Trekking in the Wood with picnic on the turtles lake

When thinking about Milan, most people’s minds jump to its bustling city streets, high-end shopping, and iconic art. But just outside the city lies a peaceful pocket of nature that offers a welcome break from urban life. The Trekking in the Wood with Picnic on the Turtles Lake tour is a surprisingly enchanting experience, especially suited for those seeking a quick outdoor escape without venturing too far. It’s a short, roughly two-hour journey that combines gentle trekking, wildlife spotting, and a tranquil picnic beside a lake where turtles bask lazily on floating logs.

One thing we immediately love about this experience is its accessible nature—it’s designed to be easy enough for most travelers, with a manageable duration and a small group size. The serene atmosphere, authentic wildlife encounters, and the chance to unwind amid nature are truly appealing. However, it’s worth noting that this is a nature-focused outing, so if you’re after historical sights or adrenaline-pumping hikes, this might not be your perfect match. Still, for anyone craving some peace, quiet, and beautiful views, this tour hits the spot. It’s particularly ideal for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a short respite from the city’s hustle.

Key Points

• Accessible and Short: The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick nature fix.
• Authentic Wildlife Sightings: Expect to see squirrels, herons, frogs, turtles, and more in their natural habitat.
• Beautiful Scenery: From golden fields to lush woods and tranquil lakes, the views are a highlight.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who reveal secret corners and local flora and fauna.
• Relaxing Picnic: Enjoy a peaceful 20-minute break on the lakeshore, observing turtles sunbathing.
• Great Value: Priced at just under $22, it offers a surprisingly rich nature experience for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and How to Get There

The tour begins at Via Giorgio de Chirico, 7, a location easily accessible via public transportation, including the Milan metro. The convenience of nearby transit options means you won’t have to worry about complicated logistics. The tour is capped at a maximum of 20 participants, which helps keep the group feeling intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Boscoincitta, the main site, is a city forest with a secret charm that most visitors don’t get to explore. Here, your guide will lead you through the lesser-known corners, revealing the rich wildlife that inhabits the area. Expect to spot wild rabbits hopping through the undergrowth, herons wading in streams, and squirrels scurrying among the branches. According to review snippets, Davide, the guide, is particularly proud of the park’s creation, emphasizing the effort behind maintaining this green space built by community effort.

The natural sounds—birds chirping, streams babbling, leaves rustling—make the walk peaceful and immersive. The terrain varies from gentle paths to bumpier sections, adding a bit of variety without being strenuous. For those concerned about difficulty, the moderate pace and short duration mean this is more about enjoying nature than intense trekking.

The Lake and the Turtle Encounter

The highlight of the tour is arriving at Turtles Lake, where large turtles often sunbathe on floating logs. Watching these creatures bask in the calm, seemingly timeless setting is a delight. Reviewers mention that the lake offers a stunning panoramic view, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection. You can sit on the bank, gaze across the water, and listen to the gentle splashes of turtles dipping into the lake.

The Picnic

A key feature is the short picnic break—about twenty minutes—on the lakeshore. This is an unhurried chance to relax, take photos, or just soak in the tranquility. Reviewers note that the quiet, scenic setting makes it easy to unwind, providing a break from the busy city life. Bringing along a light snack or drinks is optional, but the experience of sharing a peaceful moment by the water is already enough.

Returning to the Starting Point

After the picnic, the group heads back along the same route, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife or snap photos. The return is straightforward, and you’ll be back at the starting point in roughly two hours total.

What Our Reviewers Say

Eleanor_W summed it up nicely: “A beautiful slice of suburban Milan. I thoroughly enjoyed the peace and quiet, and a chance to slow down for a while.” She appreciated the guide Davide, who proudly showcased the park’s features and shared his knowledge with enthusiasm. Her advice to take the metro makes sense—public transit is both cheap and easy, making the whole outing accessible.

Another reviewer mentioned how the experience fostered a sense of authentic tranquility. Sitting quietly on the lakeshore, watching the turtles, and listening to nature’s sounds created a calming atmosphere that’s hard to find in the city. The tour’s small size ensures personal attention and a cozy vibe, making it a relaxing outing for groups or individuals.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At just under $22 per person, the tour is surprisingly affordable considering the quality of the experience. It’s a great deal for nature lovers wanting an authentic outdoor activity without the hassle of a long trip.
• Duration: Around 2 hours—perfect for fitting into a busy day or as a half-day escape.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 38 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability.
• Weather: The activity relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are welcome, making it inclusive.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, maintaining an intimate environment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits nature enthusiasts, families with kids, or anyone seeking a peaceful break from the city. It’s ideal if you enjoy wildlife spotting, scenic walks, and relaxing by the water. If you’re after a quick, affordable outdoor activity that doesn’t require strenuous effort or complicated logistics, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Those with limited time in Milan will appreciate the short duration and easy access, while travelers looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences will find much to love here. It’s also excellent for travelers wanting a taste of local green spaces without venturing far from the city center.

The Sum Up

Trekking in the Wood with Picnic on the Turtles Lake offers a refreshing, authentic glimpse of Milan’s lesser-known natural side. Its peaceful setting, charming wildlife encounters, and scenic lakeside picnic make it a memorable experience—especially for those craving a break from urban life. The tour’s affordability, small group size, and expert guide ensure a relaxed, personalized outing that suits a broad range of travelers.

If you’re after a calm, nature-filled adventure that fits into a short timeframe and provides genuine connection with the environment, this tour is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a family, solo traveler, or part of a small group, you’ll leave with beautiful photos, soothing memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for Milan’s green spaces.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a gentle walk suitable for families. The peaceful setting and wildlife sightings make it engaging for kids.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at Via Giorgio de Chirico, 7, which is accessible via Milan’s public transportation, including the metro.

What should I bring?
A light snack, water, comfortable shoes, and maybe a camera for capturing the wildlife and scenery.

How long does the walk take?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the picnic break.

Is the route difficult?
The terrain varies from easy paths to bumpier sections, but it’s generally accessible and not strenuous.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What animals might I see?
Wild rabbits, herons, squirrels, frogs, turtles, and possibly more.

Is this experience available year-round?
Yes, but it depends on weather conditions. Check the weather forecast before booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring full refund if needed.

Embark on this peaceful walk and discover a quiet side of Milan, where nature’s calm will leave you refreshed and recharged.