The 20 best experiences to have in and around Brescia

Horseback riding in the hills overlooking the west shore of Lake Garda from Toscolano Maderno, on trails surrounded by nature.

Hikes are suitable for beginners who are going horseback riding for the first time. You ride through the countryside and woods and reach high ground from where you can admire beautiful views, and you can stop for short breaks. 

To participate sportswear with long pants and closed shoes is necessary.

Minimum age: 14 years old. Maximum weight: 95 kg.

1-hour excursion

The’excursion includes a tour of about 5/6 km around Gaino passing through historical places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

2-hour hike 

Trip of about 12 km along the hill between Gargnano and Toscolano, crossing historic places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

1-hour excursion with lunch or dinner (Sunday evening dinner not possible due to closing shift)

The excursion includes a tour of about 5/6 km around Gaino passing through historical places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

In this experience a lunch or dinner with 3-course tasting menu are included, dessert and coffee, drinks included (dishes with seasonal and local ingredients).

Lunch is prepared for 12:30 / 13:00, is thus preceding the walk. Dinner, on the other hand, is prepared for 7:30 / 8:00 p.m. (Sunday evening excluded due to closing shift) and is held after the walk.

Lunch and dinner include:

•    3 courses
•    Dessert
•    Coffee
•    Drinks

This option is only available from March to September.

2-hour excursion with lunch

Trip of about 12 km along the hillside between Gargnano and Toscolano, passing through historic places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

In this experience lunch is included (available all year round). Lunch is prepared for 12:30 / 13:00, is then following the walk.

Lunch includes:

•    3 courses
•    Dessert
•    Coffee
•    Drinks

Quads excursion on the Morenic Hills departing from Lonato del Garda, below Sirmione. È you can choose between the 2 1/2-hour or half-day (5-hour) excursion, conducted on different days; you can book the group excursion, or alternatively the private one for couples.

During the excursion you will stop for photography or to visit some historical places.

At the start you will be explained the use of the ATV and safety rules and then perform a practical test in the parking lot of the Park.

To ride an ATV è you must have a B license, the passenger must not have any special requirements, children under 12 years old do not pay.

You will be provided with a helmet (mandatory) with disposable headphones, we recommend sportswear and to bring sunglasses an eye drops if you are allergic to dust or have sensitive eyes and a bandana or scarf.

Also ideal for bachelorette or bachelor parties. In case of light rain, kway will be provided.

Trip 2h 30min:The'hike will be 70% off-road, in total safety.

Trip 5 hours:From the Risorgimento hills to the Rocca di Manerba on the shores of Lake Garda. 3 hours of actual driving through all the landscapes of the Morenic Hills and Valtenesi with glimpses of the Lake. A journey full of twists and turns through Nature, Culture and Flavors. At noon planned stop of about 45minutes at refreshment point on the river where, if you wish, you can refresh yourself (extra cost to be paid locally).

Guided winery tour with wine tasting and lunch of typical local products on a farm in Padenghe sul Garda offers several possibilities:

Visit and wine tasting

Experience includes winery tour includes tasting of a selection of 4 wines accompanied by a board of local products.

Lunch

This option begins with a guided winery tour and continues with a tasting of 4 premium wines. The tasting is accompanied by a sampling of local products.

The experience continues with lunch, which includes.

•    1 appetizer of your choice from the menu
•    1 main course of your choice from the menu
•    Water
•    Coffee

Wines and extra drinks are excluded.

Deluxe Lunch (From 2 to 10 people)

In addition to a guided tour of the winery, a 5-course tasting menu paired with locally produced wines is included. The menu changes according to seasonality (you can contact the winery after booking to receive information about this).

This tasting itinerary includes four premium wines paired with as many local dishes, prepared using raw materials and products from the Bottega Contadina line.

The experience concludes with a tasting of one of the local spirits, accompanied by a homemade traditional dessert.

In warm weather, the premium experience takes place on the patio.

In case of food intolerances, please notify the property at the time of booking. Vegetarian options are available, which must be notified at least 72 hours in advance to the facility.

