Walking the Prosecco Hills

Name: Walking the Prosecco Hills
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.7 (48 reviews)

Expert Local Guides

Award Winning Adventures

Citizen Science Departures available

Nature First Adventures

8 Days from

CAD 2,775

incl. Taxes

4.7/5 from

Walking & Trekking

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Walking & Trekking

Activity Levels :

2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate

Group Size :

5 - 16

Ages :

18+

Trip Code :

TDH

Discover one of the oldest wine regions in Italy

Just an hour’s drive north of Venice, in the foothills of the Dolomites, is one of the best, though largely undiscovered, wine regions in the world. Here ancient terraced vineyards clinging to the sides of every possible slope are dedicated exclusively to grapes for Italy’s most prized sparkling wine: prosecco. Based in an elegant hotel, located in the heart of the so-called Prosecco Road – the oldest wine route in Italy – we spend a week walking through rolling hills and sampling regional cuisine and sipping bubbly. We also visit charming medieval villages such as Cison, Follina, Asolo, plus the beautiful capital province of Treviso.

This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.

Highlights

Enjoy quiet trails away from the crowds
Taste authentic Italian prosecco and visit local producers
Explore medieval villages and Treviso
Stay in a comfortable hotel set in a picturesque location
Citizen Science departures available on this trip

Key Information

Seven nights at a four-star hotel, all rooms en suite
Five days centre-based walking and sightseeing; one free day
Group normally four to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18 years old
Altitude maximum 5,151ft (1,570m); average 1,969ft (600m)
Well-marked trails and paths
Travel by private air-conditioned minibus

Countries visited: Italy

What's Included

All breakfasts, four lunches, two dinners and two wine tastings
All accommodation

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas and vaccinations

5 Days of Walking & Trekking

Pace:

Leisurely; during the day we walk for three to six hours (including lunch and photo stops).

Terrain:

The terrain and type of path will vary from man made paved tracks and tarmac to forest trails and dirt roads.

Day 2

7 km / 4.3 miles

Day 3

10 km / 6.2 miles

Day 4

7 km / 4.3 miles

Day 5

12 km / 7.5 miles

Day 7

7 km / 4.3 miles

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural and social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally-owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprise.
With a strong emphasis on the area’s delicious cuisine and authentic bubbles, culture and history this trip provides plenty of opportunities to visit various local wineries, cultural sites and museums. Our visits to these sites will benefit the locals and contributes to the preservation of their cultural assets through the money spent on entrance fees and other purchases made within the area.
Our clients will have the opportunity to visit a local winery and to learn more about how the Prosecco wine is made.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste. For example, we encourage eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead encourage clients to take a refillable water bottle with them on the tour.
By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment. For example, we don’t just stay in busy cities during the itinerary and venture to more remote locations
During the trip, we visit the UNESCO Palladian Villa Barbaro. Our entrance fees directly contribute to the upkeep & conservation of this UENSCO site.
Some departures of this trip provide the opportunity for you to collect water samples for the International eBioAtlas initiative which collects vital DNA information to assist in essential conservation initiatives.
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us and the eBioAtlas.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally-sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
This trip favours locally-owned and run accommodation.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
Take the train: Consider taking the train to this trip. Not only will it significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your holiday vs. flying, it also extends your adventure! Read more about which train journeys we can book, or how to book your own, here.

Walk the Prosecco Hills with Vania de Paoli

Join Exodus Tour Leader Vania de Paoli as she guides you on an amazing walk through the rolling hills and vineyards in the heart of the Prosecco Hills.

Recommended Trips

Walking the Prosecco Hills

Itinerary

The trip starts in Pieve di Soligo, a small village in the heart of the Prosecco Hills, approximately 37mi (60km) north of Venice. The area is picturesque, with lush vineyards covering the slopes of every possible hill, and old churches, abbeys, villas and ancient castles dotting the landscape. Prosecco has been produced here for centuries, but only more recently, thanks to the surge in its popularity worldwide, has the area captured a deserved spotlight. Nevertheless, relatively few tourists visit this wine region each year, making it an ideal location for a week of walking, wine tasting and cultural discovery. Depending on the group arrival time, there might be some time for a quick orientation walk near our hotel.

Meals Included: Dinner

This morning we transfer to the pretty town of Cison di Valmarino, one of the best-preserved villages in the Prosecco area, containing historic monuments and buildings that reveal its past role as a major feudal estate. The gentle walk follows a waterway, crossing tranquil woodlands, and passing by the ancient manor and fortress of Castelbrando, which offers panoramic views over the farmland and villages far below. The walk ends in Follina, best-known for the Cistercian monastery of Santa Maria, a mystical site enclosing one of most beautiful cloisters in Italy. The monks were the first to give a boost to the development of the textile sector in this area, weaving wool here from the Middle Ages onwards. In the afternoon we return to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free to relax in the village or you may decide to take an optional short walk along the picturesque river banks near our hotel.

