Varenna, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Como, offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. Set out on a delightful wine tasting experience at Invinis Veritas, where you’ll savor three local sparkling wines paired with breadsticks and olives. Afterwards, explore the captivating history of the Castello di Vezio, an 11th-century fortress that promises stunning views and a self-guided audio tour. With these experiences, you’ll uncover the charm of Varenna and discover why this lakeside gem has captivated travelers for generations.
Key Points
- Enjoy a wine tasting experience featuring three local sparkling wines accompanied by breadsticks and olives at Invinis Veritas wine shop in Varenna.
- Explore the well-preserved 11th-century Castello di Vezio with a self-guided audio tour available in 7 languages.
- Choose between two hiking paths, 20-30 minutes or 40 minutes, to reach the castle from the meeting point.
- Pets are not permitted on the castle premises due to the presence of birds of prey.
- A flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 7 days prior to the excursion.
Exploring Varenna’s Wine Scene
Varenna’s wine scene beckons visitors to explore the local sparkling wines. At the Invinis Veritas wine shop, travelers can embark on a tasting experience featuring three glasses of the region’s finest bubbly.
Accompanied by breadsticks and olives, the tasting offers a chance to savor the unique flavors and subtleties of these Italian sparklers. Open from 11:00 to 17:00, the shop welcomes oenophiles Monday through Saturday, providing a delightful respite from the picturesque town’s other attractions.
Whether a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Varenna wine tasting promises to elevate the senses and leave a lasting impression on the palate.
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Discovering Castello Di Vezio
With the wine tasting experience now complete, travelers can turn their attention to the historic Castello di Vezio. This 11th-century fortress offers breathtaking views over Lake Como and its surrounding villages. Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved ruins and learn about its storied past through a self-guided audio tour available in multiple languages.
| Entry Hours | Closing Time |
|---|---|
| Mon-Fri: 10:00 – 18:00 | 30 mins before closing |
| Sat-Sun: 10:00 – 19:00 (Apr-May-Sep) | |
| Mon-Fri: 10:00 – 19:00 | |
| Sat-Sun: 10:00 – 20:00 (Jun-Jul-Aug) | |
| Mon-Fri: 10:00 – 17:00 | |
| Sat-Sun: 10:00 – 18:00 (Oct) |
The audio guide offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, with photographs, maps, text, and professional narration to bring the castle’s history to life.
Wine Tasting: Sparkling Local Delights
The wine tasting experience in Varenna transports visitors on a delightful journey through the region’s sparkling local delights.
Held at a charming wine shop, the tasting includes three glasses of the area’s finest sparkling wines. Accompanied by breadsticks and olives, the tasting offers a chance to savor the flavors and aromas of these local treasures.
The tasting is available from 11:00 to 17:00, Monday to Saturday, providing a perfect respite from exploring the historic Castello di Vezio.
With an audio guide available in multiple languages, visitors can fully enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Varenna’s wine culture.
Accessing the Castello Di Vezio
Visitors access the Castello di Vezio by following one of two paths from the Montecodeno restaurant. The first route takes 20-30 minutes to ascend, while the alternative Scabium path offers a better panorama but takes around 40 minutes.
Regardless of the route chosen, the following recommendations should be noted:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing
- Pets aren’t allowed due to the presence of birds of prey
- The castle is closed during heavy rain or extreme weather
- Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time
The audio guide available through the app provides valuable information in 7 languages, including photos, maps, text, and professional audio for the landmarks within the castle.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAudio Guide: Multilingual Tour Experience
An outstanding audio guide accompanies visitors during their exploration of Castello di Vezio, available in 7 languages – Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, and Chinese. The audio guide provides a rich, immersive experience, with professional narration, photographs, maps, and informative text.
| Audio Guide Features | ||
|---|---|---|
| Languages | 7 | (Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Chinese) |
| Content | Narration, photos, maps, text | |
| Enhances | Exploration, learning |
This multilingual audio guide allows visitors to tailor their tour and discover the castle’s history and architecture at their own pace, ensuring an engaging and informative visit.
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Meeting Point and Directions
To begin the journey, one meets at the Invinis Veritas wine shop, located on Via XX Settembre, 7 in Varenna.
From there, the path to Castello di Vezio offers two options:
- Follow the 20-30 minute ascent from Montecodeno restaurant
- Take the Scabium path, which is a 40-minute route with better panoramic views
Regardless of the route chosen, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Pets aren’t allowed due to the presence of birds of prey.
The experience can be easily accessed, with assistance available before and during the excursion via a direct telephone line.
Recommendations for Visitors
Comfortable shoes and clothing are highly recommended for the ascent to Castello di Vezio.
The hike takes 20-30 minutes up a path, or 40 minutes via the Scabium path, which offers better panoramic views. This medieval castle is set atop a hill, so proper footwear is essential.
Pets aren’t allowed on the premises due to the presence of birds of prey. Visitors should arrive prepared for the climb.
The audio guide, available in 7 languages, provides rich information about the landmark’s history and features through photos, maps, text, and professional narration.
With free cancellation up to 7 days in advance, this experience can be adjusted to match travelers’ schedules.
Cancellation Policy and Assistance
Travelers can take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy for this experience. Up to 7 days in advance, you can cancel your booking for a full refund. This offers peace of mind should your plans change.
Plus, the tour provider offers:
- Direct telephone line assistance before and during the excursion
- Availability to answer any questions or address concerns
- Knowledgeable staff to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Accommodation for special needs or requirements, upon request
This level of customer service and flexibility makes booking this wine tasting and castle tour an easy decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Wine Tasting Experience Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?
The wine tasting experience includes breadsticks and olives, which are suitable for vegetarians. However, it’s unclear if vegan options are available. Guests should check with the wine shop regarding any dietary requirements.
Does the Audio Guide Provide Information About the Local Flora and Fauna?
The audio guide includes information about the local flora and fauna within the Castello di Vezio. It provides photographs, text, and professional audio narration detailing the natural elements visitors may encounter during their self-guided tour.
Is There an Option to Purchase Tickets On-Site at Castello Di Vezio?
Yes, visitors can purchase tickets on-site at Castello di Vezio. The entry hours and last access times are provided, allowing guests the flexibility to arrive at their convenience during operating hours.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Unfortunately, the provided information doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of €105 per person for the wine tasting and Castello di Vezio entry ticket.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Castello Di Vezio?
Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks to Castello di Vezio. The castle doesn’t allow outside provisions due to safety and preservation concerns. However, food and beverages may be purchased on-site.
Recap
Varenna’s wine tasting and Castello di Vezio offer a delightful combination of local flavors and historical exploration. The wine tasting showcases the region’s sparkling delights, complemented by the castle’s captivating audio tour. This experience provides a well-rounded introduction to Varenna’s charm, allowing visitors to enjoy the town’s cultural offerings. Whether a wine enthusiast or not, this package promises an engaging and memorable experience.
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