There is a patch of land, in the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, that holds a precious secret. They call it the Golden Pentagon of CartizzeJust 107 hectares of manicured vineyards give life to the undisputed king of bubbles, Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG. Why “golden”? Simple: for the incredible quality of the wine and because this land is worth more than the rows of Champagne!
If you think this paradise can only be admired from the car window, you're very much mistaken. The best way to experience it (and earn a fine glass at the end of the day) is on foot with a circular trek that takes you walking through the postcards of this natural amphitheatre. Get ready to take incredible photos!
Our journey begins in the heart of San Pietro di Barbozza. Before lacing up your boots, take a look at the fountain in the square: it's decorated with stones from the River Piave, sculpted by local artist “Zoe”. Walking along Via Cima will feel like you're passing through an open-air art gallery, with curious sculptures appearing along the street. After passing the shrine of Sant'Eurosia, we descend towards the valley floor, bidding farewell to the Tormena stream.
Let's start climbing back towards the ridge. Between bends, sharpen your gaze: you will find yourself in front of the “Castegner de Piero”, a magnificent chestnut tree that has enjoyed this panorama for three centuries. Immediately after the tree, you leave the tarmac and finally enter Inside the Conca d'Oro, walking right between the rows.
The highlight of the tour? The viewpoint of the Coleslaw. Here you will find panoramic benches perfect for a strategic rest: before you lies the entire Cartizze basin, protected to the south by the profiles of the Moliane hills. Resuming our path, we descend towards the Teva stream. If you look up at the hill, you will see Villa Luisaduring the First World War, this elegant building was nothing less than a logistical centre for the Austro-Hungarian army.
After a nice zigzagging concrete ramp through the vineyards (great for the glutes!), we enter the historic hamlet of Follow. In the central square, you will be amazed by a beautiful horizontal sundial dedicated to Abbot Follador, a scientist who taught astronomy in Padua in the 19th century. But the most amusing gem is hidden on the facade of Casa dei Berti: above an arch, there is the stone grotesque mask of the “Uncle's Beard”, the child-eating monster, the star of old tales that peasants would tell in the stables.
From here, between the last rows and country lanes, the loop closes, bringing us back to the starting point.
Based on Itinerary No. 4 from Giovanni Carraro's Prosecco Hills Discovery Guide
After hiking nearly 13 kilometres amidst the rolling hills of Cartizze and filling your eyes with beauty (and perhaps your stomach with excellent Prosecco), your legs will call for a rest. The perfect move? Drive for just a few minutes to Miane and take refuge at Court of Marga.
With its welcoming atmosphere, the valley's silence, and super comfortable rooms, it's the ideal nest for recharging your batteries. La Corte di Marga is your preferred strategic base for experiencing the UNESCO Hills like a local: explore during the day and enjoy absolute relaxation in the evening.
Do you want to experience the magic of Cartizze without a care in the world? Book directly here!