Veneto is a region in northeastern Italy.
The capital city of the region is Venice, known for its unique architecture, canals, and history. Veneto stretches from the Dolomites in the north to the Adriatic Sea in the south. The region is rich in cultural and historical heritage, including numerous cities such as Verona, Vicenza, Padua, and Treviso, each with its landmarks and attractions.
Veneto is also known for its wine industry, producing famous wines like Prosecco, Amarone della Valpolicella, and Soave. Economically, it is a very developed region with a diverse industrial sector, including manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The diverse landscape, from mountains, lakes, and rivers to the coastline, makes Veneto a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts.
Our trip was perfectly organized by the Jonas Vacanze agency.
It was planned as a cycling tour through some of the most beautiful areas of Veneto. However, we didn’t just cycle; we also learned a lot. Upon arriving at the Alla Corte hotel near Bassano del Grappa, we first learned how to make an Aperol Spritz. The hotel is comfortable, with spacious rooms, a good breakfast, a spa, and parking. It is well-located for exploring the region as you don’t need to enter a city center.
At the mill near the village of Refrontolo, known as “Molinetto della Croda” we learned how to make flour the old-fashioned way and ground a few kilos ourselves. This picturesque old mill is on the river Lierza. Built into the rock in the 17th century, it has a unique appearance. It long served as a mill for grinding grain and producing flour, and today it is a popular tourist attraction.

At a workshop in the Locanda Sandi restaurant, we learned how to make tiramisu. I can say that everyone succeeded, and we enjoyed it as dessert. We also tasted the premium brand Merotto and visited the cellar, learning about the development and success of winemaking in this region.
Cherry, grappa and ceramic
On a farm, we tasted what might be the best cherries ever. Ciliegia di Marostica is a brand, and there is even a “cherry road.” Along with the delicious fruits, we painted small vases that will be fired in a ceramic kiln and sent to us by mail. An interesting and creative experience.
Of course, after such hard work, we needed a drink, so we visited the Poli Grappa Museum. This family business produces numerous types of grappas and liqueurs and is one of the most famous brands in Italy. The tasting is free, and there is also a guided tour through the production facilities and cellars where the grappa is aged in wooden barrels.
Prosecco Hills

One day, we started our 30 km journey with electric bikes from Locanda Sandi near Valdobbiadene. After a light lunch, we continued cycling along small paths and roads between vineyards. The impressive nature, numerous wineries, and farmsteads make this route very interesting. The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The vineyards are located on the southern slopes of the pre-Alpine hills, which to the north transition into the Dolomites.

The second day of cycling was less demanding. We started from Castelfranco Veneto to the charming town of Asolo, situated on a hilltop. Along the way, we stopped for a snack in a grove by a picturesque stream.
We visited the magnificent Brion Tomb complex, designed by the famous architect Carlo Scarpa. At first, it doesn’t look that impressive, but once you notice the symbolism present at every step, it is breathtaking. We had an excellent guide who explained everything in detail.
Asolo & Marostica
Lunch was at the traditional tavern 1892 in Asolo’s main street, a place I want to return to. We then continued by van to the town of Marostica, about thirty kilometers away, which we toured with a local guide.

We dined at excellent local restaurants. In Bassano, Birreria Ottone is highly recommended, as is the pizzeria Premiata Fabbrica near the old bridge with a view of the Brenta river. The pizzas are Venetian-style with somewhat different toppings from ours, with plenty of vegetables. In Marostica, we dined at Madonnetta, one of the oldest trattorias in Italy.
Some of the most beautiful small towns worth visiting are:
Asolo – known as the “Pearl of Treviso,” it offers picturesque medieval streets and magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Visitors can enjoy touring La Rocca fortress, the historic Villa Freya, and the museum dedicated to the poet Robert Browning. The town also offers a rich cultural heritage with numerous galleries, cafes, and restaurants that provide an authentic Venetian experience. The local cuisine uses fresh, local ingredients and is worth trying. It’s recommended to reserve on weekends as the place is very popular.

Marostica – a charming medieval town known for its “Human Chess Game,” held every two years in autumn on the main square. The town is surrounded by impressive walls and has two beautiful castles, Castello Superiore and Castello Inferiore. Marostica is interwoven with picturesque streets, historical landmarks, and a large main square dominated by red and white chess squares.

Bassano del Grappa – known for its historic wooden bridge, Ponte degli Alpini, designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio. The town also offers visitors the Grappa Museum, where they can learn more about the traditional production of this famous drink. Bassano is rich in art and history, with museums like the Museo Civico, which houses works by local artists, and the medieval Castello degli Ezzelini. Charming streets, lively squares, and numerous galleries make this town a perfect place to explore culture and history. It’s a good location for trips to other parts of Veneto.

Perfect weekend
A weekend I’ll long remember and recommend to everyone. It was a mix of activities, food and drink, culture, and interesting sights. Of course, everyone can tailor activities to their preferences. No matter how many times I’ve been to Italy, I’m always pleasantly surprised by the offerings based on local activities and ingredients. We didn’t see large hotels or foreign workers. Everything is still authentic, and I hope it stays that way.
Travel Advisor – Alps & Adriatic