Introducing the Bordano Butterfly House Guided Tour with Lunch
If you’re someone enchanted by vibrant creatures and curious about their secret lives, this tour at Italy’s first butterfly museum might just be your perfect day out. It offers a rare opportunity to see over 1,000 butterflies from Africa, Asia, and the Amazon fluttering in realistic habitat recreations.
What we love about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories, second, the stunning views of butterflies in lush greenhouses, and third, the chance to explore unique insect displays that spark both curiosity and admiration.
One small caution? The greenhouses are quite warm—around 35°C—so if you’re sensitive to heat, dress accordingly. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to learn about nature, enjoy active, visually stunning environments, and indulge in authentic Italian hospitality.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Expert-guided experience enhances understanding of butterfly life cycles and habitats
- Three immersive greenhouses recreate habitats from Africa, Asia, and the Amazon
- Unique insect exhibits like the 6-legged Jewellery display showcase nature’s artistry
- Visit Italy’s first butterfly museum with rotating collections and scientific insights
- PolliNation garden highlights pollinator-friendly plants and urban biodiversity
- Includes a traditional lunch to round out your experience with local flavors
The Tour Experience: A Closer Look
Starting Point: A Warm Welcome and Introduction
Your journey begins at the Butterfly House, located just north of Udine, easily reached by car or public transport. Once you arrive, a friendly guide from Casa delle Farfalle di Bordano will welcome you and hand you a guidebook to enhance your understanding of what’s ahead.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet excited, as everyone anticipates seeing these delicate creatures up close. After a brief introduction, you’ll be led into the greenhouses, which are kept at a comfortable temperature of around 35°C—necessary for the butterflies and lush plants to thrive.
Exploring the Greenhouses: Africa, Asia, and the Amazon
The core of the experience lies in strolling through three separate greenhouses, each designed to mimic distinct ecosystems. The guide’s detailed commentary helps you appreciate the importance of habitat conservation and the diversity of butterfly species.
In the African greenhouse, you might spot butterflies with bold colors and intricate wing patterns thriving amongst tropical plants. Moving into the Asian habitat, expect to see species with delicate, almost translucent wings, fluttering among exotic foliage. The Amazon greenhouse boasts some of the largest and most vibrant butterflies, providing captivating views and great photo opportunities.
Throughout the greenhouses, over 1,000 butterflies move gently, feeding on nectar or resting on leaves. The guide will point out specific behaviors, like feeding habits and interactions, helping you appreciate the complexity of butterfly life.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyClose Encounters and Fascinating Exhibits
The highlight for many visitors is observing butterflies feeding and resting up close—a humbling reminder of nature’s artistry. The guide will explain the life cycle of butterflies, from eggs to caterpillars and chrysalises, culminating in the stunning winged adults.
One memorable exhibit is the “Butterflies. 4 lives, 1,000 stories” presentation, which provides insights into the complete lifecycle, wing powder, and reproduction process. As one reviewer notes, “I loved how the guide explained the whole process in simple, engaging terms,” making the science accessible and fun.
The tour doesn’t stop at butterflies. You’ll visit the G-6 Jewel Insects exhibition, where dazzling beetles, mantises, and other insects are displayed like precious gems. This part of the experience reveals the surprising diversity and beauty of insects rooted in nature’s design, and the guide’s storytelling makes it both educational and awe-inspiring.
Discovering Italy’s First Butterfly Museum
Next, your journey takes you into the MUFFFA (Museo delle Farfalle e delle Falene), Italy’s pioneering butterfly and moth museum. Curated collections showcase species from Italy and around the world, with rotating exhibits that tell stories about collecting, preservation, and scientific research. This part offers a deeper appreciation for the efforts behind butterfly conservation and the importance of protecting their habitats.
Pollinator Garden: Connecting Nature and Urban Life
A walk through the PolliNation garden provides a different perspective—showcasing pollinator-friendly plants and the vital roles pollinators play in ecosystems. Here, the guide highlights how urban environments can support biodiversity, encouraging you to notice the relationship between flowers and their pollinating insects.
Refreshment Break at the Butterfly Kitchen
The experience wraps up with a lunch at the Butterfly Kitchen, where regional specialties and local products are served. It’s a great chance to relax, savor authentic flavors, and reflect on what you’ve seen. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the food, noting that it’s a genuine taste of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
Practical Details and What to Know Before You Go
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity for most travelers.
- Price: At $59 per person, this covers guided entry, access to greenhouses, exhibits, and lunch—offering good value given the depth of experience.
- Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sights.
- Timing: Check availability for specific starting times; the tour is available in both English and Italian.
- Weather and Clothing: Expect warm temperatures inside the greenhouses; lightweight, breathable clothing, and sensible footwear are recommended.
- Group Size: Guided tours tend to be intimate, allowing for personalized attention and questions.
- Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—good flexibility for travelers’ plans.
Why This Tour Works
This experience is particularly suited for nature lovers, families, and anyone curious about insects or environmental conservation. The guides’ expertise—and the way they share stories—makes complex biological concepts accessible and engaging. Plus, the chance to see butterflies from diverse regions in one location adds an exotic touch without leaving Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
The inclusion of a tasty, regional lunch is a bonus—perfect for those who want to combine education with delicious local cuisine. The greenhouses, with their warm, humid atmosphere, are a highlight, providing a sensory feast that is both stimulating and calming.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
If you’re interested in learning about butterflies and insects in a relaxed setting, this tour offers a well-rounded, family-friendly adventure. It’s also a great choice for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that combine education, nature, and local culture. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to capture vibrant wings in natural light.
While the tour is accessible and generally suitable for all ages, those sensitive to heat might want to plan accordingly. It’s best for travelers who appreciate guided insights and enjoy seeing wildlife in carefully curated habitats.
Final Thoughts
The Bordano Butterfly House Guided Tour with Lunch strikes a wonderful balance between education, visual delight, and regional flavor. It’s a chance to step into a world of fluttering wings and intricate insect designs, all hosted by passionate guides who bring the experience to life.
For anyone with an interest in nature, entomology, or simply a love of beautiful things, this tour offers a memorable outing that combines engaging storytelling, stunning scenery, and cultural exploration—all in one affordable package.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the delicate beauty and vital roles these insects play in our world.
FAQ
- How long is the tour? The guided experience lasts around 2.5 hours, making it perfect for a half-day activity.
- Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour is family-friendly and designed to engage visitors of all ages.
- Are the greenhouses accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
- What should I wear? Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended due to the warm greenhouse temperatures.
- Does the tour include the butterfly museum? Yes, it provides access to the MUFFFA museum with curated collections and exhibits.
- Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- What languages are available? The tour is offered in both English and Italian.
- Is there a meal included? Yes, a typical regional lunch is part of the package at the Butterfly Kitchen.
- Where is the Butterfly House located? It’s situated north of Udine, close to the Gemona Osoppo motorway exit and Lake Cavazzo.
- What is the price? The tour costs $59 per person, offering access to all exhibits, guided commentary, and lunch.
This guided tour at Bordano offers a thoughtfully curated blend of education, stunning visuals, and regional flavor. Perfect for curious travelers eager to see butterflies up close and understand their fascinating world.
You can check if your dates are available here: