The Lakes of Monticchio in Rionero in Vulture, Italy offer a captivating volcanic landscape ripe for exploration. A guided private walking tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in the region’s rich history and natural wonders. Over two hours, visitors will discover centuries-old abbeys, scenic routes around interconnected lakes, and the diverse wildlife that calls this unique ecosystem home. With admission to the Vulture Natural History Museum included, this intimate tour promises a truly enlightening experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Lakes of Monticchio have something remarkable in store.
Key Points
- Explore the volcanic landscape and interconnected lakes of Monticchio, located in Rionero in Vulture at an elevation of 658 meters.
- Visit the historic Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel (8th century) and Abbey of Sant’Ippolito (11th century) during the 2-hour private walking tour.
- Discover the Vulture Natural History Museum, showcasing the region’s rich fauna and biodiversity, as an optional stop.
- Enjoy the scenic route around the larger lake, popular for sports fishing, and gain insight into the area’s religious heritage.
- Suitable for up to 54 participants, with the tour available in English and Italian, and priced at €6,014 per group.
Tour Overview
The private walking tour of the Monticchio Lakes is a 2-hour guided excursion that invites up to 54 participants to explore the captivating volcanic landscape in Rionero in Vulture, situated 658 meters above sea level.
The tour starts outside Hotel/Restaurant RESTAINO, with GPS coordinates 40.93552679135951, 15.608453896294748.
Offered in English and Italian, the tour is priced from €6,014 per group and features a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
Key highlights include the Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel, the ruins of the Abbey of Sant’Ippolito, and an optional visit to the Vulture Natural History Museum.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rionero In Vulture.
Activity Description
On the guided private walking tour of the Monticchio Lakes, participants enjoy the captivating volcanic landscape of Rionero in Vulture.
The 2-hour tour showcases the two interconnected lakes, ancient craters of the Vulture volcano. Explorers visit the Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel, dating back to the 8th century, and the ruins of the 11th-century Abbey of Sant’Ippolito.
An optional stop at the Vulture Natural History Museum highlights the region’s prehistoric fauna and the rare Brahmaea Europaea butterfly.
Led by a licensed guide, the tour offers a scenic route around the larger lake, popular for sports fishing, and a chance to see the cave church managed by the Capuchin Fathers.
Duration and Group Size
The guided private walking tour of the Monticchio Lakes lasts for 2 hours and accommodates up to 54 participants.
This duration allows ample time for visitors to explore the captivating natural landscape and historical sites at a leisurely pace. The group size ensures an intimate experience, facilitating personalized attention from the licensed guide.
Guests can look forward to:
- Discovering the two stunning lakes and ancient volcanic craters
- Immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage, including the 8th-century Abbey of St. Michael and 11th-century Abbey of Sant’Ippolito
- Visiting the Vulture Natural History Museum for a deeper understanding of the region’s fascinating history and biodiversity.
Location and Starting Point
Perched at an impressive elevation of 658 meters above sea level, the Lakes of Monticchio lie nestled in the municipality of Rionero in Vulture.
The tour’s starting point is located outside the Hotel/Restaurant RESTAINO, with GPS coordinates 40.93552679135951, 15.608453896294748.
This strategic location provides easy access to the lakes and surrounding attractions.
Participants will embark on their guided exploration of the dramatic volcanic landscape from this centralized meeting point, ready to discover the natural wonders and ancient history of the Monticchio region.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyLanguages and Pricing
The tour’s availability in English and Italian caters to a diverse audience, ensuring that participants from various linguistic backgrounds can fully engage with and enjoy the experience.
Priced from €6,014 per group, the tour offers excellent value, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. Plus, the flexible booking option allows visitors to reserve their spot now and pay later, providing convenience and peace of mind.
-
The multilingual guides ensure clear communication and a comprehensive understanding of the tour’s highlights.
-
The group size of up to 54 participants allows for an intimate and personalized experience.
-
The full refund policy for cancellations made 24 hours in advance offers added flexibility and confidence in planning the trip.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can discover the two captivating lakes and ancient craters of the Vulture volcano on this guided private walking tour. The itinerary also includes visits to the Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel (8th-century) and the ruins of the Abbey of Sant’Ippolito (11th-century).
| Tour Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Explore the volcanic lakes | Visit ancient abbeys | Optional museum tour |
| Discover the interconnected lakes formed by underwater springs | Tour the ruins of the 8th and 11th-century abbeys | Explore the Vulture Natural History Museum showcasing regional history and rare wildlife |
| Popular for sports fishing | Gain insight into the area’s rich religious heritage |
The tour provides a comprehensive experience of the Monticchio Lakes and the surrounding natural and cultural attractions.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel and the ruins of the 11th-century Abbey of Sant’Ippolito.
Guests will then embark on a scenic route around the larger of the two lakes, which is popular for sports fishing. The lakes are interconnected by underwater springs, and the tour includes a visit to the cave church and museum managed by the Capuchin Fathers.
The museum showcases the history of the Vulture region, including its prehistoric fauna and the rare Brahmaea Europaea butterfly.
- Explore the ancient craters of the Vulture volcano
- Visit the 8th-century Abbey of St. Michael the Archangel
- Discover the Vulture Natural History Museum
Tour Inclusions and Important Information
This guided private walking tour of the Monticchio Lakes includes several key inclusions. It features a licensed guide to lead the tour and provide expert commentary.
Admission to the Vulture Natural History Museum is also included, allowing participants to explore the region’s history and natural wonders.
However, food and transportation aren’t provided as part of the tour package. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Participants can enjoy the flexibility of booking now and paying later to secure their spot on the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
According to the information provided, food and transportation are not included in the tour. Participants are free to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the tour.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as it’s noted the activity is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a scenic route around the lakes.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour?
This tour doesn’t mention any restroom facilities along the route. However, participants can likely use the restrooms at the starting point, the Hotel/Restaurant RESTAINO, before or after the guided walking portion of the tour.
What Should We Bring Besides Comfortable Shoes?
Besides comfortable shoes, the tour guide recommends bringing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, as well as water or snacks to enjoy during the 2-hour walking tour. Layered clothing is also advised for the changing mountain weather.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. While the standard tour is 2 hours, the provider offers flexible booking options that allow participants to customize the experience to their needs.
Recap
The "Lakes of Monticchio: Guided Private Walking Tour" offers an immersive exploration of the stunning volcanic landscape around the interconnected lakes. Visitors can discover historical sites, enjoy scenic routes, and experience the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Vulture region. With a private guide and a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and comprehensive experience for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of Monticchio.
You can check if your dates are available here: