Trekking in the Wood with picnic on the turtles lake

Exploring Milan’s Hidden Green Spaces: Trekking in the Wood with a Picnic on Turtles Lake

When you think of Milan, the first images that come to mind are probably the iconic Duomo, vibrant shopping districts, and historic art. But this Trekking in the Wood with a picnic on Turtles Lake offers a surprisingly serene escape just a short distance from the city buzz. It’s a chance to see a different side of Milan—one filled with quiet trails, lush trees, and the gentle sounds of nature.

We love that this experience combines nature exploration with a relaxed, low-key vibe. The manageable 2-hour duration makes it perfect for a half-day adventure. Plus, at just under $22, it’s an affordable way to enjoy some peaceful outdoor time with authentic local wildlife. The fact that it’s suitable for most travelers, including service animals, adds to its accessibility.

One potential consideration is the limited hours dependent on weather, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. And if you’re expecting a full-on hike with extensive terrain, keep in mind this is more of a gentle walk with plenty of scenic pauses. That said, this tour best suits those craving a calm, nature-centered experience—ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking to slow down amid urban surroundings.

Good To Know

• Authentic Nature Experience: Discover the local wildlife and flora in a peaceful city forest.
• Short & Manageable: Around 2 hours, perfect for a quick escape.
• Affordable Price: At $21.97, offering good value for a guided nature walk with a picnic.
• Customizable Meeting Points: Conveniently starting near public transport in Milan.
• Expert Guide: Led by knowledgeable guides who highlight secret corners and wildlife.
• Weather Dependent: Best enjoyed in good weather, with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled.

A Walk Through the Milan Countryside and Forest

This tour begins at Via Giorgio de Chirico, a quiet spot conveniently accessible by public transportation. From the start, it’s clear this isn’t just a plain walk—your guide, likely Davide based on reviews, is enthusiastic about revealing the hidden corners of the city’s woodland. You’ll venture into a lush, green space where you can spot wild rabbits, squirrels, herons, frogs, and turtles—creatures that thrive among the trees and streams.

As you wander, the sounds of nature become your soundtrack. There’s a soothing murmur from nearby streams, and the dense foliage provides shelter for various birds and small animals. We loved the way the guide shared insights into the flora and fauna, making the walk both educational and relaxing.

Discovering Boscoincitta

The main stop, Boscoincitta, is a peaceful, relatively untouched patch of Milan’s green landscape. Here, the guide shows you the most secret corners—a highlight for anyone curious about how local wildlife lives outside the city’s hustle. You might see wild rabbits hopping about or catch a glimpse of herons perched by the water. The guide’s pride in the area’s natural beauty is evident, making the walk feel genuine and personal.

The Turtles on the Lake

The final destination is the lake, where turtles are often sunbathing on floating trunks—a sight that delights kids and adults alike. The calm waters reflect the sky and surrounding greenery, creating a tranquil scene perfect for a short picnic. The review from Eleanor confirms how special this moment is, noting, “a beautiful slice of suburban Milan” with “peace and quiet,” and she appreciated the guide’s pride in the parkland’s creation.

You’ll have around twenty minutes here to relax, savor the view, and observe the turtles. Sitting on the bank, with the gentle ripples of the water in front of you, makes for a restful pause amid nature.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Via Giorgio de Chirico: Easy to reach, close to public transportation.
• Boscoincitta exploration: The guide takes you to the lesser-known parts of the woodland, where wildlife and plants are abundant.
• Lake and Picnic: Concluding with a peaceful picnic on the lake’s edge, watching turtles sunbathe and enjoying panoramic views.

Throughout the walk, you’ll appreciate the balance between gentle exercise and relaxation. The terrain isn’t strenuous—you’ll mostly walk on well-maintained paths with some uneven spots, but nothing challenging.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Limited to 20 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate and friendly atmosphere. This small group size means you get more personalized attention from the guide and better chances to ask questions about the local ecosystem.

Pricing & Value

For just under $22, this tour provides a genuine nature experience with expert guidance. The price includes the walk and picnic, making it a cost-effective option for a brief nature escape—especially valuable given the high reviews praising the views and wildlife sightings.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

The tour depends on good weather—if rain or poor conditions cancel the activity, you are eligible for a full refund or a rescheduled date. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility for planning.

Transportation Tips

Most reviewers, including Eleanor, suggest taking the Metro for a cheap and easy journey. This is a practical tip for travelers wanting to avoid parking or driving.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Our favorite snippet comes from Eleanor, who describes the walk as “a beautiful slice of suburban Milan,” appreciating the peace and quiet as well as the guide’s pride in the park’s development. She mentions that the guide, Davide, is “more than happy to proudly show you the parkland built by people power,” which adds a real, personal touch to the experience.

Another reviewer highlights how the views of turtles sunbathing create a scene that feels “out of time,” emphasizing the tour’s capacity to transport visitors away from the city’s rush.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful break from Milan’s busy streets, wanting to enjoy local wildlife and lush scenery. It’s particularly suited for those interested in nature and wildlife, families with children, or anyone in need of a calming outdoor activity.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful connection with nature, this tour offers an authentic, low-impact way to see a different side of Milan. It’s also a great choice for people who appreciate guided walks led by passionate locals who take pride in their environment.

Final Thoughts

Trekking in the Wood with a picnic on Turtles Lake offers a surprisingly tranquil escape just outside Milan’s urban core. At a reasonable price, it combines wildlife spotting, scenic views, and the chance to relax with a peaceful picnic. The tour’s small group size and expert guidance make it accessible and engaging—perfect for curious travelers or those simply craving a quiet moment in nature.

While it might not be for adrenaline junkies or adventure seekers, those who enjoy gentle walks, wildlife, and scenic vistas will find this experience both charming and worthwhile. It’s a rare glimpse into the natural life thriving near one of Italy’s most bustling cities—an authentic, calming break from your sightseeing routine.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is gentle and suitable for most travelers, including families. Kids will enjoy spotting turtles, rabbits, and other wildlife.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a half-day plan.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Is transportation included or recommended?
Transportation isn’t included, but most travelers suggest taking the Metro for ease and affordability. The meeting point is near public transport.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and possibly a small blanket or mat for the picnic. The guide provides the rest.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour, making it accessible for travelers with specific needs.

Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll, wildlife encounters, or simply a different perspective of Milan, this tour offers an authentic and calming experience worth considering.