What to Do in Italy's Prosecco Region—Beyond the Wine

Folded into the hills of the Veneto, in Italy’s northwest, the Prosecco region has been producing sparkling wine for centuries. Within easy reach of Venice, its terraced vineyards are encircled by hiking trails, and, amid this Unesco-listed landscape, you’ll find a wealth of excellent restaurants serving local specialities. Try hearty polenta with rabbit, and padellino (pan) pizza topped with cheese and cured meats from the nearby mountains of the Alto Adige. It’s a region worth lingering in, with idyllic riverside treks, boutique bottle shops and some grand hilltop hotels with valley and vineyard views.

What to Do

La Fiadora

A historic waterway that lines the walking route between Follina and Valmareno, below CastelBrando, La Fiadora was the powerhouse behind Follina’s once-thriving wool industry. As you walk, look out for the Grotto of the Madonna, a little shrine tucked under the trees.

Castello di Collalto, Susegana

These 12th-century castle ruins, neighbouring church and bell tower, are an atmospheric stop on the walk from Susegana. Check out the remnants of a medieval washing spot in the nearby river, too.

Molinetto della Croda, Refrontolo

This 17th-century mill, set on a riverbank by a pretty waterfall in the hilltop hamlet of Refrontolo, has been meticulously restored — transporting you back to the days when Prosecco was a humble agricultural region rather than a world-renowned bubbly powerhouse. The interior features seasonally changing exhibitions and, if you’re lucky, you might even see the mill in action, grinding corn for polenta.

Prosecco Hills Trail

Officially called the Cammino delle Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene, this 32-mile, moderate-difficulty hiking trail, running from Vidor to Vittorio Veneto, provides a linear route through the vineyard region. Information plaques about local terroir and winemaking line the way. Allow at least four days to complete. 

(This Multi-Day Hike Takes in Sparkling Views of Italy's Prosecco Hills.)

Where to Eat

Corte del Medà

Descend two floors into a cellar below the streets of Pieve di Soligo to find soft strands of tagliatelle turned out by the talented chef and hearty, herby rabbit served on mounds of polenta. The wine list features pours from a variety of prosecco producers, including Cal Monda.

Ristoro Collagù

Between Pieve di Soligo and Follina, this unpretentious, romantic spot serves simple plates on red-and-white checkerboard tablecloths. The family’s own homemade salami and Sopressa are accompanied by their col fondo-style prosecco wines.

De Ricardo

For a true local hangout in the heart of Valdobbiadene — and a break from all the local fizz — head to this popular craft beer bar. Old barrels are used as tables, quirky street art lines the walls and the food is simple, with sharing platters of cured meats and cheese or sandwiches.

Where to Stay

Municipio 1815, San Pietro di Barbozza

With a plum position overlooking valleys around Valdobbiadene, this is a dreamy hotel base for walkers who want to strike out to the plethora of local wineries — the closest is right next door. Gourmet breakfasts served on the sunny terrace kick-start your day. From €211 (£181), B&B.

Hotel CastelBrando, Cison dal Valmarino

It’s not every day that you get to stay in one of Europe’s largest, oldest castles, at the foot of the Alps. Despite CastelBrando’s singular location, rooms are good value, and two restaurants cater to different price points. The vast spa is worth a full afternoon. From €149 (£127).

Hotel Conta, Pieve di Soligo

Homely and friendly, this hotel just off the main square of Pieve di Soligo has a bar area where you can taste an impressive selection of local prosecco. Some rooms come with a separate lounge area containing a sofa bed, making them handy if you’re travelling as a family. From €90 (£77).

Where to Shop

La Bottega del Prosecco, Valdobbiadene

This prosecco shop in the heart of Valdobbiadene has plenty to choose from, including bottles from small, organic vineyards.

Dolci Sinfonie, Pieve di Soligo

What’s an Italian trip without gelato? This ice cream shop in the town square of Pieve di Soligo is the locals’ favourite. Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 34.

L’Osteria Senz’Oste, Valdobbiadene

A gimmick signifying the ultimate commercialisation of prosecco — or just a bit of fun? However you view it, this vending machine selling bottles of prosecco just outside San Pietro di Barbozza is a popular spot.