Welcome to “Riveting Trips with Jeanie Colclough,” your trusted source for family-friendly, multi-generation travel with a touch of luxury. This week, we explore the magical region of Veneto, Italy, and its stunning capital, Venice. Whether you’re seeking bespoke experiences or hidden gems off the beaten path, Veneto has something for everyone. Join me as I chat with Lisa Zennaro from Target Travel and uncover some fascinating activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
To listen to the podcast episode:
Exploring Veneto: A Family-Friendly Treasure Hunt
Discovering Labyrinths in Ancient Villas
Italy, a treasure trove of history, art, and architecture, offers some unexpected delights for families traveling with children. One such experience is exploring the labyrinths in ancient villas. In Veneto, these enchanting mazes are not just popular tourist attractions but also beloved by locals.
One such labyrinth is located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice. Imagine a day spent walking through the beautifully designed labyrinth with your children, making your way to the center where a delightful surprise awaits. Another gem is the labyrinth of Villa Pisani along the Brenta River. Here, you can also visit the grand mansion with its stunning frescoes and gardens featuring fountains and a fascinating historical game involving knights and ladies.
The Barbarigo Garden in the Euganean Hills is another must-visit. This expansive garden features over 6,000 boxwood plants and offers an enjoyable stroll with plenty of interesting flora and fauna to capture the kids’ attention.
Hidden Gems: Small Towns and Vineyards
Beyond the grandeur of Venice and its labyrinths, the Veneto region is home to charming small towns and islands waiting to be explored. One such island is Mazzorbo, which houses a beautiful vineyard known as Venissa Wine Resort. Here, families can enjoy a scenic boat ride from Venice, take part in wine tasting for the adults, and even enjoy a treasure hunt organized specifically for the kids.
Mazzorbo’s vineyard experience can be paired with a visit to their Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can savor local delicacies while your children marvel at the serene lagoon landscape.
Venice: The City of Water and Wonders
Venice, with its winding canals and lack of cars, is a fascinating adventure for kids and adults alike. From organizing a treasure hunt in the city center or in the various islands surrounding Venice to simply wandering and getting lost in its narrow streets, Venice offers an endless array of experiences.
A Grand Canal tour aboard a water taxi will also allow your family to soak in the beauty of Venice’s palatial architecture and historic sites without having to navigate the busy streets. As the kids marvel at the picturesque palaces and seagulls flying overhead, parents can relax and appreciate the unique experience that only Venice can offer.
Immerse in Venetian Culture
To truly appreciate Venice, take your family on a tour of iconic cultural sites like Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. But for a more authentic experience, venture away from the crowded tourist spots to smaller squares, known locally as campielli, where Venetian children play. Here, your kids can interact with local children and make friends, proving that fun transcends language barriers.
For a unique touch, consider arranging a visit during the Venice Film Festival, where star sightings and the glamorous aura of old Hollywood make the city even more magical.
Embrace the Countryside: Farm Visits and Culinary Adventures
Educational Farms and Hands-On Activities
When you venture into the Venetian countryside, your family can partake in various educational farm activities. Farms across regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and Emilia- Romagna offer immersive experiences where children can learn about agriculture, pick fruits and vegetables, and even try their hand at cheese or bread making. Known as “education farms,” these establishments encourage kids to “mettere le mani in pasta” (put their hands in the dough), making for a fun and educational day out.
Countryside Delights
The countryside also includes visits to the famed educational farms where kids can experience hands-on activities. Whether it’s making cheese, baking bread, or simply learning about sustainable farming practices, these experiences provide an immersive insight into Italian country life.
Wine and Food Experiences
For the adults, a visit to a vineyard is a must. Veneto offers some of the best wine-tasting experiences, often paired with tours of the vineyards and Michelin-starred dining. While adults enjoy the luxurious wine tastings, children can participate in guided tours and treasure hunts in the vineyard, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Take the Road Less Traveled
Exploring Beyond Veneto
If your journey takes you beyond Veneto, the whole of Italy offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. Rome and Florence, with their rich histories and vibrant cultures, are perfect for family explorations. In Rome, neighborhoods like Testaccio and Trastevere provide a glimpse into local life away from the busy tourist areas, offering both charm and historical intrigue.
Rome’s Hidden Gems
For a truly authentic Roman experience, venture into neighborhoods like Testaccio and Trastevere. These areas offer a less crowded, yet equally fascinating, experience of Rome. Here, you can find local markets, kid-friendly squares, and eateries where the food is as much about tradition as it is about taste.
In Trastevere, for example, a simple stroll can lead to unexpected adventures, from discovering historic churches to sampling delicious Roman gelato.
Planning Your Trip: Contact Jeanie
Delve into the magic of Veneto and create lasting memories with us. Get in touch with Jeanie for a travel consultation, and let’s start planning your dream Italian escape.