Alpago
Overview
Alpago is the gateway to the Belluno Dolomites: a unique territory stretching from Lake Santa Croce to the Cansiglio Forest. Here, among forests, water, mountains and hills, you will find tiny, picturesque villages, rich in history and hospitality.
Local Cusine
Alpago lamb: Alpago has given its name to an indigenous breed of sheep bred mainly for its excellent meat: tasty, firm and so tender that it flakes in the mouth. Contrary to expectations, it does not taste wild at all and pairs perfectly with local dishes such as corn and legume soup.
Points of Interest
- Santa Croce Lake: it is the ideal lake for both active and relaxing holidays. From spring to autumn, it is the destination of choice for nature lovers looking for some quiet time. The beach and its lawn offers plenty of space to enjoy the sun or play some games. From here, visitors can set off on long walks or bike rides (the lake is on the Monaco Venezia route), hire a pedal boat or kayak, or go sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing on what is also known as the Lake of Wind.
- The Cansiglio Forest: the ancient Dogi Forest, surrounding the Cansiglio Plateau, represents one of the most important environmental resources of the entire Veneto Region. In the past, the forest was a fundamental resource for the Venetian Republic for the production of oars. Today it is a corner of paradise where visitors can lose themselves among the various nature trails while mountain biking or trekking. The plateau, as well as Lake Santa Croce, is particularly suitable for families.
- The Mount Dolada panoramic terrace: the Alpago area is a succession of meadows, woods, hills and is protected by the Carnic Pre-Alps, with the Col Nudo-Cavallo massif and the peaks of the Dolada mountains. To fully enjoy the panorama, there is a special terrace just below Mount Dolada, where flying enthusiasts come from all over the world to launch themselves into the void by flying over the Alpago basin.
- The Alchemist’s House: it is a House Museum owned by the Alpago Mountain Union. The building dates back to the 16th century and is the only one that still bears witness to the history of Alpago architecture. It was the residence of a nobleman, sentenced to death on Egyptian soil for his alchemic practices, whom the Republic of Venice saved by bringing him to Alpago. The house has been fitted out with objects, books and suggestions that immerse the visitor in the magical world of Alchemy.
- A paradise for walking and cycling: the itineraries for walking or cycling around Lake Santa Croce to the Cansiglio Plateau are varied, diverse and suitable for everyone, from the well-trained to families with strollers.
Bassano del Grappa
Overview
Surrounded by hills and favoured by a mild climate, Bassano del Grappa is a charming medieval town located in the Vicenza area. Strolling through the historical centre means diving into art: the streets are adorned with the works of authors such as Palladio, Canova, Jacopo Da Ponte, Marinali and Dall’Acqua. The city’s symbolic monument is the Old Bridge – built to a design by Palladio – which links its image to the epic deeds of the alpine troops in the Great War.
Local Cusine
Asparago bianco di Bassano DOP is harvested from March to June in the countryside between Bassano, Cassola and San Zeno; Bigoli and Broccolo di Bassano are the protagonists on the table along with extra virgin olive oil, produced in the Bassano foothills/hillside area.
Wine and other drinks
Bassano del Grappa, a historic reference point for the production of spirits, is included among the “Wine Cities” for its illustrious wine tradition, now included in the D.O.C. Breganze, excelling in the production of Torcolato, Vespaiolo, Bordeaux grapes and the traditional Marzemino for reds.
Points of interest
The Old Bridge or Alpini Bridge: the undisputed symbol of the city.
The Civic Museum: housed in the former Franciscan friary since 1828, it is the result of conspicuous donations that have enriched the city’s heritage over time.
Palazzo Sturm: seat of the Remondini Ceramics Museum and Printing Museum.
The Civic Tower: located in Piazza Garibaldi, 40 metres high, open to visitors.
The Ezzelini Castle, Walk of Walls and Cathedral of S. Maria in Colle, evidence of the ancient medieval parish church.
Numerous historic villas can be visited, including Palladio’s Villa Angarano Bianchi Michiel.
Along the banks of the Brenta River, it is possible to enjoy a walk along the so-called “Brenta Ring”.
