WELCOME ABOARD... DISCOVERING LAKE ISEO BY BOAT - Navigazione Lago d'Iseo
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WELCOME ABOARD... DISCOVERING LAKE ISEO BY BOAT Lombardia in movimento
WELCOME ABOARD... DISCOVERING LAKE ISEO BY BOAT a publication sponsored by Navigazione Lago d’Iseo S.r.l. Editor Nous s.r.l., via Esterna del Molino, 18 - 24040 Stezzano (BG) tel +39 335 6548866 - edizioni.nous@gmail.com Concept and texts: © Giorgio Carradori Graphics and page-up: negrini+varetto Pisogne (BS) - Carpi (MO) www.negrinievaretto.com Maps: © Alex Perathoner Photography: © Alex Perathoner, © Fabio Cattabiani, © negrini+varetto, © Fotolia, © Cristina Mazzucchelli, © Comune di Predore, © Gian Attilio Vitali, © Gianluigi Bonomelli Translations: Angela Arnone, Daniela Zucca Entire publication © 2015 Navigazione Lago d’Iseo S.r.l. Printed in April 2015, by: Tipografia La Cittadina - Gianico (BS) All rights reserved. No part of the book may be duplicated, reproduced or transmitted in any form. ISBN 978-88-95781-71-6 Nous s.r.l. is willing to recognize any rights of which it is currently unaware.
PLEASE NOTE This guide is designed for tourists using our boats. It suggests itineraries that depart from the pier, and which are usually for walking, or in some cases using bicycles or public transport. The authors, publishers and Navigazione Lago d’Iseo s.r.l. have taken utmost care in drafting the texts but cannot accept liability for any problems arising from use of the guide. We recommend that visitors verify which buildings are open to the public and at what times. For excursions, especially for the more demanding, it is essential that you assemble detailed information and check each route at tourist information points, ensuring you have specific maps and guidebooks.
WELCOME ABOARD LAKE ISEO BY BOAT WELCOME ABOARD 6 NAVIGAZIONE LAGO D’ISEO 8 LANDSCAPE AND NATURE 12 HISTORY AND ART 18 NEARBY 22 FOOD AND WINE 26 CYCLING AND WALKING 28 OUR SPECIAL BOAT TOURS 32 CASTRO 36 COSTA VOLPINO 40 ISEO 44 LOVERE 48 MARONE 52 MONTE ISOLA 56 PARATICO 60 PISOGNE 64
COSTA
VOLPINO
LOVERE
PISOGNE
CASTRO
RIVA
DI SOLTO
MARONE
SALE
TAVERNOLA MONTE MARASINO
BERGAMASCA ISOLA
SULZANO
PREDORE
SARNICO
CLUSANE ISEO
PARATICO
PREDORE 68
RIVA DI SOLTO 72
SALE MARASINO 76
SARNICO 80
SULZANO 84
TAVERNOLA B.SCA 88
6
Greetings to you all from the captain and crew, and from
Navigazione Lago d’Iseo s.r.l.
We’ll be taking you by boat to discover this little gem among
the great lakes of Lombardy.
A boat is the most exciting way to discover Sebino, as Lake
Iseo was called by the ancient Romans, and as it is still often
known today.
As we sail, we’ll ensure you experience “the lake from
the lake” and relax as you enjoy the beautiful varied scenery
of wood-covered mountains, rocky banks, charming slopes,
pleasant beaches, and islands all differing from one another.
As we approach the landing points you’ll have the best view
of villages overlooking the lake, and when you alight from
the boat it’s like being welcomed at their front door.
With our guide we want to lead you on an exploration
of all the places the boat reaches and suggest the most
beautiful routes starting at each wharf.
Even if you only visit this lake by boat, you can enjoy coastal
towns and their surroundings, go to swimming and sailing
resorts, taste typical dishes, do some shopping, and stay
in comfortable hotels, B&Bs, or campsites.
If you prefer an active holiday, there are lovely walks or bike
rides, and also long excursions on nearby slopes and
mountains, staying in farmhouses or in mountain chalets.
We hope that this guide will be handy, whether you’re
spending just a day or weekend here, but hopefully
you will keep it with you for a longer holiday
on our lake.
7
NAVIGAZIONE LAGO D’ISEO Navigazione Lago d’Iseo is Lake Iseo’s scheduled and tourist transport service. Since it opened, the company has taken a dual approach. Firstly, ensuring a scheduled ferry for the towns of Sebino and Monte Isola; secondly promoting the use of boats as a different way of exploring the lake and its villages. Passengers using ferry services will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of mountain peaks, calm waters, small islands, Monte Isola and the small towns set on the shores from south to north. Visitors using the tourist services can choose from the different “Tour nel Blu” (Tour in the Blue) cruises and tours on the lake, offered from March to September, lasting from a few hours to an entire day. The lake is a great way to discover pristine nooks of nature and the artistic beauty of the area whose many treasures are still partly unknown. 8
Navigazione Lago d’Iseo also offers a flexible passenger
boat rental service for hosting various types of events:
business meetings, anniversaries, celebrations, weddings,
but also corporate events and press conferences.
The company has a fleet of 14 vessels of different sizes, with
a minimum capacity of 70 people and a maximum of 400.
The two largest craft include a coffee bar, restaurant and
music systems for entertainment, with 35 crew and ground
staff, increased to 45 during high season.
Navigazione Lago d’Iseo S.r.l.
9“Natura, panorama, atmosfera.
Lasciatevi trasportare.”
“Nature, views and atmosphere will carry you away.”
1011
LANDSCAPE
AND NATURE
Lake Sebino was created in ancient times, dug out by the
action of a large alpine glacier. It is Italy’s sixth largest lake
in surface area but is unique in being the setting for the
largest and highest lake island in Europe: Monte Isola,
with two smaller islands, Loreto and San Paolo, nearby.
As you sail on the lake your eye is drawn to a perfect
combination of alpine and Mediterranean environments.
The alpine world can be seen in the mountain range, snow-
capped in winter, the copious waters of the River Oglio that
flow into the lake, the spring rains that make the slopes
12so green, the cool breeze that tempers summer heat.
The mild climate, bright sunlight, and flora that includes
the iconic olive, on the other hand, has a very southern feel.
From the boat you’ll appreciate the meeting of land and
water, with dramatic high cliffs falling sheer to the depths
of the lake and gentle hills sloping down to the shoreline,
or the wetlands, created by the overlapping of earth and
water, where nature reigns supreme.
The lake has many natural attractions and we can only
show some on this page, so check the other sections,
dedicated to individual locations.
Clearly visible from the boat is the steep stretch of coast
between Riva di Solto and Castro, where the most
fascinating point is the Orrido di Zorzino, a gorge known
locally as the “Bögn”.
