Valdobbiadene, Italy: a guide to the Prosecco Road Itineraries
Valdobbiadene is a captivating and picturesque town situated approximately 70km north of Venice, nestled in the heart of the enchanting foothills of Alta Marca Trevigiana.
While its western side finds protection in the waters of the Piave, a river that held sacred significance for the Italian people after World War I, the eastern direction leads to the renowned Prosecco Road of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, a journey worth undertaking by car or even on a leisurely ride.
This scenic route meanders through rolling hills adorned with magnificent vineyards that transform with the changing hues of nature. The terraced slopes, sculpted by human hands, paint a breathtaking landscape.
In our perspective, exploring this region calls for a slow and sustainable approach, merging the yearning for relaxation with the plethora of experiences catering to every preference.
Indeed, the array of choices is boundless.
Prosecco hills
From exploring castles and abbeys to indulging in the renowned Prosecco Valdobbiadene Conegliano DOCG, sampling local products, and embarking on an array of outdoor activities accessible by foot or bike, this region offers an extensive range of experiences.
In this article, we will present you with a collection of ideas and suggestions for the destinations within and around the Prosecco Road Itineraries. Let’s go!
Table of Contents
- Accommodation in Valdobbiadene
- Attractions in Valdobbiadene & Nearby
- The Cartizze Belvedere
- Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #1
- Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #2
- Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #3
Accommodation in Valdobbiadene
As many of the captivating attractions in this area are situated within a short radius of a few tens of kilometers, we opted for Valdobbiadene as our central hub for exploration.
Throughout our journey, we chose to stay at the Nuova Filanda Rooms, a charming establishment located at the town’s entrance, set within the historic premises of a former spinning mill.
Following its recent renovation, we discovered the rooms to be a perfect fit for our needs: impeccably clean, invitingly cozy, and adorned with tasteful furnishings.
A delectable breakfast is meticulously prepared at the adjacent inn, conveniently located on the ground floor. Moreover, a supermarket catering to every necessity is only a short stroll away, making daily errands a breeze.
Our experience at Nuova Filanda Rooms was truly delightful, and we wholeheartedly recommend it as an ideal accommodation choice.
Here you can conveniently explore the offers and availability of:
Accommodations in Valdobbiadene and its enchanting surroundings
Attractions in Valdobbiadene & Nearby
With a luxurious span of three full days at our disposal, we harmoniously interwove our stay in Valdobbiadene with a visit to Bassano del Grappa, a mere forty kilometers distant.
During the planning stages of our journey, we meticulously charted three distinct itineraries, characterized by both historical and cultural significance.
One of these journeys led us on foot through the heart of Valdobbiadene’s city center, while the other two gracefully followed the original route of the renowned Prosecco Road.
Valdobbiadene Conegliano DOCG Prosecco
The latter paths are adorned with delightful pauses, offering opportunities to appreciate the awe-inspiring hilly terrain and to visit the finest Prosecco wineries en route.
Discussing landscapes, it’s worth noting that in 2019, UNESCO granted the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene a prestigious spot on its World Heritage list.
This marked the second geographical region in Italy, following Piedmont’s Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, to be bestowed with the revered title of “Cultural Landscape” by this esteemed organization.
The Cartizze Belvedere
Just beyond the outskirts of Valdobbiadene lies a stretch of land spanning 107 hectares, where the renowned Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG is meticulously crafted.
This small strip of land assumes a distinctive geometric form, a five-sided figure known as the “Golden Pentagon.”
Nestled amidst the rolling hills, it forms a natural amphitheater, ensconced between the hamlets of Saccol, San Pietro di Barbozza and Santo Stefano.
With each twist and turn, the landscape undergoes transformation, providing the tourist with an array of stunning views ready to be captured on the smartphone camera.
The Cartizze viewpoint
Among the various viewpoints, there’s a particular spot that offers the most iconic vistas of the Prosecco Hills, a scene often depicted in brochures: the Cartizze viewpoint.
The panoramic point of Cartizze is located along the road that leads from Saccol to Santo Stefano.