Deluxe tasting takes place along with lunch.

Languages available: Italian and English.

Wine tasting and spa access at a winery in Padenghe on Lake Garda, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

Imagine a place where physical well-being is intertwined with inner well-being. Where you can find your balance and cultivate your creativity in a welcoming and stimulating environment.

Turkish Bath, Sauna, Wellness Waterfalls, Rural Spring, Hammam Ritual and Hot Tub are the stars of the SPA path.

Access to the SPA is a maximum of 3 hours. Bathrobe, slippers and towel are included.

Dedicated treatments are available for purchase on site.

The visit to the winery will be accompanied by a tasting of 4 wines and a cutting board with local products.

In the 9:30 a.m. schedule, please note that the tasting to follow will be no earlier than 2 p.m.

Walk through the vineyards of Valpolicella, visit the winery and taste wine produced in this renowned winery in Negrar di Valpolicella.

To personalize your experience you can choose from 3 different options:

The Traditions of Valpolicella

The tour begins with a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the aging rooms and then concludes with a tasting of 5 organic wines accompanied by a selection of cured meats, cheeses and other typical products.

The wines you will taste are: Valpolicella Classico DOC BIO, Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC BIO, Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC BIO, Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO, Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO.

The Greats, Face to Face.

Again you will start with a walk through the vineyards, then continue with a visit to the aging rooms and conclude with a tasting of 5 wines, each paired with cured meats, cheeses and other typical products.

The tasting will be structured as follows: Comparison between Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC Ca' Besi BIO and Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC Colombarino BIO; Comparison between Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO and Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG Austernia; Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO

Light Lunch between Vineyards and Winery

This food and wine tour is perfect for those who want to learn about the indigenous grape varieties of Valpolicella without sacrificing a tour of the estate and a rich traditional gastronomic offering. You will taste 5 organic wines: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO, Verona Rosato Frizzante IGT "Sui Lieviti" Bollicella, Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG BIO, Valpolicella Classico DOC BIO, Valpolicella Classico Ripassato DOC BIO.

All accompanied by a light lunch that includes: a wide selection of typical local cheeses and cold cuts, a tasting of Olio Evo and Miele Bio Millefiori, giardiniera, fresh bread, focaccia, dessert, grappa and coffee.

25-minute group boat trip to discover the most picturesque places of Sirmione, one of the pearls of Lake Garda.

During this experience you will have the opportunity to admire the surrounding landscape and coastline from the calm waters of Lake Garda.

This tour departs directly from the port of Sirmione. On a 25min boat excursion you will take a complete tour around the peninsula and visit points of interest directly from the lake.

During the tour, you will admire:

•    Maria Callas' former villa
•    Aquaria spa center
•    Boiola thermal spring
•    Caves of Catullus
•    Scaliger Castle
•    Medieval harbor

Boats with a maximum capacity of 30 people.

During the horseback ride starting from Cavedine, just north of Riva del Garda, we follow trails at the foot of Mount Bondone entering a nearby forest.

The walk è suitable for and enjoyable for everyone, beginners and non-beginners; even those who have never been on horseback can participate, and will be able to take their first steps with the help of an equestrian guide.

Book a horseback ride in the Giudicarie forests, an experience in which the trails are developed on a loop route, characterized by ups and downs.

Step into the saddle and let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the Giudicarie, in an experience that will make you feel in perfect tune with nature.

You can admire historic villages like Rango, one of the most beautiful in Italy, and enjoy spectacular views of the Dolomites that embrace the Giudicarie Esteriori.

Horseback riding è an activity suitable for both experts and beginners from 14 years old and up.

Snowshoeing in and around Paganella in Andalo is a unique opportunity to discover the Dolomites in Trentino by walking together with a snow guide. The starting point of all hikes is Andalo and you can choose from 3 different activities.

Half Day

On the Monday walk, you will head into the snow-covered forests of the Dolomites in the Lava resort for a relaxing morning hike.

