Springtime in the Euganean Hills

In full view from the A13, the Italian toll road that runs through the vast Po River Valley from nearby Padova down to Bologna, stands an interesting series of conical peaks known as the Colli Euganei (Euganean Hills).

Eighty-one hills, ranging between 300 and 600m tall, rise up shoulder-to-shoulder in what is now the Regional Park of the Euganean Hills, the very first regional park of the Veneto.

It is among these peaks, actually one of their valleys, where I hang my hat. From the front gate of my humble abode, my daily ritual takes flight as I stroll through and photograph the nearby hills and dales, marveling at the park’s rugged, natural beauty that grew out of a volcanic phenomenon that took place some 40-million years ago.

Sloping vineyards and olive groves — where fine wines pour forth and extra-virgin olive oil is cold pressed — are still fast asleep, but a cornucopia of color has recently burst through announcing that springtime has finally arrived in the Euganean Hills.

For complete information on the Euganean Hills — the history and environment, sport and leisure activities, wine and gastronomy, restaurants and lodging — just click HERE.

If you decide to visit, don’t wait too long as this flowering isn’t going to last forever.

Buon viaggio!