Just before reaching the Salis wine shop, an unmistakable landmark, you’ll find a designated area to park your vehicle. From there, a leisurely stroll along Strada Colesel and Val awaits.
After a short walk of a few dozen meters, the path diverges. Stay to the left and proceed straight ahead. As you reach the end, you find wooden benches crafted from tree trunks.
Take a seat, inhale the surroundings deeply, and savor the moment.
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #1
For a journey through the town’s historical centre, we followed one of the itineraries highlighted in the brochure available at the tourist information center.
Referred to as the “short” route, this path spans approximately four kilometers, rendering it accessible to all, with the sole challenge arising from the brief yet steep ascent to the village of Ron.
The exploration commences at Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, an elegant oval expanse, and includes a visit to the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral.
Villa dei Cedri park
The original construction dates back to the twelfth century, but it adopted its current neoclassical appearance following substantial renovations in the eighteenth century.
The façade is marked by four Doric columns that uphold an expansive architrave, which in turn supports the pediment.
Adjacent to the church stands the bell tower, whose construction lasted nearly seventy years, culminating in 1810 with the addition of the bulbous spire.
Notably, the tower is adorned with the intricate design of Abbot Giovanni Follador’s sundial. The present tower is a reconstruction of the original, which fell victim to the bombings of the First World War.
The journey progresses along Via Piva, leading to the Villa dei Cedri (on the left) after a short distance.
The villa, ensconced within its lush park, was erected at the outset of the nineteenth century by the Piva family – prominent entrepreneurs in the textile and silk industries, particularly.
The giant Britola in the Villa dei Cedri park
Presently, the villa is under the ownership of the municipality. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll through the park for a rejuvenating experience amidst towering cedars, magnolias, hydrangeas, and olive trees.
Just before you approach the exit leading to Via Cordana, a fascinating sight awaits: the “Britola Gigante.”
This remarkable artwork was fashioned from the trunk of a centuries-old cedar that succumbed to inclement weather in the park.
The piece was masterfully created through the collaboration of the Venetian sculptor Toni Venzo and the skilled artisans at the Fornasier workshops in Fossalta di Piave and Menin in Valdobbiadene.
It’s worth noting that the “britola” is a type of knife extensively utilized in rural life. I still recall that the elder members of my community habitually carried one in the pockets of their jackets or trousers.
As you exit the garden, you’ll notice a tabernacle adorning the wall of the villa, dedicated to San Venanzio Fortunato. Within the niche, a fresco portrays the Saint alongside scenes from the lives of emigrants.
The public washhouse
Next to the building, an aged communal stone washhouse stands—a place where village women once gathered to laboriously wash clothes by hand.
The stroll progresses along Via Roma, affording splendid vistas of the cathedral’s bell tower.
Toward the road’s culmination, the Monument to the Fallen of both world wars emerges, a creation of the skilled artisan Toni Benetton.
In our opinion, the most captivating facet of this masterpiece lies in the wrought iron figures.
These figures, rendered in a narrative manner, unfold the story of Christ in the context of contemporaneous events.
Regarding the famed sculptor from Treviso, we had the privilege of visiting his house museum a few years ago, situated within Villa La Marignana in the Morocco district of Mogliano Veneto.
As you step onto the narrow Via San Martino, the path ascends, the terrain becoming progressively more undulating. After a brief distance, you’ll arrive at the charming ancient village of Ron.
Following the course of Strada di Ron, you’ll loop back to the heart of Valdobbiadene, where the itinerary ends.
For those who relish walking and are well-conditioned, an alternative option is the “long” route. Stretching approximately five kilometers, this path presents a slightly more demanding challenge compared to the “short” itinerary.
The interior of the church of San Floriano
Essentially, the “long” route closely follows the “short” path for three-quarters of its distance.
However, it incorporates an extra segment – a detour that leads to the ascent of the Colle di San Floriano.
The route winds partly on a paved road and partly on a path that climbs into the woods along Via della Stecca.
Situated near a prominent hairpin turn, the San Floriano Martire church emerges. An intimate and tranquil haven, it presents an exceptional view of the valley and Valdobbiadene, especially at sunset.
