Piovene Rocchette

Piovene Rocchette is where I now live – most of the time. It is a pleasant little village with an interesting old town that meanders its way up the slopes of the legendary local mountain – Monte Summano.

A local landmark is the haunted castle, Palazzino Fraccaroli. Built in the 18th century but never finished local legend says it is a cursed and haunted place. I never go near the place!

Monte Summano dominates Piovene and has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries – traces of bronze and Iron Age settlements have been found on the slopes of the mountain.

Pilgrims have flocked to Monte Summano ever since the Bishop of Padua dedicated it to the Virgin Mary back in the 15th century. The mountain offers some great hiking trails and is a popular jumping off point for hang-gliders. The view from the top is fantastic. On a clear day you can see nearly to Venice.

What else to do? I would recommend two things;



• First is to just stroll around the little streets, squares and alleys of the old town, enjoying the atmosphere. Wander up the narrow lanes as they climb the mountain and take in the ever more impressive view. I must warn you though - the streets can get very steep and it can be hot work in the summer - if it gets too much like hot and thirsty work then read on...

• If you like beer, visit the Birreria Summano. One of the oldest Italian breweries it has now, unfortunately, been taken over by a large German brewery. The good part is that the beer is still decent and they have a great restaurant serving local specialties. Wholesome, very tasty food it is and the prices are very reasonable.

If you want to use Piovene Rocchette as a base to explore the Veneto then there is a lovely little hotel just on the edge of town that is perfect. Family owned and with that really welcoming Italian family feel about it. The hotel is the Albergo Ristorante Belvedere in nearby Thiene.

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