Nestled among the green hills of Verona’s province, the medieval village of Soave is a perfect destination for a day trip. Renowned for its wine, historic charm, and stunning castle, this little gem offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Step Back in Time: The Castle of Soave
The Scaliger Castle, towering above the village, is one of Soave’s main attractions. Built in the 10th century, it was expanded and fortified by the Scaliger family in the 14th century. Its strategic position provided protection and control over the surrounding valley.
Highlights of the Castle
•The crenelated walls: Well-preserved, they wind along the hillside and enclose the village.
•The keep (Mastio): The central tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the vineyards and countryside.
•The interiors: Admire period furnishings and medieval frescoes that tell stories of the past.
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk up to the castle involves cobblestone streets and slight inclines.
The Village of Soave: Wandering Through History
The medieval village, protected by the castle walls, is a charming labyrinth of narrow alleys, stone houses, and picturesque views. As you stroll through Soave, don’t miss:
•San Lorenzo Martire Church: Featuring a Gothic-style bell tower and a serene atmosphere.
•Porta Verona and Porta Aquila: The ancient gateways that reflect the village’s defensive past.
•Artisan shops: Perfect for finding unique souvenirs and local products.
Soave and Its Wine: An Unbreakable Bond
Soave is world-famous for its white wine, the Soave DOC. Made primarily from Garganega grapes, this wine is fresh, floral, and versatile—an ideal pairing for local dishes like risotto and seafood.
Recommended Wineries
1.Coffele Winery: A fully immersive experience among the vineyards, offering tastings of premium wines.
2.Pieropan Winery: A historic family estate blending tradition and innovation.
3.Balestri Valda: Ideal for those who love organic wines and spectacular valley views.
🍷 Tip: Book a guided tour in advance to uncover the secrets of winemaking and sample various vintages.
One-Day Itinerary in Soave
Morning
•Arrive in Soave and take a leisurely walk through the village.
•Visit the Scaliger Castle, and climb the keep for stunning views.
Lunch
Choose a traditional restaurant, such as:
•Ristorante Enoteca Realda: Known for Verona specialties paired with excellent wines.
•Trattoria Alla Rocca: Serving homemade dishes with views of the castle.
Afternoon
•Tour a local winery for wine tasting.
•Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the vineyards or shop in the artisan boutiques.
Evening
•Wrap up your visit with an aperitivo featuring a glass of Soave Classico in the main square.
How to Reach Soave
•By car: From Verona, take the A4 motorway towards Venice and exit at Soave-San Bonifacio. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
•By train: Arrive at San Bonifacio station and take a bus or taxi to Soave (10 minutes).
Useful Tips
•Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when the hills are lush and vineyards are buzzing with activity.
•Special events: Join the Grape and Soave Wine Festival in September to experience authentic local traditions.
Soave awaits with its timeless charm, ready to offer you an unforgettable journey through history, flavors, and stunning landscapes.
Have you visited Soave before or have questions? Reach out for personalized suggestions!