Bosco degli Gnomi

Backpack on your shoulders and off you go to discover the Bosco degli Gnomi (Gnome Forest), the most fairy-tale-like place on Lake Iseo! A unique walk for the whole family where you will meet gnomes, bears, wolves, hares, cats and even Pinocchio.

Bosco degli Gnomi, a magical excursion to Zone

Legend has it that local artist ‘The Red,’ born Luigi Zatti, one fine day while walking in the woods encountered gnomes, who expressed their willingness to become the sentinels of the path. A dream that soon became reality: in 1998 the sculptor and farmer began to carve these magical creatures into tree trunks, transforming the mule track from Zone to Mount Guglielmo into an extraordinary setting.

With a gnome in love, a royal eagle, a protective mama bear and a friendly fox, you can’t feel lonely in the Bosco degli Gnomi. As many as 44 sculptures by the late Zatti guard the trail and visitors giving a memorable hike that everyone, young and old, likes.

For those who wish to fully enjoy this magical place, the trail is equipped with picnic tables. You can thus experience eating and relaxing under the watchful eye of truly unique fairy-tale characters, surrounded by nature and caressed by the lake breeze.

How to get to the Bosco degli Gnomi

The Bosco degli Gnomi can be easily reached from the locality ‘Goi de la Tromba – Polset,’ just past the village of Zone. After parking your car, follow the signs to trail 227: in no time you will find yourself catapulted into an unreal atmosphere along a highly evocative road.

A walk in the Bosco degli Gnomi lasts about 1 hour and has some challenging climbs. Even the less well-trained can walk the route unhurriedly, letting the magic of the place captivate them.

We suggest bringing water, suitable shoes and trekking poles: in some sections the path can be wet and slippery. We recommended to visit the forest with children, who will be amazed at every creature!