Superb Panoramic Modern Loft - Valstagna (VI) -

Valstagna is a small town in the foothills of Veneto’s lush mountains. In the past, it served as a major supplier of the large logs used to build the foundations of Venice’s lavish palaces and buildings. Later on, the area became famous for the locally-grown tobacco. The Civic Clock Tower, built in 1707, symbolizes Valstagna in Piazza San Marco, once a bustling grain market. The square also features the Golden Lion “Leone de San Marco” banner with a closed book symbolizing peace. Nowadays, Valstagna is a small town that zealously preserves its centuries-old traditions. The town’s colourful houses and main buildings stand right next to the River Brenta. To emphases its historic dependence with this fast-rushing river, Valstagna is rather narrow and long. Walking around town you are never far from the river. And then, the steep slopes that sandwich Valstagna between the Brenta and the mountains are carefully terraced by small local farms. Valstagna is lovely to visit in any season.

The Calà del Sasso is an extraordinary staircase, consisting of 4,444 steps carved from gray limestone, winding through a wild and untamed landscape. Spanning a vertical drop of 709 meters, this route is both physically demanding and historically significant. While some attempt to ascend it, most quickly realize that the staircase was truly designed for descent, its imposing length and steep slope demanding respect. Flanking the steps is an ancient gutter, once used to send logs down from the highlands to the Brenta River. These logs were transported to Venice, where they were vital in the construction of the grand ships of the Serenissima Republic. The engineering behind the Calà del Sasso, dating back to the 14th century reflects the needs of the region’s trade routes. This secret access connects the Plateau of Asiago with Valstagna. Its construction came when the Vicenza area was under the rule of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, and local towns were competing for control of trade. 

Discover the depths of the earth in the Oliero caves, karstic caves located in the municipality of Valstagna, originated thousands of years ago by the force of the water.

There are four caves open to the public, surrounded by greenery in a natural park: from the two lower caves flows the River Oliero, while the two upper "covoli", ancient mouths from the same sources, are now dry. The visit to the cave park first follows a path that leads to the lane that leads to the Covolo degli assassini [Den of the Killers] Covolo delle sorelle [Den of the Sisters], dominated by towering rock walls. On those walls you can admire an abundant array of rock plants, from which the rock rampion stands out for its beauty. The trail then descends to the valley between the two main caves, completely surrounded by fresh spring water and immersed in the greenery of age-old trees. This opens the low wide mouth of the Siori Covolo or the Parolini Cave, named after discovered it in 1822.

The Ponte Subiolo lake is a body of water located on the right side of the Brenta canal, in Valstagna.
Not a unique case in the area (see the Oliero caves), it represents a natural spring from which, in periods of flood, the water overflows forming a short stream that flows into the Brenta. In the absence of precipitation, it appears instead as a calm body of water apparently devoid of tributaries and emissaries.
At the bottom is the so-called White Elephant Cave. 20 meters wide and 35 meters long, during heavy rainfall the water overflows creating a short stream which after about 100 meters flows into the Brenta river.
From the lake it is possible to access the White Elephant Cave, very popular with cave divers due to its ease of access and vast size, as well as its great beauty. Despite its magnificent allure, the lake has tragically claimed the lives of eight explorers since 1971.
The exploration of the site is the deepest cave dive in the world, adopting a gas recycling system.
Its spatial development is 470 m, with a height difference of -226.7 m.
The White Elephant was and is the deepest natural spring in Italy, with a depth of -226.7m, it is also one of the deepest in the world.

Ever imagined walking in the footsteps of history, along ancient trails that once played a vital role in survival? The Alta Via del Tabacco, tucked away in the breathtaking Brenta Canal of Northern Italy, offers just that—a journey where nature and history intertwine, creating an unforgettable hiking experience.

Centuries ago, this rugged terrain was a lifeline for the locals, who cultivated and smuggled tobacco to make ends meet. Today, the smuggling has faded into legend, but the scenic paths and dramatic landscapes remain, inviting explorers to discover a lesser-known part of Italy. Along the way, you’ll encounter hidden terraces built into the mountainsides, ancient stone walls, and panoramic views of the Brenta River valley.

The trail, which spans 39 kilometers (24 miles) and climbs over 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), is accessible to hikers of all levels. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply looking to experience the charm of rural Italy, this well-marked route, divided into three manageable sections, offers something for everyone.

While the trail may feel remote, you’ll find signposts guiding you towards welcoming villages, ideal to refuel and recharge. Make sure to pack some extra snacks and water!

The Calieroni are a series of interconnected pools carved by the Valstagna torrent, a natural playground for local kids who bask on sun-warmed rocks or dive into the cool, crystal-clear waters. These pristine pools, with their striking blue hue, are perfect for an adventurous swim. Why the name “Calieroni”? It comes from their resemblance to potholes that lead into underground caves and tunnels, giving them a mysterious, almost otherworldly allure. Tucked away among the houses of Valstagna, the Calieroni are a hidden small paradise. Just a short stroll from here, you’ll find yourself at Piazza San Marco and the bridge over the torrent, where a breathtaking view awaits: sparkling waterfalls cascade from the rocks, inviting you to take the plunge. But getting there adds a bit of excitement—the only ways down are either an iron ladder at the top, or a path of steps that lead to another ladder. Between the pools, you’ll navigate across rocks, holding onto ropes fastened to the wall.  While the inviting waters are crystal clear and brilliantly blue, be warned—they’re also refreshingly cold. It takes courage and stamina to take a dip, especially if you’re not used to cooler temperatures.