‘It’s like stepping into a Renaissance masterpiece’: Readers’ favorite unknown places in Italy | Italy Holidays
Dramatic hills and medieval charm in Emilia-Romagna
Approaching the town of Brisigella in Emilia-Romagna, you’ll feel as if you’re quickly blending into the backdrop of a Renaissance masterpiece, with dramatic rocky hills with unique trees perched on them, and mysterious towers standing in a secluded spot – leaving you wondering what they must have witnessed over the years. The city is an ideal starting point for exploring such remarkably beautiful scenery, but it is also worth exploring its numerous medieval alleys and its unique elevated path, which give special corners to enjoy the city’s charm.
Goya
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Guardian Travel reader advice
Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. A selection of tips will be featured online and may appear in print. To enter the latest competition visit the Reader Tips home page
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Walking in the heart of Sicily
We just walked Via de Frati From Caltanissetta to Cefalù in Sicily. During the 54-mile hike through the Madone Mountains, we saw no walkers or tourists. The views are amazing and each day ends in a beautiful Sicilian village like Gangi. Although no one spoke English, communication was not a problem at all.
Michael
Castles and catacombs of Basilicata
The southern area of Basilicata is full of interesting places, but Venosa, the birthplace of the Roman poet Horace, is unmissable. Once a major centre, it is now a small, remote town, boasting extensive Roman ruins, ancient Jewish catacombs, a picturesque castle, and beauty and interest at every turn. Great local food and wine. Nearby, the castles at Melfi and Lagobesole and the Ducal Palace at Pietragalla are among many places that might be world-famous if they were located in more touristy areas, but you can’t easily go wrong in this part of Basilicata as long as you skip Potenza.
dew
Ecological bliss in the Apennines
Eco Hotel Molino delle Cortinlost at the end of a three-mile dirt track deep in the Apennines east of Florence, is almost cartoonishly peaceful. With a shaded river pool reached by climbing via a rope into the river bed, a range of hiking trails in the surrounding forests and along streams and not a single bar of phone reception, it’s the perfect place to truly switch off. Rustic plates of pasta, regional cheeses, meats and cheesecakes served slowly under a planetarium sky add to the appeal.
Cath
Medieval gem in Friuli
Located in the heart of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in the north-east, Cividale is a destination that feels like stepping into a living postcard. this UNESCO World Heritage Site It is a treasure trove of history, from its Roman roots to one of Italy’s most notable medieval sites: the magnificent 8th-century Tempietto Longobardo built by the Lombards. Wander the cobblestone streets, cross Devil’s Bridge and enjoy views of the emerald Natison River. In addition to its beauty, Cividale offers authentic Italian charm – think family-run Italian restaurants, local wines and vibrant cultural traditions.
Steve Bassett
Small Venice without the crowds
I doubt many tourists coming to Italy know about the small city of Venice, which lies 16 miles south of its more famous sister city and is an easy day trip to. Chioggia is what Venice looked like in an earlier version, and was actually mentioned by the Roman author Pliny the Elder. It is also characterized by narrow canals and alleys, which are important Adriatic Zoological Museum To boast, as well as beaches, fortress and medieval architecture.
Michael
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Hiking in the Ligurian Apennines
I lived not far from Santo Stefano d’Aveto, and returned to the city in the Ligurian Apennines northeast of Genoa whenever I could. It’s a great base for exploring Avito Regional Natural Park With winding trails around Monte Iona, Monte Pina, Ramaceto and Zata, with peaks rising to around 1,800 metres. Small lakes are located in the valleys, ideal for a stop during hiking. The old one Gambatesa Mine makes downtime fun, especially with kids. Simple meals: polenta, mushrooms, Sunset cheeseAnd maybe wild boar. It’s not a perfect picture, it’s real.
Federico Bozzini
Truffle tagliatelle in the heart of Lazio
Tucked away in the wild heart of Lazio, nestled dramatically on the edge of a wide crater, Campoli Appennino is a medieval village surrounded by dense forests, valleys and the silence of the mountains. Hikers lose themselves on Jules del Lacerno A trail pursues waterfalls and rugged gorges, while rescued brown bears roam freely in the village reserve. Then there’s the food: truffle tagliatelle El TartufoCream-filled pastries that disappear in one bite, and amazing pizza. Hidden, wild and utterly captivating, Campoli Appennino is a place you encounter once – and you’ll never forget.
Louise Warrington
Sweet wine in a Piedmont mountain village
Loazzolo is home to wonderful sweet wines and many great classic sparkling wines. The small mountain villages are breathtaking, especially in the fall when the landscape takes on different shades of red, yellow and green. With truffles, porcini and hazelnuts too, this is a culinary feast, best served in the early afternoon sun. This part of Piedmont always surprises me, especially because it is overlooked by non-Italian visitors. Close to the vineyards of Barolo and the beautiful towns of Asti and Alba, it remains a hidden treasure.
Rowan Smit
Winning tip: Explore the Roman ruins at your leisure, Le Marche
Even the locals thought it was hot when we visited the archaeological park in Urbis salviaSouth of Ancona in the Marche region. Walking between the perfectly preserved Roman theatre, the temple dedicated to Augusta and the amphitheater, we took shelter under trees, drinking from water bottles that were quickly emptying. The guide clearly thought we were mentally disturbed – rabid dogs and all – but far from the crowds of Rome or Pompeii, we had time to marvel at the city in front of us. Then we turned to If you wanta restaurant in Urbisaglia, the arrogant medieval neighbor, and have a perfect lunch in the shade.
Alex