What to do on Lake Orta: the 7 best activities

Horseback riding among the Langhe vineyards is ideal for those who love hilly views and vineyards. The trip is scheduled to start from San Marzano Oliveto. The excursion crosses the hills of Monferrato and proceeds mostly on dirt trails, beautiful to ride on horseback.

The stable is close (less than an hour's drive) to Asti, Alessandria and is just over an hour from Cuneo and Turin.

Group horseback riding is ideal for friends or even families with children; in fact, from age 8 and up, you can ride the pony. The age of the child should be communicated by phone to the guide once the confirmation of the reservation request has been received.

Walk with aperitif:

From San Marzano Oliveto, in the province of Asti, you will stroll through scenic vineyards and breathtaking landscapes, surrounded by the majestic backdrop of the Alps. There will be a chance to visit an agritourism in the area, where an aperitif will be served with two glasses of wine per person and mixed platters of cured meats and cold cuts.

Recommended attire for horseback riding tours includes closed shoes and long pants.

The horseback ride is suitable for beginners and first-time horseback riders; professional equestrian guides will accompany you on this wonderful adventure.

The experience cannot be done by pregnant women.

In case of motor difficulties please notify the facility once your reservation is confirmed

The walk lasts about 2 hours and ends with the return to the riding school.

The maximum weight limit for users is 100 kg .

If there are any delays please notify us. If the delay lasts longer than 15 minutes, the activity will not be guaranteed and the activity will no longer be refundable.

The tasting and visit to the Infernot cellars in Monferrato takes place in Cella Monte, which joined the Borghi più Belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages) in 2018 and includes: a visit to the historic winery and the infernot, followed by a tasting of four wines and a small platter of cured meats, cheeses and bruschetta.

The infernot are underground caves dug by hand, which allowed the Monferrato territory to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Langhe and Roero territories in 2014.

The visit concludes with a tasting of four wines produced by the winery accompanied by a small cutting board of local products and breadsticks. For the cutting board you can request a vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free version.

During the tasting you will taste:

•    Mariulin (Piedmont DOC Chardonnay, Sparkling Brut Martinotti Method)
•    Dedalo (Monferrato DOC Bianco from Arneis grapes)
•    Solista (Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC)
•    Carisa (Piedmont DOC Barbera)

For visiting wineries in Monferrato, we recommend clothing appropriate for the low temperatures and high humidity present on the premises. For minors or those who do not taste, the rate includes ONLY:

•    1 non-alcoholic beverage (soft drink, juice)
•    1 small cutting board

The quad bike ride and wine tasting in the Langhe from Alba is a delightful and fascinating experience that combines the quad bike ride with a fantastic wine tasting.

This quad bike excursion in the Langhe can be developed in two fantastic ways:

Tour in the Langhe and wine tasting

During the quad bike excursion in the Langhe you will discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Unesco World Heritage territories by driving your quad bike. You will have the opportunity to admire up close vineyards, hazelnut groves and the particularities of this territory.

When you return from the quad bike experience, you will be offered a tasting of 6 100% organic wines in a certified winery just a short walk from Grinzane Cavour Castle.

Aperitour in the vineyard and wine tasting

During this half-day tour you will have the opportunity to ride an ATV as a couple, with friends or with family on scenic routes through the heart of the Langhe and Barolo hills.

The route includes a stop among the vineyards, during which you can enjoy an aperitif with traditional Piedmont flavors. On the way back, a delicious tasting of Arneis, Orange Wine, Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Barolo will await you, directly from a certified producer of 100% organic wines.

For each quad bike, a maximum of two participants, one driver and one passenger, can board. 

In case of allergies or dietary needs è you must contact the facility directly.

Lunch in the vineyard with winery visit in the Langhe allows you to enjoy a relaxing experience in a picturesque setting.

You will visit a Piedmontese winery where you will meet the owner Roberto who will personally welcome you. Here you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the passion that drives the work at this winery.

This will be followed by an aperitif filled with appetizers and accompanied by a tasting of 5 fine wines.

The experience will conclude with a traditional lunch that includes:

•    3 typical Langhe appetizers
•    2 first courses
•    1 second course
•    1 dessert
•    water
•    wine
•    coffee

In addition, there is also an alternative menu for toddlers (children ages 3 to 12) and minors or adults who do not taste, to be selected at the time of booking.

