Discover the ultimate wine & culinary adventure on a journey through the picturesque cities of MILAN, VERONA, and BOLOGNA, complete with a visit to the stunning Lake Garda. Indulge in Italy's most famous wines, including the bold and complex Amarone, and savor the rich flavors of the region's renowned *Reggiano Cheese
*Prosciutto di Parma, and
*Modena Balsamic Vinegar.
Immerse yourself in the history of medieval walled towns and explore the beautiful architecture and charming streets of each city. This is a limited opportunity to experience the best of Italian cuisine and culture.
*Prosciutto di Parma, and
*Modena Balsamic Vinegar.
Immerse yourself in the history of medieval walled towns and explore the beautiful architecture and charming streets of each city. This is a limited opportunity to experience the best of Italian cuisine and culture.
Veneto is a northeastern Italian region stretching from the Dolomite Mountains to the Adriatic Sea. Venice, its regional capital, is famed for its canals, Gothic architecture and Carnival celebrations. Veneto was part of the powerful Venetian Republic for more than 1,000 years, between the 7th and 18th centuries. Near alpine Lake Garda, medieval Verona is known as the setting of Shakespeare's "Romeo & Juliet."
Verona is our focal point of this VIP tour. Many of the wineries, attractions and hot-spots are close to this famous city. From both sides of Lake Garda, the hills of Valpolicella, to Venice, to Bassano this trip is a must! Meet iconic wine makers in the Amarone world, tour the oldest Grapperia in all of Italy, to mountain top volcanic vineyards in Colli Euganei.
Verona is our focal point of this VIP tour. Many of the wineries, attractions and hot-spots are close to this famous city. From both sides of Lake Garda, the hills of Valpolicella, to Venice, to Bassano this trip is a must! Meet iconic wine makers in the Amarone world, tour the oldest Grapperia in all of Italy, to mountain top volcanic vineyards in Colli Euganei.
Cities
Sirmione
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Garda in the charming town of Sirmione, a place where history and nature intertwine to create a magical setting. This picturesque town sits right in the middle of the lake, halfway between Brescia and Verona, and is surrounded by water on all sides.
Explore the heart of the city, which is located at the tip of the peninsula, accessible only to pedestrians and taxis. Leave your car at one of the many parking areas outside the walls and take a leisurely stroll along the alleys that are bursting with life. Here, you'll find delightful ice cream parlors, restaurants with outdoor seating, and shops with a distinct Italian flair.
As you walk, you'll be treated to stunning views of the lake, lush bougainvillea-covered balconies, and many beautiful churches that are peppered throughout the town. Be sure to visit the castle, which houses the church of Sant'Anna, and continue on to see Santa Maria della Neve and San Pietro in Mavino, which was built in the fourteenth century and sits atop the highest point of the peninsula.
Take a break from your walk and relax at one of the many bars while sipping on a Pirlo, a local aperitif, or a glass of Lugana, a white wine that is produced in the area. Don't forget to catch the sunset over the lake, a sight that will take your breath away. Sirmione is an unforgettable destination that you simply cannot miss during your visit to Lake Garda.
Explore the heart of the city, which is located at the tip of the peninsula, accessible only to pedestrians and taxis. Leave your car at one of the many parking areas outside the walls and take a leisurely stroll along the alleys that are bursting with life. Here, you'll find delightful ice cream parlors, restaurants with outdoor seating, and shops with a distinct Italian flair.
As you walk, you'll be treated to stunning views of the lake, lush bougainvillea-covered balconies, and many beautiful churches that are peppered throughout the town. Be sure to visit the castle, which houses the church of Sant'Anna, and continue on to see Santa Maria della Neve and San Pietro in Mavino, which was built in the fourteenth century and sits atop the highest point of the peninsula.
Take a break from your walk and relax at one of the many bars while sipping on a Pirlo, a local aperitif, or a glass of Lugana, a white wine that is produced in the area. Don't forget to catch the sunset over the lake, a sight that will take your breath away. Sirmione is an unforgettable destination that you simply cannot miss during your visit to Lake Garda.
Verona
Verona, a city with a rich history dating back to Roman times, is a must-visit destination that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. With its enchanting piazzas and a mini colosseum piercing its heart, Verona is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
Follow in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet and stroll along the River Adige, from bridge to bridge, and enjoy a cup of coffee while people-watching at Piazza della Erbe. Delve deeper into Verona's history by exploring its fascinating museums and ancient Roman sights. And don't forget to indulge in the seductive Veronese cuisine, featuring delicious local dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Follow in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet and stroll along the River Adige, from bridge to bridge, and enjoy a cup of coffee while people-watching at Piazza della Erbe. Delve deeper into Verona's history by exploring its fascinating museums and ancient Roman sights. And don't forget to indulge in the seductive Veronese cuisine, featuring delicious local dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
WINERIES
Tenuta Santa MariaStep into the world of Bertani wines and experience centuries of winemaking mastery. The Bertani family has been producing wines for generations, but it was in the second half of the 1800s that brothers Gaetano and Giovan Battista Bertani decided to set a new standard of excellence for their craft. With an established winemaking heritage dating back to the 15th century, the brothers combined tradition with innovation to create a unique winery in the Veneto region.