The earliest records of this building trace back to a will in 1424. Throughout the centuries, various works have altered its appearance.
Unfortunately, extensive damage was inflicted upon it during the bombings of the First World War, necessitating significant repairs post-Second World War.
Within its confines, the church safeguards a polychrome wooden high altar dating back to the seventeenth century, as well as a wooden statue of Our Lady of Fatima, crafted by Giacomo Vincenzo Mussner.
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #2
Stretching over approximately 52 kilometers (round trip), this route closely follows the path of the Prosecco Road, leading towards Vittorio Veneto.
It especially caters to enthusiasts of slow tourism, seamlessly merging cultural and artistic exploration with immersive encounters in nature, culinary delights, and wine experiences.
The surroundings of Valdobbiadene – itinerary #2
Osteria Senz’Oste Experience
(3,5 Km ahead)
Osteria Senz’Oste is situated in a splendid position right on top of the Cartizze hills.
We advise you to leave your car in one of the marked parking lots along the provincial road, just outside the village of San Pietro di Barbozza, and then reach the restaurant with a walk of a few minutes.
Occupying an old farmhouse, the tavern operates on a unique principle: no dedicated waitstaff.
The Osteria Senz’Oste
On the tables, shelves, and within the cupboards, you’ll discover a comprehensive assortment for a picnic, including essential provisions like cold cuts, cheeses, and bread.
Each package comes tagged with its price (which, in our view, may not align with the quality) and the payment is independently settled at the checkout.
For wine, specific dispensers are available at the summit of Colle Cartizze.
This destination can be accessed via a narrow sloping pathway through the vineyards. Along this route, convenient tables and resting points invite you to enjoy your meal.
Undoubtedly, Osteria Senz’Oste has gained prominence and has transformed into a global tourist attraction.
Yet, in our perspective, the original charm appears to have been overshadowed by a heightened focus on commercial pursuits.
Consequently, we recommend visiting this spot as many others do. However, if your desire is to truly savor the Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG, a couple of decent wineries are situated just a short distance away.
Discovering Combai
(9.8 km ahead)
Combai is a pretty traditional village where life flows slowly, with locals working in the fields and vineyards.
Outside the village, a spacious and clearly marked parking area awaits, providing a spot to leave your vehicles. A set of stepped stairs leads you to the heart of the historic center.
Within a meticulously maintained open space near the Pro Loco headquarters, wooden sculptures grace the scene, accompanied by benches.
This inviting setup offers an ideal setting for a tranquil and rejuvenating pause.
While some of the older homes still boast stone walls, recent years have seen evident renovation and modernization efforts shaping the village’s appearance.
Panorama of Combai
Following via Capovilla and then via Mira Monti, the ascent leads to the Colle di Ronch (439 meters), crowned by the modest sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Sorrows.
Erected in the first half of the nineteenth century, this church underwent significant modifications a century later.
During our visit, we encountered the church doors closed.
However, two thoughtfully placed transparent glass openings on the front door offered glimpses of the interior—a fortunate discovery.
The Bottega de Combai is a kind of place of secular worship, where you can discover and taste the delicious products that express the food and wine tradition of the territory.
Among the offerings lining the shelves of this charming emporium, you’ll encounter an array of delights.
Notably, these encompass cheeses crafted in mountain huts, cold cuts, chestnut honey, and Combai IGP chestnuts, along with their various derivatives such as jams and desserts.
Exploring Follina
(14.7 Km ahead)
A gently descending road leads to the heart of the valley. Upon traversing the center of Miane, the village of Follina comes into view.
Renowned for housing the Cistercian Abbey of Santa Maria, Follina holds more to explore within its confines.
We recommend taking a moment to appreciate the historical core of the village, where notable structures grace the landscape—such as the seventeenth-century Palazzo Bernardi Tarzoni.
The origins of monastic presence in Follina can be traced back to the pre-millennial era.
Initially established by Benedictine monks, the order transitioned to the Cistercians in 1146, hailing from the Lombard abbeys of Chiaravalle in Milan and Cerreto (Lodi).
The current basilica, constructed in the fourteenth century, manifests a Roman-Gothic architectural style.