The gorge called “Orrido di Zorzino” or “Bögn”
13LANDSCAPE
AND NATURE
Here a small, solitary bay is dominated by a tall rock face
overlooking the lake, formed by many vertical layers
of limestone. A little further on, you’ll meet another gorge,
called the Bögn di Castro, where a rock curtain looms over
the narrow coastal road.
Water lilies
Cruising between Iseo and Clusane you’ll come across the
Riserva Naturale delle Torbiere del Sebino (Peat Bog
Nature Reserve) well worth the interesting hike to reach it.
There are about 360 hectares consisting of a kind of peat
lagoon that borders on the lake, numerous pools, meadows
and farmlands. The bogs began to form about 10,000 years
ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, and from the mid-1800s
were exploited for about a century to extract peat
that was used as fuel.
Tench
14The “Torbiere” peat bog trail
This small natural paradise offers visitors various routes.
Numerous species of birds (bittern, little bittern, purple
heron, black-crowned night heron, black kite, marsh harrier,
little crake, spotted crake, kingfisher,
red-backed shrike) nest here and the waters are home to
many varieties of fish, including pike, catfish, eel, carp,
redfin perch, and tench.
The vegetation is lush and abounds with reeds, bulrushes,
poplars and alders, and water lilies cover part of the pools.
Coot Heron
15LANDSCAPE
AND NATURE
The Riserva Regionale delle Piramidi di Erosione di Zone
(Zone Erosion Pyramids Regional Reserve) is an entirely
unique natural monument, located at 400-600 metres
in altitude, along the road that connects Marone to
the mountain district of Zone and its plateau.
The erosive action of water on the moraine soils, caused
by the melting of an ancient glacier, combined with
the protection offered by the large rocks set like hats on top
of the columns of rock and soil, has resulted in pyramids up
to 30 metres in height. A circuit allows visitors to approach
them closer.
Zone “Pyramids”
16Monte Isola
Last but not least, there is perhaps the most significant
beauty spot: Monte Isola. The island stands at the centre
of the lake and is home to several small, ancient rural and
fishing hamlets, with plentiful olive trees in the south and
wooded areas to the north.
The Madonna della Ceriola sanctuary, Monte Isola
17HISTORY
AND ART
Since ancient times this has been a place of human
settlement and the thousands of years of work spent
transforming the area has resulted in terraced hill slopes,
pastures, olive groves and vineyards, creating a successful
fusion between nature and humanity.
Prehistoric pile-dwellings can be seen in Paratico and
Sarnico, while at Marone and Predore the ancient Romans
built settlements and even villas in the more agreeable
places. The Middle Ages were a restless time for Lake
Sebino, with barbarian invasions, wars and frequent family
feuds. In the mid-1400s, however, it was acquired
by the Republic of Venice and this guaranteed a long period
of peace, almost to the 1800s.
After a few decades, Sebino became part of the new Italy,
unified after many centuries.
Frequent testimonies of the past are dotted around: towns,
castles and towers, churches and monasteries, mansions
and villas, artworks.
Rocca Martinengo, the fortress on Monte Isola
18Monastery of San Pietro in Lamosa, Provaglio d’Iseo
Many lake towns have a typical ancient centre, perfect
for pleasant strolls around the lanes.
The best known are the larger old towns of Iseo, Lovere and
Sarnico; smaller, but no less fascinating, are the centres
of Riva di Solto, Sale Marasino, Tavernola, and Predore,
while Sulzano’s ancient Via Cadorna is a must-see street.
Rocca Martinengo is a fortress set solitary on a promontory
on the south side of Monte Isola, dominating the skyline.
The Oldofredi Castle, with its massive corner towers,
stands guard over the town of Iseo. Medieval towers loom in
Pisogne, Lovere, Paratico, Predore, Riva di Solto and
Tavernola.
On the outskirts of the Torbiere del Sebino nature reserve a
mystical atmosphere cloaks the charming, secluded Cluniac
monastery of San Pietro in Lamosa.
Standing at the top of Monte Isola, in one of the loveliest
lookout spots on the lake, halfway between the sky and the
earth, the sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola (see p. 17)
is well worth the long haul up the slope.
19HISTORY
AND ART
Sant’Andrea parish church is a significant example of
medieval architecture (see p. 47) in Iseo, its façade featuring
a tall bell tower and a Gothic sarcophagus.
In Lovere there is a 15th-century basilica, that of Santa
Maria in Valvendra, exceptional for its architectural value
but also for its wonderful treasure trove of frescoes and
a 16th-century organ with precious painted panels.
Romanino fresco, Pisogne
In Pisogne, the Madonna della Neve shrine is famous for
the frescoes by Romanino, the great 16th-century Brescia
painter whose work broke away from Renaissance idealism
with its folk-realistic style.
The large parish church of Sale Marasino (see p. 76)
is typically Baroque, with its majestic double staircase
offering a welcome to those arriving from the lake.
20Accademia Tadini, Lovere
Among the noble mansions the most noteworthy is Lovere’s
19th-century neoclassical Accademia Tadini, a cultural
institution with a museum of important paintings and
precious collections of works of applied art.
From the end of the 1800s to the early 1900s, Sarnico
enjoyed the flourishing of Art Nouveau or Liberty style.
It was here that its most important Italian champion,
architect Giuseppe Sommaruga, left many buildings, among
which three splendid villas.
Villa Faccanoni, Sarnico
21NEARBY
Franciacorta
To the south of Lake Iseo is Franciacorta, a district made up
of 19 municipalities in the province of Brescia, as well as the
city of Brescia itself, for a total area of 20,000 hectares.
Its cultural, historical and natural legacy is a mosaic of
stunning verdant settings and long, gentle slopes.
Here we find ancient villages, fine churches, abbeys and
monasteries, stately homes, castles and towers.
The famous Franciacorta sparkling wine comes from the
vineyards on the moraine hills that line the lakeshore.
The name Franciacorta refers not only to the wine but also
to the vinification method used, known as “metodo
classico” or even “metodo Franciacorta”, named to call
attention to the uniqueness of this wine, whose production
protocol is the strictest in the world for this type of wine.
Franciacorta vineyard
18
22Franciacorta winery Mount Adamello
Valcamonica
The valley is 90 km in length and leads from the northern
end of the lake to the foot of the Alps, created by the same
glacier action that formed Sebino. Valcamonica is a place to
visit all year round: for art and history lovers there are
castles, churches, mansions, and archaeological sites.
19
23
Breno castle in ValcamonicaNEARBY
Naquane rock carvings, Capo di Ponte
The most significant are 100,000 and more rock carvings
produced by the prehistoric Camuno civilization, mainly
in the first millennium BCE, and listed as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. The gastronomy offers cheeses and cured
meats, as well as many typical dishes. Those who love
active holidays will be spoiled for choice for hiking or
mountain biking, enjoying nature in the great Adamello
Park, and some skiing in the vast Adamello Ski district.
Last but not least, if you want to pamper yourself with some
wellness treatments, be sure to check out the spas at Boario
and Angolo.