For the Thursday and Saturday afternoon hikes, your guide will take you for a high altitude hike in Paganella, specifically to Conca d'argento and Sant'Antonio.

The minimum age to participate is 8 years old.

Evening

On Tuesdays you will go up to high altitude with the lifts (not included in the price) where the experience will begin. The snowshoe hike will be at Sant'Antonio Pass and you will be able to watch the sunset at the "Croz del Rasàr" viewpoint. During the walk you will also have the opportunity to have an aperitif at the refuge (not included).

On Saturday the walk will be at Prati di Gaggia and you will reach a chalet where you will have an aperitif and a dinner of typical products (not included in the price and to be booked separately). At the end of the dinner you will return to Andalo with the lifts.

Minimum age to participate is 10 years.

Full day

On Wednesday morning, you will traverse the dense snow-covered forests and travel to the Pradel Molveno plateau in the Brenta Dolomites. Lunch will be at the refuge (not included in the price) or packed lunch. The duration of the activity is 7 hours.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years.

Appropriate mountain hiking clothing is required for all hikes and bring snacks and water.

The forest walk in Val di Sole allows you to experience a relaxing moment surrounded by nature and away from the city chaos.

This experience is suitable for everyone, even beginners. The horseback ride is always organized in the company of an equestrian guide.

When booking you can choose between two options.

1-hour walk

Starting from the riding stables you take the path that between woods and countryside will take you to the outskirts of the village of Pellizzano.

It is a loop trail mostly at a walking pace. Depending on the level of the group, it will be possible to include stretches of leading at a trot.

2-hour walk

The 2-hour horseback ride will take you along forest trails to Ossana, at the foot of Castel San Michele. It is a pace and trot route, recommended for riders with a minimum of experience.

Please remember to wear comfortable clothing with long pants and closed shoes.

Snowshoeing on the Asiago Plateau in Tonezza del Cimone will make you discover the mountains in winter from another point of view.

The first approach to winter mountains. Far from the equipped slopes, among snow-covered forests and pastures, you will get to discover the mountain completely from another point of view.

Group tour

The start of the night snowshoeing is at 4:30 pm in Tonezza del Cimone. A unique evening in the woods and whitewashed expanses. Above your head the winter sky, sharp and full of stars: you will learn to recognize the main constellations. At the end of the activity it will be possible to have dinner in the refuge or in one of the affiliated restaurants.

Private Tour

The departure of the private tour is at 10 am from Tonezza del Cimone. Together with your guide, you will enter the snowy forests and grasslands of the Tonezza and Fiorentini Plateau. Groups can be from a maximum of 15 people and the duration of the excursion is about 6 hours, ideal for a day with family or friends in close contact with nature.

For night snowshoeing clothing with heavy gloves, woolen cap and warm socks is required, while a ski suit or winter hiking outfit and waterproof hiking boots are necessary for all types of activities. A small backpack and head flashlight are recommended, and snowshoeing equipment will be provided by the facility.

Walking in the woods in Val di Sole, suitable for beginners. The horseback ride is always organized in the company of a horseback riding guide.

1-hour ride

Leaving from the riding school, we take the path that between forest and countryside will take us to the gates of the village of Pellizzano.

It’s a loop trail mainly at the pace. Depending on the level of the group, it will be possible to include stretches of leading at a trot.

2-hour walk

The 2-hour horseback ride will take you along forest trails to Ossana, at the foot of Castel San Michele. It is a pace and trot route, recommended for riders with a minimum of experience.

You will end the horseback riding experience with a delicious lunch at the farmhouse with a 4-course menu that includes an appetizer, a first course, a second course and a dessert and from which drinks are excluded.

Lunch is bookable only in one time slot per tour:

•    1-hour walk: 11 a.m.
•    2-hour walk: 10 a.m.

In the months of May and November, the lunch option is not available.

You will need to inform the facility directly of any allergies or special dietary needs.

Enjoy an original experience in the heart of Franciacorta with a quad bike tour suitable for everyone, even those who have never ridden on an ATV.

