Imagine a hilly landscape of gentle slopes, dotted with vineyards as far as the eye can see and ancient villages. You are in Franciacorta, a corner of Lombardy that enchants with its beauty, rich history, and, of course, its famous sparkling wines, celebrated worldwide for their elegance and quality. Whether you’re a wine lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a place to rejuvenate, you’ll find the perfect blend of beauty, culture, and sustainability here.
Exploring Franciacorta: A Journey Through Vineyards and Flavors
The best way to explore this incredible Lombard destination is undoubtedly through the Franciacorta Wine Route, which you can traverse by bike, on foot, or on horseback. This route, stretching for about 80 kilometers, will take you through centuries-old vineyards, renowned wineries, and picturesque villages. It’s a journey experienced not only with your eyes but with all your senses. The scents of the vineyards, the flavors of the wines and local products, and the sounds of nature accompanying you along the way.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the historic wineries, where the art of producing sparkling wine is cherished. Here you can discover the secrets of the classic method and taste the renowned Franciacorta DOCG. Each winery offers a unique experience, with guided tours that allow you to better understand the production techniques and appreciate the commitment to environmental sustainability that characterizes many local wine producers.
But how should you pair the exquisite Franciacorta bubbles? The gastronomic tradition of Franciacorta combines land and water. On one side, the strong flavors of country cuisine, with meats from the inland and artisanal cheeses produced in local dairies and on the province’s mountain pastures; on the other, the delicacy of lake cuisine, based on fresh fish caught directly from the nearby Lake Iseo. Notable local products include Curtefranca-flavored lard and Bagòss cheese.
Historical Villages and Natural Landscapes
But Franciacorta is not only about wine. The region boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, evidenced by the numerous castles, monasteries, and villages. The Monastery of San Pietro in Lamosa, for example, is a place of great charm, situated on a hill overlooking the Torbiere del Sebino, a nature reserve of rare beauty. This wetland area, with its water mirrors and reed beds, is perfect for a relaxing walk or a bike ride, especially appreciated by birdwatching enthusiasts.
A few kilometers away, you’ll find the Castello di Bornato, one of Franciacorta’s most fascinating historical residences. Set in a breathtaking landscape, the castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards. During the visit, you can discover the castle’s millennia-old history.
To fully experience the atmosphere of Franciacorta, visit the many local villages. Erbusco, Iseo, and Provaglio d’Iseo, for instance, offer a glimpse into the past with their cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and charming castles. In the village of Rodengo Saiano, you’ll find one of the most fascinating religious complexes in Northern Italy. The Olivetani Abbey of Saints Nicholas and Paul VI is an architectural gem surrounded by tranquility, housing important artistic masterpieces.
For nature lovers, a must-see is Monte Orfano, the highest peak in the area, offering numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. From its summit, you can enjoy a spectacular view of all of Franciacorta, which fully rewards the effort. Just a short distance from Franciacorta is the Lake Iseo, one of Lombardy’s most enchanting destinations. Enjoy a relaxing day by the shores of the lake, and you might want to consider taking a boat trip to Monte Isola, Italy’s largest lake island. The island is a car-free haven, offering opportunities for hiking, exploring picturesque villages, and savoring local dishes in charming restaurants.
Staying in Franciacorta: Three Eco-Friendly Lodges
To make your stay in Franciacorta even more special, we recommend three accommodations that perfectly embody the spirit of hospitality and sustainability.
- B&B Villa Luce. Located in the heart of Franciacorta, B&B Villa Luce offers an intimate and relaxing stay, surrounded by a spacious garden. The organic and local products served at breakfast enhance the experience of a sustainable and comfortable stay.
- Cascina Clarabella. This farmhouse features rooms furnished with natural materials and a cuisine that highlights local products. Most importantly, it is a place where environmental sustainability meets ethics and solidarity. The cooperative creates job opportunities for individuals with mental and physical disabilities.
- Agriturismo Ricci Curbastro. Set in a green environment, Agriturismo Ricci Curbastro offers comfortable accommodations, an on-site museum where you can explore the region’s agricultural history, and a well-stocked library. A stay here combines relaxation and culture in an ecological setting.
Agriturismo Ricci Curbastro in Franciacorta – Green Farm house in Capriolo, Brescia, Lombardia, IT 