Terme di Boario spa
18
24Valle del Freddo
The Riserva Naturale della
Valle del Freddo (Valle del
Freddo Nature Reserve)
is an area of great natural
interest located along the main road leading to Lake Endine
from Lovere. The valley’s name means “cold” in Italian, and
derives from the unique microclimate phenomenon
produced here by the currents of cool air (2-4° C)
discharged through a few “holes of cold”; this fosters
development at low altitude of a large number of plant
species typical of the subalpine-alpine belt, including
edelweiss.
Lake Endine
Easily accessible from Lovere and Riva di Solto, enclosed
by a narrow valley, the lake has retained much of the intact
natural environment. Some stretches of the banks border
on thick reed beds, which is a mating habitat for many fish
species and a haven for birdlife. In other sections you’ll find
small beaches, a place where you can catch some rest and
recreation in summer.
19
25FOOD AND WINE
Sebino, Franciacorta and Valcamonica boast a culinary
tradition of the highest calibre, a special fusion generated by
a territory varied both in terms of morphology and climate,
but also by traditions handed down over the generations.
If you venture into one of the many restaurants, osterias and
farmhouses you’ll find on your travels, you can sample any
number of delicious dishes typical of the lake,
the mountains and the hills of Franciacorta.
Lake Iseo vaunts a number of emblematic products that are
very popular in modern gastronomy, like fish, olive oil
obtained from the groves on the hills, cheeses from
mountain areas, and the famous wines of the hinterland.
Apart from the eponymous Franciacorta wine (see p. 22),
let’s not forget Curtefranca whites and reds.
From the Bergamo west shore, try Valcalepio
white, red or moscato passito, and also
Terre del Colleoni wines of various types.
Lake fish specialities include sardines dried
and preserved in olive oil and salt, a typical
Monte Isola dish, or baked tench stuffed
with polenta, a Clusane speciality, and
also char, filleted perch, and freshwater
whitefish.
26
18
Casoncelli pasta Rosa Camuna cheeseBreaded perch
Production of cured meats in the Sebino district is limited
but revolves mainly around traditional charcuterie like
salami, above all the tasty Monte Isola version.
Cheeses certainly worth trying are the Silter, typical
of mountain areas; Casolet, made in a triangular form;
Formaggella, wheels of hot-curd cheese; Rosa Camuna and
Stracchino “Bronzone”, the latter a soft-paste cheese.
And for a truly unforgettable experience, Navigazione Lago
d’Iseo offers year-round food and wine cruises to enhance
the pleasure of a lake cruise with local cuisine.
Dinner on board
27
19CYCLING AND
WALKING
If you like to be “on the move” when you’re on holiday, here
you can choose from several pleasant itineraries along the
coast and nearby slopes. We’re including just a few
suggestions here, so check the rest of the guide for more
information.
The Sentiero Natura
del Sebino is a nature
trail comprising a circuit
of 17 km to be covered
on foot. You can set off
at Riva di Solto and
follow mule tracks and
footpaths through
chestnut woods and
deciduous forests,
meeting terraced
vineyards and olive
groves as you go, not to mention some breath-taking views
of the lake. Lovere-Bossico-Ceratello-Lovere is another
circular route of 17 km, but much more challenging and
suitable for mountain bikes. The trail is mostly stony and you
will need to be in good shape for some of the slopes, with
gradients up to 30%. Scenically it is worthwhile for some
unparalleled views of the lake, Valcamonica and, looking
south, the hills of Franciacorta.
Nature lovers and mountain bikers will find the dedicated
Strada Verde, a 55-km circuit that connects Tavernola
Bergamasca, Vigolo, San Fermo, Adrara San Rocco, Sarnico
and Predore, worth exploring for the combination
18
28Via Valeriana
of lake and mountain landscapes, and stunning views.
The eastern shore of Sebino is crossed by the ancient
Via Valeriana, and seeks to retrace the ancient
Roman-medieval route. The journey starts from Pisogne and
covers higher slopes, reaching 930 metres above sea level,
then descending and ending in Pilzone, a district of Iseo, after
25-30 km. You can also try it by mountain bike, but you
should be experienced.
The route is installed with numerous information panels and
is very scenic and varied, crossing woods and olive groves,
passing by churches, farmhouses, medieval villages, and
even skirting the Piramidi di Zone regional park.
19
29CYCLING AND
WALKING
Vello-Toline trail
An easy flat route unfolds along the old
decommissioned road which is now a cycle and pedestrian
path connecting Vello (district of Marone) to Toline (district
of Pisogne). The short and fascinating 5 km pass sheer
above the lake in old tunnels dug into the rock and between
the inlets created by the steep faces of Mount Corno dei
Trentapassi, offering broad views of the areas of the lake and
numerous alpine peaks and foothills.
Iseo is just a few kilometres from the Riserva Naturale
delle Torbiere (described earlier), which you can reach
on foot or by bicycle. After visiting the monastery of
San Pietro in Lamosa, why not continue on foot into the
marshes, where we recommend a circuit of 4 km.
Monte Isola is the ideal place for a visit on foot or by bicycle.
Here you can forget the traffic and take in the entire 9 km
of its circumference admiring the villages, olive groves,
woods and the ample landscape around you. Other, more
challenging routes are available if you want to try your hand
at roads and trails up the beautiful slopes, as far as the peak,
with the shrine of the Madonna della Ceriola (described earlier).
18
30The Paratico-Palazzolo
cycle path is a simple 20-km trail
that follows the Oglio river valley
and in some points skirts
the banks. You can start at
the southern part of the lake,
arriving at the town of Capriolo,
and finish at Palazzolo sull’Oglio, enjoying beautiful views
of the river, the countryside and the surrounding hills.
Another cycle path starts in Paratico, crosses Franciacorta,
and reaches the outskirts of Brescia.
For the fitter among you, why not try the lakeside itinerary,
alternating normal roads and stretches of cycle path, for a
total of about 65 km.
To make the tour less demanding, more varied and safer, you
can use existing cycle paths and the boat service in other
sections, taking your bike with you.
Finally, experienced hikers can dedicate a day to reaching
the peaks around Sebino, going up the mountain paths
from Pisogne to Corno dei Trentapassi (1,248 metres asl),
from Marone to Mount Guglielmo (1,948 metres asl), and
from Sarnico to Mount Bronzone (1,334 metres asl).
Corno dei Trentapassi
19
31OUR SPECIAL
BOAT TOURS
When you were “welcomed aboard”, we invited you to
experience “the lake from the lake” and every tourist will
certainly be able to arrange their preferred route by
checking the boat timetables. Apart from this, however,
Navigazione Lago d’Iseo s.r.l. understands the tastes and
needs of its customers, so it arranges special themed
cruises called “Tour nel Blu”, to bring other experiences and
emotions.