Its origins, however, predate this incarnation, with a Benedictine abbey preceding it and another Cistercian church from the thirteenth century.
The Cloister of the Cistercian Abbey of Follina
The construction of the basilica owes itself to the dedicated efforts of Abbots Gualtiero da Lodi and Nordio da Treviso, taking place between 1305 and 1335.
Aligned with Cistercian conventions, the façade faces west, and the structure comprises three naves spanning five bays.
Internally, the building emanates an elegant simplicity.
Notably, a fresco from 1507, attributed to Francesco da Milano, graces the interior. This artwork portrays the Madonna and Child flanked by two saints and a patron.
Adhering to Cistercian architectural principles, the Romanesque-style Cloister occupies the southern flank of the church.
A testament to this order’s norms, the cloister features a square layout and a central garden adorned with a customary fountain. This tranquil space was erected in 1268 under the patronage of Abbot Tarino.
Lastly, thanks to the endeavors of the resident monks, Follina played a significant role in wool and silk processing until the eighteenth century, boasting over 1200 workshops—a legacy of historical industrial importance.
Cison di Valmarino Village
(18.1 Km ahead)
Upon departing from the historic center of Follina, the formidable Castel Brando—a venerable European landmark—graces the horizon.
Cison is one of those villages that must be discovered slowly, stopping to admire the flow of the waters of the Rujo stream and walking through its narrow sloping streets.
A refined main square takes center stage, adorned by intriguing palaces and the Santa Maria Assunta Church.
This neoclassical marvel, completed in 1740, boasts dual facades. One faces west, housing the main entrance, while the other, more visually captivating, gazes upon Piazza Roma.
Medieval splendor resides atop Col de Moi in the form of the Cison Castle. Recently revitalized, this complex has been ingeniously transformed into a luxurious accommodation facility.
Beyond accommodation, the castle encompasses an engrossing museum section. Here, exhibitions delve into historical weaponry, music, attire, carriages, and the Via Claudia Augusta.
Lastly, the Via dei Mulini winds as a nature trail, connecting the hamlet to the Bosco delle Penne Mozze.
En route, you’ll encounter washhouses, fountains, canals, and age-old mills—a captivating journey through the region’s natural beauty and history.
Revine Lakes
(25.7 Km ahead)
Today’s itinerary ends in the town of Revine Lago.
The lake environment is formed by two bodies of water, Lake Lago and Lake Santa Maria, connected to each other by the so-called “canal of boats”.
Destination of tourists especially during the summer, the area has a small beach where you can relax and sunbathe, playgrounds for children and an area equipped for barbecue.
Lake Lago
Exploration of this area is facilitated by an approximately eight-kilometer nature trail, tracing the perimeter of both Lake Lago and Lake Santa Maria.
The lakes are of glacial origin, generated after the retreat of the Piave glacier and are fed by different karst springs.
Adjacent to the Lake Lago parking lot, the interesting Archaeological Park of Livelet beckons.
Here, individuals of all ages can engage in educational play, delving into the lifestyles of prehistoric inhabitants who dwelled on stilts.
Within the park, three stilt houses have been meticulously recreated to scale. The tools utilized for this project mirror those available during that era.
As the day draws to a close, it’s time to return to Valdobbiadene.
For your evening meal, we recommend considering the Trattoria alla Cima and the Locanda Sandi, two delightful venues nestled in the embrace of nature.
Locanda Sandi Restaurant
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Road: Itinerary #3
After departing from Valdobbiadene, this itinerary served as our homeward journey. The route faithfully follows the course of the Prosecco Road in the direction of Conegliano.
Covering a distance of approximately 40 kilometers from Valdobbiadene to the Pieve di San Pietro di Feletto, this route offers ample opportunities to pause for refreshment.
In this regard, we recommend making a note of Trattoria Al Forno in Refrontolo. Situated conveniently in the town center and just steps away from the town hall, it offers an appealing choice for dining.
The surroundings of Valdobbiadene – itinerary #3
Col San Martino
(10,5 Km ahead)
Located on top of a hill between rows of vines, the church of San Vigilio dominates from above the village of Col San Martino and the whole valley below, up to the course of the Piave.
