Looking for unforgettable things to do during your stay? These are some of our favourite local experiences around Villa Gioiella and Lake Trasimeno, together with a few we’re looking forward to discovering ourselves. From boutique wineries and artisan food producers to kayaking, cycling and truffle hunting, we’ll keep adding new recommendations as we continue exploring this wonderful corner of Umbria and southern Tuscany.
Wineries and Wine Tasting Around Villa Gioiella
Madrevite
One of our favourite local wineries, offering exceptional natural wines, guided tastings and beautiful vineyard views. During the warmer months, don’t miss their popular weekend vineyard picnics and relaxed sunset aperitivo experiences.
Podere Marella
A small family-run organic winery producing elegant wines with a focus on sustainability. Enjoy a personal tasting in peaceful countryside surroundings.
Cantina De’ Ricci
Step beneath the streets of Montepulciano to explore spectacular historic underground cellars carved into the rock. A fascinating blend of history, architecture and Vino Nobile tasting.
Cantina Gattavecchi
One of Montepulciano’s oldest wineries, combining centuries of winemaking tradition with beautiful vaulted cellars and excellent Vino Nobile tastings.
Santa Mustiola
An award-winning boutique winery overlooking nearby Lake Chiusi, producing distinctive wines using traditional, low-intervention methods in a wonderfully peaceful setting.
In-Villa Foodie Experiences
Learn the secrets of authentic Italian cooking from our local chef Jimmy using fresh, seasonal ingredients. From handmade pasta and traditional sauces to classic Tuscan and Umbrian dishes, it’s an experience that’s as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Treat yourself to a relaxed evening at Villa Gioiella while a private chef prepares a delicious meal in the comfort of the villa. Simply sit back, pour a glass of local wine and enjoy a memorable dining experience with family or friends.
Explore the Umbria-Tuscany Border
Adventures on Wheels and Legs Near Lake Trasimeno
Explore Lake Trasimeno and the surrounding countryside by bike or e-bike, with guided rides and bespoke cycling experiences suitable for all abilities.
🌐 E/Bike Hire or E/Bike Hire
For a bit more voom, explore hidden tracks, vineyards and rolling Umbrian countryside on a guided quad bike adventure, or hire bikes and boats to discover the lake at your own pace.
Join a local guide for leisurely walks through woodland, olive groves and the beautiful landscapes surrounding Lake Trasimeno, discovering nature, history and hidden corners along the way.
🌐 Hiking
Horse Riding
Discover the Umbrian countryside from the saddle, following peaceful tracks through vineyards, olive groves and woodland. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider, it’s a wonderfully relaxing way to explore the landscape.
Water Sport Lake Trasimeno
Discover Lake Trasimeno from the water with kayak, paddleboard and windsurf hire, as well as e-bikes, guided adventures and family-friendly outdoor activities.
🌐 Sailing
🏖️ Swim
🌊 Lake Trasimeno Beaches
Castiglione del Lago Beach (La Spiaggia / Café Il Pescatore Praia)
Spend a relaxed afternoon by the lake with swimming, sun loungers, paddleboards and lakeside aperitivo at Café Il Pescatore Praia. One of our favourite places to unwind on a warm summer evening.
🌅 Lido di Tuoro
A lovely lakeside beach with calm, shallow water that’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding or simply relaxing in the sun. Afterwards, wander over to Ciao Ciao for a leisurely lunch, an afternoon gelato or an aperitivo overlooking the lake. It’s also a disco! One of those places where it’s easy to lose track of time.
🌿 Passignano sul Trasimeno
Swim from the lakeside promenade, hire a kayak or simply enjoy an aperitivo overlooking the water before watching the sunset over the lake.
♨️ Thermal Spa Days
Swap sightseeing for a day of complete relaxation. Float in naturally warm, mineral-rich thermal pools, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply unwind while looking across the Tuscan hills. Theia Thermal Pools in Chianciano Terme are ideal for families and couples alike.
It’s also worth noting that they hold Theia by Night on many Saturday evenings during the warmer months, where you can soak in the illuminated thermal pools until midnight.
Theia Thermal Pools, Chianciano Terme
💦 Water Parks
Tavernelle Acquapark
A fun day out for families with slides, pools, splash areas and plenty of space to relax.
Laguna Park
A smaller family water park that’s ideal for younger children looking to cool off during the hottest summer days.
Seasonal Events
Some of our favourite memories have come from stumbling across a village festa we hadn’t planned to visit. One weekend it might be a wine festival, the next a medieval parade, flower festival or long-table dinner in a historic piazza. They’re a wonderful way to experience the traditions, food and warm hospitality that make this corner of Italy so special.
For upcoming events during your stay, take a look at the links below. Also keep an eye out as posters will announce the locations and celebrations.
Umbria Culinary Trails
🍄 Truffle Hunting In Umbria
Head into the Umbrian woods with an experienced truffle hunter and their dog, then enjoy tasting your freshly found truffles in a memorable farm-to-table experience.
🫒 Olive Oil Tasting in Umbria
Just a few minutes from Villa Gioiella, visit a traditional olive mill to discover how extra-virgin olive oil is produced, enjoy guided tastings and stock up on local favourites.
🌐 Cooperativa Oleificio Pozzuolese
🧀 Cheese Tasting in Umbria
Discover the famous Pecorino di Pienza at this family-run cheese producer, where artisan cheesemaking has been passed down through generations. Enjoy a guided tasting of beautifully aged pecorinos, local accompaniments and Rosso di Montepulciano while learning about the traditional methods that make these cheeses so special. If you’re travelling as a smaller group, their picnic experience is a wonderful alternative.
Just a couple of minutes from Villa Gioiella, this small artisan producer is a lovely place to discover locally made cheeses crafted using traditional methods. It’s one of those authentic local businesses that we’re looking forward to getting to know even better.