Varenna’s charm comes alive through a delightful wine tasting and entry to the historic Castello di Vezio. Visitors can savor three local sparkling wines paired with breadsticks and olives, as knowledgeable staff share insights about regional varietals. Exploring the castle’s scenic grounds with a multilingual audio guide, guests enjoy the town’s rich history. This one-day adventure promises a taste of local flavors and breathtaking views – but there’s more to discover.
Key Points
- The experience includes a wine tasting of three local sparkling wines, accompanied by breadsticks and olives, at the Invinis Veritas wine shop.
- Entry ticket provides access to the Castello di Vezio, with a multilingual audio guide app available for self-guided exploration of the castle.
- Castle hours vary by season, with last entry 30 minutes before closing; pets are not allowed due to the presence of birds of prey.
- The full-day experience offers a taste of Varenna’s history and local flavors, with a steep ascent to the castle recommended for visitors.
- Pricing starts at Kč 2,627 per person, with free cancellation up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.
Experience Overview
The wine tasting experience in Varenna and the self-guided exploration of Castello di Vezio provide visitors with an immersive cultural encounter.
The wine tasting includes three local sparkling wines served by the glass, accompanied by breadsticks and olives.
A tasting of three local sparkling wines, served by the glass and accompanied by breadsticks and olives.
The multilingual audio guide app allows visitors to explore the castle in 7 languages.
The castle’s entry hours vary by season, with last access 30 minutes before closing.
While pets aren’t allowed due to birds of prey, the scenic walking paths to the castle offer stunning views.
This experience lasts one day, providing a well-rounded taste of Varenna’s history and local flavors.
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Pricing and Cancellation
The wine tasting and Castello di Vezio experience costs from Kč 2,627 per person.
This entry ticket offers:
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Free cancellation up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.
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Access to the wine tasting, including three local sparkling wines by the glass, served with breadsticks and olives.
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Multilingual audio guide app available in 7 languages.
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Self-guided exploration of the Castello di Vezio.
The wine shop is open from 11:00 to 17:00, closed on Sundays and public holidays.
The castle is accessible from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and 10:00 to 19/20:00 on weekends, depending on the season.
Wine Tasting Details
As part of the experience, visitors can enjoy a wine tasting at the Invinis Veritas wine shop.
The tasting includes three local sparkling wines served by the glass, along with breadsticks and olives.
The wine shop is open from 11:00 to 17:00, closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Guests can sample the wines while learning about the local varietals and production methods from the knowledgeable staff.
The wine tasting is a perfect way to take in the flavors of the Varenna region before exploring the historic Castello di Vezio.
Castello Di Vezio Access
After enjoying the wine tasting, visitors can make their way to the historic Castello di Vezio.
Visitors can make their way to the historic Castello di Vezio after enjoying the wine tasting.
The castle is open:
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Monday – Friday: 10:00 to 18:00
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Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 to 19:00 (April, May, September)
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Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 to 20:00 (June, July, August)
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Monday – Friday: 10:00 to 17:00 (October)
Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
The castle is closed during heavy rain or extreme weather.
Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds at their own pace using a multilingual audio guide app available in 7 languages.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Directions
Where does the experience begin? The meeting point is the wine shop Invinis Veritas, located at Via XX Settembre, 7, 23829 Varenna, Italy.
From there, you’ll reach Castello di Vezio on foot. The route is a steep 20-30 minute ascent from the Montecodeno restaurant. Alternatively, you can take the scenic 40-minute path called Scabium from Villa Monastero.
The recommendations are to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Keep in mind that pets aren’t allowed due to the presence of birds of prey at the castle.
The directions are straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free start to your Varenna adventure.
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Recommended Attire
Given the steep ascent to Castello di Vezio, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The hike to the castle takes 20-30 minutes and can be strenuous.
To ensure a pleasant experience, consider the following:
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Wear supportive, closed-toe shoes with good traction.
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Dress in breathable, layered clothing that can accommodate changes in weather.
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Bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, if visiting during warmer months.
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Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the climb.
Comfortable attire and proper footwear will make the journey to Castello di Vezio more enjoyable.
Pets and Birds of Prey
Why are pets not allowed at Castello di Vezio? The presence of birds of prey in the castle grounds necessitates a strict no-pet policy. These majestic raptors, such as hawks and falcons, require a peaceful environment to thrive. Allowing domestic animals could disturb the delicate balance and pose a risk to both pets and birds. To ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors, the castle management has made the decision to exclude pets from the premises. The following table provides further details on the birds of prey found at Castello di Vezio:
| Species | Habitat | Behaviors |
|———|———|———–|
| Hawks | Cliffs, forests | Soaring, hunting small prey |
| Falcons | Open areas, grasslands | Diving at high speeds, catching birds in flight |
| Owls | Woodlands, rocky areas | Silent flight, nocturnal hunting |
| Eagles | Mountainous regions | Powerful flight, searching for large prey |
Multilingual Audio Guide
The Castello di Vezio offers visitors a multilingual audio guide app available in seven languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, and Chinese.
This convenient feature allows guests to fully enjoy the castle’s history and architecture at their own pace.
The audio guide provides:
Detailed information about the castle’s key attractions and features, insights into the site’s cultural and historical significance, and fascinating stories and anecdotes about the castle’s past.
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Detailed information about the castle’s key attractions and features.
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Insights into the site’s cultural and historical significance.
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Fascinating stories and anecdotes about the castle’s past.
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The flexibility to explore the site on your own schedule.
With the multilingual audio guide, visitors can enhance their experience and gain a deeper understanding of the Castello di Vezio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Additional Wine Bottles at the Shop?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional wine bottles at the shop. The wine tasting experience includes three samples, but guests are welcome to buy more bottles to take home or enjoy later.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
There don’t appear to be any group discounts available for this experience. The price is a flat rate of Kč 2,627 per person, with free cancellation up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.
Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Castle?
There’s no strict dress code for visiting the castle. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the terrain can be uneven and the weather may be changeable.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Wine Tasting?
The wine tasting doesn’t have any specific dietary restrictions. The tasting includes three local sparkling wines served with breadsticks and olives, catering to a general audience. Visitors with dietary needs should inform the staff ahead of time.
Can I Extend the Validity of the Castle Entry Ticket?
The entry ticket to Castello di Vezio is valid for one day only and can’t be extended. Visitors must adhere to the specified entry hours, as the castle is closed during heavy rain or extreme weather conditions.
The Sum Up
This Varenna experience offers a delightful pairing of local wines and historic exploration. Guests can sip three sparkling wines while learning about the region’s varietals, then discover the scenic Castello di Vezio using a multilingual audio guide. With flexible cancellation options, this one-day adventure provides a taste of Varenna’s flavors and a glimpse into its rich history.
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