Lievàntu Wine Experience

The Lievàntu Wine Experience offers a compelling journey through Levanto’s charming landscape for $94.92 per person. Lasting approximately 2 hours, this small-group tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. It departs from Bar Stazione in Levanto and takes you on a scenic trek covering 7 km with a 400-meter elevation change. Known for its excellent wine selection and local delicacies, this experience is ideal for those interested in regional cuisine, wine, and breathtaking views, all in a manageable time frame.

While the route involves 60% on dirt paths or roads and the rest on asphalt, its moderate physical demands make it suitable for most travelers, provided they are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. Booking well in advance—an average of 103 days ahead—is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. The tour highlights the terraced hills of Vallata di Levanto, the villages of Lavaggiorosso and Lizza, and the legendary Monte delle Streghe, culminating in a wine tasting paired with local products such as olives, pesto, and focaccia.

Key Points

• Includes a wine tasting featuring three DOC wines from Vallata di Levanto Cooperative
• Starts in Levanto, a town just one train stop from the Cinque Terre
• A 2-hour guided trek covering 7 km with scenic valley and bay views
• Route includes 60% on dirt paths, with a 400-meter elevation change
• Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience
• Booking advised 103 days in advance to ensure availability

Scenic Views of Levanto’s Valley and Bay

The tour kicks off at Bar Stazione in Levanto, where the guide welcomes guests and shares a brief overview of the journey. From there, you venture into the terraced hills of the Vallata di Levanto, where olive trees and vineyards dominate the landscape. This area is known for its distinctive scents and vibrant colors, which visitors can enjoy through both sight and smell. The views of the bay of Levanto provide a stunning backdrop, especially as the trek progresses through various vantage points.

Throughout the walk, the scenery reveals the beauty of agricultural terraces that have been cultivated for generations. The route offers a balance of natural landscapes and panoramic vistas, giving a sense of the region’s agricultural heritage. The paths are mostly on dirt and gravel roads, making it a comfortable walk for most.

Discovering Levanto’s Villages: Lavaggiorosso and Lizza

After exploring the terraced hills, the tour takes a step back in time as it visits Lavaggiorosso and Lizza, two charming villages within the valley. These villages showcase historic stone houses and narrow streets that reflect the local history and culture. The guide shares insights into the area’s traditional way of life as you meander through these quiet spots.

The villages offer a glimpse of authentic rural Italy away from tourist crowds, making it an ideal stop for those interested in local heritage. The journey continues as you ascend towards Monte delle Streghe, a ridge steeped in legends and folklore, where the views become even more spectacular.

Hiking to Monte delle Streghe and Legend-Infused Ridge

The climb to Monte delle Streghe is one of the most memorable aspects of the tour. Located at the top of the ridge, this spot offers breathtaking vistas overlooking the valley and the sea. The guide explains the legends associated with the ridge, adding a layer of cultural intrigue to the natural beauty. The steep descent from the ridge then leads toward the Convent and church of Ss. Annunziata, where the scenery remains equally captivating.

The entire trek covers 7 km and involves a 400-meter elevation change, so comfortable footwear and moderate fitness are advisable. The landscape here is a mix of natural wilderness and cultivated land, providing diverse scenes along the way.

Wine Tasting and Local Delicacies at S. Anna Vineyard

The tour culminates at S. Anna vineyard, where visitors enjoy a tasting session of three DOC wines produced by the Vallata di Levanto Cooperative. The guide explains the nuances of each wine, emphasizing the region’s winemaking traditions. Alongside the wines, participants sample local products such as olives, pesto, and focaccia, which complement the beverages perfectly.

This sensory experience combines the aromas of regional produce with the views of the vineyard landscape, providing a satisfying conclusion to the journey. The pairing offers a true taste of Levanto’s culinary heritage and agricultural richness.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at Bar Stazione in Levanto, a convenient location close to public transportation options, including the train station. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. The tour requires most travelers to participate, and service animals are permitted.

The experience is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, with most of the route on manageable paths. However, those with mobility challenges should be prepared for some steep sections and uneven terrain.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking in advance is recommended due to the popularity of the experience, especially during peak seasons. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change. In case of bad weather, the activity may be canceled, but travelers are offered a rescheduled date or a full refund.

Since the tour is small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, it maintains a personalized atmosphere. This also means that group discounts might be available, adding to the value.

Why Choose the Lievàntu Wine Experience?

This tour provides an excellent balance of nature, culture, and regional cuisine. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy light hiking combined with wine and food tastings. The expert guidance of Federico Chiodaroli ensures an engaging and informative experience, enriching your understanding of Levanto’s landscape and traditions.

While the route involves some steep sections and covers a moderate distance, the scenery and local insights make it well worth the effort. The price includes not only the guided trek but also the wine tasting and local products, offering good value for this immersive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the route involves some steep and uneven paths, so mobility challenges may pose difficulties. Children over a certain age should be comfortable walking this terrain.

What should I bring for the trek?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the dirt roads and steep sections. Bring water, sun protection, and perhaps a small backpack for personal items.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is provided.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the wine tasting at S. Anna vineyard is part of the package, featuring three DOC wines alongside local delicacies.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, it suits most adults and older children comfortable with walking on uneven terrain, but very young children or those with limited mobility should consider suitability.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 103 days ahead is typical, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

The Lievàntu Wine Experience combines scenic vistas, cultural insights, and regional flavors into a compact, accessible package. Whether you are seeking a relaxing walk paired with local wines or a deeper understanding of Levanto’s landscape, this tour offers a rewarding taste of the area’s natural and culinary treasures.