Their passion for the land and respect for tradition is evident in every bottle of Bertani wine. But the brothers were also shrewd businessmen, introducing revolutionary viticulture techniques developed by agronomist Jules Guyot to elevate their production and cultivation methods to new heights. Today, Bertani wines continue to be a benchmark for quality and excellence in the Veneto region and beyond. From the bold Amarone to the elegant Valpolicella, each wine is a testament to the Bertani family's unwavering commitment to their craft and the land they love. Join us for a journey through their vineyards and cellars, and taste the history and passion in every sip. 
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Experience the timeless elegance and rich history of Villa Mosconi Bertani, a prestigious winery nestled in the heart of Valpolicella. For over four centuries, the Bertani family has been producing world-renowned Amarone and Valpolicella wines from the vineyards within the estate's vast, enclosed orchard. The winery's spacious areas for grape drying and large cellars for aging in wood are a testament to its unwavering commitment to exceptional wine production.
In the early 1800s, the Bertani family adopted the innovative Guyot method, known for its low yield and high density, to enhance the exceptional terroir and native varieties of the region. In the 18th century, the winery also became a cultural hub, hosting the literary salon of Ippolito Pindemonte in its frescoed hall and gardens. Today, the Bertani family continues to preserve the uniqueness of their varietal clones and ancient winemaking techniques, ensuring that every bottle of wine from Villa Mosconi Bertani reflects the rich history and unmatched quality of this prestigious winery. |
Corte Sant'AldaRewrite in exciting for a travel website: Get ready to discover the hidden gem of CORTE SANT'ALDA, introduced to us by our good friend Constanza during our trip to the Verona area in 2017. From the moment we tasted their wines, we were immediately captivated by the organic approach and the passion for winemaking that emanated from every bottle. And let's not forget about the charismatic and beloved Marinella Camerani, who adds her own touch of magic to the experience.
For Marinella at CORTE SANT'ALDA, winemaking is more than just a business, it's a way of life. Their wine cellar is not just a place to store their precious wines, but also a family home where they make all their decisions based on respect for nature and a commitment to finding the perfect balance in everything they do. The result? Wines that are a true reflection of their passion, hard work, and dedication. Come and experience the magic of CORTE SANT'ALDA for yourself! |
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Verona hills at CORTE SANT'ALDA, where the stunning sunsets are just the beginning of the magic that awaits you. Meet the inspiring and passionate Marinella, whose organic approach to winemaking has garnered international acclaim. Discover how every routine decision made in the cellar and vineyards contributes to the unparalleled quality and unique characteristics of their wines. Come and immerse yourself in the values of life and work, respecting and embracing nature in all its splendor. Join us at CORTE SANT'ALDA, where every moment is an unforgettable adventure.
Pra Winery
Prà winery is a true gem in the world of Italian wine, and a must-visit destination for any wine lover. Founded in the 1980s by Graziano Prà, a visionary winemaker with a deep passion for crafting exceptional white wines, this family-owned estate has quickly become one of the most acclaimed producers in the Soave appellation.
Located in the picturesque town of Monteforte D’Alpone, Prà's vineyards benefit from a unique terroir and ideal climate, resulting in wines that are both expressive and elegant. But Prà doesn't stop at Soave: they've also expanded into the production of red wines, including Valpolicella and Amarone, with incredible success.
With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to quality, Prà is setting new standards for winemaking in Italy and beyond. Visit this remarkable winery to taste some of the finest wines in the region, and experience firsthand the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle.
Located in the picturesque town of Monteforte D’Alpone, Prà's vineyards benefit from a unique terroir and ideal climate, resulting in wines that are both expressive and elegant. But Prà doesn't stop at Soave: they've also expanded into the production of red wines, including Valpolicella and Amarone, with incredible success.
With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to quality, Prà is setting new standards for winemaking in Italy and beyond. Visit this remarkable winery to taste some of the finest wines in the region, and experience firsthand the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle.
Pratello
Experience a slice of paradise at Azienda Agricola Pratello, nestled in the picturesque hills on the Brescia shore of Lake Garda. Spanning over 120 hectares, with 70 hectares dedicated to vineyards, this winery is 100% organic, ensuring that every sip of their wine is a true taste of the land.