The short Tour delle Tre Isole (Tour of the Three Islands),
also suitable for small children, requires just a few hours
and has no stops; it shows Monte Isola in all its glory and
reveals the hint of mystery of the small private islands of
Loreto and San Paolo. Island of Loreto
18
32Monte Isola - Peschiera Maraglio
With the Sebino Cruises you can spend an entire day
enjoying the beauty of the lake.
They neatly combine relaxing moments while on the water
with guided tours of the historic centres, and leave time to
browse in open-air markets and have lunch in a typical
restaurant.
Island of San Paolo
19
33OUR SPECIAL
BOAT TOURS
If these trips leave happy memories of landscapes and
places visited in the light of day, our Night Cruises reveal
the more romantic side of the Sebino. Setting sail in the
golden sunset and seeing the water light up with the
reflected villages, wandering into the night across the water,
is an unforgettable experience.
Couples who would like a special evening and groups of
friends looking for fun together will enjoy our dinners on
board, DJ sets and other entertainment.
If you are a connoisseur of gastronomy, you will enjoy our
Evening Dining
Cruises dedicated
to the delights
of the table,
featuring the best
of local wine
and food.
18
3419 35
CASTRO A gentle breeze, which the locals call the “Ora”, will greet you in summer as you enter the small, medieval town square for your stroll. In the lanes of the old town, all leading to the lake, you breathe in the scent of ancient times, the bustling atmosphere of a bygone era. Along Via Matteotti, you’ll find the old parish church of San Giacomo, with a beautiful 18th-century portal by the Fantoni school. Continue along the street, passing under the characteristic covered passageways, and you’ll see the modern architecture of the new church of San Giacomo Maggiore. Retracing your steps, you can now explore Via Papa Giovanni XXIII, looking out for the small Natività church 36
5 TI
T
TEO
MAT
VIA
VIAL
VIA Z
E RO
U
4
BAN
MA
I
TINAZZO
2
VIA PAPA GIOVAN
6 NI
7 A
VIA ROCC
TORRENTE
4 NOVEMBRE
VIA
PIAZZ
PORTOA
3
RE'
VIA G
1
1 Lakeside terrace 4 Old church of 6 Rocca (fort)
San Giacomo
2 Small Natività church
5 New church of 7 Small church of
3 Casa Tedoldi San Giacomo San Lorenzo
of the 13th century, with a beautiful 18th-century marble
altar and 16th-century frescoes. As you leave the church,
you may notice a lovely view of the lake, so follow Via Rocca
to the bridge where the Tinazzo brook tumbles noisily into
Sebino. Here there is a tree-lined lakeside terrace and if
you are fortunate enough to have time to linger, you will
notice the verses of the poet Montanari, etched in a bronze
book.
From this terrace you can stroll back to the dock along
the lakefront, passing in front of Casa Tedoldi, a
17th-century building.
37CASTRO
BRIEF HISTORY
Castro was founded in the Dark Ages as a fortified port in the first
half of the 11th century. With intense trade and strong agriculture,
Castro was very prestigious at that time, and the major iron and
steel plant now operating in the municipality traces its origins back
to the ancient smithies of the 1200s.
EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE
• Starting from Via Grè and following the shoreline, you soon reach
the foot of the tall cliffs with a fearsome overhang into the lake
at the Orrido del Bögn di Castro ravine.
• From the shore you can also take the Sentiero dello Stross path
to a scenic area and small playground, with breathtaking views
of the lake and of the ravine at your feet; from here you can climb
to the high part of town (the “Rocca”, a fort now in ruins) or
return to the lake shore along Via Rocca.
• Starting from the Rocca and proceeding along Via Coletto, you’ll
reach the small church of San Lorenzo, with a beautiful
Romanesque apse; alternatively you can go to the old Poltragno
hydraulic hammer, or explore the Cerrete path as far as
the Balot of Grè, an impressive stone set in a small glade,
with a breathtaking view over the lake.
• An easy trail leads to the
Gola del Tinazzo park,
where a deep gully
has been dug out
by the water and is
hugged by two massive
faces, 40 metres in
height; the park is also
the habitat for some
interesting botanical
species.
Orrido di Castro
gorge
38The lake here is
flat and windblown
in equal measure . . .
more sublime still
for its blank surface,
inscribed only with
the thoughts
of those who look on
at any given moment.
(R. Montanari)
INFO CASTRO
Tourist Infopoint - IAT ALTO SEBINO
Piazza 13 Martiri, 37 - 24065 Lovere (BG)
Tel +39 035 962178 - Fax +39 035 962178
info@iataltosebino.it
TOWN HALL
Via Matteotti, 45 - 24063 Castro (BG)
Tel +39 035 960666 - Fax +39 035 962783
WEB
www.comune.castro.bg.it
www.turismo.bergamo.it
www.iataltosebino.it
www.iseolake.info
39COSTA VOLPINO From Lovere pier it’s easy to reach the district of Corti (home to the town hall for this municipality of seven districts). Via Nazionale is a busy, modern road, lined with numerous buildings and arcades with businesses and shops. Turning into Via Baiguini you’ll soon come to the large birdlife park along the River Oglio. This peaceful oasis is ideal for taking a little exercise but is also a haven for various species of birds, including herons, little egrets and grebes. The upper part of Corti, the medieval Volpino quarter, and the parish church of Santo Stefano are all worth visiting. The latter has an interesting altar and an altarpiece from the late 1500s. To reach the mountain districts of Branico, Qualino, Flaccanico, and Ceratello it’s best to use the bus service. Navigazione Lago d’Iseo docks 40
PIANO
4
VOLPINO
CORTI
VIA BAIGUINI
INE 5
UP
FIUM
S
TE
EN
RR
E OG
TO
LIO
CERATELLO
QUALINO 6
1
3
BRANICO
FLACCANICO 2
1 Parish church of San Giorgio 4 Parish church of San Stefano
2 Parish church of Sant’Ambrogio 5 Birdlife park
3 Parish church of San Bartolomeo 6 Navigazione Lago d’Iseo registered
offices and docks
Along the many switchbacks on the journey, the views
of Sebino and Valcamonica gradually become bigger and
bigger. You’ll see the mountain slopes terraced with stone
walls, houses with barns and woodpiles ready for the cold
season, and you’ll discover beautiful church architecture.
The parish church of San Bartolomeo, in Branico, still has
interesting 1400s’ frescoes; the parish church
of Sant’Ambrogio, in Qualino, has a beautiful
Baroque portal in black marble; the parish church
of San Giorgio, in Ceratello, boasts a splendid
panoramic position.
