CASTLES AND WINES OF THE HILLS EXPERIENCE

LENGTH: Km 40
DIFFERENCE IN ALTITUDE: mt 200
TOUR DURATION: 1 day
ROAD CONDITIONS: 40% paved – 60% dirt road
DIFFICULTY: medium using an e-bike
DEPARTURE FROM: Castellaro Lagusello di Monzambano (MN)

The tour starts from the historical center of Castellaro Lagusello, labelled Orange Flag by the TCI (Italian Touring Club) for tourism excellence and included in the list of most beautiful villages in Italy. Following a dirt road through the natural oasis of the lake of Castellaro, the tour continues with a ride up and down the hills through the vineyards, until reaching the orchards and olive groves of Volta Mantovana.

At that point, the tour goes through the village to reach the impressive castle, built during the XI-th century; within the castle, tour participants can finally relax and stop for refreshment, while admiring the beautiful gardens of Palazzo Gonzaga. Riding on the surrounding hills, rich in vegetation and orchards, the tour gets to the second stage: Pieve di S. Maria di Cavriana, a Romanesque building built during the XI-th century, that offers a breathtaking view going from the hills to the Apennines. After a short rest, the tour continues to the center of Cavriana up to the castle, with its picturesque tower and its massive walls, built as a defense system.

Following an easy path through the underbrush and a steep climb to the castle, the tour gets to the third stage: Rocca di Solferino, scenario of the Second War of Independence, with a wonderful view of Lake Garda and the underlying villages. A long downhill on a side street leads to the fourth stage of the tour, where participants can take their time to rest and to taste a selection of DOC wines in a local winery: Lugana, Merlot, Cabernet, Sauvignon to name but a few, accompanied by some appetizers.

Adult price 120€ pp.
The prive includes electric mountain bike and bike helmet rental, as well
as wine tasting experience and guide. Available every day upon reservation.