Open from spring through autumn, Parco delle Bertone was once the summer residence of the d’Arco family. The original estate included three buildings—the main villa, stables, and guest house—set within a vast garden designed in the 19th-century English Romantic style. This enchanting space also features a scenic lake surrounded by winding paths through rich vegetation. Ancient trees, such as a 270-year-old American black walnut and a towering 40-meter ginkgo biloba, can be admired here. Since 1994, the park has been home to a White Stork Reintroduction Center, which hosts a stable colony of these beautiful birds, cared for in aviaries before being released.

Goito is a small town on the right bank of the Mincio River, with origins dating back to Roman times. Its strategic location was at the crossroads of the ancient Via Postumia, which connected Genoa to Aquileia. Goito grew significantly under Ludovico Gonzaga in the second half of the 15th century, but it’s best known for its role in the Risorgimento. Two key battles were fought here, both Italian victories over Austrian forces during the First War of Independence. The “Bridge of Glory,” the gateway to the historic center, was defended by the Bersaglieri led by General La Marmora, making it an enduring symbol of the Italian unification movement.

A riverside walk along the pedestrian and cycling path following the Mincio, or a canoe trip, offers a peaceful immersion in nature. This route also leads to two interesting noble villas, Villa Giraffa and Villa Moschini, located to the south and north of the town center, respectively.

Curtatone, a village of scattered hamlets, is rich in traditions and history. Approaching from the north, visitors pass through the stable meadows, agricultural lands preserved with natural vegetation. Curtatone is situated within the Mincio Park, where the river widens to form the Upper Lake near Mantua. With ancient roots dating back to Roman times, the village became a Gonzaga possession in the Middle Ages. It played a significant role in the Risorgimento, particularly in 1848 during a crucial battle in the First War of Independence. Monuments commemorating these events include the University Battalion Volunteers Monument and the Heroes’ Ossuary, both designed by Florentine architect Poggi.

In the hamlet of Grazie stands the stunning Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commissioned by Francesco I Gonzaga. This Gothic-Lombard church rises from the Mincio valley, with a unique exterior featuring a parallel portico. Inside, visitors are amazed by the richly decorated nave and unusual details, like a stuffed crocodile hanging from the ceiling, dating between the 15th and 16th centuries. Consecrated in 1406, the sanctuary still attracts pilgrims, especially on August 15th for the Feast of the Assumption and the traditional Fiera delle Grazie. During this event, the “madonnari” festival takes place, drawing artists from around the world to create chalk artworks inspired by the Virgin Mary in front of the sanctuary.

A must-try specialty in the village is Cotechino delle Grazie, made following the original recipe with minimal salt, spices, and fat. This De.Co.-certified delicacy is a tasty choice in any season, making it the perfect way to conclude the itinerary.