In case of bad weather, you can choose to move the date of your reservation within the limits of the cancellation policy or attend anyway, as lunch is still guaranteed. Tables will be set up inside the winery so you can eat among the barrels.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, it is possible to contact the facility following the reservation.

A vineyard picnic in Monferrato is a perfect opportunity to relax in the fresh air while enjoying typical products and wines from Piedmont.

The experience begins with a visit to the winemaking cellar and the underground aging cellar, nestled among the Monferrato hills. Here you will find wooden barrels, barriques and tonneaux of Allier origin.

Afterwards, you will be given a soft plaid with pillows and a picnic basket full of delicacies to enjoy.

Enjoy this picnic with the view of the Monferrato Mountains as the backdrop for a relaxing moment in the Montemagno countryside.

The visit, followed by a tasting, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the historic local winery of the Luzi Donadei winery in the heart of the Langhe.

The duration of the experience is about 2 hours and, with favorable weather conditions, the visit will conclude with a walk through the streets of the village to discover the estate's vineyards. It is also possible to conduct the visit in English and French.

The visit is suitable for all ages and animals are also allowed.

Piedmont Classics.

Tasting of 3 local wines:

•    Langhe Doc Chardonnay
•    Dogliani Docg
•    Langhe red

The tasting is accompanied by a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses.

Piedmont's top wines

Tasting of 4 local wines:

•    Donna Cecilia Dogliani Doc Sup.
•    Claves Januae Barbera d'Alba doc Sup.
•    Barolo docg
•    Ester Ferrero Brut Metodo Classico

The tasting is accompanied by a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses.

The alpaca walk and picnic in the Langhe is a perfect experience to spend a relaxing time with friends or family.

You will begin with an initial briefing, during which you will be explained all about the world of alpacas and get to know your fellow adventurers better.

Then you will do the actual walk, lasting about 1 hour, during which you will rope the alpacas in the woods adjacent to the farm.

At the end of the walk you will have the opportunity to visit the farm with black Piedmontese pigs in the wild.

You will then conclude the experience with a rich picnic that includes:

•    Salami
•    Lard
•    Omelet
•    Cheese
•    Homemade bread
•    1 bottle of wine for every two people.

For the little ones (children under 12) there is a basket with:

•    Sandwiches
•    Drinks

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

Horseback riding in Lurisia Terme, outside Cuneo, allows you to spend a relaxing time immersed in the woods and picturesque landscapes of this area.

A horseback ride is a panacea for body and mind. In the company of equestrian hiking guides, you will live a unique experience, discovering the treasures of the area and experiencing the authentic emotions of a ride in nature.

You can choose from 2 options:

•    1-hour walk
•    2-hour walk

The horseback ride begins at the riding school in Lurisia Terme, a hamlet of Roccaforte Mondovì, in the province of Cuneo. For beginners, there will be a time to approach and become familiar with the horses.

You will ride an itinerary of varying length (depending on the level of the participants and the duration chosen) on wooded trails around Lurisia. This is a very interesting area from a naturalistic point of view, offering valuable spring waters for wellness and spa treatments.

The horseback riding excursion will take place on a route totally surrounded by greenery, of great relaxation and coolness, particularly suitable for those who are new to horseback riding, but very enjoyable for the more experienced as well.

The experience begins in Sergio's cozy tavern, where the presentation takes place. This is followed by a tasting of 7 wines, accompanied by typical local products.

Sergio shares the story of each wine, from its birth in the vineyards to the winemaking process in the cellar. Meanwhile, dishes associated with each wine are served. The tasting is accompanied by samples of tonnata sauce, raw salami, bacon, lard, tuma con la cugnà and cookies.

The selected wines are as follows:

•    Roero Arneis DOCG
•    Dogliani Sambu DOCG
•    Dogliani Superiore DOCG
•    Piedmont Barbera DOC
•    Langhe Nebbiolo DOC
•    Langhe Rosso Excelso DOC
•    Barolo DOCG

After the tastings, you will move to the winery, where you will have a close look at the work of the cellar: from fermentation to the racking and aging stages, to bottling and labeling. Following the winery tour you will have the opportunity to purchase the wines you tasted earlier.

The visit lasts about two hours. The experience can accommodate up to 15 people and does not allow pets. Gluten-free products for those with celiac disease are provided upon reservation.

Picnic based on typical Piedmontese products at Cascina "Podere del Vescovo" in the heart of Langhe in Lequio Tanaro.