Access to the church is facilitated by a road that commences near the parish church, meandering toward the outskirts of the village.
The concluding stretch proves the most intricate, marked by a narrowing road width and a noticeable incline. This portion demands dexterous handling of the clutch and engagement of low gears.
Records trace the church’s origins back to 1217, while the initial rectangular hall, lacking an apse, can be attributed to the eleventh and twelfth centuries.
Subsequent expansions encompassed the augmentation of the nave and the erection of the bell tower, presently home to an expansive circular clock.
The mid-sixteenth century witnessed the completion of the square apse and the adjacent sacristy.
Within the interior of the edifice, captivating frescoes from various epochs are impeccably preserved.
Refrontolo
(24.4 km ahead)
A shaded avenue guides you to the enchanting Molinetto della Croda – a locale that, in our perspective, epitomizes the essence of the Marca Trevigiana region.
Upon stepping into the complex, a sensation akin to entering a fairy tale realm envelops you.
Lavender, hydrangeas, begonias, ivy, and geraniums bloom in vibrant splendor, adorning the environment with a rich chromatic palette.
Wooden birdhouses dangle from the tree trunks, further enhancing the magical ambience.
Within the square adjoining the building, benches and tables are thoughtfully placed, inviting visitors to indulge in moments of relaxation and enjoy a picturesque picnic amidst this enchanting landscape.
The Molinetto della Croda
Located in the Lierza valley, this seventeenth-century rural edifice was constructed in phases, with its foundational structure resting upon the rugged mountain rock formation, aptly referred to as the “croda.”
Once operational until 1953, the mill later experienced a period of abandonment for a number of years.
However, in the 1980s, the mill’s proprietor and subsequently the municipality initiated a series of restoration endeavors, rekindling its former splendor.
Today, the mill welcomes tourists, offering exploration across its three stories. Commencing within the space that houses the meticulously refurbished millstone, an educational journey unfolds.
Visitors can arrange for a practical demonstration, and following the experience, the opportunity to purchase the produced flour presents itself.
Ascending to the upper floors, the chambers that once accommodated the millers’ families come into view: spaces like the stable, kitchen, and bedrooms.
These modest quarters once served as the backdrop to lives marked by hardship and frugality.
Concluding the interior tour, one can descend the stairs or extend their sojourn along the path tracing the waterfall, which meanders through the surrounding woods.
This extension provides an additional ten-minute stroll before returning to the parking area.
The garden of Molinetto della Croda in Refrontolo
Rolle Village
(30.3 Km ahead)
The small village of Rolle, a hamlet of Cison di Valmarino, has enjoyed the safeguard of the Italian Environment Fund (FAI) since 2004.
Nestled in an enchanting position amid rolling vineyard-covered hills, Rolle’s allure is undeniable.
Its scenic vistas are a treat for the eyes, accessible both along the road from Refrontolo—the route we undertook—and the path from Cison.
Adorning both routes are natural vantage points that beckon for brief halts, offering opportunities to capture evocative photographs.
At the village nucleus, the church dedicated to St. James and St. Philip stands prominently. Accessible via a stone staircase, this spiritual haven lies at the heart of Rolle.
Upon exploration’s culmination, a return to Refrontolo beckons, as the journey continues in the direction of San Pietro di Feletto.
San Pietro di Feletto Parish Church
(39.4 km ahead)
Standing prominently at the village entrance, the millenary Pieve di San Pietro hails from the Lombard epoch.
This venerable religious structure served as the concluding point of our three-day exploration across the captivating locales of Valdobbiadene and its environs, tracing the path of the Prosecco Road.
Accessed by means of a staircase, this historic sanctuary, crafted around the turn of the first millennium, unfolds its architectural beauty.
Its exterior is distinguishable by a grand porch, resplendent with ornate embellishments and frescoes.
Internally, the pieve boasts three naves demarcated by arches that find support in rectilinear columns.
A particularly captivating feature is the chapel housing the baptismal font, adorned with fifteenth-century frescoes portraying the life and martyrdom of St. Sebastian, offering an engaging glimpse into the past.