41COSTA VOLPINO BRIEF HISTORY In the past the Costa Volpino played an important strategic role, able to control communications between Sebino and Valcamonica. Defensive fortifications were built in the tenth century, followed by several castles, long contended by Bergamo and Brescia, but later events led to their destruction. In the 17th century corn was grown in Italy for the first time, the seeds smuggled here from the Indies by an adventurous local military leader called Gaioncelli. Traditional quarrying of a particular chalk (called volpinite) is now flanked by important industrial and commercial plants in the Piano district. EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE • From Ceratello you will easily reach an agritourism facility or the “ai ciar” district, where you’ll find a trattoria, stables, a fishing pool, and a playground. • Also from Ceratello you can take various excursions along footpaths and bridleways. The least demanding leads to the town of Bossico; the most challenging to the Rifugio Magnolini at 1,612 metres above sea level, where you can also stay overnight. From this sunny plateau you will love the broad panorama of the Alpine foothills and Lake Iseo. Parish church of San Giorgio, Ceratello 42
Birdlife park at the mouth of the River Oglio
INFO COSTA VOLPINO
Tourist Infopoint - IAT ALTO SEBINO
Piazza 13 Martiri, 37 - 24065 Lovere (BG)
Tel +39 035 962178 - Fax +39 035 962178
info@iataltosebino.it
TOWN HALL
Piazza Caduti di Nassirya, 3 - 24062 Costa Volpino (BG)
Tel +39 035 970290 - Fax +39 035 970891
WEB
www.comune.costavolpino.bg.it
www.turismo.bergamo.it
www.iataltosebino.it
www.iseolake.info
43ISEO The pier is right beside a square, lined with pleasant open-air coffee bars and ice cream parlours. If you bear right at the jetty, onto the coastal promenade, you’ll come to the Vecchia Filanda, an old spinnery now converted with a courtyard of cafeterias and shops of various kinds. The charming feel is reminiscent of Venice. On the way back you can take Via Campo, which offers beautiful views of the lake. Lungolago Marconi is the lakeside promenade, also lined with shops, coffee bars and ice cream parlours, and it also has a splendid view. The old town is a surprise! One side comprises the Oldofredi Castle (12th century), the other Sant’Andrea parish church, which features a large Romanesque belfry (12th century) and a Gothic sarcophagus on the façade; lastly there is the old spinnery. You can lose yourself in quiet, narrow lanes, then emerge onto the large, elegant and busy arcaded squares that make up the centre of Iseo. In a small square there is still a public wash house. In the lanes you’ll often see arches supporting dwellings, 44
3
4
BLICA
REPUB
1
VIALE
5 VIA CAMPO
PIAZZA
GARIBALDI 7
2 PIAZZA STATUTO
PIAZZA
MAZZINI
6
1 Sant’Andrea parish church 4 Church of Santa Maria 6 Arsenal
della Neve
2 Church of San Silvestro 5 Sanctuary of Santa Maria 7 Old spinnery
del Mercato
3 Oldofredi Castle
decorated with flowering balconies in wrought iron and stone
doorways on the houses. Even the greengrocers, florists and
bakeries here have a special charm, with artisan workshops,
antique shops, wine bars, cafés, and little restaurants
everywhere. If you notice an aroma of wine, then you’re near
an “osteria” or tavern. Make sure you visit the Arsenale
(the medieval armoury currently used as a cultural centre),
the churches of Santa Maria al Mercato (14th century),
San Silvestro (13th century), and the sanctuary of Santa
Maria della Neve (17th century).
45ISEO
Clusane
THE CLUSANE AND PILZONE DISTRICTS
If you land on the long pier, head for Clusane, the district with a
truly historic atmosphere. From the pretty lakeside promenade you
can observe the large marina and a sweeping view of the lake.
Above looms the severe outline of Carmagnola Castle.
Clusane is well known for its many restaurants where you can
sample the local fish speciality of “tinca al forno” or baked tench.
Pilzone is famous for the historic fig tree that grows on the parish
church belfry, and because it’s the southernmost tip of the ancient
Via Valeriana (see p. 29).
EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE
• In the summer you can go to the Sassabanek complex, with its
lido facilities, swimming pools, tennis courts, and campsite, or to
the Lido Belvedere, also with a swimming pool and a lawn on the
lake.
• From Iseo and Clusane it’s easy to reach the Riserva Naturale
delle Torbiere (Peat Bog Nature Reserve) and the monastery of
San Pietro in Lamosa (see p. 14 and p. 19).
46Sant’Andrea
parish church
BRIEF HISTORY
Of prehistoric origins, Iseo has
been a main port since Roman
times. In the Middle Ages,
protected by its fortified urban
walls and its castle, it became of
strategic importance for the city of
Brescia.
For centuries it was a trading
centre, also developing its wool
and silk industries, which
flourished in the 1800s.
The port did not lose its
importance until the early 1900s,
when the new railway line towards
Valcamonica was built.
INFO ISEO
Tourist Infopoint - IAT
Lungolago Marconi, 2 c - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980209 / +39 030 3748733 - Fax +39 030 981361
iat.iseo@provincia.brescia.it
TOWN HALL
Piazza Garibaldi, 10 - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980161 - Fax +39 030 981420
WEB
www.comune.iseo.bs.it
www.provincia.brescia.it/turismo
www.iseolake.info
47LOVERE
On leaving the boat you’ll set foot in Piazza 13 Martiri,
a charming amphitheatre with splendid buildings and
a variety of businesses, including coffee bars,
restaurants and hotels. If you climb the
Vicolo Cavallotti steps and turn into
Via Gramsci, you’ll be in the medieval village, brought to life
by its little shops and where it’s not unusual to smell freshly
baked bread. Then you reach Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II,
with its Torre Civica, a tower with a striking internal climb.
Along the path that leads to the Accademia Tadini, glance
upwards and you’ll notice two more impressive towers,
Torre Soca and Torre degli Alghisi. Also worth a visit is
the parish church of San Giorgio and the sanctuary
dedicated to the Lovere saints, Capitanio and Gerosa. If you
turn onto Via Brighenti in Vicolo Cavallotti, you’ll find the
characteristic Gradinata Ratto and the San Martino oratory,
the ancient church and monastery of Santa Chiara,
Piazza 13 Martiri
48VIA MARTINOLI
8
9
7
2 5 VIA S. MARIA
6 10
VIA OPRANDI 3 11
4
PIAZZA 13 MARTIRI
DINI
VIA TA
1
1 Accademia Tadini 5 Parish church 9 Basilica of
Santa Maria
2 Sanctuary 6 Torre Soca in Valvendra
3 Torre degli Alghisi 7 San Martino and Santa Chiara 10 Palazzo Marinoni
4 Torre Civica 8 Palazzo Bazzini 11 Palazzo Zitti-Gregorini
and lastly the 15th-century basilica of Santa Maria
in Valvendra. The interior is richly decorated and
has important frescoes as well as a large organ with
precious painted panels. If you then continue as far as the
nearby Promenade Lady Montagu (in Via Gregorini),
you can experience the water close up, admiring the
stunning surroundings.
From the landing, turn left and go along the lakeside, where
you’ll find the prestigious Accademia Tadini with important
works by Antonio Canova and paintings of the Venetian and
Lombard schools from the 14th to the 18th centuries, not to
mention a rich collection of Italian and European porcelain.
