Franciacorta has an ancient and fascinating history, it is a unique region with multiple variations. An Italian excellence where wine has always played a leading role.
In the heart of Northern Italy
Franciacorta: lakes and islands
Franciacorta:
lakes and islands
TRADITIONAL FOOD SPECIALTIES: Casoncelli alla Bresciana (pasta stuffed with breadcrumbs and cheese), beef in oil, baked tench, skewered, dried sardines from Monteisola, cured meats and cheese.
WINES: Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco, Erbamat
MUST DO’S: A boat ride on Lake Iseo and a stop in Monteisola, take part in Franciacorta Festival which takes place every year in September with guided tours, tastings and special events (tours and picnics in the vineyards, bike rides).
RECOMMENDED READS:
- Iseo – Franciacorta: Places and Recipes, by Massimo Ghidelli
Where is Franciacorta?
Franciacorta is in the Brescia area in Lombardy, between Lake Iseo and the Milan-Brescia motorway. It covers just 20,000 hectares with a very high winemaking density and counts over 100 cellars.
It’s the land where the most aristocratic sparkling wine in Italy “Franciacorta” is made and is named after. Here Italy competes with France for the supremacy of brut: one of Made in Italy’s excellences.
The hilly landscape is covered by vineyards, small villages, castles, abbeys and patrician palaces… and of course by many cellars.
Franciacorta: heaven for wine lovers
Overlooking the shores of Lake Iseo, it’s one of wine tourists’ most loved Italian destinations. The beginning of autumn is the best time to discover this extraordinary land, along Strada del Franciacorta (Franciacorta road) which winds through the hills through vineyards and cellars, driving, hiking or by bike.
BEST TIME TO GO: Just after the harvest, from the end of summer to the beginning of autumn, when the landscape gives its best and Franciacorta Festival takes place.
HOW TO GET THERE: Franciacorta is in the heart of Lombardy, 85 km from Milan by motorway, 75 km from Lecco, 35 km from Bergamo, 90 km from Verona. The region can be reached by Trenord regional trains (Iseo and Rovato stops) and by plane via Bergamo Orio al Serio airport (about 30 km).
HOW TO GET AROUND: Driving, by motorbike or bycicle.
WHERE TO STAY: Franciacorta has a wide range of hotels, B&Bs, apartments and campsites. Distances are limited so there’s no specific place to prefer but advanced booking is highly recommended for stays between the end of August and the beginning of October as this is the most requested time of the year.
HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY: This is the ideal destination for a weekend.
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