CASTELLO di AVIO
First of the Adige Valley Wine Country Castles
If you travel up the Brennaro Motorway from Verona toward Trento looking
to visit a few of the many castles that populate the mountainsides along
the Adige River the first you come to is the dramatic Castello di Avio
which clings perched to the side of the hill slope over-looking the Lagarina
Valley and the village of Sabbionara protected by Monte Baldo. A complex
of high curtain walls with five towers and a guardhouse progress up the
slope. The original keep at the top of the castle dates from the 12th
Century. A winding flagstone path leads the wine vineyards that now surround
the old stones. Holy Roman Emperors Charles V and Maximillian Hapsburg
have had both stayed at the castle during its strategic history as fortress
protecting the valley approach up the Adige River.
The
guardhouse of the castle which is owned by the Province of Trento
is decorated with a beautiful
collection
of 14th Century frescoes depicting
battle scenes celebrating Castelbarco family victories. The fourth floor
of the keep offer an intimate “Hall of Love” where discrete
painting images illustrate the private purpose of this as celebrating
medieval romance. The castle
has a small bar/restaurant perfect for a brief lunch stop, popular with
locals on the weekends
for its period ambience. And during
the school week you’re likely to encounter a group of school kids
in medieval costume on a field trip exploring medieval history.
The castle is open everyday
except Monday (unless a public holiday) and offers various events throughout
the
year. One caution, visiting
this castle is a 450 meter uphill hike from the parking area and further
uphill once in the gate, so prepare for a little exercise. Entrance is
3,50 euros adults and 2,50 children under 12. Exit the A22 at Ala-Avio
exit and follow the signs to the castle through some very narrow cobblestone
streets. There are also some Agriturismo bed & breakfasts nearby
among the hillslope vineyards for a longer visit. © Bargain
Travel Europe
Italian National Trust Castle information Fondo Ambiente
Compare best hotel deals in Trentino-Alto Adige
Get an Italy Rail Pass
These
articles are copyrighted and the sole property of Bargain Travel
Europe and WLPV, LLC. and may not be copied or reprinted without
permission.
SEE ALSO:
CASTLE
BESENO: THE CASTLES OF TRENTINO
WINE
TOURING TRENTINO ADIGE VALLEY
LAKE
GARDA - RIVA DEL GARDA
WARM
NIGHTS ON THE BAY OF THE SUN
ROMANTIC CASTLE TOBLINO