Continuing your walk along the lake you’ll come to
the marina, and why not relax at an outdoor café to enjoy
the beautiful views of the lake and Valcamonica.
49LOVERE BRIEF HISTORY In a strategic geographical position, Lovere was inhabited in prehistoric and in Roman times. In the Middle Ages it was hotly disputed between the Guelphs and Ghibellines, and was thus fortified with walls and towers. In the 15th century, during the Renaissance, the wealth accumulated with the production and trade of woollen cloth allowed fine buildings to be added to Lovere. Later, iron processing became the main economic activity and turned into real industry in the 19th century, its ironworks casting the cannons for the Republic of Venice and then for Napoleon. EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE • A short walk will take you to the so-called Castelletto Lovere and the San Maurizio hill, a beautiful scenic location and home to the church and convent of the Capuchin Friars, as well as the chapel of San Pietro, with its precious 1400s’ fresco. • A pleasant hike of about an hour will take you to the San Giovanni sanctuary in Monte Cala, with its stunning views of Sebino and Valcamonica. 50
Basilica of Santa Maria in Valvendra
INFO LOVERE
Tourist Infopoint - IAT ALTO SEBINO
Piazza 13 Martiri, 37 - 24065 Lovere (BG)
Tel +39 035 962178 - Fax +39 035 962178
info@iataltosebino.it
TOWN HALL
Via G. Marconi, 19 - 24065 Lovere (BG)
Tel +39 035 983623 - Fax +39 035 983008
info@comune.lovere.bg.it
WEB
www.comune.lovere.bg.it
www.lovereeventi.it
www.turismo.bergamo.it
www.iataltosebino.it
www.iseolake.info
51MARONE
As you alight from the boat your eye will fall upon
the elegant façade of the 18th-century parish church
of San Martino, decorated with numerous statues.
Inside, enjoy the paintings by
Domenico Voltolini and Giuseppe Tortelli.
The charming lakeside promenade to the right
of the wharf is lined with houses of a bygone era.
After Opolo stream, you’ll happen upon a delightful tiny
harbour that invites you to linger; just beyond, a beautiful
public park has benches among its olive trees.
Returning to the pier, go left and after passing the old felting
plant (an interesting industrial archaeology site), you’ll come
to Villa Vismara public park, then you can continue down
to a small beach on the bank of the Bagnadore,
Parish church of San Martino
522 VIA ROMA
VIA ROMA 3
O
OL
VIA
OP
V. E
VIA MAK
TE
VIA ROMA
MAN
EN
RR
U EL
TO
ALLE
E
1
1 Villa Vismara 2 Parish church 3 Church of San Pietro
the other stream that flanks Marone.
Now you’ve seen the old town but don’t rush off, it’s nice to
find places to linger, enjoy the views of the lake and the light
at various times of day.
Village of Vesto
53MARONE BRIEF HISTORY The area was already inhabited in Roman times. In the Middle Ages the swampy shore was reclaimed by the Benedictine monks. The development of the village began in the 16th century following the expansion of the port to handle the timber and charcoal brought from the surrounding mountains. Later production of wool and of felt became important, as did mining of the dolostone mineral, which continues today. The traditional cultivation of olive trees allows Marone to be a member of the International association of oil producing towns. EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE • If you enjoy archaeology then walk along Via Roma and Via Cristini for about a kilometre, towards Iseo, and visit the remains of a Roman villa. You’ll find traces of about 80 metres of walls which formed the terraces sloping down towards the lake, as well as the remains of an arcade with niches. • A charming walk leads to the church of San Pietro (15th century), located on a solitary rocky outcrop, a silent, mystical balcony over the lake. It is reached from Via Roma and is preceded by a staircase flanked by the Stations of the Cross. From here you can go on up to Passo Croce di Zone, passing through the village of Pregasso, Valpintana and the Collepiano district, with its small Baroque church of San Bernardo. • A lovely hike to the sanctuary of the Madonna della Rota will lead you to a delicate 15th-century fresco set in a lunette above the entrance. • A very challenging excursion leads to the top of Mount Guglielmo (1,948 metres asl), which has one of the most beautiful views of the Alps and the Po Valley. The trail begins at Zone, easy to reach with public transport. 54
Village of Vello
INFO MARONE
Tourist Infopoint - IAT
Lungolago Marconi, 2 c - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980209 / +39 030 3748733 - Fax +39 030 981361
iat.iseo@provincia.brescia.it
TOWN HALL
Via Roma, 10 - 25054 Marone (BS)
Tel +39 030 987104 - Fax +39 030 9877067
WEB
www.comune.marone.bs.it
www.maroneacolori.it
www.provincia.brescia.it/turismo
www.rivieradegliulivi.bs.it
www.iseolake.info
15th-century fresco
Sanctuary of
Madonna della Rota
55MONTE ISOLA Monte Isola is a single municipality comprising a number of districts and it is car free. You’ll soon feel at home here as the place will awaken your desire for a quieter life. Tranquillity is the keyword on this island and is woven from the bright reflections of the waters, the silvery leaves of the olive trees, the airy spaces all around. It comes from the sounds you hear: the lapping of the lake, the wind, the birds singing, the voices of children playing in the streets, and bells ringing. It emerges from the scent of flowers, of wood burning in fireplaces, fish caught or being cooked. Work marks time for farmers, builders of houses or boats, fishermen, women knotting fishing nets. Peschiera Maraglio is the main pier, with shops, coffee bars, restaurants and ice cream parlours. It still has its look of a fishing village with a few mansions. It is dominated by the elegant Oldofredi Castle and the parish church of San Michele (16th century). Carzano is another important jetty for an ancient village overlooking the lake, with coffee bars, restaurants and typical little ports where fishing boats are moored. The parish church of San Giovanni Battista dates from the 18th century. Palazzo Martinengo is also interesting. A shady public park with tables is a great place to relax. Definitely worth a visit is the nearby ancient district of Novale and a few ferries also stop at the Paradiso locality. 56
ISOLA DI LORETO
PARADISO
CARZANO
3 OLZANO
1 8
PORTO
2
SIVIANO
1 Siviano parish church
9
MASSE
2 Martinengo tower
3 Villa Ferrata
SINCHIGNANO 4 Rocca Martinengo fortress
CURE
10 5 Church of San Severino
MENZINO
6 Parish church of Peschiera M.
4 SENZANO
5 7 Oldofredi Castle
8 Carzano parish church
SENSOLE
9 Church of San Rocco
PESCHIERA
7 MARAGLIO 10 Madonna della Ceriola
ISOLA DI S. PAOLO
6 sanctuary
Near the port of Siviano, from the boat you may observe
Villa Ferrata (16th century) and if you go ashore in this
secluded hamlet, you can attempt the steep climb to Siviano,
the island capital. The urban plan is essentially medieval,
as can be seen from the Martinengo tower and also vaunting
stately mansions of a later period; the parish church of
SS. Faustino and Jovita (18th century) dominates from above.
