Things to do · Franciacorta
Franciacorta and Lake Iseo
Vineyards, abbeys and the lake, a quarter of an hour from the farmhouse.
Not to be missed
What to do in Franciacorta
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Visit a winery
This is the experience not to miss: a tour of the cellars where the wine rests on its lees, followed by a tasting. Almost all wineries welcome visitors by appointment only, some at weekends too: further down you will find a list of the ones we know.
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The Strada del Franciacorta
A signposted wine route through the villages of the area, among vineyards, wineries, villas and small hamlets. You can drive it, but you can also cycle it: the hills are gentle and the views over the lake come quickly.
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The Torbiere del Sebino
A nature reserve of reed beds and pools south of the lake, between Iseo and Provaglio, ideal for a walk along the boardwalks. On the edge of the reserve stands the monastery of San Pietro in Lamosa, of medieval origin.
Provaglio d'Iseo
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The Abbey of Rodengo Saiano
A large Olivetan monastery with three cloisters and cycles of Renaissance frescoes, still home to monks today. A few minutes away is the Franciacorta Outlet Village, if you fancy a shopping break.
Rodengo Saiano
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Lake Iseo and Monte Isola
From the lakefront at Iseo or Sulzano, the ferry takes you to Monte Isola in a few minutes: the largest lake island in Italy and one of the Borghi più belli d'Italia (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy). There are no cars on the island: you get around on foot or by bike, among fishing villages, olive groves and the sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola at the top.
Iseo, Sulzano
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Monte Orfano
The small, isolated hill between Coccaglio, Rovato and Erbusco, just a stone's throw from the farmhouse: easy paths, vineyards and the Convento dell'Annunciata, with a wide view over the whole plain.
Rovato, Coccaglio
At the table
What to taste
Franciacorta in its different styles — from Brut to the softer Satèn, to Rosé — and the Curtefranca still wines. On the lake you eat freshwater fish: coregone (whitefish) and the dried sardines of Monte Isola. And Monte Isola is also where our Olio di Giò comes from, which you will find at the farm stay.
Our recommendations
Wineries to visit
The wineries we know and recommend to our guests. Visits are almost always by appointment, and the price depends on the tasting you choose: call ahead, or ask us to do it for you.
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Castello Bonomi
Coccaglio
On Monte Orfano, a few minutes from the farmhouse: winery tour and tasting.
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Monte Rossa
Bornato
A tour covering the history of the estate and a tasting of several Franciacorta wines.
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Corte Lantieri
Capriolo
Tour and tasting served with nibbles.
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Ferghettina
Adro
Tour and tasting of two or three Franciacorta wines.
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Ca' del Bosco
Erbusco
One of the best-known wineries in the area, with tours of different lengths.
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Barone Pizzini
Provaglio d'Iseo
Book through the winery's website, subject to availability.
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Le Marchesine
Passirano
Tour and tasting of two wines, depending on the tour chosen.
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Contadi Castaldi
Adro
Tour and tasting of up to seven styles of Franciacorta.
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Ricci Curbastro
Capriolo
With a farming museum, as well as the winery and the tasting.
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Fratelli Berlucchi
Corte Franca
Guided tour of the estate and tasting, with cured meats and cheeses as an option.
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La Fioca
Nigoline di Corte Franca
A small winery; tour and tasting of one to three Franciacorta wines.
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Bellavista
Erbusco
Cellar tour and tasting, by appointment only.
Visiting times and prices change during the year: check them with the winery when you book.