Trekking through the vineyards and wine tasting on the hills of Lucca

Thinking about a wine experience in Tuscany that combines scenic walks, expert tasting, and local flavors? This Trekking through the vineyards and wine tasting tour offers a wonderful way to explore the countryside around Lucca while enjoying some of the region’s best wines. Led by Simone Vergamini — a renowned sommelier — you’ll get an intimate look at small, high-quality wineries and learn about the area’s traditions.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning panoramic views of Lucca and its rolling hills from the vineyards are hard to beat. Second, the opportunity to taste four carefully selected wines directly from local producers, paired with exceptional regional foods like pecorino cheese and extra virgin olive oil. However, a possible consideration is that the duration is just four hours, which means the experience is quite focused, and might feel a bit quick for those wanting a long, leisurely day.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love authentic, small-scale wine tastings, appreciate scenic walks, and want to learn from a genuine Tuscan expert. It suits those looking for a mix of nature, culture, and gastronomy, all wrapped into a compact package.

Key Points

• Authentic small wineries offer high-quality wines in a welcoming atmosphere
• Scenic vineyard walks with panoramic views of Lucca and surrounding countryside
• Expert guidance from Simone Vergamini, Tuscany’s Best Sommelier 2023
• Tastings of four wines paired with local regional produce
• Includes naturalistic guide and optional pickup, making logistics easier
• Free cancellation provides flexibility for travelers

An in-depth look at the experience

Setting the scene: Lucca’s wine hills

This tour begins in the historic city of Lucca, a charming walled town packed with Renaissance architecture. From there, you’ll venture into the hills of Pieve Santo Stefano, where vineyards and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. The landscape is marked by gentle slopes, dotted with rustic stone wineries and centuries-old olive trees. The panoramic views of Lucca itself from these high points are genuinely striking, offering perfect photo opportunities and a sense of connection to the land.

Walking through the vineyards

The highlight here is the approximately 90-minute walk through the Villa Santo Stefano vineyards. Led by a certified naturalistic guide, you’ll learn about the cultivation of grapes and olives, discover how the landscape influences the wine, and get a close-up view of the traditional methods still used today. The walk is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, even for those with little hiking experience.

Visiting the wineries

The tour includes visits to small, family-run wineries — a true strength of this experience. These are not large commercial operations but rather intimate cellars where the winemakers pour their passion into every bottle. The guide will share stories about each winery’s history and the techniques behind their wines, enriching the tasting experience.

Tasting regional wines and local delicacies

Sampling four wines from the cellar allows you to appreciate the diversity of Tuscan reds and whites, each paired with local regional foods. Expect to enjoy bread, pecorino cheese, and extra virgin olive oil — staples of Tuscan cuisine and perfect accompaniments to the wines. The tasting, led by Simone, is educational but relaxed, encouraging questions and discussion.

Why it’s special

What sets this tour apart? First, the personal touch from Simone, whose credentials as “Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023” and multiple Italian placements assure expert guidance. Second, the small group size (private booking option), ensures a more personalized experience and greater interaction with the guide and winemakers.

Practical details: timing, price, and value

Starting at 9:30 am, the tour lasts roughly 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. The cost, at around $239.46 per person, reflects the focus on small wineries, expert guidance, tastings, and the scenic nature walk. Many travelers will find this to be a good value, especially considering the quality of the wines and the personal attention.

What reviewers say

Even with just one review, the praise is high — calling the experience “incredible” and “a big surprise,” particularly praising Simone’s knowledge and friendliness. The view of Garfagnana and the wineries’ authenticity seem to leave a lasting impression for visitors, emphasizing the appeal of genuine, high-quality experiences away from crowds.

What to consider

While the tour offers a rich, focused experience, some travelers may find the duration slightly brief if they wish to linger longer at each winery or explore more extensively. Also, since the sightseeing is concentrated on a specific region near Lucca, it’s best suited for those already exploring Tuscany or nearby.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts keen to learn about Tuscan wines from a top sommelier, as well as travelers who enjoy scenic walks and want authentic, small-scale winery visits. It’s ideal for those with a taste for regional food and a desire to understand local traditions. If you’re a curious traveler wanting a blend of nature, culture, and wine in a relatively short period, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Trekking through the vineyards and wine tasting tour offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s wine culture, paired with stunning views and expert guidance. The focus on small wineries with high-quality wines means you get an intimate, authentic experience that’s rich in flavor and stories. The scenic walk combined with tastings and regional delicacies makes it a memorable half-day outing.

The experience excels at blending beautiful scenery, expert insights, and regional flavors, making it well-suited for wine lovers, foodies, and those eager to discover lesser-known Tuscan gems. With a private option and flexible cancellation, it’s both convenient and reassuring for travelers planning their trip.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and educational wine adventure near Lucca, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine taste of Tuscany’s rich viticultural tradition.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, which makes getting to the vineyards easier, especially if you prefer not to drive.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
You will walk for about 1 hour and a half through the vineyards and olive groves, enjoying panoramic views along the way.

Are children or non-drinking guests welcome?
The tour is mainly centered on wine tasting and walking through vineyards, so it’s best suited for adults. However, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and learn from the guide.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers guidance by a top sommelier, visits to the wineries, four wine tastings accompanied by local foods, and scenic walking. Pickup may be available.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all levels of wine knowledge?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting to explore, Simone’s guidance makes it accessible and informative for everyone.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of the experience’s strengths, what to expect, and who will enjoy it most. It’s a genuine taste of Tuscany’s vineyards, with the perfect balance of scenery, culture, and wine.