Monferrato (Asti): Wine Tour with light lunch picnic in the vineyards

A Taste of Piedmont and Lake Garda: An Authentic Wine & Scenic Cruise Experience

Imagine savoring local wines amid the peaceful beauty of vineyards, then unwinding with a sunset cruise over Italy’s stunning Lake Garda. This tour offers a harmonious blend of two very different yet equally captivating experiences — a hands-on wine tasting and a tranquil boat ride, all within a single day. It’s designed for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Italy’s regional flavors while also enjoying some spectacular scenery.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines genuine, intimate vineyard visits with a relaxed, elegant cruise. The opportunity to learn from a professional sommelier about local wines, paired with a simple yet delicious picnic, makes it feel both authentic and personal. Plus, the sunset cruise around Lake Garda offers a rare chance to see iconic sights like Scaliger Castle and the Grottoes of Catullus from the water, creating a memorable finale.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is somewhat limited in its timing and scope. It’s a short, 1.5-hour activity, so if you’re seeking a full-day tour or extensive wine tasting, this might feel a bit condensed. Also, the tour is geared toward adults, so families with young children might want to consider other options, especially since the experience involves wine. Still, for wine lovers, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic peek into Piedmont’s wine culture combined with a scenic Lake Garda sunset, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines a guided vineyard visit with a local picnic, offering genuine insight into Piedmont wine culture.
• Scenic Cruise: Enjoy a sunset boat ride with views of Lake Garda and its famous landmarks.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional sommelier, perfect for those wanting to learn more about regional wines.
• Balanced Duration: At about 1 hour 30 minutes, it’s a compact but enriching experience.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 15 travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $57.50 per person, it offers a mix of education, scenery, and local food that many find worthwhile.

Exploring the Vineyards and Light Lunch Picnic

The tour kicks off at Tenuta Garetto, located just outside Agliano Terme, a region renowned for its rich wine traditions. The experience begins around 11:30 am, meaning you can comfortably fit it into a morning or early afternoon schedule. Once there, you’ll be introduced to the vineyard by a professional sommelier, who guides you through a tour of the estate.

What makes this vineyard visit stand out is the chance to get close to the grape-growing process. Reviewers like Cathy_M mention how “it was a really unique experience to have a picnic in the olive orchard vines,” highlighting the delight of combining wine tasting with picturesque surroundings. The tasting includes local wines paired with water and traditional Italian snacks, which allows you to truly appreciate the different flavors and nuances of the region’s wines.

After the tasting, you’ll enjoy a light lunch picnic in the vineyards. The food is described as traditional, paired with two bottles of the vineyard’s wines. This setup creates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the countryside scenery and engaging with your guide. The inclusion of a professional sommelier means you’ll gain more than just a sip — you’ll understand the story behind each wine, its characteristics, and what makes Piedmont wines so distinctive.

The reviews praise the authenticity of the experience, with Deborah_V calling it “stupenda e molto romantica,” emphasizing how enjoyable and intimate the setting feels. Krissy also points out that even with a language barrier (“everything was in Italian”), the experience was still beautiful and worth it.

The Lake Garda Sunset Cruise: A Scenic Finale

Following the vineyard experience, you’ll board a boat for a sunset cruise on Lake Garda. The boat departs from Sirmione, a charming town famous for Scaliger Castle and the Grottoes of Catullus, both of which you’ll see from the water. The cruise lasts about an hour and a half, providing a peaceful, immersive way to end your day.

During the cruise, you’ll sip on a glass of prosecco as the sun begins to set, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. The route offers stunning views of the peninsula, with ample opportunities to admire the scenery and take photos. Reviewers mention how this part of the experience is “relaxing and elegant,” perfect for couples or anyone who enjoys gentle, scenic outings.

The boat is designed for a small, intimate group, typically capped at 15 travelers, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity and comfort. The relaxed pace and beautiful backdrop make it a memorable way to see Lake Garda’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced at $57.50 per person, which includes the vineyard tour, wine tasting, picnic, and the scenic cruise. Considering the combination of experiences, guided insights, and the stunning setting, most travelers find this offers solid value. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe, which is often highlighted in reviews.

It’s important to note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Tenuta Garetto. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate, but it’s not recommended for children under 18.

The tour provides confirmation immediately upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic day, wine enthusiasts eager to taste Piedmont wines, or travelers looking to combine a cultural activity with scenic views. It appeals to those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences over large, impersonal tours. If you’re after a quick but meaningful glimpse into Italy’s regional wine scene paired with a beautiful boat ride, this package is well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, mainly because it involves wine tasting and adult-oriented activities.

How long does the entire experience last?
The main activity lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, starting at 11:30 am, including the vineyard tour, picnic, and cruise.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the winery tour, wine tastings, water, a light lunch picnic, and a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Garda.

Are there any optional tips or extras?
Yes, gratuities are optional, and extras are not included in the tour price.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking in vineyards, and layers for the boat cruise, especially if it gets cooler in the evening.

Where do we meet for the tour?
At Tenuta Garetto, S.S. Via Asti Mare, 30, Agliano Terme. Most travelers can reach there via public transportation or private transfer.

Do I need to speak Italian to enjoy this experience?
While the tour is primarily in Italian, the wine tasting and vineyard experience are very visual and sensory, so even non-Italian speakers can enjoy it. Some reviews mention booking in English, but most of the experience is accessible regardless.

In essence, this tour offers a delightful mix of authentic Piedmont wine tradition and scenic Lake Garda beauty. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, intimate, and culturally enriching day, particularly for wine lovers and romantics. With a good balance of guided insight and free time to soak in the surroundings, it delivers genuine value for a reasonable price.