A journey through the cypress avenue
The first unforgettable moment on arrival in Bolgheri is already the journey through the cypress avenue that stretches for almost five kilometres to the gates of the town. This iconic avenue, made up of thousands of cypress trees, was immortalised by the Italian poet Giosuè Carducci, who spent his childhood here. The town therefore welcomes you with an exceptionally impressive backdrop that seems to have been cut out of a dream. The sight of the majestic trees and the scents of the Tuscan countryside will make you feel like you have stepped back in time. What's more, there is a speed limit for cars, so we promise you'll really enjoy the journey! And yes, it really does look like the picture below.
If you head here in the off-peak season, you can also take some impressive photos right from the road. You can park right behind the alley, very close to the entrance.
Historic centre full of charm
In the very heart of Bolgheri you'll find the cosy Piazza Alberto, a small stone street that winds between houses with colourful shutters and ornate flower boxes. The centre is an oasis of calm with plenty of small boutiques, wine bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialities. There is also excellent coffee and ice cream. The dominant feature of the town is the Castello di Bolgheri, a majestic castle that guards the entrance to the town. This medieval castle with its characteristic red façade gives the town a magical atmosphere and recalls the time when Bolgheri was part of the influential Della Gherardesca family.
The famous wines and wine cellars
Above all, Bolgheri is synonymous with the exceptional wines that have earned this small town worldwide recognition. It is home to some of the best vineyards in Italy, producing wines such as Sassicaia and Ornellaia. These wines have been labelled 'super Tuscan' and their uniqueness lies in the combination of traditional Italian varieties with international ones such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Cellar tourism is very popular here - you can discover the secrets of the production of these wines, taste moreand chat with local winemakers who put both art and love into their work.
Gastronomic experiences
In addition to wine, Bolgheri is also known for its cuisine, which uses local ingredients and traditional recipes. Here you can enjoy simple but incredibly tasty dishes, from pasta with truffles to dishes with wild meat. Popular dishes include tagliatelle with wild game ragout and richly flavoured roast meats.
The local olive oil, which often comes from the olive groves directly surrounding thesurrounding the town, is another gem that gives local dishes their distinctive flavour.
The surrounding landscape and natural beauty
Bolgheri is set in a breathtaking natural landscape, where vineyards, cypress alleys, lavender fields and olive groves alternate. Around the town there are several nature reserves and parks offering opportunities for hiking and cycling. Tuscan nature is at your fingertips, whether you choose to walk in the Oasi di Bolgheri reserve or visit the nearby beaches. Each journey through the countryside will reveal another piece of what makes Tuscany so unique. The sea to San Vincenzo is only about 20 minutes by car.
To visit Bolgheri is to experience Tuscany at its purest - with the scent of cypress trees, the taste of fine wines and a view of a landscape you'll love at first sight.
