Aromas, colours, and flavours of Lake Garda herbs

Sensory experience on the hills of Desenzano del Garda at the discovery of ancient officinal herbs and precious edible flowers

In Desenzano del Garda, immersed in the greenery of the morainic hills of the Preserve “Corridoio morenico delle Colline del Garda” (Lake Garda hills morainic corridor), Officina delle Erbe del Garda, a certified organic farm, offers a natural sensory narrationthrough the universal language of plants, essential oils, spices, and herbs with a tour of the fields where saffron, herbs, ancient fruit, truffles, and edible flower plants are cultivated in 40,000 m² of open countryside. The fields are surrounded by a strip of spontaneous forest which is the home of hares and several species of wild birds. Guests can walk along different paths depending on the time of the year and the flowering season.

The experience includes a short aromatic path  showcasing different herbs, where it is possible to pick by hand the precious seasonal plants. A short stop at the flower plant garden to enjoy the sounds of nature, including birds singing. A shortvegetable harvest by hand or production activity follows,depending on the season. In the historical Gruppo Rovere farm, inside the 17th century cowshed, it is possible to experience the first stage of the transoformation of flowers, fruit, and roots of spontaneous or cultivated herbs. Inside the rustic stone walls stands the food workshop with equipment to dry the officinal herbs and extract essential oils through steam distillation. Finally, a small sweet and savoury tasting is offered with homemade products featuring saffron and herbs.

Aimed at

Couples, families with children, active tourists, sports lovers, and all those who value nature, cultivation by hand, and organic products.

What is included

Visit of the field, explanation of the activity, small tasting.

What is not included

Everything not mentioned above.

Suggested attire

Comfortable clothes and low shoes. In the winter, boots and winter jacket.

Accessibility

All activities take place at ground level.