Sensole also has a jetty and this tiny hamlet, filled with
lemon and mimosa trees, lies in a pleasant, secluded spot,
surrounded by an olive grove. From here you can reach
the Rocca Martinengo, the impressive fortress
(13th-14th century).
57MONTE ISOLA BRIEF HISTORY In antiquity the area was completely wooded and a pagan temple was built at the top. In the fifth century AD it was Christianized by Saint Vigilio, the Bishop of Brescia. The site was a rural monastic possession in around 1000 AD, when farming villages began to develop in higher positions. Later, fishing villages grew up along the coast. Towards the 13th century, to defend the territory of Brescia, the Oldofredis built a castle that was then passed to the Martinengos, hence today’s name. Monte Isola has a centuries-old tradition in the manufacture of fishing nets and construction of wooden boats. EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE • A light-filled, picturesque coastal road through the olive groves connects Peschiera Maraglio to Sensole; along the path you’ll find picnic areas. Facing Sensole, the island of San Paolo (once the site of a monastery); to the south, a horizon of rolling hills. • A shady road through the woods connects Carzano to Siviano. Along the way you’ll note the island of Loreto, with a villa in neo-Gothic style; tall mountains form a skyline whose winter snow gleams in the sunlight. • The most important hike is to the 13th-century Madonna della Ceriola sanctuary, the heart and soul of Sebino. Set on a rocky outcrop at 600 metres above sea level, you’ll find a breathtaking view of the whole lake and surrounding mountains. It can be reached from the ancient village of Cure along two bridleways. Cure can be reached from Peschiera by going up to the rural hamlet of Senzano, or from Siviano, passing through the ancient village of Masse; from Carzano, Cure is reached passing through Novale and Olzano. • The emblematic and easy hike of about 9 km will take you around the perimeter of the island, half on coastal roads and half at altitude. • The traditional festival of Santa Croce is very unusual and very appealing, attracting visitors for its typical multicoloured paper flowers. It is held in Carzano every five years (September 2015, 2020, 2025 etc.). 58
Arriving at the port of Peschiera Maraglio
INFO MONTE ISOLA
Tourist Office - Loc. Peschiera Maraglio, 151
Tel/Fax 030.98.25.088 - turistico@comune.monteisola.bs.it
Tourist Infopoint - IAT
Lungolago Marconi, 2 c - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980209 / +39 030 3748733 - Fax +39 030 981361
iat.iseo@provincia.brescia.it
TOWN HALL
Località Siviano, 76 - 25050 Monte Isola (BS)
Tel +39 030 9825226 - Fax +39 030 9825078
WEB
www.comune.monteisola.bs.it
www.borghitalia.it
www.provincia.brescia.it/turismo
www.rivieradegliulivi.bs.it
www.iseolake.info
59PARATICO Paratico is the town of stone sculptures and can be reached by disembarking at Sarnico then crossing the bridge between the two towns. There are a number of attractive shops, coffee bars, ice cream parlours and restaurants to be found in the new buildings constructed in traditional style near the bridge. A broad lakeside promenade leads us to the Parco delle Erbe Danzanti, a park of dancing grasses where you’ll see numerous different plants and the old jetties used to moor barges (see p. 62). The Treno Blu steam train stops at the nearby railway station during the summer season, on its journey from Palazzolo through the lovely Oglio Nord park. If you walk down Via XXIV Maggio you’ll see a square with a large fountain. The modern buildings nearby house shops, Il parco delle erbe danzanti, a park project by landscape architect Cristina Mazzucchelli 60
4
VIA MO
3
IOLI
1
1 Parish church
O
IM ENT
ORG 2 The “Oselanda”
RIS
VIA
RE
EDE
B ELV 3 Torre Lantieri
VIA
VIA
I CA
AM 4 Lantieri castle
XX
OR
2 N
PA IV
VIA MA
GG
IO
5 “Erbe Danzanti”
park
VIALE MADRUZZA
VIA MARCONI
VIA RO
5
FIUME MA
OGLIO
SARNICO
coffee bars and other venues.
Turning into Via Risorgimento, Torre Lantieri
you come to the public park with
an attractive view over the lake.
You’ll also see the Oselanda,
an interesting 19th-century
building in the neo-Gothic style.
There is another belvedere on
Via Moioli, where you also find
the large parish church of
Santa Maria Assunta.
The church has an 18th-century
fresco of the Assumption of Mary
and several valuable altars.
61PARATICO
BRIEF HISTORY
Paratico has very ancient origins, as you can note from the
remains of pile dwelling settlements on the shores of the lake,
which date back to 2000 BCE.
The castle was built by the local lords, the Lantieri family, after the
year 1000. It was almost fully dismantled in the early 16th century.
In addition to agriculture and fishing, the textile and sandstone
quarrying industries also played an important role in the area.
After the railway was built in the 19th century, the town became
the “terminal” for the barges that transported goods from the north
of the lake to be loaded onto the Paratico-Palazzolo line.
EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE
• A short walk will take you towards the ruins of the Lantieri
castle, perched on a hilltop. Unfortunately it is not open to the
public, nor can it be viewed from close-up. However, the Lantieri
tower (14th century), surrounded by a cluster of medieval houses
near the castle, is open to the public and includes a multimedia
installation that illustrates the history of the town. History lovers
may be interested to learn that Dante Alighieri is said to have
stayed in the castle in 1311.
• The banks of the River Oglio are a great place for nature walks.
• Panoramic excursions in the hills will take you to the small Alpini
church or the Prati del Belvedere, with breathtaking views over
the surrounding area.
Public park and the Oselanda
62INFO PARATICO
Tourist Infopoint - IAT
Lungolago Marconi, 2 c - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980209 / +39 030 3748733 - Fax +39 030 981361
iat.iseo@provincia.brescia.it
Tourist Infopoint - IAT BASSO SEBINO
Via Tresanda, 1 - 24067 Sarnico (BG)
Tel +39 035 910900 - Fax +39 035 4261334
info@prolocosarnico.it
TOWN HALL
Via Risorgimento, 1 - 25030 Paratico (BS)
Tel +39 035 924311 - Fax +39 035 924351
WEB
www.comune.paratico.bs.it
www.provincia.brescia.it/turismo
www.iseolake.info
63PISOGNE When you disembark, set off along the wide lakeside promenade that offers broad views over the water. What better place to watch the sunset? The blue waters become tinged with red. Your visit to the old town starts in the square, home to the impressive 13th-century Torre del Vescovo or bishop’s tower, and continues towards the 18th-century parish church of Santa Maria Assunta, with an important organ. This lively village, with its numerous shops, is a great place to explore, meandering in the maze of medieval lanes, walking the arcaded streets, looking out for stately mansions, studying the stone portals and balconies with wrought iron railings, and discovering the ancient gateways. It is well worth visiting Via San Marco, Palazzo Fanzago (with its lovely decorated façade), and the squares Piazza Mercanti and Piazza Berlai (the fortified heart of Pisogne). 64
5
6
7
1 Torre del Vescovo
4
2 Porta Via Ortaglie (gate)
VIA
S.
