Itinerary 6: Discovering the Risorgive Springs and the Towns of Malo, Monte di Malo, Isola Vicentina and Castelgomberto - 2 days

Itinerary 6: Discovering the Risorgive Springs and the Towns of Malo, Monte di Malo, Isola Vicentina, and Castelgomberto - 2 daysThirty-five million years ago, sharks swam through what is now the Veneto foothills.This is revealed by fossilized teeth found in the Buso della Rana cave. We’ll dive into this ancient past during our two-day journey to discover the Risorgive springs and the towns of Malo, Monte di Malo, Isola Vicentina, and Castelgomberto.Welcome to the sixth episode of On the Road – Journeys of Discovery in the Pedemontana Vicentina.Our day begins at the sources of the Bacchiglione River, a protected natural park where the springwaters create a unique microclimate—perfect for a wide variety of plant and animal species.You’re surrounded by elm, willow, and poplar trees… and from above, if you watch and listen closely, you may spot great tits, herons, hawks, woodpeckers, and sparrowhawks.Here, we are guests in an unspoiled natural environment that we must respect and protect. We enjoy a packed lunch on site, ensuring that no trace is left behind.For coffee, we drive about 20 minutes to Malo, also known as the Carnival Town. This charming town is full of character, with its cathedral, churches, noble villas, and palaces.A small but fascinating museum, the Silk and Brick Art Museum tells the story of Veneto’s industrious silk industry and gelsibachicoltura—traditional mulberry and silkworm cultivation—dating back to the era of the Venetian Republic.We drive just five more minutes to reach one of the most thrilling stops on our itinerary, deep beneath Monte Malo: the Buso della Rana, the largest natural cave in the Veneto region.It’s rich with evidence that this entire area was once covered by ocean.Step inside the cave—can you feel your heart racing?You’re entering a world millions of years old: a vast limestone labyrinth of tunnels, pools, and chimneys.Don’t worry—guided tours are available and tailored to different experience levels, ensuring a safe and unforgettable visit. The underground world is truly fascinating. With a bit of luck—and the help of expert speleologists—you might even spot prehistoric marine fossils embedded in the cave walls, hidden beneath the mountain.If caving isn’t your thing, there’s a great alternative: the Aganè Nature Park, a peaceful green area where you can relax however you prefer.As evening falls, we return to Malo for the night.Tomorrow morning brings new adventures.At sunrise, we head to Isola Vicentina, a wooded hill region at the foot of the Prelessini Mountains, inhabited since the Iron Age.Today, you can visit several historic landmarks, such as the 18th-century Villa Cerchiari, or the Convent Church of Santa Maria del Cengio, located along an ancient route once travelled by pilgrims and merchants between Venice and the rest of Europe.But nature lovers, take note—Isola Vicentina has something truly special in store for you. The Bosco della Guizza is a shining example of how natural spaces can be enhanced and protected thanks to the efforts of the local council and community groups.Here you’ll find well-marked educational trails and walking paths. A circular route, which takes about an hour, guides you through the area’s rich flora and fauna. In the heart of the woods, you’ll come across a fully restored rustic building, now used as a multi-purpose space—perfect for hosting family lunches, group gatherings, training sessions, or corporate team-building events.Outside, there’s a well-equipped green area that you can reserve. And since it’s about lunchtime… how about firing up a barbecue?If grilling or picnicking isn’t your thing, you might prefer heading into the Isola hills, where you can enjoy traditional, wholesome food in one of the local trattorias. The peaceful setting, far from the bustle of city life, makes it even more rewarding.Before we wrap up, there’s one final gem to discover: the Villa Piovene-Da Schio, in Castelgomberto, located in the Agno Valley, about 8 km away.The villa was designed in 1666 by Antonio Pizzocaro, a follower of Palladio. As with many Venetian villas, you’re welcomed by a landscaped park and a beautifully proportioned Italian garden.Step through the doors, and you’ll find priceless artworks inside—masterpieces by Giambattista Tiepolo, one of the greatest European painters of his time, along with works by other renowned Venetian artists.And now, it’s time to say goodbye.We’ve spent two days surrounded by nature, history, and wonder, leaving us feeling peaceful but eager for more. With that, we bring this final episode of the podcast to a close… but not the journey!If you’ve enjoyed this series, we invite you to come and experience the unique atmosphere of the Veneto foothills in person.You’ve been listening to On the Road – Journeys of Discovery in the Pedemontana Vicentina, a podcast produced by OGD Pedemontana Veneta e Colli. Writing, voiceover, music, and post-production by eArs.Co-funded by the 2025 National Tourism Fund.Visit visitpedemontana.com to learn more about our itineraries and immerse yourself in the local landscape.