Venice: Borges Labyrinth Experience on San Giorgio Island

Explore the Enchanting Borges Labyrinth in Venice

The Venice: Borges Labyrinth Experience on San Giorgio Island offers an intriguing journey for those eager to explore a unique and lesser-known side of Venice. Priced at $17 per person and lasting around 45 minutes, this tour combines a walk through an elaborate maze with a specially composed soundtrack. It is ideal for visitors seeking a peaceful, sensory-rich experience away from bustling crowds, especially since the tour includes access to the ancient Benedictine dormitory turned library.

What makes this tour stand out is the self-guided nature with an audio guide, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace while enjoying a carefully crafted original soundtrack by composer Antonio Fresa. The journey is both visually and auditorily engaging, thanks to the 3,200 boxwood plants inspired by Borges’ story, designed by Randoll Coate. This experience is accessible, flexible, and offers a different perspective on Venice’s cultural landscape.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $17 for a 45-minute experience that combines maze exploration with music.
• Self-guided audio tour ensures a flexible visit with headphones and an audio guide provided.
• Access to the Borges Labyrinth is exclusive to this tour, with a length of 3,200 feet.
• The tour includes a visit to the New Manica Lunga, an ancient Benedictine dormitory transformed into a library.
• Music composed by Antonio Fresa and performed by Teatro La Fenice Orchestra enhances the atmosphere.
• Optional lunch upgrade offers a chance to extend the visit with a meal.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics on San Giorgio Island

The tour kicks off at the ticket office on the left side of the Basilica on San Giorgio Maggiore Island. This convenient meeting spot makes it easy to find and start your adventure without hassle. The activity begins with the entrance fee and audio guide, and no tour guide is included, but a tour attendant is present to provide practical assistance.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, which simplifies planning and ensures no confusing detours. Check availability for start times, as the duration is approximately 45 minutes, allowing flexibility in your Venice itinerary.

Inside the Borges Labyrinth: The Maze and Its Design

Walking through the elaborate maze, visitors encounter a 3,200-foot-long path lined with carefully maintained boxwood plants. Inspired by Borges’ story “The Garden of Paths that Fork”, the maze offers a peaceful environment for reflection and wandering. The design by Randoll Coate emphasizes the story’s themes of choice and infinite possibilities.

The labyrinth’s setting in the ancient Benedictine dormitory adds historical depth to the experience. Originally a monastic space, it has been transformed into a library by architect Michele De Lucchi, blending history with the imaginative design of the maze.

The Soundtrack: A Unique Audio Companion

A highlight of this tour is the original soundtrack created exclusively for the labyrinth experience. Composed by Antonio Fresa and performed by the Teatro La Fenice Orchestra, the music enhances the atmosphere, evoking a sense of timelessness and introspection. Guests wear headphones provided with the audio guide in multiple languages—including Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, and Russian—allowing for a personalized and immersive experience.

The soundtrack’s calming and reflective qualities have been praised, with some describing the walk as “almost therapeutic” and perfect for relaxation and contemplation amid Venice’s busy surroundings.

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Visiting the Benedictine Dormitory and Library

The New Manica Lunga is a key feature of this tour, offering a glimpse into Venice’s monastic past. The building’s conversion into a library by Michele De Lucchi provides a beautiful backdrop for the maze. Access is exclusive through this tour, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore this historical space.

During the visit, the combination of architecture, history, and the maze’s design creates a layered experience. Some areas may be temporarily closed during special events or concerts, so checking availability beforehand is recommended.

Optional Lunch and Additional Comforts

For those wishing to extend their visit, an optional lunch can be added, offering a chance to relax and reflect on the experience over a meal. This upgrade adds value and makes the outing more leisurely, especially if combined with other activities on San Giorgio Island.

The tour’s pricing includes a booking fee and access to the audio guide, making it a straightforward choice for travelers looking for a cost-effective yet memorable experience. Skip the ticket line, saving time and reducing stress.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Travelers should bring passport or ID card for verification. The activity is suitable for most visitors, but those with mobility issues should consider the maze’s layout. The tour is conducted in Italian and English, with additional languages available via the audio guide.

Since the tour can be canceled in case of extreme weather, checking the weather forecast in advance is wise. Some areas might be closed during special events or concerts, so it’s good to stay informed about the schedule.

The Experience Through the Lens of Reviews

Review scores of 4.3 out of 5 reflect strong satisfaction, especially for its atmosphere and musical accompaniment. Reported highlights include the relaxing walk and the music specially composed for the maze. The knowledgeable and kind staff and the transcendent soundtrack are frequently praised.

One review describes the experience as “enjoyable & almost therapeutic,” emphasizing the peaceful sensation of wandering hands gliding over the hedge. Another calls it “the best thing to do in Venice”, with high praise for the storytelling and musical atmosphere that transport visitors back in time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to visitors seeking a tranquil, sensory experience that combines visual beauty, history, and music. It’s perfect for those interested in literature, especially Borges’ stories, and for travelers wanting a peaceful escape from Venice’s crowded streets. The affordable price and flexible timing make it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

However, those looking for a fast-paced, guided tour with in-depth historical commentary might find this experience too relaxed or lacking in detailed narration. It’s best suited for quiet reflection and appreciating the artistic design of the maze and its surroundings.

The Sum Up: A Quiet Oasis in Venice’s Cultural Landscape

The Venice Borges Labyrinth Experience offers a peaceful, evocative walk through a carefully designed maze inspired by Borges’ stories, enriched by a custom soundtrack. The access to the Benedictine dormitory and the library adds a historical layer to the experience, making it more than just a walk in the maze.

At $17, this tour provides excellent value for a short but immersive encounter with Venice’s quieter, more artistic side. It’s especially suited for literature fans, music lovers, or those seeking serenity amid Venice’s lively environment. The inclusion of an audio guide and the beautiful soundtrack create a memorable ambiance that will stay with visitors long after the walk ends.

This tour’s blend of history, art, and music makes it a distinctive addition to any Venice itinerary, especially for those eager to explore beyond the typical sights. Its relaxed pace and unique setting ensure a peaceful, reflective experience that complements the city’s vibrant culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Borges Labyrinth Experience?
It costs $17 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the ticket office on the left side of the Basilica on San Giorgio Maggiore Island.

Is the tour guided by a person?
No, it is a self-guided tour with an audio guide and a tour attendant for practical assistance.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio guide is available in Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, and Russian.

Does the tour include access to the Benedictine dormitory?
Yes, visitors explore the ancient Benedictine dormitory transformed into a library.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be added as an upgrade.

Are there any physical requirements?
Visitors should bring passport or ID; the maze involves walking and standing but is generally accessible.

Are there any restrictions during special events?
Some areas may be closed during special events or concerts, so check the schedule before visiting.

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