But that's not all - immerse yourself in the full farm-to-table experience with their on-site restaurant, where every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Take a leisurely stroll through the medieval town of Pratello and soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Garda. And for those looking to extend their stay, Pratello offers a cozy hotel on the property, so you can indulge in their wine and hospitality without ever having to leave.
As if that wasn't enough, Pratello also boasts a stable of horses, perfect for exploring the stunning countryside surrounding the winery. Come for the wine, stay for the hospitality, and fall in love with the charm of Azienda Agricola Pratello.
But that's not all - immerse yourself in the full farm-to-table experience with their on-site restaurant, where every dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Take a leisurely stroll through the medieval town of Pratello and soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Garda. And for those looking to extend their stay, Pratello offers a cozy hotel on the property, so you can indulge in their wine and hospitality without ever having to leave.
As if that wasn't enough, Pratello also boasts a stable of horses, perfect for exploring the stunning countryside surrounding the winery. Come for the wine, stay for the hospitality, and fall in love with the charm of Azienda Agricola Pratello.
Zenato
Get ready to be enchanted by the magical world of Zenato Winery, one of the classic Amarone producers that stands out among the rest. Nestled in the heart of a land that surrounds Lake Garda, the estate boasts an extraordinary microclimate that guarantees an optimal growing season. With a ‘frank and simple’ approach to life, Zenato is devoted to producing affordable wine of exceptional quality that reflects the richness of its local history and culture. Through vigorous research, innovation, and quality improvement, Sergio Zenato crafted wines that are renowned for their consistent quality. Join us on a journey to discover the passion for the land that drives the Zenato family and the wines that will leave you breathless.
LE FRAGHE
Nestled on the East side of Lake Garda, this vineyard is blessed with a unique microclimate that ensures its wines are infused with tropical flavors. In fact, the Bardolino growing area where Matilde Poggi's winery is located is famous for its exotic fruits. Once home to a kiwi grove, this vineyard benefits from the thermal heat radiating from the lake, creating an optimal growing season. The Bardolino produced here is not your typical wine; Matilde's blend contains a whopping 80% Corvina and 20% Rondinella, both indigenous grape varieties. All the grapes are grown organically on the estate and picked and fermented separately to ensure the perfect balance. To preserve the wine's natural flavors, it is aged in stainless steel tanks and bottled in the spring. The wine's transparency is a reflection of Matilde's winemaking philosophy, and with the guidance of consulting winemaker Federico Giotto, the results are nothing short of spectacular. A visit to this charming winery outside Affi is a must for wine lovers looking for a unique taste of Northern Italy.
Grapperia Nardini
Be amazed by the 200 years of history of a family whose name has become synonymous – over centuries and generations – with a product that’s an icon of an entire nation.
Arriving in Bassano del Grappa, Bortolo Nardini was involved in an accident that forced him to stop in the city. During his convalescence, he had the opportunity to learn more about Bassano and to understand its strategic importance as a commercial crossroads between the Valsugana Valley and Venice. With farsightedness and the tenacious will to turn his vision into reality, he bought the Osteria al Ponte, today called the Grapperia Nardini, to produce grappa with a permanent still and sell it to the public. For the first time it was no longer the distiller with a mobile still going to the farmers, but the winegrowers themselves bringing in the pomace for the production of grappa. Bortolo called his grappa “Aquavite di Vinaccia” (eau-de-vie from grape pomace) spelled in the Latin way without the "c", playing on the etymology that could mean both "water of life" and "water from the vine". The first grappa of Italy was born, Nardini Grappa.
Arriving in Bassano del Grappa, Bortolo Nardini was involved in an accident that forced him to stop in the city. During his convalescence, he had the opportunity to learn more about Bassano and to understand its strategic importance as a commercial crossroads between the Valsugana Valley and Venice. With farsightedness and the tenacious will to turn his vision into reality, he bought the Osteria al Ponte, today called the Grapperia Nardini, to produce grappa with a permanent still and sell it to the public. For the first time it was no longer the distiller with a mobile still going to the farmers, but the winegrowers themselves bringing in the pomace for the production of grappa. Bortolo called his grappa “Aquavite di Vinaccia” (eau-de-vie from grape pomace) spelled in the Latin way without the "c", playing on the etymology that could mean both "water of life" and "water from the vine". The first grappa of Italy was born, Nardini Grappa.
sapori del portico ~ cheese Cave & Mostarda Shop
Welcome to Sapori del Portico, the ultimate destination for foodies seeking traditional and authentic flavors. Our store offers a unique and all-encompassing experience, bringing together the best cheeses and cured meats from all over Italy. Our products are carefully selected from the finest producers and aged to perfection in our '400 cellars, following the rich traditions of the past.
