In the events industry, sustainability has become a buzzword tossed around with little action behind it. However, Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events is determined to push beyond the superficial and deliver accurate, sustainable experiences that resonate.
When a Norwegian client approached us for an employee retreat, initially considering Milan as the venue, we saw an opportunity to redefine expectations and create a genuinely memorable event that didn’t just use the term “sustainable” but lived up to it.
Why Franciacorta and Lake Iseo as event destinations?
While Milan holds appeal for business meetings, we felt it wasn’t the ideal backdrop for the kind of corporate retreat our client had in mind. Instead, we proposed the breathtaking and lesser-known territories of Franciacorta and Lake Iseo.
Nestled in Northern Italy, this area offers an alternative to Italy’s crowded tourist destinations, combining authentic experiences with the beauty of Italy’s countryside.
Franciacorta, famous for its sparkling wines, provides a peaceful setting that’s as scenic as it is eco-friendly.
Lake Iseo, meanwhile, offers an intimate, unspoiled charm far from the crowds typical of Lake Como or Garda, making it ideal for those seeking exclusivity and immersion in nature.
E-bikes for a slower, greener exploration
Transportation choices play a significant role in sustainability. To align with our eco-conscious values, we introduced e-bikes as the primary mode of transport for the retreat.
This approach reduced vehicle emissions and encouraged a slower pace, allowing participants to connect deeply with their surroundings.
Riding through the lush vineyards of Franciacorta on e-bikes offered a genuine connection to the land: guests could take in the scents of the vines, hear the sounds of nature, and engage with local farmers and artisans.
The e-bike journey, more than just a scenic ride, represented a conscious choice to minimise environmental impact while encouraging meaningful interactions with the land and community.
Guided by passion: Devid Salvadori and the art of sustainable touring
Leading the e-bike excursion was Devid Salvadori, a former coach for the Italian National Ski Team and now a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism.
Salvadori’s love for the area and his dedication to well-being aligned perfectly with our approach to sustainable tourism.
With Devid’s guidance, participants didn’t just tour Franciacorta; they experienced it. His insights into the area’s history, ecology, and culture transformed the e-bike journey into a holistic immersion in Franciacorta’s landscapes.
The tour gave guests a deeper appreciation of Italy’s natural beauty and a glimpse into the sustainable tourism practices that make our experiences unique.
A taste of organic Franciacorta at Boccadoro Winery
The wine-tasting experience was a key feature of the retreat, and we sought out a partner who shared our commitment to sustainability.
We chose Boccadoro Winery, an organic vineyard that produces high-quality wines with minimal ecological impact.
Organic farming is more challenging, requiring patience and a deep respect for natural processes. Still, the result is a product that speaks of the land it comes from, untarnished by synthetic interventions.
Guests had the opportunity to taste wines that are excellent in flavour and a testament to the winery’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Exploring Lake Iseo and Monte Isola
The retreat continued with a boat tour on the quiet waters of Lake Iseo, one of Italy’s lesser-known gems.
Unlike the more famous lakes in northern Italy, Lake Iseo is tranquil and free from the pressures of mass tourism. This allowed the participants to enjoy a peaceful, scenic tour highlighting the lake’s natural beauty, offering a reprieve from the bustle of city life.
A dinner in the historic Castello Oldofredi on Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe, added a touch of magic to the experience. Guests dined in a centuries-old setting, savouring traditional Italian dishes and soaking in the historical ambience.
The retreat also included visiting the Castello di Bornato, an impressive 13th-century fortress with Italian and English gardens and the rare addition of a Renaissance villa built into its medieval walls.
What made this sustainable retreat a success
The client’s goal for this retreat extended beyond business objectives; they wanted to create an experience that would leave employees feeling valued and inspired.
The event was as much a reward for the hard work employees had put in as it was an opportunity to promote team unity and appreciation.
Choosing Franciacorta as the backdrop for this retreat reinforced the company’s ethos of authenticity and respect.
By crafting an itinerary that combined outdoor activity, cultural immersion, and sustainable practices, we could curate a rejuvenating and meaningful retreat.
Action over buzzwords
Finally, this retreat was a testament to Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events’ commitment to meaningful sustainability.
This Franciacorta retreat isn’t just a corporate event; it reflects our dedication to creating unforgettable experiences that honour the people, the land, and the values of true sustainability.
At Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events, we don’t just organise events; we craft journeys that inspire, reconnect, and respect. Ready to craft your offsite retreat? Contact us!