Program

Once you arrive at the farmhouse and pick up your picnic basket, you can position yourself with a view of the Langhe and enjoy your picnic.

Inside the basket you will find:

.

•    salami and lard from the Piedmontese black pig raised by the farm
•    herb omelette
•    anchovies and butter
•    a bottle of natural local wine for every two people (beer or juice alternatively per person)
•    water and bread

Choose horseback riding in Lurisia Terme and aperitif, and spend a pleasant and peaceful ride through the woods and beautiful landscapes of the area in the province of Cuneo.

A horseback ride is a panacea for body and mind. In the company of equestrian hiking guides, you will have an unforgettable experience, discovering the treasures of the area and experiencing the authentic emotions of a ride in nature.

This horseback ride has a duration of 2 hours and at the end you will be offered an aperitif.

The horseback ride begins at the riding school in Lurisia Terme, a hamlet of Roccaforte Mondovì, in the province of Cuneo. For beginners, there will be an approach and familiarization time with the horses.

We will ride a route of variable length (depending on the level of the participants and the duration chosen) on wooded trails around Lurisia. This is a very interesting area from a naturalistic point of view, which offers spring waters valuable for wellness and spa treatments.

The horseback riding excursion will take place on a route totally surrounded by greenery, of great relaxation and coolness, particularly suitable for those at the first experience of horseback riding, but very pleasant also for the more experienced.

The quad bike ride and wine tasting in the Langhe from Alba is a delightful and fascinating experience that combines the quad bike ride with a fantastic wine tasting.

This quad bike excursion in the Langhe can be developed in two fantastic ways:

Tour in the Langhe and wine tasting

During the quad bike excursion in the Langhe you will discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Unesco World Heritage territories by driving your quad bike. You will have the opportunity to admire up close vineyards, hazelnut groves and the particularities of this territory.

When you return from the quad bike experience, you will be offered a tasting of 6 100% organic wines in a certified winery just a short walk from Grinzane Cavour Castle.

Aperitour in the vineyard and wine tasting

During this half-day tour you will have the opportunity to ride an ATV as a couple, with friends or with family on scenic routes through the heart of the Langhe and Barolo hills.

The route includes a stop among the vineyards, during which you can enjoy an aperitif with traditional Piedmont flavors. On the way back, a delicious tasting of Arneis, Orange Wine, Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Barolo will await you, directly from a certified producer of 100% organic wines.

For each quad bike, a maximum of two participants, one driver and one passenger, can board. 

In case of allergies or dietary needs è you must contact the facility directly.

Lunch in the vineyard with winery visit in the Langhe allows you to enjoy a relaxing experience in a picturesque setting.

You will visit a Piedmontese winery where you will meet the owner Roberto who will personally welcome you. Here you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the passion that drives the work at this winery.

This will be followed by an aperitif filled with appetizers and accompanied by a tasting of 5 fine wines.

The experience will conclude with a traditional lunch that includes:

•    3 typical Langhe appetizers
•    2 first courses
•    1 second course
•    1 dessert
•    water
•    wine
•    coffee

In addition, there is also an alternative menu for toddlers (children ages 3 to 12) and minors or adults who do not taste, to be selected at the time of booking.

In case of bad weather, you can choose to move the date of your reservation within the limits of the cancellation policy or attend anyway, as lunch is still guaranteed. Tables will be set up inside the winery so you can eat among the barrels.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, it is possible to contact the facility following the reservation.

Food and wine experience in the Langhe, in La Morra, combining a sushi cooking class with a winery wine tasting, to discover an original combination of Piedmontese tradition and Japanese cuisine.

The activity begins with a hands-on class led by a sushi chef, during which you will learn how to prepare rice, hosomaki, temaki, uramaki and nigiri using selected ingredients. At the end, you will taste the dishes you have made, accompanied by small gourmet pairings and a dessert.

The experience is complemented by a tasting of two iconic wines from the winery, chosen to enhance the different sushi preparations, all in a unique setting among the barrels of the tasting room.

Wine and chocolate tasting in Monforte d'Alba, in the heart of the Langhe region.

In this experience you will visit the vineyards, museum and winery to learn about the history and production process of the wines offered.

You will be offered a tasting of 5 wines:

•    Langhe DOC Chardonnay
•    Barbera d'Alba DOC "Vigna Campo del Gatto"
•    Barolo DOCG Bussia
•    Barolo DOCG Bussia "Luigi Arnulfo"
•    Barolo Chinato

Each wine will be offered a different chocolate pairing, which will be presented at the time of the tasting.

