Visit to the Vallio Botanical Garden and distillation of essential oil

The young botanical garden of Terme di Vallio was planted in 2018 by a passionate herbalist dedicated to the culture of wild plants. The owner of this unique place will be your guide, accompanying you in the discovery of seasonal essences and telling you the secrets hidden in the garden's tree species, their qualities, their officinal, medicinal and culinary vocations.

You will then descend towards the stream at the bottom of the valley via shady paths, dotted with hydrangea bushes, in the majestic setting of the Vallio spa. You will encounter the splendid travertine rock walls that for a stretch flank the path leading to the stream. You will cross the pine forest in a peaceful and cosy atmosphere, in a silence that will bring you back in touch with yourself.

During the walk, you may come across squirrels, weasels and small foxes, as well as various species of birds whose song, combined with the murmur of the stream, forms the backdrop to the entire route.

At the end of the walk, you will be able to explore the secrets of steam distillation and will be explained how hydrolates and essential aromas are prepared from medicinal herbs gathered in the forest. The explanation focuses on the final stage of the process, that of aromatic extraction, allowing you to experience the balsamic, antiseptic, resinous and health-promoting effects contained in the heart of plants.

At the end of this exclusive experience, you will receive an essential oil as a gift, to take with you as a souvenir of your sensory journey through the aromas of the forest.

What to bring: comfortable clothing suitable for a walk, and a sun hat.

An experience suitable for everyone, even minors provided they are accompanied. However, the trail is not suitable for pushchairs.