The Town of Asolo
I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and joy the first time I visited Asolo. It has that effect on all who discover it.
For centuries, artists, poets, and writers have been drawn here...many have never left again. Spend a few nights at the Albergo al Sole, tucked away in the town's little piazza, and you'll start feeling the same way.
If you are in Venice, and don't have the time to spend a night or two in Asolo, then at least do a day trip here - something like this one.
Let's go and explore...
Town Entrance
The parking areas are outside the old town, and the walk into town is lovely; all around you are gorgeous vistas of green hills, cypress trees, and rural bliss. Then, as you reach the old town, you will likely pass under this arch and discover that you've stepped into another century. Arcaded walkways lead one along cobbled lanes and with every turn there is something enchanting awaiting you: views, piazze, a tiny boutique, or... well one just never knows what awaits. You will have to make your own discoveries when you visit.
Exploring
If you get here at lunch or dinner time make sure you eat at Al Bacaro - the best place in town to try the delicious local cuisine. I always end up chatting away to the many fascinating locals who eat here and I've chatted on occasions to people who I later discovered were famous artists, writers and once a well-known actor - at least well known to everyone but me.
Next door is the Robert Browning Gallery dedicated to the poet who loved Asolo.
Al Bacaro Restaurant
The road the Al Bacaro is on is full of flowers. the restaurant is located where you see those barrels in the photo.
Cathedral
The Asolo Cathedral is one of the main historical sights in the town, parts of it date back to the 10th century.
The Piazza and Nearby
The Villas and the Queen's Castle
Heading away from the piazza, you first pass by the 13th-century castle of Queen Cornaro. Queen Conaro was the last queen of Cyprus, and after Cyprus was taken over by Venice, she was exiled to Asolo.
As you leave town, you start to come across the famous villas dating from the 16th century. The Villa Contarini (also known as the Armenian Villa) is the most famous, but the rather peculiar little Longbard Villa, with a dozen caricature faces all over it, is my favorite.
View of the Armenian Villa
Longobard House
Longobard House & Garden
The Road to the Fortress
Walk back into town, passing the old and abandoned Carabinieri (police) building, which is slowly being covered by ivy. Once in town, you'll come across the main piazza again and then begin your climb up to the fortress.
Old Carabinieri Building
Now we start heading up the hill...
After the lane with the pretty little cottages seen in the photos above, you'll arrive at the old monastery, built in the 16th century and now home to a university MBA program. Fill up your bottle with water at the drinking fountain here before beginning the 300 steps up to the fortress.
The Old Town Wall
The views on the way up are gorgeous...
The castle tower and fortress are very imposing, with walls 50 feet high and nearly 14 feet wide. It was apparently built in the 12th century, but its origins are still shrouded in mystery. The views from up here are spectacular—on a clear day, you can see all the way to Venice!
Asolo Fortress
I hope you enjoyed exploring Asolo, and perhaps I'll see you here next summer. For more on Asolo, click here.
Ciao
Maria
Please Book with Us... Maria here, if you enjoy my site I'd love your support.
Simply book your next trip anywhere (not only to Italy) via the link below or with any of the hotel links on the website.
You'll get the best deal available and the income I receive helps me to remain independent and to keep bringing you more of beautiful Italy.
Click to Begin
You'll Enjoy These...
If you've been to Venice and Verona you'll know it's true, these cities are irresistible. Click through and spend 5 minutes with us and you'll see why.
There are many gorgeous small towns scattered throughout Italy. We've made it our mission to discover some of the best. Portobuffole is one of them...
Discover the epitome of luxury in Venice. Explore my insider's guide to the best luxury hotels in Venice, where opulence meets elegance.
Need a romantic getaway? Looking for a family holiday? Whatever you want Lake Garda has something suited to you. Let me share its secrets...
Island, waterfalls, botanical gardens and the soaring Mount Baldo. You'll be stunned by the natural beauty of a landscape called by some earth's Eden.
Vicenza Italy is so near to Venice yet nearly everyone misses this little gem. Join me in exploring my home town...
The insider’s guide to the best ski resorts in Italy. We have lived in 2 of Italy’s major ski regions and we share with you tips for perfect Italian skiing
Young children may get bored on a continual diet of history and museums in Italy. Santorso is the answer...
If you are looking for a good restaurant in Padova, then we've just the place: a little family run restaurant serving traditional dishes in the old town.
A city to enchant you, to capture your heart. These pictures of Vicenza will give you a taste of what you can expect from a city that should be...
Looking to buy gold jewellery in Italy? No place beats Vicenza, The world capital of gold jewellery making. Visit the home of Italian gold!
Looking for thermo spas near Venice, Italy or in Venice? Our guide has everything you need to plan a visit to the best spas to be found in northern Italy.
Arsiero and nearby Posina, in the Veneto Dolomites, are two lovely little towns. The incredible 52 tunnels are one of the highlights of a visit here.
Sightseeing in Verona Italy - discover the real Verona not the tourist traps most tourists end up seeing. An insiders guide to this great city.
Borgetto sul Mincio is a tiny little village, only a short distance away from Lake Garda and this is one village you do not want to miss.
Explore the captivating Franciacorta wine region in Italy, known for its prestigious sparkling wines, stunning vineyards, and tranquil beauty.
Padova is not only worth visiting; it is a must-see destination. City of bicycles, city of canals, city of medieval wonders Padova is all of this and much more.
Treviso Italy is often just the place you pass through on the way to Venice. Don't make this mistake. Spend a few days here and discover...
Planning a Christmas in Italy? I have everything you need - advice on Italian Christmas traditions, insider tips, weather, great accommodation picks and...
Car rental in Venice can leave you with a sinking feeling. Read our guide to avoid that happening to you...
Give the gift of love straight from Italy - the land of amore. Have you experienced a summer in Italy? We've a way for you to bring that joy home with you...
Looking for things for children to do in Italy? Having children myself and having spent ten years living in Italy I have discovered some wonderful places for the kids...
Ever thought of starting a new life in Italy? Well, the two little towns of Breganze and Thiene are worth considering, both are great places to live or to visit
Veneto Italy is full of secrets, a place of great natural beauty, ancient medieval villages and two of the greatest cities on earth. Discover the Veneto...
Marostica is famous for its chess festival, with real live knights and ladies battling it out on a huge board. Discover this medieval gem.
More Travel Tips:
- Book your tickets to museums and other attractions in advance on Tiqets.com
- Book your accommodation. Booking.com and Agoda help you to book accommodation in advance
- Book your excursions. Wherever you go, make the most of your time! Excursions with professional guides will help you do this - choose a location and the best option for yourself on Viator or Getyourguide
- Book your car. At least a month before is best. Use Discover Car Hire.
- Cash Back on Flights: Great deals & money back with WayAway
- Get peace of mind when traveling. Get insured with VisitorsCoverage.com
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.