The best running trails around Valstagna

La Grottona is a natural panoramic balcony with a spectacular view of the lower Valsugana (or Canale del Brenta, as its narrow final part is called), at an altitude of 900m. You encounter it while walking the challenging Sentiero del Vu, which leads from Londa di Valstagna to Col d'Astiago on the Asiago Plateau, following an Italian defensive line from World War I dotted with military structures: this rocky terrace was also adapted by the infantry as an observation point and artillery position, with a still-passable trench.

This large concrete tank pumps water from the springs of the Grotte di Oliero, thanks to an aqueduct that overcomes 1000m of elevation difference, to then distribute it throughout the Asiago Plateau: up here, in fact, the territory is karst, so it does not retain water which flows downstream through underground channels... practically the same water from rain and snow that naturally descends from the summit is artificially pumped up out of necessity! The current aqueduct and tank were built on the traces of a system already created during the First World War, to address the primary problem of water supply for the Plateau, which became critically serious during the conflict, both due to the exponential increase in the number of men present at altitude, and due to the contest for the few springs by opposing enemies. Considered by many to be a horrible structure, for me it is a suggestive brutalist architecture totally detached, positioned in a natural and unspoiled environment: a fascinating contrast!

Valstagna is a historic town in the province of Vicenza, today the capital of the scattered municipality of Valbrenta, located in the suggestive setting of the Valsugana valley. Perched along the right bank of the Brenta river, it is nestled between the waters and the imposing rock faces of the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni (Seven Municipalities Plateau). The town has inextricably linked its history to the Republic of Venice: for centuries it was an important centre for timber floating, with wood being sent from the mountains on rafts to the shipyards of the Venetian Arsenal. This ancient tradition is revived every summer in the famous Palio delle Zattere (Raft Race). Valstagna is an ideal destination for lovers of sport and nature: it is an international benchmark for kayaking and rafting on the Brenta, it hosts the famous natural complex of the Grotte di Oliero (Oliero Caves) and it is the starting point of the Calà del Sasso, a historic staircase with 4,444 steps that climbs up to Asiago.

The Rialto Bridge of Valstagna is an important infrastructural work located in the municipality of Valbrenta, in the province of Vicenza. Crossing the Brenta river, this bridge historically connects the inhabited area of Valstagna, on the right bank, to the hamlet of Carpanè and the SS 47 of Valsugana, on the left bank, representing a vital hub for local traffic and for cycle tourists on the Brenta Cycle Path. Recently, the structure has undergone a radical restoration and safety intervention, which concluded with its reopening in the summer of 2025. The works, worth over one million euros, have made it possible to repair the damaged parts, widen the roadway, and create a protected pedestrian walkway. A spectacular LED lighting system has also been installed, which colors the bridge during historical events such as the Palio delle Zattere.

The Eremo di San Bovo is a gem nestled among the hills of Bassano del Grappa, a place where spirituality meets breathtaking nature. Perched at about 330 meters on Monte Costa, it offers a privileged view of the entrance to Valbrenta and the Vicenza plain. The current structure, rebuilt in the 90s on the remains of an ancient settlement, stands in an area frequented since the Iron Age, as evidenced by enigmatic Rhaetian graffiti on the surrounding rocks. To reach it, one follows paths immersed in the woods starting from Sant'Eusebio, often combining the walk with a stop at the nearby Cascate del Silan. It is an ideal destination for those seeking silence and history, walking among ancient stone walls and remains of trenches from the Great War, under the protective gaze of San Bovo, patron of livestock.

bridge comfortable but pay attention because the bottom is iron grating and extremely slippery when wet

A simply wonderful place, easy to reach from the Carpanè-Valstagna station, following a well-marked path along the Brenta River. The staff was equally fantastic, allowing us to follow the cave tour in both Italian and English (part of my group didn't speak Italian). I recommend going in spring; it's cooler and there's usually less traffic, so you can enjoy it all better. ;)

Hidden in the rocks, this natural formation waits just off the route. Park the bike, explore a bit on foot, and let your curiosity lead the way. Explore Freedom was a project by ROSE Bikes. A unique adventure that celebrates the joy of connecting with people through cycling, the spirit of discovering the unknown together, and the privilege of crossing borders in Europe with ease. While the project is over, the checkpoints remain for you to explore. https://www.komoot.com/de-de/collection/3918913/-explore-freedom