Ascent: 971ft (296m); descent: 853ft (260m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today's walk takes us to the heartland of the Prosecco Hills, namely Valdobbiadene, San Pietro di Barbozza and San Stefano. The majority of the winemakers are based right here, among the steep terraced hills, which are arguably the prettiest in the Veneto region. Our walk follows a mix of human-made tracks and paths twisting through the vineyards, and offers spectacular views of the fertile landscape and hillside hamlets. During the walk we will have the opportunity to visit one of the top local prosecco producers, whose wine-making expertise goes back for generations in the family. After a general introduction to the winery and its history, we can sample different varieties of prosecco during a guided wine-tasting (included). We return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Ascent: 1,312ft (400m); descent: 1,312ft (400m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning we transfer to the pretty capital province of Treviso, a hidden gem often overlooked and perhaps overshadowed by neighbouring Venice. Rebuilt and restored after being bombed during the second world war, the town centre is a maze of streets lined with arcaded walkways. The town is circled by a pretty wall and by waterways, which add to its picturesque and elegant style. After a walking tour of the town centre accompanied by a local guide, we enjoy free time to wander at our own pace and have lunch (tiramisu was apparently invented in this city). In the afternoon, we leave the walls of Treviso behind and follow the water flow of the Sile, the longest river of resurgent waters in Europe. This tranquil route through a nature reserve offers the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna and brings to light many evidences of the age-old relationship between humans and this river. Return to the hotel in the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a short private transfer we reach another gem of the Prosecco area and the start point of today's walk: Villa Barbaro in Maser. The Unesco-protected villa is one of the masterpieces of the Italian architect Andrea Palladio (1508-80). It is situated in the middle of a flourishing privately owned estate, and six of its rooms adorned by beautiful frescos are open to the public. After a short visit, we set off for our walk, starting with a climb to Monte San Giorgio, overlooking the villa. The route will then veer west, following one of the original frontlines used during the first world war. The war affected most of this area and many other towns around the Prosecco Hills. During the walk we see the evidence and memorials to epic deeds. Our end point is the elegant hill-top town of Asolo, known as the Pearl of the Treviso Province, for its beautiful setting and charming historic centre. Enjoy free time and return to Pieve di Soligo for dinner.

Ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,378ft (420m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Free day to visit the lovely town of Conegliano (the other major centre of Prosecco production and wine studies), or take a day-trip to the one and only Venice (only a short train ride away).

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our final walk takes us above the Prosecco Hills, to Mount Cesen, a rounded, grassy mountain, and the highest in the Venetian Prealps. Rising just above the Piave River at an altitude of 5,151ft (1,570m), it offers a stunning panorama; popular walking trails that cross mountain pastures; meadows; and a landscape that differs completely to the one we explored earlier in the week. On a clear day, the views can stretch as far as the eastern Alps, Dolomites and Venice. In the evening, we tuck into a farewell dinner in one of the best local restaurants, enjoying a panorama of the Prosecco Hills as we eat.

If the weather conditions are good, and the skies are clear, the group will have the option to go on a longer walk (distance: 4.8mi/8km; ascent: 1,476ft/450m; descent: 1,476ft/450m, maximum altitude: 4,613ft/1,406m).

Ascent: 951ft (290m); descent: 951ft (290m)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You’ve walked and sipped your way through one of the most picturesque wine regions in Italy. Now, however, it’s time for a final breakfast, before beginning your journey home. Of course, if you’d like to explore a little more, you can speak to your sales consultant and arrange a longer stay in the hotel, which may feel a little like home by now.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Essential Info

Visa

Italy

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html

Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.

Vaccination

There are no required vaccinations for this trip.

Eating and Drinking

The trip includes all breakfasts, four lunches, two dinners and two wine tastings.

The food in Prosecco has strong links to ancient traditions and uses mainly seasonal products grown in the area. It is typical country cooking and makes great use of garden vegetables, herbs, wild berries, wild mushrooms, asparagus, game and cheeses. For breakfast, the hotel offers a large selection of cereals, fruit, homemade cakes, cheese and cold meats, along with tea and coffee. Packed lunches are normally provided for the walks, and usually consist of a sandwich with a fruit and a snack. During the week there will be opportunities to try some of the best local restaurants, which offer authentic cuisine and delicious homemade dishes such as spiedo (spit-roasted meat), wild mushroom risotto, gnocchi, cured meats and cheeses, all washed down with quality prosecco.

Weather

During March, April and May, Treviso province and the area around the Prosecco Hills warms up quickly after the normally cold winter. Temperatures rise from 8C (46F) in March to 20C (68F) on average by the end of May, although nights are always cooler. Spring is a little rainy at times, with between five and eight days of rain a month – nothing an umbrella can’t cope with. In September and October, temperatures are still very pleasant for walking, however occasional summer storms with heavy rain and strong winds do occur. Take layered clothing to adjust to the changing temperatures, and something warm for the cooler evenings.

Is this trip for you?

Activity Level 2: (Leisurely/Moderate). Each day, we walk for three to six hours (excluding the free day).