Wine tasting with a guided tour of the winery and vineyard in Alba is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the hills of Piedmont and discover the Langhe region.

The experience begins with a walk through the vineyard from where you will admire the view of the Barolo and Barbaresco hills. Then you will continue into the winery and be shown all the rooms that characterize the wine production process.

At the end of the visit, you will be treated to a tasting of 5 wines including:

•    2 glasses of white wine of your choice
•    1 glass of Rosè di Nebbiolo
•    2 glasses of red wine of your choice

The wines will be accompanied by a board of typical products.

To participate in the tasting you must be over 18 years of age. Minors will not be allowed to taste.

Wine tasting of Ronchi Varesini wines and vineyard visit in Albizzate è a wonderful experience.

The tour will begin with a visit to the vineyards and description of pruning techniques, grape varieties and their cultivation, and harvesting and winemaking; è including an explanation of the Ronchi Varesini PGI and history of Varese wine, possibly with a Power Point lecture projection on the subject.  

Then follows the sensory experience with guided tasting. During the tasting you will taste two wines and they will be accompanied by breadsticks and taralli.

Depending on weather conditions, the tasting will be either in the tasting room or on the terrace or vineyard.

When booking, you will be able to select a small extra cutting board that will include a sampling of cured meats and cheeses.
 

Nature walk near Lake Maggiore, departing from Brebbia. The walks last 1 hour and are also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before. In some cases the rider may be accompanied on foot by a guide.

After a brief introductory lesson on how to guide your horse, you will set out inside the Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve that stretches entirely along the lake.

The route is through meadows and woods in the hills, with views of the Rock of Angera. The walk is entirely on trails, with the exception of 100 meters of paved road.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. For underage passengers, the presence of an adult is required.

A maximum of 2 people can participate.

Discover the beautiful Borromean Islands with a boat tour that allows you to explore this corner of paradise on Lake Maggiore in total freedom.

Get on and off the boat when you want to visit the different islands of the archipelago, following your own pace and interests. You can admire the botanical gardens, historic buildings, and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The non-scheduled public transportation service gives you flexibility in planning your day, allowing you to devote the time you want to each island.

The boat tour to Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore departing from Stresa is an opportunity to discover the beauty of the lake and at the same time relax.

The tour begins with a group boat ride, during which you will explore the pearls of the Borromean Gulf. You will explore the elegance of Isola Bella, the lush vegetation of Isola Madre, and the sophisticated simplicity of Isola dei Pescatori.

After the group tour, which lasts about three and a half hours, the excursion will continue with a private lake boat tour. Accompanied by a skipper, you will enjoy Lake Maggiore in total privacy for about an hour and a half.

Isola Bella, in the Borromeo Gulf, is a timeless place where art, history and nature come together in a unique panorama. Built like a giant boat, the majestic Baroque mansion and terraced garden offer an extraordinary spectacle.

Sumptuous rooms and salons evoke the splendor of the Borromeo family, nobles of Italy, while decorations rich in mosaics, polychrome marbles and tapestries frame priceless works of art. The sloping garden completes the work, enhanced by statues, obelisks and exotic plants.

In the ancient fishing village, restored and enlivened by stores and restaurants, discover Italian excellence, from local crafts to food and wine.

Horseback riding in the hills overlooking Lake Maggiore to enjoy the natural surroundings.

At your arrival you will be provided with a helmet and once assigned your horse, you will have a short introductory lesson on horse handling to make sure everyone knows what to do on climbs, descents and other passes. Afterwards you will leave and with this ride you will be able to admire the view of Lake Maggiore from the hills and at the same time you will also have an excellent view of the surrounding mountains. Depending on the season, you may have to pass streams on horseback.

To personalize the experience you can choose from 2 types of tours that differ in duration and consequently in the length of the route. The two types of tours have a duration of 1 or 2 hours depending on your liking.

È appropriate clothing for horseback riding is recommended, such as closed shoes and long pants and suitable for going into the woods (no bags or hoop earrings).

In case of bad weather (rain or strong wind), the facility reserves the right to cancel or modify the route for your safety.

You will begin the experience by preparing the horses together with the guides, taking a few minutes to become familiar with your riding companion.

Once ready you will set off on your walk accompanied by a walking guide for each rider, to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment of the excursion.

