CAPRIOLO

A walk to Sant'Onofrio: this half hour walk through thick woodland starts at Capriolo and finishes at the top of Sant'Onofrio hill from where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views across Mount Orfano and the River Oglio. The Sant'Onofrio chapel at the crest of the hill dates from the 700s. The walk can be done all year round.

CORTE FRANCA, ISEO & PROVAGLIO D’ISEO

Torbiere del Sebino: A 360 hectare area designated a Nature Reserve in 1983 abounding in freshwater pools and wetland flora. It's divisible into three distinct zones: the marshy "Lametta", the "Lama" abounding in freshwater pools, and the springs in clay pits. This Nature Reserve is quite unique and a product of nature and human endeavours. Peat was drained for fuel from the 1700's to the mid 1900's. The result is that this area created by both man and nature has many springs that create an ideal ecosystem for hundreds of animals and wetland flora.

The Nature Reserve can be visited all year round. The best time to visit is late spring when the water lilies are in full bloom. A visit takes about one and a half to two hours. An entrance fee is payable. Guides can be booked in advance for groups (6 people minimum). There are designated areas for angling, contact the Consorzio per la Gestione della Riserva Naturale delle Torbiere del Sebino, c/o Municipio di Provaglio d’Iseo, via Europa 5, tel 030 982 3141). Website: www.torbiere.it

GUSSAGO

The walk della Santissima: immerse yourself in lush countryside in this pleasant walk that can also be cycled, just moments away from the residential area of the village. Relax and enjoy the panoramic views, flora and fauna along this 3 km walk or visit the open air fitness course open all year comprising 16 stations suitable for sports lovers of different ages. The walk can be done all year and takes about one and a quarter hours on foot. (Comune di Gussago, tel. 030 252 2919)

OME

Botanical Garden: open all year. It takes about one and a half hours to visit and there is no entrance fee (Paradis, tel. 030 652 177)

PALAZZOLO SULL’OGLIO

Parco dell’Oglio: The River Oglio meanders along historical villages, cultivated farmland, cane fields and woodland set in vast parkland. It's perfect for pleasant walks or bike rides and can be done all year round.

PARATICO

Passeggiata verso Palazzolo sull’Oglio: a 12 km walk along the banks of the River Oglio amidst vast, wild parkland. The journey can be done on foot, cycled, canoed.

ROVATO

Le rose di Castello Quistini (Associate of Strada del Franciacorta): a collection of the finest botanical roses including old, modern and English varieties in addition to hydrangea and peonies. Parts of this 17th century country mansion are open to the public. Flowers are available for purchase. Visits can be arranged by appointment only. (via Sopramura 3/a, tel. 348 222 1352)