A tour between culture and taste: Varese and its Holy Mount

A tour between culture and taste: Varese and its Holy Mount

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines art, history, and breathtaking scenery, this private tour of Varese and its Holy Mount offers a charming window into northern Italy’s lesser-known treasures. For around $650 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring two very different yet equally captivating sites—the elegant Estense Palace and Gardens and the Romanesque Sacro Monte—with your own guide leading the way.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized attention from a private guide transforms what could feel like a rushed group tour into a tailored journey that highlights your interests. Second, the blend of cultural learning and tasting local specialties—from historic palaces to herbal liqueurs—adds layers of authentic Italian flavor that visitors truly appreciate.

A potential consideration might be the seven-hour duration, which is quite full and requires some degree of physical mobility, especially when walking along the cobbled paths of Sacro Monte. But if you’re eager for a comprehensive look at Varese’s aristocratic past and spiritual sites, this tour fits the bill.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenery, and local culinary experiences—those with a curiosity for Italy’s aristocratic estates and spiritual traditions, as well as a taste for discovering hidden gems beyond Milan’s busy streets.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private guide ensures a tailored and engaging visit.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore a baroque palace and the sacred Romanesque monastery.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning vistas from the Holy Mount overlooking the landscape.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample a local liqueur, Borducan, with cake, and a sweet from a historic café.
• Flexible Schedule: Multiple departure times help fit the tour into your day.
• Value for Money: Combining sightseeing, tastings, and personal attention in one package.

Exploring Varese’s Palatial Past

Our journey begins in Piazza Monte Grappa, where your private guide will meet you, ready to share the fascinating stories behind Varese’s Estense Palace and Gardens. Built in a Lombard “Barocchetto” style with Neoclassical influences, this mansion was originally a leisure residence for Francesco III D’Este, Duke of Modena and Reggio Emilia. We loved the way the palace’s architecture reflects a blend of regional styles, hinting at the aristocratic leisure life of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The gardens, redesigned by Carlo Pellegrini Robbioni in 1837, showcase English romantic landscaping, with winding paths and lush greenery that invite wandering and reflection. The fact that the palace is now open to the public thanks to Varese’s city hall means we can appreciate its elegant architecture and gardens firsthand, free of charge. Expect about 45 minutes here, perfect for savoring the details without feeling rushed.

This visit isn’t just about seeing a beautiful building; it’s about understanding Varese’s role as a noble retreat and how the aristocracy shaped this landscape. We enjoyed the chance to ask our guide questions about the building’s history and the families who once called it home.

The Sacred Heart of Varese: Sacro Monte Unesco

After the palace visit, we head to Santa Maria del Monte, a small village perched on the Holy Mount. Here, the Romanesque monastery has been a site of pilgrimage since the 11th century, transformed and expanded over the centuries. The reconstructed 14 chapels, built along the cobbled path in the 17th century, are a highlight—each one beautifully integrated into the landscape and representing the Mysteries of the Rosary.

The artistic and spiritual significance of Sacro Monte is undeniable. As you walk along the hillside, you’ll pass chapels decorated with religious imagery, and from the summit, the panoramic views stretch across the surrounding lakes and mountains, with Milan visible on clear days. Our guide, Giuseppe (though not explicitly named), shared details about the project’s history and its importance as a place of devotion.

Expect about three hours at Sacro Monte, which gives enough time for a leisurely walk, some photos, and soaking in the serenity of the site. The experience is enhanced by the guidance through the chapels, explaining their symbolism and history, making it more than just a scenic walk.

Tastings and Authentic Flavors

A highlight of the tour is the chance to sample local flavors. In a historic café, we tasted Borducan, a traditional liqueur made from orange and herbs—a perfect way to taste the local craftsmanship. The liqueur was served with a slice of cake, allowing us to appreciate the balance of herbal and citrus notes.

Plus, the tour includes a snack of a typical local sweet, adding to the sensory experience. These tastings give you a glimpse into the region’s culinary traditions, making the cultural visit more personal and memorable.

Transportation and Practical Details

The tour includes private transportation, which means you avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting for public transit. This convenience allows you to enjoy the scenery without stress and ensures timely arrival at each site. Starting at 9:30 am from Piazza Monte Grappa, the schedule is flexible with multiple departure times, making it adaptable to your plans.

Since the tour is private, only your group will participate, allowing for a more intimate and flexible experience. This is especially helpful if you want to linger at certain points or ask extra questions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and those interested in local culture. If you’re curious about Italy’s aristocratic past or enjoy stunning vistas paired with spiritual sites, this trip delivers. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate personalized guidance and culinary tastings that add depth to your visit.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a comprehensive glimpse into Varese’s elegant past and spiritual traditions, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and taste. The private guide makes all the difference, providing insights that bring the sites to life and answering your questions along the way. The stunning views from Sacro Monte and the charm of the estate at Estense Palace** make for memorable moments, especially if you’re looking to escape the hustle of Milan and explore Italy’s quieter, more intimate side.

While the price might seem steep for some, the inclusion of transportation, tastings, and a private guide enhances the overall value. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a relaxed, tailored experience that captures the essence of Varese’s cultural and natural beauty.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers a private guide, transportation, entry tickets to both sites, tastings of a local liqueur and a sweet, and a visit to the Palace and Sacro Monte.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and tastings.

Can I join the tour at a different time?
Yes, multiple departure times are available, allowing you to choose what fits best into your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that walking along cobbled paths and the duration might require some mobility and stamina.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring additional snacks or plan to eat afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, especially at Sacro Monte’s cobbled paths. Dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the site is outdoors.

This private tour offers a thoughtful way to experience some of Italy’s lesser-known gems, blending art, history, and flavor into a day that’s both enriching and enjoyable. Perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection with the place beyond typical sightseeing.