You will be able to choose one of two available tours:

Aperitivo (3 hours)

The quad bike tour with aperitif includes a loop through the vineyards with departure and arrival in Erbusco, near Brescia.

Halfway through the tour an aperitif awaits you in a place overlooking the Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve.

•    25+15 km
•    2h30' of actual driving
•    Total duration: 3h

Tasting (3h30')

During the excursion with tasting you can visit one of the most renowned wineries in Franciacorta.

•    25+10 km
•    2h of driving
•    1h visit to a winery + 2/3 Franciacorta tastings
•    Total duration: 3h30min

Wineries visited: Contadi Castaldi (usually Saturday afternoon), Ferghettina (usually Sunday morning) and Ronco Calino.

In case rain is expected, you will be contacted by phone the day before. It is possible to take turns while driving.

Horseback riding among the vineyards in Franciacorta near Lake Iseo from Corte Franca will provide a unique activity immersed in the tranquility of nature.

Available rides are 1 or 2 hours and extend through local vineyards passing through villages and some of the most renowned wineries such as Berlucchi.

The walks are suitable for all levels of experience, and the instructor will teach you the basics of riding as well as accompany you throughout the itinerary.

Sportswear with long pants and closed shoes is required to participate in the activity.

Choose horseback riding in the hills of Bergamo and ride along the trails and dirt roads in the area, surrounded by the green woods of the park.

The horseback riding tour routes are suitable for both beginners and experts. The rides are one to two hours in length and take place throughout the week.

You will be led by an experienced guide, who will be with you for the duration of the excursion, showing you the most beautiful places and leading you through the most striking landscapes of the Bergamo area.

(The walk will be at a walking pace and not a galloping pace).

The boat tour of the islands of Lake d'Iseo is ideal for relaxing and having fun with a group of friends or family.

This mini cruise involves renting a classic Venetian cab style boat. You will be accompanied by a skipper who guides the boat. The trip includes a tour of Monte Isola, Loreto and San Paolo.

On board you will find a practical awning and sound system that will allow you to spend pleasant moments in the company of your friends.

Up to 20 people can participate in the boat tour.

The guided winery tour with lunch at the Ambrosini Estate will allow you to learn about Franciacorta wine production techniques and enjoy a lunch of local products.

The activity begins with a walk through the estate's vineyards, followed by a guided tour of the winery.

Followed by lunch based on the selected menu. 

Lunch

Lunch consists of 4 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescia cured meats, savory pies, zucchini frittatas and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG paired with Franciacorta T.A. EXTRA BRUT DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked on the grill with a side dish, paired with Franciacorta T.A. BRUT DOCG 
•    Sweet paired with Franciacorta SATEN Millesimato DOCG

Gold Tasting

Lunch consists of 4 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescian cold cuts, savory pies, zucchini frittatina and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked on the grill with side dishes
•    Sweet

The lunch is accompanied by a tasting of 5 Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG wines.

Platinum tasting

The lunch consists of 5 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescian cold cuts, savory pies, zucchini frittatina and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked over charcoal with side dishes
•    Tagliere di Formaggi delle Valli bresciane paired with Franciacorta RISERVA "Lorenzo Ambrosini" 2011 vintage DOCG
•    Sweet

The lunch is accompanied by the tasting of 6 Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini wines including the "Eccellente Riserva 2011.

The tour with lunch has a total duration of about 3 hours and is ideal for groups and families, but also for having a romantic lunch with your partner. At the end of the experience it will be possible to go to the wine shop.

A sweatshirt is recommended for the winery visit.

Take a friendly walk with alpacas on the Serio River in Romano di Lombardia in the province of Bergamo.

Before starting the walk there will be a small briefing to get to know these docile and curious animals.

The walk begins at the ranch and continues through the landscape of the Serio River Park, before arriving at the river, a protected natural area rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

During the experience you can take souvenir photos with your new friends. 

An alpaca will be delivered for each adult couple.

Children, up to age 7, participate in the walk free of charge and must be accompanied by at least one adult.