Casazza

In the Cavallina Valley near Bergamo, the town of Casazza sits in the midst of hills and verdant fields, with a nearby lake and a peaceful ambiance. It is only 24 kilometers from the city of Bergamo and about 70 kilometers from Milan, but just a few minutes from a pretty lake, not far from Lake Iseo, and about midway between Lake Como and Lake Garda. But its hill-valley position makes it feel tucked in and secluded, a peaceful place away from the bustle.

It is located alongside the Cherio River, which feeds into Lake Endine, just a few minutes to the north. The lake is a worthy spot to visit for a stroll, lunch or a drink with a view. There is swimming, canoeing and windsurfing, as well as trails all over the area for biking and hiking.

The town's history goes back to Roman times; the remains were found and excavated and can be visited at the Archeological Site Cavellas, the original Roman name. The Pieve di Mologno was built in the 11th century and a few castles by the Suardi family constructed around the area in the 14th century, though most were altered in the following centuries, the one at the lake is still intact. The church dedicated to San Lorenzo was built in 1769 and holds paintings by local artists. The biggest attraction in town is the archeological zone Cavellas, so be sure to visit. Up at Lake Endine, in Monasterolo di Castello, the Via Crucis draws pilgrims who walk the stations of the cross, fine mosaics by artist Trento Longaretti, set in little chapels.

Outside town are the San Fermo hills, where outdoors sports are easy and fun -so enjoy some walks or rent a mountain bike and hit the trails.

The area is known for its excellent cheeses; other stomach-satisfying foods common here include polenta with sausage and mushrooms, or lake fish.

Photo Credit: Di Ago76 - Opera propria, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1882907