When you imagine rural Italy, you might picture the rolling countryside bursting with vineyards, mountains framing towns of white-stone houses, or Medieval castles standing proudly on hills. On this trip to Bassano del Grappa and Soave, you'll find all of this and more. Mirco, a local guide, says “the town of Bassano del Grappa is known as the home of the fiery Grappa drink, but its name actually comes from Mount Grappa which sits nearby, and there's a lot more to its history than just the national spirit.”
Your day kicks off with a scenic journey from your hotel to Bassano del Grappa, where you'll have free time to roam this pretty Venetian town. As well as the chance to taste and learn about its famous drink at Poli Grappa Museum, you can spend time getting to know the town's fascinating World War I history. The Ponte Degli Alpini is a red wooden bridge which spans the River Brenta. It's an engineering masterpiece and was used by the Italian Alpini army to reach the frontlines during the war. Word to the wise, you can't visit this place without treading its boards at least once.
After you've learnt all about the town and found a great spot for lunch, it's off to Soave. You'll pass endless vineyards as you approach Scaliger Castle, at the heart of this Medieval town. Famous for its distinctive floral Soave wine, it's only fitting to visit Cantina del Castello for some tastings. Mirco adds “you'll try three wines with local cheeses and meats in a stone cellar with vaulted ceilings and learn how the team here is going organic with a more sustainable approach to wine-making.” In the late afternoon you'll head back towards your hotel in time for dinner – perhaps with a nice glass of Soave?
