Oktoberfest with a view of Lake Maggiore: Groktoberfest kicks off with beer, Bavarian cuisine, and forest adventures

Not just Munich. This year, Oktoberfest also comes to Lake Maggiore with Groktoberfest, the event organized by the Wonderwood adventure park in Trarego Viggiona, in the province of Verbania, which from September 19th to October 4th brings a Bavarian atmosphere to the slopes of Monte Carza, at almost a thousand meters above sea level.

On weekends, the park's restaurant, Grotto Carza, transforms into a veritable Festzelt, the traditional Oktoberfest tent, with panoramic views of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. This event is designed to combine food, entertainment, and nature, with large tables where everyone can gather under the traditional blue and white flag sky.

Naturally, the cuisine takes center stage, with dishes featuring typically autumnal flavors. The menu begins with pretzels, followed by spätzle, served with fondue and speck or with pumpkin and amaretti biscuits, and ends with the ever-present apple strudel with vanilla ice cream. The menu is rounded out with Flensburger's signature draft beers, including wheat weizen and pilsner.

Groktoberfest, however, is more than just a beer festival. The initiative engages the whole family, allowing you to combine lunch with the many activities at the adventure park. There are 50 rides spread across 8 circuits, including suspension bridges, logs, climbing nets, and balance tests, all the way to the WonderFly, a 75-meter-long zipline.

For children, there are also mini bulldozers from Build It! and electric mini Land Rovers from Ranger Trail, to drive along a dedicated route. There's also a special treasure hunt for adults and children alike: seven clues hidden throughout the park must be found to complete a crossword puzzle and find the mystery word. Even waiting at the table becomes part of the fun, thanks to a coloring page especially for little ones.

"We started with an event deeply rooted in Bavarian culture and brought it to Monte Carza, letting the forest, the mountains, and Lake Maggiore give it a new identity," explains Massimiliano Freddi, CEO and Founder of Wonderwood. "Groktoberfest is the perfect opportunity to spend a day together, combining games, adventure, and conviviality, rediscovering the pleasure of being outdoors and in touch with nature. It's also a chance to unplug from screens, slow down, and share real experiences in an environment that naturally invites reconnection."

For those who want to experience the full gastronomic experience, there are two options. The Groktoberfest Combo Menu, including a platter, pretzels, main course, and dessert, costs €29.90. The Groktoberfest Offer, on the other hand, includes four beers and two pretzels for €22.90.

The park is open Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended, given the possibility of limited access. To tackle the adventure trails, please wear comfortable clothing, including stretch pants and sneakers. Sandals, flip-flops, and skirts are not permitted on the trails.

A visit can take a whole day, considering the variety of activities available. Four-legged friends are also welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash; there is also an area where they can run free.

Wonderwood Lago Maggiore is located in SP 92, Via per Colle, locality Monte Carza, 28826 Trarego Viggiona (VB).