One of Lombardy’s small jewels can be found at the outermost edge of the territory, just waiting to be discovered: Lake Iseo. Its waters bring cool winds from the north that mitigate the climate, gently caressing the grapes between Franciacorta’s rows of vines. In this world suspended between water and sky, everything takes on special richness and is jealously handed down from father to son: customs, stories and above all recipes. At the centre of the lake rises verdant Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island, which is undoubtedly worthy of a stop on this itinerary.
For your two-day visit to discover Lake Iseo and its dishes, a stay in one of the hotels located on its shores between Iseo and Sulzano is a must. From here you can enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets and be lulled by the sound of the waves in moments of relaxation.
Asking the hotel directly, you will have no problem hiring a boat for a private tour of the lake’s three islands or boarding a ferryboat to reach the small port of Peschiera Maraglio in just minutes, from where you can start your excursion on Monte Isola. From here, a simple stroll along the coastline adorned with naécc (traditional fishing boats) will lead you to an excellent restaurant where you can sample the lake’s finest dishes. From sarda, the lake sardine, protected by the Slow Food presidium, and the whitefish, to the perch and the tench, you can indulge in a thousand flavours, to be exalted and paired with a refreshing glass of Franciacorta.
To get to know the different types of Franciacorta and decide which, according to your preference, is the perfect match for the dishes you have tasted on the lake, you can organise a visit to the winery for the following day. If you can’t make up your mind because of the overwhelming selection, you can always take a few bottles with you when you return home and try them out at the first opportunity over dinner with friends.
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