A Close-Up Look at the Pic nic Deluxe Assisi and Wine Tasting Tour
This tour offers a charming blend of wine tasting, scenic walking, and a delicious picnic, all set against the backdrop of Assisi’s beautiful landscape. For about $50 per person and lasting roughly 2.5 hours, you visit a family-run winery just a short walk from Saint Francis’s Basilica, exploring five wines while enjoying a local produce picnic in the vineyards.
What we really love about this experience is the chance to trek through lush green vineyards with a knowledgeable guide, gaining insights into Umbrian viticulture while soaking up panoramic views of Assisi. Plus, the comprehensive tasting and the delicious picnic under the veranda make the tour feel both relaxed and indulgent.
A small drawback? The self-guided portion of the walk can get muddy after rain, which might be a minor inconvenience if weather’s less than perfect. Otherwise, this tour is ideally suited for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers who enjoy authentic, hands-on experiences with a touch of local charm.
If you’re after a personalized, intimate outing that combines nature, history, and gastronomy, then this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially appealing to those seeking stunning views and a relaxed pace outside the busy tourist spots.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Family Winery: Run by the Mencarelli family, the winery has been producing wine and olive oil for decades.
- Scenic Walks: Trek through vineyards with panoramic views of Assisi, ideal for lovers of nature and photography.
- Expert Guided Tasting: Learn about Umbrian wines and viticulture in an engaging, informal setting.
- Delicious Picnic: Enjoy a variety of local goodies paired with a glass of wine, with plenty of food and drink included.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
- Ideal for Food & Wine Enthusiasts: Authentic, local flavors paired with stunning scenery make this a memorable outing.
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A Complete Look at the Experience
Location and Accessibility
The tour begins at SAIO Wine Shop in Assisi, just 800 meters from the Basilica of Saint Francis, making it easy to incorporate into a day exploring Assisi’s UNESCO world heritage sites. Whether you’re arriving from Perugia or Foligno, the winery is accessible via main roads, and directions are clear for those planning their route.
What the Tour Includes
At its core, this experience centers on a guided wine tasting of five distinctive wines. The guides seem well-versed and friendly, with reviews praising their knowledge and hospitality. As you walk through the deep green vineyards, you’ll find informative boards explaining wine production and viticulture, helping you understand what makes Umbrian wines unique.
Following the walk, you’ll settle under a veranda with sweeping views of Assisi, where a picnic basket awaits. This includes a bottle of SAIO wine of your choice, Perugia bread with extra virgin olive oil, pecorino cheese, cured meats from the Subasio Mountains, Torta al Testo (a salty cheese bread), and Umbrian cookies. All necessary plates, glasses, and cutlery are provided, making this a hassle-free outdoor feast.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Vineyard Walk
The walk through the vineyards is a highlight — expect blue skies, ripe grapes, and centuries-old oak trees. Several reviews mention how spectacular the views are, especially the panoramic vistas of Assisi from the picnic spot. Some reviewers, like Humberto, described the experience as “incredible,” and appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and informative commentary from guides such as Agnese.
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The Wine Tasting
Sampling five wines allows a broad appreciation of Umbrian varieties. Reviewers frequently highlight the quality of the wines, with Kelli calling it “the best winery visit we’ve ever had.” The host’s knowledgeable explanations make the tasting educational as well as enjoyable.
The Picnic Experience
The picnic isn’t just a snack; it’s a well-curated spread of local products, complemented by a glass of wine. Reviews commend the generous portions and high-quality ingredients. Jack, for example, praised the “delicious” picnic and the “very kind and knowledgeable” host who made the experience special.
Weather and Practicalities
The tour is mostly outdoors, so weather can influence your experience. On rainy days, as one reviewer pointed out, the picnic and tasting are moved inside the wine tasting room, which still retains the charm but loses some of the outdoor ambiance. The self-guided vineyard walk can become muddy if recent rains have fallen, so a good pair of shoes is recommended.
Who Would Enjoy This?
This experience is best suited for travelers who value authentic local wineries, scenic walks, and delicious regional cuisine. It’s especially appealing for foodies and wine enthusiasts who appreciate learning about viticulture in a relaxed setting. The small group size makes it ideal for those who prefer intimate interactions rather than large tours.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At just over $50, the tour packs in wine tasting, a scenic vineyard walk, and a hearty picnic — all in less than three hours. The inclusion of five wines and a bottle of your chosen wine for each couple adds significant value, especially considering the quality and the personalized experience.
Reviewers consistently mention the generosity of portions and the friendly, knowledgeable guides, which elevate this from a simple tasting into a memorable local experience. The stunning views of Assisi from the vineyards make it more than just a wine tasting; it’s a visual and gustatory journey.
Additional tips:
- Book in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak season (April-October).
- If you plan to walk from Assisi town, be prepared for some unpaved, muddy paths after rain, and consider taking a taxi if you’re not comfortable with walking.
- The tour is in English and Italian, so feel free to ask questions and engage with your guides.
- Weather considerations mean it’s best to aim for a clear, sunny day for the full outdoor experience.
Final Thoughts
This Pic nic Deluxe Assisi and Wine Tasting offers a delightful taste of Umbrian winemaking tradition paired with stunning views of Assisi. The combination of guided tasting, vineyard walk, and a hearty picnic ensures you get an authentic, relaxed, and delicious experience.
It’s perfect for those who love learning about wine, enjoying great scenery, and savoring local foods in a friendly setting. The small-group atmosphere and the personal touch from the Mencarelli family make it stand out from larger, more generic tours.
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Umbria, combined with beautiful landscapes and excellent wines, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to bring your curiosity and a good pair of shoes — the views are worth every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, the focus is on tasting five wines, but you can choose your preferred bottle of wine included in the picnic. If you prefer not to drink alcohol, you can still enjoy the scenic walk and delicious regional food.
How long does the wine tasting last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including the vineyard walk and picnic.
What’s included in the picnic?
You’ll receive a picnic basket with a bottle of SAIO wine of your choice, water, Perugia bread with olive oil, pecorino cheese, cured meats from the Subasio Mountains, Torta al Testo, and Umbrian cookies.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during peak months. You can reserve through the provider’s website or booking platforms like GetYourGuide.
What if it rains?
In bad weather, the tasting and picnic are moved indoors to the wine tasting room. The vineyard walk might be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear.
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The experience is designed for adults, with wine tasting as the main activity. Children might enjoy the scenic walk and outdoor setting but should be supervised.
Can I join if I am staying in Perugia?
Yes, the winery is accessible from Perugia, just a short drive or bus ride. Check directions; the winery is about 9 km from Perugia.
Is the walk difficult?
The vineyard walk is generally easy but can be muddy after rain. Shoes with good grip are recommended.
What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak Italian and English, making it accessible for international visitors.
Can I customize or extend the experience?
Reservations are typically for the scheduled tour. For special requests or longer tastings, contact SAIO directly outside of regular hours.
This tour strikes a fine balance between educational insight, scenic beauty, and culinary delight — a perfect way to savor a slice of Umbrian life outside the hustle of tourist hotspots. If you’re after an authentic, relaxed, and tasty experience near Assisi, it’s well worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wine Tours in Assisi
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