Take a restorative break surrounded by enchanting landscapes! Small and big lakes, marvelous ancient villages, gentle hills dotted with vineyards and summits to conquer: the province of Brescia includes some of the most charming natural itineraries in Italy, which are very popular among slow tourism and hiking enthusiasts. Let’s discover them together!
Slow tourism in Valle Camonica and on the Adamello summits
Double UNESCO designation for Valle Camonica and its mountains. After the 8 parks declared World Heritage Site nN. 94, “Rock Art of Valle Camonica”, in 2018 UNESCO-MAB created the “Valle Camonica – Alto Sebino Biosphere Reserve”, turning over 55% of this region into protected area. The reserve stretches for about 1360 sq km from the Adamello glaciers to Lake Iseo and is crossed lengthwise by the Oglio river.
This premise already qualifies the excellence of Valle Camonica’s tourist offering, a growing destination among those who want to practice sustainable tourism.
There are several not-to-miss slow tourism itineraries. The most popular are the Forest of Quercus and Rocco, thegiant Owl in Bienno, the Val Sozzine park in Ponte di Legno, and the beautiful natural reserve Valli di S. Antonio in Corteno Golgi.
Trails and via ferrata
Experts can experience the thrill of the Adamello Trail No. 1, 85 kilometers of environmental excellence to be covered in several stages, and the Sentiero dei Fiori, a hike with via ferrata portions on the traces of World War I starting from the Tonale Pass.
At an altitude of 3,000 meters, this trail is a truly fascinating itinerary encompassing unparalleled views of the region and remains of the Great War like tunnels, bridges, and a partially rebuilt military camp.
Lake Moro: relaxation while admiring nature
Back to the valley, a small pristine gem awaits: Lake Moro Park, a lake reserve in the Sorline basin betweeen Angolo Terme and Darfo Boario Terme.
The perimeter of this wild-spirited body of water is perfect for a relaxing walk admiring nature. Fun fact: Lake Moro is the most bio-diverse area in Europe.
Historic routes: Antica Via Valeriana, Charlemagne Way, La Via delle Sorelle
After careful (and still undergoing) redevelopment, Antica Strada Valeriana and Charlemagne Way have been opened to the public to offer multi-stage itineraries connecting Valle Camonica and Lake Iseo.
The first leaves from the Brescia side of the lake and the second from the Bergamo side.
Both pass by important historical, artistic, and cultural points of interest; both itineraries have recently been mapped and included in the portal Cammini d’Italia:
On the occasion of Bergamo Brescia Italian Capital of Culture, starting from 2023 these trails have been joined by La Via delle Sorelle, 130 kilometers of pure beauty to be discovered in a route immersed in nature that crosses as many as 36 municipalities in the two provinces and is ideally divided into 6 stages. Before setting out, we recommend checking the official website of La Via delle Sorelle.
Sustainable tourism in the Lake Iseo and Franciacorta area
Franciacorta and Lake Iseo represent an incredible setting for responsible tourism. Here, you will enjoy several outdoor experiences surrounded by nature and beautiful landscapes, which do not compromise local resources.
Giant benches
Near Antica Strada Valeriana in Pilzone d’Iseo there is one of the Giant Benches installed along Lake Iseo and Valle Camonica as part of the “Big Bench Community Project” (BBCP) by American designer Chris Bangle.
This is a selfie-worthy tourist attraction from where you can enjoy the view from a different perspective. Discover the Giant Benches in the province of Brescia.
Gnome forest and Zone Rock Pyramids
Located in a quaint position over the town of Marone, the village of Zone is a peaceful oasis. Other than being the preferred starting point for excursions to Mount Guglielmo and Corna Trentapassi, the town also boasts the famous Zone Rock Pyramids Regional Reserve, bizarre geological formations created by an almost unique erosion phenomenon. Access to the park is free: a well-marked circular path leads to this natural attraction.
Another attraction in Zone is the Gnome Forest, where over 40 sculptures of animals and elves created by a local artist line the trail and create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Picnic tables are available for breaks with your family.
Birdwatching in the Peat Bog Reserve and vineyard hiking
Let’s move to Lake Iseo, where the Sebino Peat Bog Reserve offers an amazing tourist experience. This protected area hosts rare plant and animal species. With its evocative spots and several observation points, the nature reserve is also the perfect place for birdwatchers.
Famous for its wine and a growing slow tourism destination, Franciacorta has several hiking trails surrounded by vineyards, old towns, renowned wineries, and charming castles. From Mount Orfano to Borgonato, from the Gaina stream to Monticelli Brusati and Mount Alto, click here to find details and maps.
Slow tourism itineraries in the Lake Garda and Valvestino area
With its Mediterranean climate and breathtaking views, Lake Garda never stops bewitching you.
Paper Mill valley – Toscolano Maderno
One essential stop for slow tourists is the Paper Mill valley in Toscolano. It is a remarkably interesting area in terms of landscape, history, and charm. Between the remains of the old paper mills and incredible gorges, the itinerary proposed is suitable for family walks in silent nature.
This area is part of the Upper Lake Garda Park, created in 1989 stretching from the lake to the summit of Mount Palù at 2,000 m above sea level. Another interesting excursion departing from Toscolano leads to Mount Pizzocolo (1,582 m above sea level), in an elevated position and with a 360° view of Lake Garda.
Valvestino: unspoiled nature
Continuing inland, we arrive at magnificent Valvestino. The inlets of the namesake lake are as charming as the most beautiful Norwegian fjords.
If you want an unforgettable experience immersed in nature and traditions, Cima Rest barns are the place for you: old mountain farmer houses turned into accommodation facilities which still preserve their authenticity and charm. You can book a stay in one of the barns, and plan daily hiking excursions choosing from a variety of trails.
Enjoy nature in Valle Trompia and Valle Sabbia
Lake Idro, Valle Trompia and Valle Sabbia also offer several slow tourism opportunities ranging from hiking to relaxation surrounded by nature.
Those who love hiking at high altitude can head to Maniva, one of Brescia’s favorite mountains, to spend a day in the open air both in the summer and the winter. Fishing is another opportunity to relax and be in touch with nature: this popular activity can be exercised in the wonderful setting of Mount Maniva and Lake Idro.
Discovering the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy
Stroll in tranquil old towns admiring charming spots and timeless alleys, a legacy from the past which is now being rediscovered and extensively promoted.
Slow tourism lands in the wonderful towns rich in history starting with the three Most Beautiful Villages in Italy that our province has:
- Tremosine sul Garda, with the Terrazza del Brividoand the thrilling Strada della Forra;
- Gardone Riviera, where every spot is a surprise: from D’Annunzio’s Vittoriale degli Italiani to the pretty colorful houses in the old town, up to the relaxing lakeside promenade;
- Bagolino, with its medieval charm and its traditions;
- Monte Isola,with is old fishermen villages, nature-immersed trails, and no car traffic;
- Bienno, with its picturesque spots and historical mansions.
That’s not all! There are several other ancient villages that deserve a visit: Tignale with its Montecastello Shrine, the historic centers of Sirmione and Desenzano, small hamlets in Franciacorta, and the gems of Brescia’s plain such as Padernello and its namesake castle.
Are you looking forward to your slow tourism vacation? Click here and discover more nature itineraries in the province of Brescia.
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