8
MA
INI
3 Palazzo Fanzago
RC
LEGR
O
V. PELZA
9 4 Parish church
PIAZ
3
5 Public park
ATO
MERCZA
2 1
PIAZ
10 6 Santa Maria in Silvis
PIAZZA CORSO NAVE
CORRIER
UMBERTO I A
7 Santa Maria della Neve
CORSO ZANAR
DELLI
8 Porta dei Monti (gate)
9 Porta Nuova (gate)
10 Piazza Berlai
There are a number of very old and rare trees in
the public park, as well as lovely rose gardens, making it
the perfect place to take a break before heading to the
church of Santa Maria della Neve, with its 16th-century
cycle of frescoes of Stories from the Life of Christ
by Romanino. The figures in his rudimentary, realistic
paintings depict the faces, appearance and clothes
of his contemporaries. Even today, centuries later, the
dramatic Crucifixion (see p. 20), on the back wall
of the church, will arouse strong emotions.
It is also worth visiting the church of Santa Maria in Silvis,
with some interesting 15th-century frescoes.
65PISOGNE
BRIEF HISTORY
Inhabited since prehistory, this village was an important trade centre
in the Middle Ages due to its location between Valcamonica and
Sebino. Almost destroyed in the 12th century during the wars
between Bergamo and Brescia, the village was rebuilt with defensive
walls and towers. The historic centre acquired its current appearance
in the 18th century, when it was embellished with porticoes and lovely
residential buildings. It was an important market place and economic
centre, dominated by the iron and steel industry. The railway line
came to Pisogne in 1907 and is still in operation today.
EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE
• A walk along paths through the chestnut woods reaches the
hamlet of Grignaghe (909 metres asl), with lovely views
over the lake.
• A very demanding, all-day excursion takes you to the Corno dei
Trentapassi (1,248 metres asl). All your efforts will be amply
repaid by the breathtaking panorama from the top.
• Val Palot is easily accessible on foot, in a few hours, and its
mountainscapes certainly make the trip worthwhile. The valley
offers a number of hotels, restaurants and ski slopes.
S. Maria della Neve
66Piazza Mercato and Torre del Vescovo
INFO PISOGNE
Tourism association - Pro Loco
Lungolago Luigi Tempini, 4 - 25055 Pisogne (BS)
Tel/Fax +39 0364 880517 - info@prolocopisogne.it
Tourist Infopoint - IAT
Lungolago Marconi, 2 c - 25049 Iseo (BS)
Tel +39 030 980209 / +39 030 3748733 - Fax +39 030 981361
iat.iseo@provincia.brescia.it
TOWN HALL
Via Vallecamonica, 2 - 25055 Pisogne (BS)
Tel +39 0364 883011 - Fax +39 0364 8830240
WEB
www.comune.pisogne.bs.it
www.provincia.brescia.it/turismo
www.prolocopisogne.it
www.iseolake.info
67PREDORE When you arrive from the lake, you’ll notice a large period villa (Villa Lanza) with a small roofed tower and extensive gardens to the left of the pier. You’ll also see the ruins of an ancient tower, which you’ll be able to observe more closely through the villa gates once you land. This is the Torre Foresti (13th-14th century) and is all that remains of the ancient fortifications. It has a unique characteristic, in that one side has collapsed, while the other half is still standing. Turning into Via Marconi you can appreciate the great beauty of this village. The paved streets are lit by old-style lanterns, while many of the traditional-style houses have stone portals and are graced with flowers and gardens. Other dwellings are supported by arches that bridge the alleyways, some of which lead down to the lake. The austere façade of the former church of San Giovanni Battista looms over a small square. Via Muciano leads to a tiny harbour. You can now visit the imposing Sacro Cuore e San Giovanni Battista parish church, with a lovely 17th-century Madonna. 68
4
TILI
GEN
VIA
PIAZZA V.
VIA SARNICO VENETO
1 VIA M
UCIA
NO
3
5
LOCATELLI
PIAZZA
VIA NI
O
CO
N
MAR
RI
E
NT
R RE
2
TO
1 Church of San Giorgio 3 Roman villa 5 Former church of
San Giovanni B.
2 Torre Foresti 4 Parish church (civic centre)
A bath house from a Roman villa from the first centuries
after Christ was recently discovered and can be seen near
the town hall. The adjacent antiquarium houses various
finds, including capitals, coins and mosaics.
Making your way along the steep lanes, many including
steps, you come to the other historic nucleus of Predore,
on the hill where the castle once stood.
Meanwhile, Via Sarnico leads to a large marina, home
to a number of swans. Next to the harbour are the former
Italcementi employee lido facilities.
Continuing towards Sarnico, you come to the Romanesque
church of San Giorgio and the Eurovil lido, with
its swimming pool and beach.
69PREDORE BRIEF HISTORY Predore’s climate and location are known to have been appreciated by the Romans, so much so that they built a villa on the shores of the lake. A fortified village grew up in the same spot during the Middle Ages, once overlooked by a castle on the hill above. EXCURSIONS AND LEISURE • A pleasant walk leads to the sanctuary of the Madonna della Neve, which can be reached by climbing almost 300 steps. There is a lovely panoramic view from the top. • The excursion along the Sentiero del Corno path starts at the village and winds its way up the hillside, running parallel to the shores of the lake. You should aim to walk as far as the rock faces popular with free climbers. Church of San Giorgio 70
Torre Foresti
INFO PREDORE
Tourist Infopoint - IAT BASSO SEBINO
Via Tresanda, 1 - 24067 Sarnico (BG)
Tel +39 035 910900 - Fax +39 035 4261334
info@prolocosarnico.it
TOWN HALL
Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 1 - 24060 Predore (BG)
Tel +39 035 938032 - Fax +39 035 938715
WEB
www.comune.predore.bg.it
www.turismo.bergamo.it
www.prolocosarnico.it
www.iseolake.info
71RIVA DI SOLTO The boat will drop you off on a lovely lakeside promenade with benches and planters. The nearby Via Porto features a number of stately buildings (including Palazzo Polini-Martinori), which face straight onto the lake, so must once have been accessed directly from the water. If you take any of the numerous lanes, you can admire the walls of buildings dating to the 12th-14th centuries and are still inhabited today. Among the buildings you will notice steps, frescoes and small arches. At the eastern end of the village is a medieval tower, almost directly opposite the fine façade of the 18th-century parish church of San Nicola, with paintings from various periods. At the other end of the village, on the road that runs along the edge of the lake, is Palazzo Martinoni, 72
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