The best walks and hikes around Mossano

We got here by bike, but the stretch is only accessible on foot, not on gravel or mountain bikes... only on foot (with your bike on your shoulder). The place is enchanting, worth a visit!! To get out, there's a small, steep staircase: with your bike on your shoulder and a bit of agility, it's manageable, but I don't recommend attempting it with an e-bike, as it's narrow and steep.

The Covolo della Catibalda is a natural cavity at the base of a suggestive rock face. In the area, as in all the Berici Hills, there are numerous and particular similar karst phenomena (ledges, cliffs, roofs and caves), the result of differentiated erosion between rocks of different compactness because they were formed in different geological eras; they were used as a shelter and home since prehistoric times. The covolo is slightly hidden and raised compared to Via Colombara: the street takes its name from the well-preserved dovecote tower of the ancient rural farm that is located at the top of the dead-end road. P.S.: the 'cèngia' is a horizontal passage that 'cuts' a vertical wall; the 'còvolo' (Venetian dialect) is a ravine in the rock.

The Valley of the Mills of Mossano, which crosses Contrà dei Munari, is an enchanting corner of the Berici Hills: the stream, the ancient rustic buildings beautifully restored and three imposing wooden wheels still in operation make up a suggestive and picturesque environment, where time seems suspended. Beautiful in spring, when flowers and greenery frame the fascinating bucolic picture. Along this short valley, until the Second World War, twelve mills of medieval origin were active, which incessantly ground flour for the inhabitants of Mossano and the nearby villages. At the head of the valley, a permanent spring feeds the stream which in turn turns the wheels. Fun fact: the Contrà dei Munari (a Venetian surname that derives from millers) is also known as Via Calbin, because it is said that in the Middle Ages a certain Calbino collected a tax in exchange for the use of the stream; in case of non-payment, he activated a lock, interrupting the flow of water and therefore the work of the grinders!

A charming farmhouse in a prime location, with a panoramic terrace offering spectacular, expansive views of the plain and the Euganean Hills on the horizon. It's worth sitting down for an aperitif, perhaps after a lovely hike along the area's countless trails, in a truly relaxing atmosphere. Every detail is meticulously cared for, from the rustic stone building to the surrounding greenery: there's even a petting zoo, with donkeys, goats, peacocks, and more. https://www.agriturismodasagraro.com

The ancient fountain was built by the locals at a perennial spring that flows inside a cave. The spring feeds the stream of the suggestive Valle dei Mulini below, which once turned a dozen wheels. The basin was later adapted to a wash house and in more recent times much of the water has been captured for the local aqueduct.

The largest cave also called “covoli”

The Valle dei Mulini di Mossano is a magnificent path (nr. 81) that takes us to discover the rural culture of the places. Until the mid-1800s, 12 hydraulic mills of medieval origin operated, moved by the water from the stream that flows down from the valley; today only one exists. In spring the area is full of flowers of the most varied colours. Excellent for those seeking peace and tranquility.

From Mossano (near the town hall), follow the clearly visible signs, path 81, which after a short descent leads you uphill between old mills, accompanied by the sweet sound of the stream.