The terrain and path type will vary from paved tracks, to forest trails and dirt roads. The walks are easy, but a reasonable level of fitness is required as there are some steep ascents, and descents. Please be aware that the province of Treviso can also be very warm, possibly reaching 30C (86F) between June and September. Walking hours stated in the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group. Some of the drives, although short, follow twisty mountain roads.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Lisa Zed

Reviewed September 2022

A new appreciation for Prosecco

We had the most amazing week traipsing through the Prosecco Hills. Our guide , Vania, was happy to share her wealth of knowledge of the landscape as well as Prosecco. Vania made sure we were well looked after and kept us entertained with her wonderful personality. The Hotel Conta was ideal for the trip and the staff were super friendly . I would not hesitate in recommending this trip to anyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

The vistas were beautiful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

She was the best !

Suggestions

I would recommend Vania for best guide. She absolutely has the best person for guiding. A great personality with lots of energy, knowledge and sense of fun ! We could not have enjoyed her more.

Peter Jones

Reviewed May 2022

Great walking, excellent refreshment, star guide!

Gillian and I had a great week enjoying the walking, spectacular views, brilliant wild flowers and varied wines (both Prosecco and some very good local red wines) in the beautiful Prosecco Hills and Pre-Alps, led by the enthusiastic and ebullient Vania de Paoli. It was hotter than expected for the second half of May, making some of the unshaded uphill sections quite taxing, but Vania timed the breaks to ensure that everyone in our varied and convivial group was able (literally!) to take the walks in their stride. A very good way to get back into the swing of foreign holidays after two difficult years.

Most Inspirational Moment

The final day's walk in the Pre-Alps, starting at over 1000 metres, combined great views with wild narcissi, asfodel, orchids and many other spring flowers, in more comfortable temperatures than earlier in the week because of the altitude. And Vania topped it off by producing two bottles of Prosecco at the highest point! Outside the main programme, Vania also organised a wine and food tasting menu for us at the restaurant a few metres from the Hotel. Four courses and five red wines, all made within 15 km of the hotel and two of them particularly good, for Eur40 per head - exceptional value!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic! Nothing was too much trouble for Vania - and she was great fun with it!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring walking poles and make sure you know how to use them. The walks are not particularly long but they merit the Leisurely/Moderate grading because there is significant ascent and descent, some of it sustained and on steep and rather loose paths.

Suggestions

This was our third trip with Exodus and we certainly hope to do another one.

June Egglestone

Reviewed May 2022

Perfect trip

Good food and wine all week, and great walking, what more can you ask for?

Most Inspirational Moment

Reviewed September 2019

Prosecco Hills

This was our second Exodus walking holiday, having walked in the Amalfi last year. We had a fabulous week exploring an area completely new to us. The Prosecco Hills are truly beautiful – rolling hills backed by the Pre Alps and the Dolomites – stunning! Our group was made up of a great bunch of people who were a lot of fun to spend the week with. A highlight was finding out that Vania was going to be our leader for the week, having first met her in the Amalfi when she was training there. Vania is a lovely leader – thoughtful, fun and was aware of everyone’s needs at all times – during the walks, in the restaurants when ordering food etc. Naturally, prosecco featured strongly during the week and we almost felt like experts by the end of the week!

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many inspirational moments during our trip - the walk on the last day to Mt Cesen was stunning, as was the beautiful restaurant on the final night. The walk through the vineyards on a very hot day and then finding a prosecco vending machine at our lovely lunch stop was both fun and welcome! Tasting tiramisu in Treviso was a treat. Visiting the family vineyard was great and informative and having the opportunity to revisit Venice on our free day was fantastic.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Vania was an excellent group leader. She was knowledgeable, easy going, caring, smiling and patient - lovely to be around.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take layers - although for 6 out of the 7 days we had lovely, warm weather, one day we had rain and thunder so options clothes-wise are essential. In our opinion, this level of walking is not hard-core. There are some strenuous parts, so you can feel challenged at times, but there are also plenty of breaks, so as long as you are reasonably fit you should be absolutely fine.

Suggestions

Don't hesitate to book! If you love the beautiful outdoors and enjoy other people's company, you are bound to have a great time with other like-minded people.

Sarah Davey

Reviewed September 2019

Prosecco Hills

Vania was the most amazing guide by providing us with the most amazing walks, tailored to everyone’s needs. She went above and beyond what was expected of her even on her day and week off afterwards.
The only reason I didn’t give excellent was because the hotel let you down. With it closing for refurbishment, a lot of facilities were not available like the restaurant and the rooms were shabby and some items were not working. IE. The safe and shower in my room.

Most Inspirational Moment

The walks on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Thoughts on Group Leader

She is the best. Warm, kind, thoughtful, very social, accommodating, and goes beyond the call if duty. I went specifically on this trip, that week to walk again with Vania. I walked with her in Amalfi last year.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Choose a trip with Vania.

Read All Reviews

Covid-19 refund commitment

You will get a refund if you have to cancel your trip due to COVID-19.

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This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.

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