FLYING FROM EDINBURGH AIRPORT
This off the beaten track holiday is based in the hidden gem of Bassano del Grappa, an idyllic town, nestling at the foot of the Venetian Alps. Its historic centre is picturesque with cobblestoned lanes and scenic squares. The River Brenta flows through its hub with the two banks joined by the landmark Ponte Vecchio. This wooden bridge dates from the sixteenth century and was once the setting for tearful farewells to troops heading to war. It features a commemorative statue of a soldier kissing his girl farewell near the entrance as well as a small museum displaying war memorabilia. Elsewhere in this picture postcard town you’ll find the Palazzo Sturm, an eighteenth century stately home, and the Grapperia Nardini, an ancient distillery attraction. We spend a day in Verona, home to one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world and Juliet’s balcony on Via Cappello. We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Villa di Maser which stands in formal grounds and was designed around 1550. Inside, the ornate walls are adorned with stunning frescoes. There is also a collection of vintage cars and a farmhouse where you can taste local wines. Afterwards we call at pretty Asolo.