The guide will help you learn the basics of horse handling as you travel the mule tracks and trails of the hill, which wind through small vineyards and dense forests inhabited by jays, buzzards, badgers, squirrels and deer.

With any luck you may encounter some of these animals!

There is an opportunity to do the 1h/2h/3h walks.

•    1h walk

Before the start, there will be a short briefing where you will meet and get to know the horses you will be hiking with.

Then you will enter the Avigliana Lakes Nature Park and, after walking along trails, woods and dirt roads, Lake Grande will appear on the horizon. You will skirt the shores of Lake Grande of Avigliana and then return to the stable.

In all, the route will take about an hour, and you will see the Avigliana Lakes on horseback. With this walk, you will not reach Avigliana Castle.

•    2 or 3 hour walk

Horseback ride to Avigliana Castle, near Turin and starting from the town of the same name.

You will ride through forests and ascend on horseback to the Castle, from where you can admire a fantastic view of the valley below. The hike is also suitable for beginners with no horseback riding experience.

Finally you will pass through the medieval village and finally return to the stable, heading towards Lake Avigliana.

Quad bike excursion in Sauze di Cesana

The quad bike ride in the mountains of Piedmont in midsummer, starting from Sauze di Cesana, is a unique and adventurous excursion. ATV rides are either 2-hour or half-day tours, even at night (in the evening). Tastings can also be included in the tours.

Classic Excursion (2 hours)

This quad bike tour has an exciting route that will take you to discover one of the most beautiful Alpine Valleys in Italy. You will admire waterfalls, pastures and green forests you will come in contact with the true essence of Piedmont thanks also to a tasting of high mountain cheeses.

Night Excursion (2 hours)

The night version of the quad bike tour will allow you to explore the Argentera Valley. This is a guided tour that will allow you to admire the changes in light and colors from sunset to nightfall. It will be accompanied by a tasting of typical products at dusk.

The snowmobile tour in Sauze di Cesana, Susa Valley, will allow you to ride your snowmobile in the middle of the woods and surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Upper Susa Valley offers the opportunity to rent a snowmobile and experience snow adventure in total safety with the help of our expert guides. In fact, before each tour, you will be shown the controls of the snowmobile and the main tracks to follow.

Forests, beautiful scenery, and fun await you. The snowmobile is two-person maximum, so you can share this experience with your friend or partner or family member

Take the opportunity to take part in the enchanting snow aperitour!
Have fun as a couple, with friends or with your family riding a snowmobile surrounded by the picturesque mountains of the Upper Susa Valley. Share the excitement of a fabulous happy hour, the magic of reaching a cabin in the snowy forest, and the chance to admire exclusive panoramic views.
What better idea to celebrate a special event.

Snowmobiles are equipped with headlights, so you can book a tour at sunset or in the evening when it gets dark.

Immerse yourself in the world of craft beer with a guided tour of San Michele Brewery, just a few miles from Turin.

Learn the secrets of the master brewers, the production process and unique trivia related to the area.

During the tour, you will enjoy local specialties with a board of typical Susa Valley cold cuts and cheeses (1 for every 2 people) and taste 4 25 cl beers from those available on tap in the restaurant adjacent to the brewery.

A multisensory experience combining culture, taste and tradition, perfect for those who want to experience beer in an authentic way.

The guided tour lasts about 30 minutes and is followed by tasting for a complete and unforgettable experience.

The experience is guaranteed upon reaching a minimum of 4 participants.

Guided tour of San Michele Brewery with dinner and tasting of local products, just a few kilometers from Turin.

Learn all the secrets of brewing through explanations from our master brewers. The guided tour lasts about 30 minutes.

Afterwards, you will enjoy a dinner that includes:

•    Platter of local cold cuts and cheeses accompanied by beer jellies (1 for every 4 people) and warm zeppoline or slices of focaccia
•    Carmen beer-lacquered shin with a side of potatoes or salad
•    Birramisu
•    Draft beer or can of other beverage of your choice
•    Water
•    Coffee

In case of food allergies or intolerances, you can contact the facility after booking to arrange alternatives.

Discover the woods between Pregelato and Sestriere with an overnight snowmobile excursion followed by an aperitif.

Before you begin you will be given helmets to wear during the tour, followed by a short safety briefing and an explanation of riding techniques.

The snowmobile excursion lasts for 1 hour and will be followed by an aperitif with a simple board of bread and salami, cheese and some cookies from Piedmontese pastries. All accompanied by a hot drink or glass of wine.