridging the gap between the red and white selections.

This wine and food pairing elevates the overall experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Location and Meeting Point

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Location and Meeting Point

The guided tour takes place in the captivating caves used for aging wines, showcasing a 500-year-old connection between the land and wine production. The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy for visitors to find the starting location. The tour explores the historic caves, where the rich history of Rionero and Aglianico is brought to life through engaging stories and sensory discoveries.

Meeting Point Accessibility Meeting Time
Available on Google Maps Easy to find Flexible, check availability
Caves for Aging Wines 500-year-old Connection Rionero and Aglianico History

History of Rionero and Aglianico

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - History of Rionero and Aglianico

Rionero and Aglianico have a rich history that’s woven into the captivating caves used for aging wines. The guided tour takes visitors on a journey through this heritage, blending scientific facts with sensory discovery.

Key highlights include:

  1. Exploring the centuries-old stories of local families and their connection to the land.

  2. Discovering how the distinct Aglianico grape variety has thrived in this volcanic terroir for generations.

  3. Learning about the evolution of wine production and its enduring influence on the region’s cultural identity.

Families and the Land

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Families and the Land

Generations of families have woven their stories into the captivating caves used for aging wines in Rionero and Aglianico.

These tales of the land combine scientific facts with sensory discovery, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Visitors are immersed in the intertwined histories of the people, the grapes, and the land itself.

From the vines that thrive in the volcanic soil to the techniques passed down through the generations, every aspect of the experience highlights the deep-rooted connection between the local community and their cherished terroir.

This tapestry of stories and traditions is the heart of the tour, inviting guests to appreciate the essence of Basilicata.

Customer Care and Hospitality

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Customer Care and Hospitality

Exceptional customer care and warm hospitality define the tour experience at the Mouth of the Volcano. Guides are attentive to guests’ needs, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey.

The tour features:

  1. Personalized attention, with guides tailoring the experience to each group’s interests and pace.
  2. Dedicated focus on guest satisfaction, with guides readily available to answer questions and provide recommendations.
  3. Emphasis on creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, fostering a sense of discovery and connection with the local culture.

This unwavering dedication to customer service sets the Mouth of the Volcano tour apart, elevating the overall experience and leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

THE MOUTH OF THE VOLCANO - Frequently Asked Questions

How Difficult Is the Hike to the Volcano’s Mouth?

The tour doesn’t involve a hike to the volcano’s mouth. Instead, visitors explore 17th-century volcanic tuff caves in a guided tour, which provides an immersive experience connecting the land, history, and wine production.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or fitness restrictions. It’s a guided experience through the volcanic tuff caves, suitable for most visitors. The tour duration is 2 hours, with options for different language tours.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks to the tour. The experience includes a degustation of three glasses of wine paired with a plate of typical cured meats and cheeses from the Basilicata region.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour provider ensures visitors have access to clean and convenient restrooms throughout the guided experience in the volcanic tuff caves.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disabled Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair and disabled accessible. The caves feature ramps and wide passages to accommodate visitors with limited mobility. Assistance is available throughout the guided experience.

Recap

The Mouth of the Volcano offers an unparalleled experience, immersing visitors in the rich history and culture of the Basilicata region. Exploring the volcanic tuff caves, guests discover the centuries-old traditions of winemaking, particularly the renowned Aglianico grape. This journey through the land and its people showcases the unique terroir and culinary heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly authentic and captivating experience.