The "Wineries of the South" tour offers a captivating full-day experience, combining the charm of Italian culture in Brazil with the scenic beauty of the southern wine region. Guests can enjoy wine tastings at picturesque wineries and embark on a nostalgic ride on the historic Maria Fumaça train to Carlos Barbosa. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Italian Epic Park, where participants can explore the rich history of Italian immigrants. This unique blend of heritage and flavor promises an unforgettable exploration for any traveler.
Key Points
- This full-day tour explores the southern wine region of Brazil, featuring visits to Italian-inspired wineries with wine tastings.
- Highlights include a ride on the historic Maria Fumaça train to Carlos Barbosa and a stop at the Italian Epic Park to learn about Italian immigrant history.
- The tour provides round-trip transfers, a professional guide, and an optional cheese tasting opportunity.
- The tour is suitable for guests 18 years and older, with a maximum group size of 35 travelers.
- The tour has received mixed reviews, with feedback on English-speaking guides and winery visit durations, but positive remarks on the train experience and Italian culture.
Overview of the Tour
The Wineries of the South tour offers visitors a full-day experience exploring the southern wine region and Italian cultural heritage of Brazil.
Departing from Gramado, the tour includes visits to Italian-inspired wineries, where guests can enjoy wine tastings.
The highlight is a ride on the historic Maria Fumaça train to the town of Carlos Barbosa.
Along the way, the tour stops at the Italian Epic Park to learn about the history of Italian immigrants in the region.
With round-trip transfers, a professional guide, and an opportunity to taste local cheeses, this tour provides an immersive Italian-Brazilian experience.
Looking for more options in Gramado? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Tour Inclusions
As part of the Wineries of the South tour, travelers can expect round-trip transfers to and from most hotels in Gramado and Canela.
The tour also includes a professional guide to lead the way. Guests will visit wineries, enjoying tastings of the local vintages.
There’s also an opportunity to sample cheeses at a renowned dairy supplier, though this comes at an additional cost.
The tour runs for a full day, starting at 7:00 AM.
Travelers should note the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly. Up to 35 people can join each tour.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Where can guests be picked up for the Wineries of the South tour?
Pickup points are available, allowing guests to select the most convenient location. Guests should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled 7:00 AM departure time.
This full-day adventure explores the southern wine region and Italian culture, including:
- Gramado hotel lobbies
- Canela hotel lobbies
- Other select pickup locations
- Transfers to and from the tour are provided
- Prompt departure ensures a full day of exploring
Important Information
Confirmation is received upon booking the Wineries of the South tour. The minimum drinking age is 18 years old.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Groups are limited to a maximum of 35 travelers.
Guests must provide their full names and passport/ID numbers for all passengers. While the tour is largely accessible, there are some limitations.
Guests should be prepared and provide the required information to ensure a smooth experience exploring the wineries, train ride, and Italian cultural attractions.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
The Wineries of the South tour has received 46 reviews, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.
Feedback was mixed, with some complaints about the lack of English-speaking guides and the short duration of winery visits. However, many travelers praised the train experience and the Italian culture.
The tour’s strengths include:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Lowest price guarantee, starting at $99 per person
- Positive reviews on the train ride and Italian cultural aspects
- Wheelchair accessibility, with strollers allowed
- Infant seating available, as long as they sit on laps.
Exploring the Southern Wine Region
Though nestled away in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, the wineries of the region offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich Italian heritage. From the rolling hills to the Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the wineries seamlessly blend Italian traditions with Brazilian terroir. Guests can savor the complex flavors of the region’s renowned wines while seeing the area’s vibrant cultural tapestry. The tour’s inclusion of wine tastings and visits to these picturesque estates provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the unique character of Brazil’s southern wine country.
| Winery | Grape Varietals | Tasting Notes | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miolo Wine Group | Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay | Robust, full-bodied reds; crisp, aromatic whites | Award-winning sparkling wines |
| Casa Valduga | Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Riesling | Elegant, well-balanced expressions of regional terroir | Artisanal cheese pairings |
| Lidio Carraro | Tannat, Malbec, Viognier | Powerful, structured red blends; complex, floral whites | Innovative, sustainable winemaking practices |
| Salton Vinhos | Moscato, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio | Refreshing, fruit-forward styles; versatile food pairings | Historic family-owned winery |
Riding the Maria Fumaça Train
After exploring the picturesque wineries and indulging in the region’s rich Italian heritage, the next stop on the Wineries of the South tour is the iconic Maria Fumaça Train.
Passengers board the historic steam locomotive for a scenic ride to Carlos Barbosa, where they’ll learn about the significance of this mode of transportation for Italian immigrants.
The journey offers:
- Panoramic views of the lush countryside
- Insights into the region’s cultural and industrial history
- A chance to experience a nostalgic and authentic railway journey
- Photo opportunities with the iconic steam engine
- Immersion in the Italian-influenced ambiance of the train ride.
Discovering the Italian Epic Park
As the tour continues, guests are immersed in the captivating history and cultural heritage of the region at the Italian Epic Park.
They’ll explore exhibits and interactive displays showcasing the stories of Italian immigrants who settled in the area, many of whom came seeking a better life.
From learning about their struggles and triumphs to discovering their lasting impact on the community, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the Italian-Brazilian identity.
The park provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, enriching the overall cultural experience of the day’s activities.
Sum Up
The "Wineries of the South" tour offers a captivating exploration of Brazil’s southern wine region, blending the charm of Italian culture with scenic beauty. Guests can savor wine tastings, embark on a nostalgic train ride, and explore the rich history of Italian immigrants at the Italian Epic Park, creating a memorable experience that celebrates heritage and flavor.