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Cesari - Contemporary Soul

Valpolicella: Where It Is, What to See, and Why Visit

Valpolicella: dove si trova, cosa vedere e perché visitarla - Cesari

A guide to Valpolicella: discover villages, vineyards, and wineries for a journey through history, nature, and excellent wines

Valpolicella is a land of unique charm, renowned for its fine wines and a captivating landscape where history, nature, and tradition come together. This region—chosen by Cesari from the very beginning for its winemaking—stretches between Verona, Lake Garda, and the surrounding mountains. Its gently rolling hills, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and cherry trees, offer an idyllic setting for those eager to discover Valpolicella wines and immerse themselves in an authentic, timeless atmosphere.

Where is Valpolicella?

Valpolicella is located just north of Verona, nestled between Lake Garda and the Lessini Mountains. Covering around 30,000 hectares, the region features a rich variety of landscapes, which can be divided into three main areas:

  • A limestone mountainous area, dominated by the Lessini Mountains
  • A hilly zone, which encompasses most of the region
  • A valley floor area, marked by flatter landscapes

This natural diversity creates ideal conditions for producing Valpolicella wines with distinctive characteristics, shaped by the variety of soils and microclimates.

Valpolicella Classica e DOC

The Valpolicella region is divided into the Classica zone and the broader area.

  • The Valpolicella Classica zone includes five historic towns: Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella, San Pietro in Cariano, Fumane, Marano di Valpolicella, and Negrar di Valpolicella. This area is the traditional heart of Valpolicella winemaking.
  • The extended zone, which surrounds the Classica area, includes Valpantena and its namesake valley, as well as winegrowing areas in the municipalities of Verona, Illasi, Tramigna, and Mezzane.

Cesari’s wineries are located between Fumane and Cavaion Veronese, in a prime location between Verona and the Valpolicella Classica, with scenic views of Lake Garda.

Val Polis Cellae: A Land with Ancient Roots

The roots of winemaking in Valpolicella reach deep into ancient history. Fossilized grapevines found in the Verona area date back to the Middle Eocene—around 40 million years ago. The earliest documented vineyards are attributed to the Arusnati, a Rhaetian-Etruscan people who produced wine already appreciated by the ancient Romans, as mentioned by prominent writers such as Cato the Elder, Strabo, and Virgil.

One of the region’s most iconic wines is Recioto, with origins as ancient as the celebrated vinum reticum.

What to Visit in Valpolicella

In addition to its renowned vineyards, Valpolicella boasts historic villages, villas, and churches of great cultural value. Not-to-miss highlights include:

  • Villa Santa Sofia, designed by the famed architect Andrea Palladio
  • The Parish Church of San Giorgio, located in the village of San Giorgio di Valpolicella—one of Italy’s most beautiful towns
  • Ponte di Veja, a natural rock bridge easily accessible from Sant’Anna d’Alfaedo
  • The Fumane Cave, dating back to the Paleolithic era—one of the oldest archaeological sites in Europe
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Experiences in Valpolicella: Between Tastings and Nature

Valpolicella isn’t just home to great wines—it’s also a haven for outdoor activities and authentic cuisine.

Wine Tastings in Valpolicella

For wine lovers, a tasting experience in Valpolicella is not to be missed. Local wineries offer the opportunity to savor iconic labels such as Amarone, Ripasso, and Valpolicella Classico, often paired with traditional local delicacies. Among the best restaurants in the area, we recommend Antica Trattoria da Bepi, Osteria Al Ponte, and Hosteria Moderna.

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

Nature enthusiasts will find a wide variety of hiking and cycling trails that wind through the Valpolicella hills, offering breathtaking views in every season. A standout destination is Molina and its Waterfall Park, ideal for a refreshing nature walk.

Why Visit Valpolicella?

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a destination that combines history, nature, food and wine, and relaxation, Valpolicella is the perfect choice. Here, you can enjoy authentic experiences among age-old vineyards, charming villages, and a wine culture passed down through generations.

We look forward to welcoming you to our cellars and sharing our passion for this land and its extraordinary wines!