Guided visit to Villa Selvatico and its thermal lakes

Exploring Italy’s Veneto region often means visiting historic towns, but a visit to Villa Selvatico offers a unique blend of art, nature, and thermal relaxation. This guided tour, priced at $19 per person, lasts 1.5 hours and is perfect for those interested in architecture, landscape design, and thermal waters. Led by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience, this experience promises insightful commentary alongside the chance to enjoy stunning scenery.

The tour’s highlight is the 17th-century Villa Selvatico, which dominates the landscape from Colle della Stufa—also known as Colle di Sant’Elena. Reaching the villa involves climbing 144 steps surrounded by lush greenery or taking an elevator, offering accessibility options. Inside, visitors will find vibrant frescoes, and outside, a 10-hectare park designed by Giuseppe Jappelli—the architect behind Padua’s Caffè Pedrocchi—serves as a romantic setting with winding paths, small bridges, and thermal lakes reaching an impressive 72°C.

While the tour is a guided-only experience, the entrance to the villa is purchased at the meeting point, with tickets costing €8 for adults, €6 for children aged 6-11, and free for children under 6. This makes the overall cost very reasonable, especially considering the access to both art and nature. The experience suits visitors eager for a combination of history, landscape design, and thermal waters, with the guidance ensuring engaging storytelling and detailed explanations.

Key Points

• Price: Only $19 per person for a 1.5-hour guided tour.
• Location: The tour takes place at Villa Selvatico on Colle della Stufa in the Veneto region.
• Inside the villa: You’ll see 17th-century frescoes that decorate the interior.
• Outside features: The 10-hectare park designed by Giuseppe Jappelli includes charming winding paths, small bridges, and thermal lakes.
• Thermal lakes: One lake reaches a temperature of 72°C, adding a distinctive thermal element outside the villa.
• Access: The tour includes a guided visit with a licensed guide, access to the frescoes and historic park, and insights into art, architecture, and landscape.
• Meeting point: Located at Viale Sant’ Elena, 36, Battaglia Terme.
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes with prompt start times.
• Languages: Guided in Italian, with some content shown in its original language.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring options for different mobility needs.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

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The Villa Selvatico and Its Historic Frescoes

The interior of Villa Selvatico is decorated with precious frescoes from the 17th-century, offering a glimpse into the artistic style of the period. The licensed guides lead visitors through these historic artworks, explaining their significance and the stories they tell. The villa itself exudes elegance typical of its era, providing a charming backdrop for the art inside. This stop is perfect for fans of history and art, especially those interested in Italian fresco techniques and 17th-century architecture.

Exploring the Expansive Park Designed by Giuseppe Jappelli

Outside, the park of approximately 10 hectares invites exploration. Designed by Giuseppe Jappelli, the landscape features a romantic maze of winding paths, small bridges, and thermal lakes. The scenery is carefully crafted to complement the villa’s grandeur, offering spots for quiet reflection or photography. The park’s design emphasizes a harmonious blend of art and nature, making it a memorable part of the guided experience.

The Thermal Lakes and Their Unique Temperatures

Among the most distinctive features of this tour are the thermal lakes in the park. One lake reaches an astonishing 72°C, adding a thermal charm to the landscape. Visitors can observe how these lakes are integrated into the park’s natural setting, and their presence highlights the thermal tradition of the Euganean Hills area. The lakes are a visual highlight and demonstrate the geological activity beneath the region.

Reaching Villa Selvatico: Climbing or Elevating

Getting to the villa involves a climb of 144 steps through lush greenery, offering a scenic approach, or alternatively, visitors can take an elevator for easier access. The route is suitable for most visitors, and the option to use the elevator makes the experience accessible for those with mobility challenges. The ascent offers views of the landscape and prepares visitors for the elegant villa and park awaiting at the top.

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Guided Tour Logistics and Meeting Arrangements

The meeting point is conveniently located in front of the ticket office gate at Viale Sant’ Elena, 36. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to arrive 10 minutes early, as the tour departs promptly. The guided visit is conducted in Italian, with some content shown in its original language, and it is led by a qualified guide with extensive experience in organizing tours in Italy.

Cost Breakdown and Ticketing Details

Entrance to the villa itself costs €8 for adults and €6 for children aged 6-11, with children under 6 entering for free. The ticket for the guided tour includes access to the frescoes, park, and thermal lakes, providing a comprehensive experience. It’s important to note that the tour ticket is only valid for the guided visit, and the entry ticket to the villa is purchased separately at the meeting point.

Pacing and Duration of the Tour

The 1.5-hour duration makes this a manageable activity for most visitors, fitting well into a day of sightseeing or relaxation in the Euganean Hills. The tour starts promptly at scheduled times, emphasizing the importance of arriving on time for an organized experience. The pace allows for a thorough look at the villa’s interiors, the park, and the lakes without feeling rushed.

Accessibility and Content

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with varying mobility levels. Some of the content is presented in Italian and in its original language, which adds authenticity but may require some familiarity with the language or attentive listening. The guides are experienced in managing different groups and ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This guided visit to Villa Selvatico and its thermal lakes offers a well-rounded look at historical architecture, art, landscape design, and natural thermal phenomena, all in one manageable outing. The combination of 17th-century frescoes and thermal lakes creates a distinctive experience that is both educational and relaxing. The affordable price and expert guidance make it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in the Veneto area.

Villa Selvatico’s Unique Appeal in the Euganean Hills

The villa’s commanding position on Colle della Stufa provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of artistic interiors and the romantic park designed by Giuseppe Jappelli makes this site stand out among regional attractions. The thermal lakes add a geothermal dimension, making it a multifaceted destination for visitors interested in history, nature, and thermal waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. It’s particularly appealing for families thanks to the accessible layout and manageable duration. Visitors looking for a relaxing outdoor experience with an educational twist will find this tour an excellent choice. The affordable price point enhances its appeal for those wanting a quality cultural outing without a big investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the guided tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0-5 years are free, and children aged 6-11 years pay only €6. The tour is suitable for families, with engaging explanations suitable for younger visitors.

How do I access the villa and park?
You can climb 144 steps through greenery or take an elevator for easier access, making the experience accessible for most visitors.

What is included in the ticket price?
The $19 ticket includes the guided visit to the villa, frescoes, historic park, and thermal lakes, as well as insights into art, architecture, and landscape.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in Italian, with some content shown in its original language.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is in front of the ticket office gate at Viale Sant’ Elena, 36, Battaglia Terme.

How long before the start should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure the tour departs on time.

What makes this tour special compared to other regional visits?
The combination of artistic frescoes, a designed landscape, and thermal lakes on a manageable 1.5-hour guided visit makes this a unique and rewarding experience in the Euganean Hills.

Is there an option to add food or drinks during the tour?
The provided information does not specify food or drink options as part of this experience.

How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets for the villa are purchased separately at the meeting point, with the guided tour ticket included in the $19 price.

This guided visit to Villa Selvatico delivers an accessible, affordable, and engaging journey into Italy’s artistic and natural heritage, perfect for anyone wanting to experience the charm of the Euganean Hills in a condensed, well-guided format.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby