Picnic in the countryside of San Gimignano

Discover a Relaxing Picnic Experience in San Gimignano’s Countryside

For those seeking a break from typical wine tasting tours, the Picnic in the countryside of San Gimignano offers a charming alternative. Priced at just $28.82 per person, this 2-hour outdoor experience lets visitors unwind amidst scenic olive groves, with the option to customize the picnic for dietary needs. The tour departs from Guardastelle, a well-known estate, and features locally sourced snacks and excellent estate wines. Its prime feature is a peaceful setting that emphasizes privacy and contact with nature over crowds or structured tastings, making it ideal for visitors wanting a quiet escape.

The simplicity of this picnic tour, combined with the opportunity to select wines on-site, makes it a flexible and personalized outing. With most bookings made 32 days in advance and a maximum group size of 18, the experience maintains a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Though it’s a straightforward activity, its focus on natural beauty and local produce ensures a genuine taste of the Tuscan countryside.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Costs $28.82 per person and can be booked well in advance.
• Short and sweet: Lasts approximately 2 hours, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
• Customizable diet options: Adjustments for allergies, vegetarian, or vegan diets are available with prior notice.
• Includes snacks and estate-produced wine: You can choose your wine at the estate, paying separately.
• Ideal for outdoor lovers: Enjoy your meal under olive trees in a tranquil, scenic spot.
• Meeting point convenience: Starting at Guardastelle, close to San Gimignano’s town center.

Starting Point at Guardastelle Estate in San Gimignano

The picnic begins at Guardastelle, located in Loc. Sovestro, just a short walk from the historic town of San Gimignano. The meeting point is straightforward: guests can start collecting their picnic baskets between 11 AM and 6 PM, making it flexible for different schedules. The tour kicks off at 12:00 pm, with the picnic baskets prepared in advance based on your reservation.

The estate is the perfect backdrop for a peaceful outing, and the staff are friendly, ensuring a warm welcome. Since the activity ends back at the same meeting point, there’s no need for additional transportation, which simplifies planning.

What’s Included in the Picnic Basket?

The picnic basket offers a selection of snacks carefully prepared to complement the estate’s wines. You’ll find various food items designed for a relaxing outdoor experience. The baskets come with glasses and a blanket, making it easy to settle comfortably under the shade of the olive trees.

If you have specific dietary preferences or allergies, the staff request advance notice so they can make appropriate adjustments. However, it’s important to be aware that cross contamination may occur because the estate works daily with meat, flour, and milk.

Choosing and Paying for Your Wine

A standout feature of this picnic is the opportunity to select your wine directly at the estate. The selection includes white wines and possibly other varieties, depending on your taste. Pricing for wine varies: a glass costs between €6 and €8, while a bottle ranges from €28 to €46.

Visitors pay for wine separately at the estate, allowing for personalized tasting preferences. Keep in mind that the legal drinking age in Italy is 18, so this activity isn’t suitable for minors.

Flexibility with Timing and Cancellations

The experience includes a free cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan, knowing that adjustments are possible if your plans change unexpectedly.

The reservation system is straightforward, and confirmations are sent immediately when booking. Since most trips are booked about 32 days in advance, it’s advisable to secure your spot early to ensure availability.

A Quiet, Scenic Setting with Stunning Views

The view from the picnic spot is frequently highlighted as a major highlight—guests appreciate the stunning panorama from the top of the hill. The estate’s location provides a peaceful environment, away from crowded tourist hotspots, making it perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

The shade of olive trees provides relief from the sun, especially during warmer months. The estate’s staff are attentive and friendly, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere.

Accessibility and Group Size

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate feel. The activity is suitable for most people, including service animals, which are allowed. The flat outdoor terrain generally makes it accessible, but no specific details about mobility accommodations are provided.

Guests should expect a gentle outdoor experience that doesn’t require strenuous activity, making it suitable for most ages and physical abilities.

How This Picnic Differs from Other San Gimignano Tours

Unlike structured wine tastings or guided city tours, this activity emphasizes privacy and contact with nature. There are no large crowds or busy wineries involved—just a personalized picnic experience in a scenic setting.

Its low cost combined with the flexibility to customize food and wine options makes it a cost-effective and relaxing escape from the more commercialized attractions in the area.

Final Thoughts on the San Gimignano Countryside Picnic

This 2-hour outdoor picnic offers a peaceful way to enjoy the Tuscan countryside without the hustle of larger tours. The locally sourced snacks and estate wines provide authentic flavors, while the scenic olive grove setting ensures a tranquil backdrop.

Ideal for outdoor lovers, families, or anyone seeking a quiet refreshment during their visit to San Gimignano, this experience balances simplicity with genuine charm. The flexibility, personalization options, and affordable pricing make it an appealing choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Tuscany’s peaceful countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the picnic for dietary restrictions?
Yes, advance notice allows the staff to adjust the products for allergies, vegetarian, or vegan diets. However, cross contamination may occur due to the estate’s daily work with meat, flour, and milk.

What’s included in the picnic basket?
The basket contains snacks, glasses, and a blanket. You also have the option to choose your wine at the estate, with wines paid for separately.

What is the price of the wine?
Wines are priced per glass (6-8 euros) or per bottle (28-46 euros). Payment is made directly at the estate, based on your selection.

Is the activity suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The outdoor setting is generally accessible, and service animals are allowed, but no specific accommodations are mentioned. The terrain is flat and outdoor, suitable for most.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Changes made less than 24 hours before cannot be accepted.

When should I book this experience?
Most bookings are made about 32 days in advance, so early planning is recommended to secure your preferred time.