If you’re the kind of traveler who lives for places where sweeping landscapes blend with deep history and literary lore, Colle di Dante and Torre Ezzelina in Romano d’Ezzelino should go straight to the top of your Italy bucket list. Nestled at the southern edge of Monte Grappa, this gentle hill — officially known as Col Bastia — crowned by a striking circular tower and a quaint little church, has one foot in reality and the other in the pages of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy.
Just a short drive from Bassano del Grappa, this part of Veneto makes for the perfect slow travel weekend packed with easy trails, old-world towns, and rustic, unforgettable food.
Colle di Dante & Torre Ezzelina: Castles Lost and Verses Remembered
Despite its name, the “Colle di Dante” wasn’t actually visited by Dante himself — but his words certainly put it on the map. The real name of the hill is Col Bastia, and in the Middle Ages it hosted the formidable Castle of the Ezzelini, home to the powerful Da Romano dynasty. After the fall of Ezzelino III “the Tyrant,” the original fortress was destroyed and its stones scattered.
Fast forward to 1827, and the hill’s summit was given new life. The current Torre Ezzelina, a circular bell tower designed by Giovanni Zardo (a descendant of the family of famed sculptor Antonio Canova), was erected as a tribute to the vanished castle. Skyward and visible from miles around, the tower now serves as a symbolic gateway to the site.
In Paradiso (Canto IX) of the Divine Comedy, Dante — guided by Beatrice — meets the spirit of Cunizza da Romano, sister of Ezzelino III, who speaks of a hill “that does not rise very high” and from which “a spark once fell, setting all the countryside ablaze.” That hill is widely understood to be this very spot. Standing here, you’re quite literally walking in a place evoked by one of Italy’s most iconic writers.
At the Summit You’ll Find:
- Torre Ezzelina, the historic stone tower that dominates the peak
- A small ancient church, perfect for a moment of calm and reflection
- A monument to Dante Alighieri, engraved with the very lines from Paradiso that bring this hill to life
The vibe here is peaceful and introspective — the hush of the woods, the chimes of distant church bells, and panoramic views that stretch from the rolling Veneto plains to the first ridges of the Pre-Alps.
How to Reach Colle di Dante & Torre Ezzelina
Location: The site is located in the town of Romano d’Ezzelino in the Vicenza province, on the southern flanks of Monte Grappa — just minutes from the historic town of Bassano del Grappa.
By Car:
- From Bassano del Grappa: ~10 minutes north toward Romano d’Ezzelino
- From Vicenza: ~40 minutes via SS47 or provincial roads passing Bassano
- From Treviso/Padua: Easy route to Bassano and then up toward Romano
You can park at the base of Col Bastia and continue on foot.
On Foot:
A gentle 3.5 km loop trail winds up through meadows, vineyards, and shaded woods to the tower. No steep scrambling — just a pleasant uphill stroll perfect for a half-day excursion.
Tips:
- Wear light hiking shoes or trail runners
- Spring and fall offer the best scenery and weather
- Bring water and a windbreaker — the summit can be breezy
The Experience: Views, Silence, and Dante’s Words
Once you reach the top, you’re treated to what feels like a natural balcony overlooking two worlds: the quilt-like patchwork of villages, steeples, and fields to the south, and Monte Grappa’s rugged profile to the north. Ideal for golden hour photography, thoughtful reflection, or simply savoring the open Italian sky.
The tower itself, with its circular stone form, stands out like a vertical bookmark in history — a place where old stories and modern wanderers converge.
Local Flavors to Try After the Climb
Eating your way through this part of Veneto is part of the adventure. Here are some local specialties you shouldn’t miss:
- Bassano White Asparagus DOP: spring’s crown jewel, often paired with eggs or delicate risottos
- Baccalà alla Vicentina: creamy, aromatic salt cod with a side of steaming polenta
- Sopressa Vicentina with Polenta: savory Veneto salami with charred polenta
- Spezzatino di Musso (Donkey Stew): hearty and traditional, perfect after a day outdoors
- Local Cheeses: from Asiago to Morlacco, served with honey or rustic bread
- Of Course, Bassano Grappa: sip responsibly at the end of your meal
Romano d’Ezzelino’s trattorie and osterie serve up these classics year-round, often on seasonal menus that reflect local festivals and traditions.
Nearby Adventures & Itinerary Ideas
Why stop at the hill? This corner of Veneto is full of complementary experiences:
Valle Santa Felicita
A wild, scenic valley begging to be explored — great for trekking, biking, or even paragliding.
Monte Grappa
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with trails, war memorials, and mountain huts serving alpine-inspired fare.
Bassano del Grappa
Charming historic town known for the Ponte degli Alpini, museums, and artisan distilleries.
Sample Itineraries
One-Day Slow Travel:
- Morning: Hike Colle di Dante and visit Torre Ezzelina
- Lunch: Traditional trattoria in Romano d’Ezzelino
- Afternoon: Stroll Bassano’s historic center and have an aperitivo by the Brenta
Weekend Nature + Culture:
- Day 1: Morning hill hike, afternoon Valle Santa Felicita
- Day 2: Drive or bike up Monte Grappa, visit the war memorial, finish with dinner in Bassano
Summing It Up
Visiting Colle di Dante and Torre Ezzelina brings together everything special about this slice of Veneto: pastoral landscapes, medieval history, Dante’s literary whispers, gentle hiking, and food that tells a story. It’s one of those spots where, once you’ve been, you won’t just remember the view — you’ll want to come back with friends and family.
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