Wine lovers from Ancient Rome through the present day have found much to appreciate in quietly beautiful Franciacorta, the name for a cluster of municipalities in the northern Italian region of Lombardy by the crystalline waters of Lake Iseo.

In the Middle Ages, Cluniac and Cistercian monasteries dotted the landscape. Today, the area’s gently rolling hills, lush forests and nature preserves, scenic towns and olive groves make it a popular destination for bikers, nature enthusiasts, history buffs and, of course, bon vivants looking to sample local delicacies, such as sundried sardines or Rovato beef drizzled with olive oil.