In the heart of Veneto, between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, lies one of Italy’s most evocative wine-growing landscapes: the Prosecco Hills, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
Here, nature, culture, and winemaking tradition blend in a perfect balance, waiting to be discovered: from a panoramic tour of the area to a romantic weekend, to food and wine experiences, here are some of the many activities (and connected emotions) these hills offer.
The Unique Characteristics of the Prosecco Hills
In 2019, after more than a decade of study and international recognition, the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene were fully inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a cultural landscape. This prestigious achievement finally recognized the universal value of an extraordinary territory, where nature and human ingenuity have merged in a delicate yet enduring balance, shaping a landscape unlike any other in the world.
Located in northeastern Italy (in the Veneto region), the Prosecco Hills are distinguished by a ridge-like morphology characterized by parallel reliefs and sharp ridges, with slopes that have necessitated a specific agricultural approach.
The current appearance of the Prosecco Hills is the result of a series of evolutions and “artificial” modifications, the first of which date back several centuries. Beginning in the 17th century, the technique of “ciglioni” (grassy terraces) was developed to make the steepest slopes cultivable. These terraces created the typical checkerboard pattern we can still admire today, with rows parallel and perpendicular to the slope. The result is a harmonious visual effect, in which the regularity of the vineyards intertwines with the natural beauty of the woods, hedges, green patches, and surrounding villages, creating a landscape mosaic of rare beauty.
The region’s evolution, however, didn’t stop there. In the 19th century, to combat fungal diseases such as downy mildew, the Bellussi brothers introduced an innovative vine training system: bellussera. This technique involves arranging the vines on tall poles, with shoots stretching horizontally in a radial pattern. From an aerial view, the vineyards appear as a geometric embroidery of nature, a green beehive that lends rhythm and structure to the landscape and which, even today, requires exclusively manual cultivation, keeping alive the link with rural tradition.
The Prosecco Hills, a World Heritage Site, are not only a visual spectacle, but also a living and dynamic ecosystem that fosters biodiversity. Agricultural practices are closely linked to sustainability: land use still follows environmental conservation principles, and hand-harvesting remains the norm on many plots.
Places to visit in Conegliano and Valdobbiadene
The Conegliano and Valdobbiadene area enchants with its discreet elegance and profound cultural identity; it’s a region best explored slowly, perfect for those who love food and wine tourism, small treasures of art and nature, or even just a weekend in the Prosecco Hills, seeking relaxation and authenticity.
In Conegliano, the cradle of Veneto viticulture and the starting point of the famous Prosecco Hills Walk, every corner tells a story. You can start at Conegliano Castle, which offers a sweeping view of the hills and plain below, then descend along Calle Madonna della Neve to admire the little church with the same name, steeped in spirituality. Walking along historic Via XX Settembre, the beating heart of the city, you pass a succession of frescoed Renaissance buildings, the Duomo with its famous altarpiece by Cima da Conegliano, and the Sala dei Battuti, a little-known artistic gem. To learn more about the painter who brought prestige to the city, you can stop at Casa Cima, where you’ll find a collection dedicated to his life and works.
Conegliano is also home to Italy’s first wine school, the Cerletti Institute, which now houses the Luigi Manzoni Museum (dedicated to viticulture research).
For those looking to stay, there’s no shortage of accommodations nestled in the Prosecco Hills, ideal for those dreaming of an escape from the city. Among these is the Tenuta Ville d’Arfanta estate by Serena Wines 1881, where, in addition to hospitality, you can enjoy a variety of experiences: find out more below, or contact us for more information!
Continuing towards Valdobbiadene, the landscape continues to be incredibly picturesque. The heart of the town is Piazza Marconi, dominated by the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its 18th-century bell tower. Not far away is Villa dei Cedri, a 19th-century residence surrounded by a large park, often hosting cultural events.
For those who love walking, Valdobbiadene is an exceptional destination: the Anello del Prosecco (Prosecco Ring) is one of the most spectacular routes to explore on foot or by bike, a roughly 15-km itinerary that passes through some of the area’s most beautiful villages, such as San Pietro di Barbozza and Col San Martino. Along the way, you’ll encounter small churches, hermitages, scenic overlooks, and numerous wineries where you can stop for a tasting.
Among the area’s unmissable stops are:
- the picturesque Molinetto della Croda (Croda Mill) in Refrontolo, now operational following a series of restorations;
- Castel Brando, one of the oldest castles in Europe, located in the medieval village of Cison di Valmarino;
- Follina Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian masterpiece completely restored in 1922.
For nature lovers, Mount Cesen, at 1,570 meters, is an ideal panoramic destination: here, the cheesemaking traditions of the plateau meet the viticulture of the hills below. And for moments of pure relaxation, the Revine Lakes offer peaceful views perfect for a walk in any season.
Finally, for slow tourism enthusiasts, the Cammino delle Colline del Prosecco (Prosecco Hills Trail) is a hiking trail that connects the main villages of the area in four stages, from Vidor to Vittorio Veneto. Along the way, you can enjoy a wealth of authentic experiences: from a visit to a winery with tasting, to the discovery of a small oratory surrounded by greenery, to dinner at a restaurant in the Prosecco Hills where the flavors tell the story of the region.
Hospitality and experiences: come and discover Tenuta Ville d’Arfanta
To fully experience the excitement of a weekend in the Prosecco Hills, Tenuta Ville d’Arfanta (located among the vineyards near Tarzo) is the best choice. This elegant residence owned by the Serena family is an expression of the group’s winemaking tradition, the custodian of a history built on passion and respect for the land.
Serena Wines 1881 offers a series of exclusive wine tourism experiences immersed in the beauty of the landscape that complements the romantic setting of the estate. These include:
- Prosecco Tour, which allows you to visit the vineyards and taste four types of Prosecco DOC and DOCG with a platter of local products.
- Prosecco & Champagne Tasting, a refined combination for the most discerning palates.
- Horseback ride at sunset, for a romantic immersion in the hilly paths.
- Vespa tour and picnic in the vineyard, to explore the area in style and ease.
- Romantic picnic in the vineyard, with a bottle of Prosecco and a gourmet platter.
- E-bike tour, a scenic ride with a tasting stop.
The estate also offers overnight accommodations: its refined and evocative rooms (such as the Serena Suite, a symbol of family hospitality, and the Terra Room, dedicated to the profound connection with the vineyard soil) represent the perfect retreat for a weekend in the Prosecco Hills.
Contact us for more information about experiences or to book a stay at Tenuta Ville D’Arfanta: we look forward to hearing from you.
Additionally, if you’d like to discover all the details about Serena Wines 1881 wines, visit the dedicated website: a unique food and wine journey awaits you, fruit of passion and love for the Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
