If you’re visiting the Veneto region and want to escape the crowds of Venice for something a bit more authentic and flavorful, a wine tour through the Euganean Hills might just be your perfect day. This particular experience, offered by Lovivo Tour Experience, comes highly recommended — with a perfect 5-star rating from two travelers who loved the personal touch, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery. It’s a balanced mix of wine, landscape, and history, giving you a genuine taste of regional life.
What really stands out about this tour is the way it combines a scenic drive through UNESCO-protected hills with visits to two family-owned wineries that take pride in their volcanic soils and local traditions. Plus, the guide, Camilla, seems to leave a lasting impression—her enthusiasm and local knowledge came through in every review. On the downside, the tour’s duration of around five hours and its small group size (max 8 travelers) mean you’ll want to plan for a relaxed pace and book well in advance—most bookings are made about 85 days ahead, which speaks to its popularity. Still, if you enjoy discovering regional wines paired with fantastic local food, this tour is a genuine treat.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic regional focus: Visits to two small, family-run wineries provide an intimate look at local wine-making traditions.
- Beautiful scenery: The Euganean Hills are a UNESCO biosphere, offering lush views, historic towns, and serene landscapes.
- Expert guides: Camilla, the tour guide, receives high praise for her friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make guests feel at home.
- Delicious wine and food: Tastings include local wines like the volcanic Prosecco biotype, paired with cheeses and cold cuts for a true taste of the region.
- Diverse stops: From ancient villages and Venetian villas to the Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei, each stop offers a unique glimpse into regional history and nature.
- Flexible logistics: Pickup is offered, and the tour includes a mobile ticket, making it easy to join and plan around your schedule.
Exploring the Euganean Hills: A Deep Dive
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An Introduction to the Region and Its Charm
Starting from Abano Montegrotto, famous for its thermal spas and luxurious hotels, this tour offers more than just a wine tasting. It’s a chance to see a part of Veneto that’s often overlooked—rolling volcanic hills, quaint villages, and a landscape that’s been cultivated for centuries. These hills rise to heights of 300 to 600 meters, creating a lush backdrop for vineyards and historic sites.
What I appreciate is how the tour takes you into the heart of this protected landscape, the UNESCO Regional Park, where you’ll enjoy two hours of free exploration. It’s your chance to breathe in the fresh air, spot local flora and fauna, or just enjoy the sweeping views. The park’s biodiversity and its importance as a biosphere reserve make it a meaningful part of the experience, reminding you that this isn’t just about wine—it’s about a landscape carefully preserved and nurtured.
The Charming Stops: Villages, Villas, and Fortresses
The itinerary includes visits to several highlights, each rich in local stories. One standout is a Venetian villa that looks like a fortress but is, in fact, a richly frescoed residence—a bit of architectural playfulness that hints at the area’s layered history. Another highlight is Battaglia Terme, an old village where architecture reveals its ties to Venice’s past as a maritime republic. Walking through these narrow streets, you’ll get a real sense of how these communities thrived on trade, wine, and thermal healing.
The visit to a monumental garden—with fish ponds and tall box hedges—offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into European garden design at its best. It’s a perfect spot for photos or simply to soak in the serenity.
Visiting the Wineries: Family-Run and Personal
The core of the tour involves visits to two local wineries—both family-owned and passionately committed to their craft. The first, Cantina Colli Euganei, allows you to see the winemaking process firsthand—from vineyard to cellar. Expect to learn about how the volcanic soils influence the grapes, especially the unique Serprino, a version of Prosecco grown on volcanic land, giving it a distinctive character.
The second winery offers a more relaxed setting, with a panoramic tasting of wines paired with cold cuts and cheeses. The review from a recent guest describes it as “a quiet break in the name of good wine and good food,” which perfectly captures the atmosphere. The host’s pride in their local products shines through, making the tasting feel like a visit to a friend’s home rather than a commercial operation.
The Guide: Camilla’s Passion and Knowledge
Reviews consistently praise Camilla, the guide, for her friendly demeanor and deep local knowledge. She’s one of those guides who makes you feel like you’re exploring with a friend rather than a tour operator. Her engaging storytelling and tips—like where to look for the best views or how the soil influences the wines—add a layer of authenticity that elevates the experience.
Logistical Details: Convenience and Comfort
Transportation is included, with pickup options available—making it easy to start your day without the hassle. The tour lasts about 5 hours, a good length for a relaxed day out, and keeps the group small (up to 8 travelers), ensuring personalized attention. Booking well in advance is advised, as most travelers reserve their spot about 85 days ahead, indicating strong demand.
The price of roughly $138.82 per person offers good value considering the inclusions—visits, tastings, local guide, and transportation. You’re paying for a curated experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious regional wine.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who enjoy wines with a story, appreciate small-group intimacy, and want a taste of Italy beyond Venice. It’s ideal for those interested in local traditions and landscapes and who are happy to spend a leisurely day exploring, tasting, and listening to stories. It’s also a hit with food lovers, given the pairing of wines with cheeses and cold cuts.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?
This tour offers genuine value for those looking for an authentic, in-depth experience of Veneto’s wine country. The small group size, passionate guides, and focus on family-run wineries mean you’ll get a personal touch that big tours often lack. If you’re a lover of good wines, beautiful landscapes, and local history, this tour will meet and exceed expectations.
It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, immersive day—not just a tasting but a journey into the heart of Euganean Hills’ culture and natural beauty. While it’s a bit of a splurge, the combination of scenery, storytelling, and regional flavors makes it a worthwhile addition to your Veneto itinerary.
FAQ for the Euganean Hills Wine Tour
Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without planning extra transportation.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy stops without feeling rushed.
What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.
Are the wineries family-owned?
Yes, both wineries visited are family-run, emphasizing tradition and personal pride.
What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample local wines including the volcanic Prosecco (Serprino), Pinot bianco, Garganega, Chardonnay, and reds like Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Are food and cheese included?
Yes, the second winery features a tasting paired with cold cuts and cheeses, creating a true regional flavor experience.
Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 85 days ahead due to high demand.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but always check if you have specific health or mobility concerns.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This wine tour through the Euganean Hills offers more than just a taste of regional wines; it’s an immersion into local life, history, and landscape. With friendly guides, intimate winery visits, and stunning scenery, it’s a meaningful way to discover Veneto beyond the usual tourist spots. Perfect for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a peaceful, authentic slice of Italy.