For those who appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere of a traditional shop, our store is the perfect place to indulge in the delights of the past. Located in Arbizzano di Negrar, just outside Verona in the heart of Valpolicella, our store boasts display counters filled with the most sought-after and traditional products, just like in the old days.
But that's not all - we also offer the perfect pairing for our products: the best wines made right here, just a few steps away. Our cured meats, cheeses, fine mustards, and rustic bread are the perfect complement to the exquisite wines of the region, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Come and discover the true essence of Italian cuisine at Sapori del Portico!
For those who appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere of a traditional shop, our store is the perfect place to indulge in the delights of the past. Located in Arbizzano di Negrar, just outside Verona in the heart of Valpolicella, our store boasts display counters filled with the most sought-after and traditional products, just like in the old days.
But that's not all - we also offer the perfect pairing for our products: the best wines made right here, just a few steps away. Our cured meats, cheeses, fine mustards, and rustic bread are the perfect complement to the exquisite wines of the region, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Come and discover the true essence of Italian cuisine at Sapori del Portico!
HOTELS
Villa Giona
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Experience the enchanting history of Villa Giona, located in the heart of Valpolicella on the eastern slopes of the hill of Castelrotto. This stunning villa was originally built by the Veronese family of Jewish origins in the late 15th century, and has since been expanded to become a lavish summer residence. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the estate while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding stone houses and palaces in the enchanting village of Cengia di Nogarine. Discover the unique architecture and design of the fortress house, originally built to defend the grounds, as you savor the delicious wines produced in the vineyards surrounding Villa Giona.
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Experience the Renaissance charm of the historical home of the Giona family, a prominent Jewish family from Verona, dating back to the late 1400s. Originally built as a fortress house to protect their lands, it was later transformed into a stunning summer residence in the Renaissance style.
As you step inside, admire the intricate details and grandeur of the architecture. Walk through the Italian garden, adorned with stunning fountains and statues, which was created in the mid-17th century.
Marvel at the majestic English garden, which dominates the park with its towering trees and serene lake, adding to the romantic allure of the villa.
Indulge in the rich history and cultural heritage of Villa Giona and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of its gardens.
As you step inside, admire the intricate details and grandeur of the architecture. Walk through the Italian garden, adorned with stunning fountains and statues, which was created in the mid-17th century.
Marvel at the majestic English garden, which dominates the park with its towering trees and serene lake, adding to the romantic allure of the villa.
Indulge in the rich history and cultural heritage of Villa Giona and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of its gardens.
Pratello Wine Resort
Pratello is not only a winery, it's a great hotel and name of the medieval village that it is located in.
Simple but tasteful rooms alternate with more highly decorated and beautifully furnished suites and apartments with typical country chic style. The large room with chestnut beams and white floor, however, is reserved for breakfast, for a welcoming and restorative start to the day. Our lavish buffet offers high-quality products, all home-made and with unforgettable flavours. Cakes, foccacias, biscuits and many other delights are baked punctually every morning, because for us it's a real pleasure to take good care of our guests right from the start!
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Il Relais is set in the 19th-century Palazzo Tommasi in the heart of Verona, opposite the Castelvecchio Castle. Rooms are elegantly furnished and feature wood floors, free Wi-Fi and an LCD TV.
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Il RelaisYour room has a view of Castelvecchio Castle or the River Adige. All rooms are air conditioned and feature satellite and pay-per-view channels and a private bathroom with slippers and toiletries.
An Italian breakfast of sweet items is served each morning. Il Relais is on the first floor of a historic building that has been completely renovated. Verona Arena is just 5 minutes away on foot. Piazza Erbe and Juliet's Balcony are around a 10-minute walk away. This is our guests' favourite part of Verona, according to independent reviews. |
Cities
Verona
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The city is famous as it is the place where William Shakespeare set his play Romeo and Juliet. Though situated two hours away from the more popular tourist destination, Venice, many people consider Verona a more relaxed, pleasant place to visit. In the year 2000 Verona has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its urban structure and architecture.
The true origin of Verona is some kind of mystery. It was probably founded by an early Italic or Celtic people and then conquered by the Romans. In 89 BC the city became a colonia and in 49 BC it became a municipium. The importance of Verona grew rapidly because of its position at the junction of four of the most important Roman roads of that time. |
Venice
The city is virtually the same as it was six hundred years ago, which adds to the fascinating character.
Bassano Del Grappa
Not only home for two of Italy's most famous Grapperias, Nardini & Poli, but the birthplace.
