The Regional Park of the Colli Euganei, or Euganean Hills, in the province of Padova was formed in 1989 to protect this zone of volcanic hills formed 35 million years ago.

The highest point is Monte Venda at 601 metres above sea level and the territory has been inhabited since prehistoric times.

Today, it is made up of 15 comune of impressive interest for the visitor.

In such a small space you will see medieval fortresses, fine Venetian palladian villas, historical gardens, monasteries, all surrounded by lush vineyards and oak and chestnut woods.

It could be paradise.

The 'Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei' has created a special guide to over 200 paths and routes for exploring the zone. Most are signposted and are perfect for excursions on foot or by bike.

One of our favourites is the 'Sentiero del Monte della Madonna' which is a loop of 5km and departs 1km from the church of Rovolon.

It is a zone of ancient chestnut woods enriched by Alpine mountain flora which migrated here due to the fresh, humid conditions of the Euganei Hills during the last ice age.

Look out for the small locality of Carbonara, which has nothing to do with creamy, bacon pasta, but everything to do with the ancient production of charcoal.

You can still see traces of the wood and earth mounds used to transform the wood.

On the summit of Monte della Madonna is the Sanctuary of Monte della Madonna.

The location has that perfect combination of silence and stretgicv value which attracted the first religious communities.

Do follow the ancient routes used by the Benedictine Monks to reach Teolo and Rovolon.