Premium Cheeses and Gins Tour in the Prosecco hills. Full lunch!

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Italy’s beautiful hillside landscapes while sampling some of its best local products, this Premium Cheeses and Gins Tour in the Prosecco hills might just be what you’re looking for. From what we gather, it’s a full-day experience that combines scenic views, culinary delights, and a taste of local craftsmanship—all within the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.

What we really like about this tour is how it blends different experiences seamlessly: you get to learn about cheese-making and Prosecco production, enjoy a traditional Italian lunch, and even sample some of the region’s finest gins. Plus, the tour’s well-planned stops in iconic spots like the Castle of Conegliano and local micro-distilleries make it a rich, well-rounded day. The downside? At over $347 per person, it’s definitely an investment. But if you’re passionate about wine, cheese, and authentic Italian scenery, it’s likely worth every euro.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate good food and drink, enjoy scenic drives, and want a deeper understanding of the region beyond typical tourist spots. It’s a full-day adventure that could be perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to indulge in Italy’s hillside charms.

Key Points

• Scenic and educational: Combines visits to local producers, a castle, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Tastings included: Award-winning cheeses, regional wines, and spirits, all paired thoughtfully.
• Includes a traditional Italian lunch: Savor seasonal, authentic dishes at a renowned inn.
• Comfortable private transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle with convenient pickup and drop-off.
• Covers UNESCO sites: Focused on the Conegliano Valdobbiadene hills, a protected heritage area.
• Long, immersive day: Approximately 7 to 8 hours of guided exploration in beautiful surroundings.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Early Transfers

The day kicks off from Piazzale Roma in Venice or from Conegliano around 9 am. It’s a smooth start with private transportation, so you avoid the hassle of public transit and can relax before the day’s adventures. The drive through the hills takes about an hour and 10 minutes, giving you a comfortable window to settle in or marvel at the landscapes.

Stop 1: Piazzale Roma and the UNESCO Hills

Your experience begins with a scenic transfer to the hills of Conegliano Valdobbiadene, a UNESCO site known for its lush vineyards and rolling scenery. The drive itself offers some of the most picturesque views, setting the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Castle of Conegliano

Next, you’ll visit the Castle of Conegliano, where you can wander the gardens and admire views of the surrounding plains and Prealpi venete. It’s a quick stop—about 30 minutes—but worthwhile for the panoramic photo opportunities and a bit of history. The castle’s vantage point offers a perfect perspective on the region’s landscape.

Stop 3: Cheese and Prosecco at San Pietro di Feletto

This part of the tour is a highlight for many. You’ll visit a small local producer, where a museum and dairy showcase the region’s cheese craftsmanship. Guests often praise the experience for its intimacy and the chance to taste award-winning cheeses, paired with local wines. As one reviewer put it, “The tastings were quaint and well done,” and the guide’s storytelling about the area’s traditions adds an authentic touch. The experience lasts about 1.5 hours and is a lovely way to understand what makes this region famous for its dairy and wine.

Stop 4: Lunch at Collalbrigo

A genuine highlight is the traditional Italian meal at a well-known inn. You’ll enjoy cicchetti (small bites), a seasonal first course, and a main dish, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Paired with a glass of regional wine, the meal isn’t just about food but about soaking in the atmosphere and incredible views. The leisurely 1.5-hour lunch allows you to relax and savor the flavors of the hills.

Stop 5: Spirits and Gins at a Micro-Distillery

After lunch, you’ll visit a local micro-distillery where gins and spirits are crafted. The guide will explain the secrets of production, giving you insight into this lesser-known aspect of regional craftsmanship. Visitors have found this part especially interesting, mentioning the “explanation of all the secrets,” which adds an educational element to the tasting.

Stop 6: Panoramic Views and Reflection

Before heading back, you’ll pause in San Pietro di Feletto again for about 50 minutes to take in the breathtaking views of the hills. It’s a perfect moment for photos and to appreciate the landscape that makes this area so special.

Return to Venice

The journey back starts around 4:30 pm and will get you to Piazzale Roma by approximately 5:00 pm, depending on traffic. It’s a comfortable end to a full day of exploration, tasting, and sightseeing.

What We Think About the Value

At $347.05 per person, this tour is clearly aimed at travelers willing to invest in a comprehensive experience. What you get—visits to UNESCO sites, expert tastings, a full Italian lunch, and private transport—adds up to a well-rounded day. The inclusion of multiple stops, especially the cheese and spirits tastings, makes it feel like a true deep dive into local flavors, rather than a superficial overview.

The reviews tell us this tour is highly rated, with an overall 5-star average. Guests appreciate the relaxed pace, the knowledgeable guides, and the stunning views. One client praised the host, saying, “Umberto’s narrative and expertise of the area… is refreshing,” which suggests the personal touch and storytelling are valued.

Practical Considerations

While the tour’s length and multiple stops are great for those interested in a thorough experience, some travelers might find the schedule a bit packed, especially if they prefer more leisure. Also, since the tour involves tastings of alcohol, it’s suitable for those 18 and over.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and wine enthusiasts who want to connect with Italy’s countryside in a meaningful way. If you enjoy tasting local cheeses, wines, and spirits, and appreciate scenic landscapes, this tour hits all those notes. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer guided experiences rather than wandering on their own, as the storytelling and explanation of production methods add a lot of value.

It’s less suited for those on a tight budget or those seeking a quick overview. Since it’s a full day and quite immersive, it’s best for travelers with a full day to spare, who are comfortable with a moderate pace and some driving.

The Sum Up

If your idea of a memorable trip involves relishing regional flavors, enjoying stunning vistas, and learning about Italy’s artisanal traditions, this Premium Cheeses and Gins Tour offers a compelling package. It’s a well-organized day out that balances sightseeing with tasting experiences, all set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most beautiful UNESCO sites.

While the price tag might seem steep, the variety and quality of experiences—plus the scenic value—make it worthwhile for dedicated food and drink lovers. The inclusion of a traditional Italian lunch and professional guide ensures you’re not just tasting but also gaining insight into what makes this region special.

In short, this tour is best for those who want a comprehensive, taste-focused day in the hills, offering a genuine taste of the region’s best products and views. If that describes you, it’s likely to be a highlight of any trip to Venice or the Veneto region.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation from and back to Venice or Conegliano, making the day comfortable and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours, with the start around 9 am and return around 5 pm, depending on traffic and requests during the day.

Are alcohol tastings included?
Yes, tastings of cheeses, wines, and spirits—such as gins—are all included in the price, with expert explanations at each stop.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour involves alcohol tastings and is designed for adults 18 and over, so it’s not suitable for children.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While not specified, the scenic views and outdoor stops suggest spring or early fall would be ideal, avoiding the heat of summer or cold winter days.

How many people are in each group?
This is a private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are the sites accessible for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly mentioned, some sites like the castle gardens and wineries may require walking or standing, so it’s worth checking beforehand if mobility is a concern.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most guests mention the stunning views and the opportunity to taste authentic regional products as the most memorable parts—I’d agree that the combination of scenery and flavors makes it truly special.

This tour offers a genuinely enjoyable, well-rounded way to experience Italy’s hillside treasures without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. If you’re after a day of indulgence, education, and unforgettable views, it might be just what you need.