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The nature of Bergamo |
Spring is revealed while admiring the Sebino, a “gem” set in the mountains
A gem, or rather “subalpine gem” if you wish to emphasise the value of this precious treasure set between the Alps and the Po plain. This is how a nineteenth-century author called Lake Iseo, also known as the Sebino, whose beauty is enhanced by the environment that surrounds it. Created when the immense glaciers descending the Camonica Valley began to retreat, the lake is an example of nature at its best. Man over the centuries has also played his part, covering the shores with green vegetation and adding villages and elegant towns here and there. The lake offers everything: stately manors, medieval residences, towers and castles, ancient churches that are treasure troves of art, elegant Art Nouveau villas, museums, shops, restaurants and trattorias offering typical dishes and products which range from delicious fish to quality wines, because the lake is the point where two territories meet and compete with their excellent vines: Valcalepio from Bergamo and Franciacorta from Brescia. All this makes it the perfect place for spending just a few hours, a weekend or even an entire holiday in a delightful atmosphere. It’s an experience to remember: we guarantee you’ll never be bored!
The lake is found on the border of the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia, and is divided exactly between the two; the Brescia side, however, includes the large island in the centre of this mirror of water. But we can assure you there is no difference between one side and the other. The environment and the hospitality are the same, while the island – rightly called Montisola (mountain-island) because it is both an island and a mountain – wonderfully condenses all the features of the two shores.
A map and one of the many guides from the tourist offices or book shops in the principal towns overlooking the lake will provide you with all you need to go in discovery of the Bergamask side of the lake, which is easily reached by car from Bergamo. The ideal route to take is from Sarnico to Lovere (approx. 35 kilometres), but without doubt the most original and spectacular way to see the lake is on one of the boats that leave Sarnico for Lovere: a mini-cruise you can organise by consulting the boat timetable, which also includes a stop-off on Montisola.
If you are looking for an unusual itinerary to follow before or after your trip around or on the lake, we have another suggestion: a route with a bird’s eye view of the area. From the small village of Riva di Solto, follow the road as it climbs through a succession of hair-pin bends to Solto Collina. Here you can already experience some marvellous views of the lake. A secondary road continues on up to Fonteno or further on to Xino, a small hamlet on the ridge of the mountain. From up here you’ll have a breathtaking view of the north of the lake and the surrounding mountains. A true gem.
TIP
Would you like to experience an unforgettable day? Discover Lake Iseo with the new tours and cruises offered by the boat company Navigazione lago d’Iseo! You have the choice of exclusive itineraries among the three pearls of the lake (Monte Isola, the islands of Loreto and San Paolo); exciting night cruises, which can be romantic for the more sentimental, or with DJ and entertainment for the more lively; wine and food tours for the gourmet; or lake cruises with guided tours of the old fishing villages… in short, something for everyone! For more information, write to me or visit the website www.navigazionelagoiseo.it
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