Skydeck – sunset picnic with 360° view of scenic Maremma hills

The Skydeck offers a unique way to enjoy the scenery of Tuscany’s Maremma hills with a sunset picnic for $53.88 per person. This 4-hour experience is designed by Officina82 and takes place at the Vigna Corino vineyard on Monte Cavallo, the highest point on the farm. The tour provides an interactive panoramic view from a specially built Skydeck, which is a large circular belvedere that blends seamlessly into the natural landscape.

While this experience is ideal for those looking for an authentic Tuscan setting combined with delicious local food and wine, it’s worth noting that reaching the Skydeck involves some driving on less accessible roads. The experience is private, ensuring an intimate atmosphere, and the viewing platform offers a 360° panorama stretching from Giglio Island to Mount Amiata.

Key Points

• Price of $53.88 per person for a 4-hour sunset picnic in Tuscany
• Private tour with a 360° view of the Maremma hills from the Skydeck
• Includes a picnic basket with local wines, cheeses, cold cuts, bread, and organic EVO oil
• Accessible from Saturnia, starting at Fattoria La Maliosa at 4:30 pm
• Audience: Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic experience with a focus on natural beauty and local flavors
• Limitations: The drive to the platform involves some unusual roads, and the platform lacks creature comforts like seating

Discovering the Skydeck on Monte Cavallo

The Skydeck is a standout feature of this experience, being the only one of its kind in Maremma. Designed by Officina82, this circular Belvedere follows the lines of the vineyard, creating a harmonious connection to the surrounding landscape. It’s positioned at the highest point of Vigna Corino, offering a dramatic vantage point for sunset views.

The platform is accessible after a short drive from the meeting point at Fattoria La Maliosa. The drive involves some less common roads, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues, but it rewards visitors with an unobstructed view of the Tuscan countryside.

What to Expect During the Sunset Picnic

Upon arrival, guests receive a well-curated picnic basket featuring local products. The food and drink include Maremma cold cuts and cheeses, Tuscan sliced bread with organic EVO oil, and a bottle of natural red wine from the farm. Water, biscuits, and fresh fruit round out the meal.

The picnic setup at the Skydeck allows guests to relax while enjoying a panoramic sunset. The view stretches from Giglio Island on the west to Mount Amiata in the east, with Saturnia and Pitigliano also visible in the landscape. This wide vista makes for a memorable and picturesque experience.

The View: 360° of Maremma’s Natural Beauty

The Skydeck‘s main appeal is the 360° panorama it offers. From this vantage point, visitors can see across the rolling hills of Tuscany, experiencing the melancholy charm of the Maremma region. The view includes notable landmarks like Giglio Island, Mount Amiata, and the thermal springs of Saturnia.

The timing of the sunset enhances the experience, with the changing colors of the sky casting a warm glow over the landscape. This makes the Skydeck an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet moment in nature, combined with the pleasure of local Tuscan cuisine.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at Fattoria La Maliosa, located in Natural Wines, Saturnia. The meeting time is set at 4:30 pm, allowing guests to reach the Skydeck comfortably before sunset.

Since the activity is private, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour involves a moderate walk or drive to the platform, making it suitable for most travelers, but the drive involves unpaved or less common roads.

Food, Wine, and Local Flavors

The picnic basket emphasizes local Tuscan products, including cheeses from Caseificio di Sorano and cold cuts from Ercolani and Sorano. The organic EVO oil is a highlight, with 100 ml included in the picnic. The wine is a natural red, reflecting the farm’s commitment to organic farming.

Additional items such as biscuits and fresh fruit complement the meal, making the experience both gastronomically satisfying and visually stunning.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

While the overall rating is 4.0, a notable review mentions that the platform is well built, but lacks creature comforts like seating. The views are praised as a significant highlight, and the picnic baskets are appreciated as a nice touch. The reviewer notes that getting to the platform involves some unusual roads, which could be a consideration for those seeking more comfort or ease.

Who Will Enjoy the Skydeck Sunset Picnic?

This private experience best suits adults seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with an emphasis on nature, food, and wine. It’s ideal for romantic outings, small groups, or those wanting a quiet moment at sunset with impressive views.

However, travelers who prioritize seating, creature comforts, or easy accessibility might find the drive and platform setup less appealing. It’s a slow-paced activity focused on authenticity and natural beauty.

The Limitations and Considerations

The drive to the Skydeck involves unusual roads, which may not be suitable for all. The platform itself has no built-in seating, so those expecting a comfortable resting area might be disappointed. The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so planning ahead is essential.

Despite these limitations, the view and the food offer a memorable and authentic taste of Tuscany.

The Overall Value of the Skydeck Sunset Picnic

For $53.88, this experience provides a rare opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Maremma during golden hour, combined with local wines and Tuscan specialties. The private setting enhances its appeal for intimate gatherings or special occasions.

Though it involves some driving on less accessible roads, the scenic payoff makes it worthwhile for those looking for a quiet, scenic escape in Tuscany. Without seating and creature comforts, it remains a simple yet memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Skydeck experience suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, making it a good option for families or small groups.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan options for the picnic?
Yes, vegetarian or vegan alternatives are available upon request.

What is included in the picnic basket?
The basket features cheeses, cold cuts, Tuscan bread, organic EVO oil, water, biscuits, fresh fruit, and a bottle of natural red wine.

How do I reach the Skydeck?
The tour starts at Fattoria La Maliosa in Saturnia, with a drive on less common roads to the platform. The Skydeck is positioned at the highest point of the vineyard.

Is the experience refundable if I change my plans?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be canceled or changed once booked.

What are the best times for this activity?
The experience begins at 4:30 pm, timed to coincide with sunset, providing the best lighting and views.

Is the platform accessible for people with mobility issues?
Due to the nature of the drive and the platform’s setup, it may not be fully accessible for everyone with mobility concerns.

How many people can participate in this private tour?
Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience for up to the entire group size.

This Skydeck sunset picnic in Tuscany combines the beauty of Maremma’s landscape with local culinary delights, making it a quiet, scenic escape worth considering for those seeking a peaceful, intimate experience amid Tuscany’s natural splendor.