Lake Como & Wine Tour in Valtellina Valley – Full day

Explore the Lake Como & Valtellina Valley Wine & Food Tour in Bergamo

This full-day tour in Bergamo, Italy, costs $333.33 per person and offers an immersive experience into the region’s scenic landscapes, culinary delights, and renowned wines. Lasting approximately 10 hours, it includes hotel pickup and a luxury private vehicle for comfortable travel across some of Italy’s most captivating spots. With an exceptional 5.0-star rating based on two reviews, it clearly appeals to those eager to explore both the natural beauty and culinary traditions of northern Italy.

Designed for wine lovers and foodies, this tour takes you from the charming village of Varenna along Lake Como to the terraced vineyards of Valtellina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The experience highlights local wineries, historic villages, cheese tastings, and regional specialties, making it an ideal full-day excursion that balances scenic drives with authentic tastings and cultural insights.

Key Points

• Private tour with luxury transport: Ensures comfort and exclusivity for your group.
• Visits to Varenna and Morbegno: Two picturesque towns rich in history and views.
• Wine tasting at Cantine Nera: Taste 3 wines with local gastronomic accompaniments.
• Culinary stops with regional specialties: Includes cheese tasting and a traditional “pizzoccheri” lunch.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Valtellina’s terraced vineyards span 2,500 kilometers.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Transportation in Bergamo

The tour departs from Varenna Esino, Perledo, at 8:00 am. The pickup process is straightforward, with the tour providing private transportation by luxury car or minivan, making the journey both comfortable and efficient. This private setup allows travelers to experience the region without the hassle of large group travel or crowded buses, and the vehicle’s near public transportation location adds to convenience.

The tour concludes at Colico Stazione FS, providing easy access for further travel or return arrangements. The entire day is crafted to give a seamless experience from start to finish, with most activities concentrated between scenic drives and stops for tastings.

The Charm of Varenna and Morbegno

The first stops include the beautiful village of Varenna, renowned for its lakeside charm and panoramic views along Lake Como. This setting offers perfect photo opportunities and a taste of local ambiance. Later, in Morbegno, the tour visits an ancient Bottega from 1883, which showcases the region’s artisanal craftsmanship and historical depth.

During these visits, travelers gain insight into regional traditions and enjoy a relaxed exploration of small towns that combine natural beauty with cultural heritage. The combination of lakeside scenery and historic streets makes these stops a highlight of the day.

Tasting at Cantine Nera: A Highlight for Wine Enthusiasts

The visit to Cantine Nera stands out as the core wine experience. Here, three different wines are sampled, each accompanied by local gastronomic products that enhance the tasting. This one-hour stop offers a relaxed setting to appreciate Valtellina’s renowned wines, crafted from grapes grown on the 2,500 kilometers of terraced vineyards.

The wine tasting at this historic winery is frequently praised, with reviews noting the guide’s informative approach and the quality of the wines. The experience provides a genuine taste of the region’s vinicultural tradition, making it a meaningful highlight for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Cheese Tasting and Local Food Delights in Traona

In Traona, the tour stops at a local dairy where visitors enjoy sampling regional cheeses. This tasting underscores the area’s rich dairy traditions and complements the wine experience perfectly. The cheese and dairy products, like the wines, are rooted in generations of regional know-how.

Lunch is served at a family-run restaurant, where “pizzoccheri”—a signature dish of the region—is on the menu. This hearty buckwheat pasta with vegetables, cheese, and butter offers a taste of authentic Valtellina cuisine. The meal provides a genuine, unpretentious experience of local flavors, making it one of the most valued parts of the day.

Discovering Valtellina’s Historic Vineyards and Landscape

The day continues with visits to vineyards and scenic viewpoints, highlighting Valtellina’s terraced landscape—a remarkable sight of vines built over centuries on steep slopes. These vineyards not only produce high-quality wines but also form an iconic part of the region’s cultural landscape, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The landscape’s unique character and historical significance are woven into the visit, giving travelers an appreciation for the resilience and artistry involved in cultivating grapes on such challenging terrain.

The Final Stop: Valtellina’s Historic Winery

The tour concludes with a visit to Cantine Nera, a historic winery known for its traditional winemaking methods. This stop allows for a deeper understanding of the region’s wine heritage and the chance to explore their production facilities or enjoy tasting additional wines if desired.

This final experience caps off the day with a sense of connection to Valtellina’s long-standing vinicultural traditions, leaving visitors with lasting impressions of the region’s craftsmanship.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is limited to your private group, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The full-day schedule makes it suitable for those comfortable with walking at stops, although specific physical requirements are not detailed. The tour is accessible to most travelers, given the moderate walking involved during village visits and tastings.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and booked approximately 160 days ahead on average. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Visit to Bergamo

This Lake Como & Valtellina wine tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, authentic food, and celebrated regional wines. The visits to Varenna and Morbegno, along with the wine tasting at Cantine Nera, create a memorable day immersed in Lombardy’s scenic and cultural richness.

The tour’s private transportation and small-group format ensure comfort and personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers seeking an intimate and informative experience. The inclusion of cheese tastings, local dishes, and UNESCO-listed vineyards makes this tour stand out among similar offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While primarily designed for adults interested in wine and regional cuisine, the tour’s moderate pace and scenic stops make it accessible for most travelers. Physical requirements are not detailed, so those with mobility concerns should inquire directly.

Does the tour include guided wine tastings?
The wine tasting at Cantine Nera is included as a sample of 3 wines along with local gastronomic products. Additional tastings or guided experiences are not included but can be arranged separately.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded, but the booking can be rescheduled or canceled for a full refund if within policy.

What food is included?
Lunch at a family restaurant features the regional “pizzoccheri” dish, a traditional dish of the area. Cheese tastings and regional products are also part of the experience.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with pickup from Varenna Esino provided. This early start ensures a full day of exploring and tasting.

This full-day Lake Como & Valtellina wine tour offers a balanced mix of scenic landscapes, cultural exploration, and regional gastronomy, perfect for those eager to experience Lombardy’s authentic flavors and views.