The route that connects Vicenza to Padua initially follows the Riviera Berica cycle path (signage with code E7) to climb after 10 kilometres on the banks of the Bacchiglione river, which is equipped with beautiful cycle paths (I1). In addition to visiting the two cities, the route takes you through landscapes between the Euganean Hills and Berici Hills, where you can discover medieval fortifications and Venetian villas.
From Vicenza you can start riding along the cycle path of the Riviera Berica. We recommend taking some time out to visit Villa Valmarana ai Nani which preserves precious frescoes by Giambattista and Giandomenico Tiepolo, and Villa Capra Valmarana (aka "La Rotonda"), one of Andrea Palladio's masterpieces.
In Longare, leave the cycle path that runs along the Berici Hills and take the one on the left bank of the Bacchiglione river. This waterway, once the main communication route between Padua and Vicenza, is the common thread of the daily trip. In the Middle Ages this territory was fought over by Paduans and Vicentines, as evidenced by some military constructions encountered along the way. In Montegalda stands Castello Grimani, a castle that, having lost all its military value after the Venetian conquest, was transformed into a delightful villa between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. A short distance away is Villa Fogazzaro Colbachini, the residence of the writer Antonio Fogazzaro, which preserves an original collection of bells.
In Cervarese Santa Croce you will enter Padua territory. Near an ancient mill, a walkway allows you to cross the river and reach the Castle of San Martino della Vaneza, where the Bacchiglione River Museum has been created. Once back on the bike, you will pass through Creola, another village that preserves unexpected historical monuments, such as the arch of Sansovino, the Barchessa Pisani and the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine.
The route continues immersed in the greenery flanking the river as far as the gates of Padua. The city is first entered along the Scaricatore Canal, a waterway which is quite popular with Paduans who love to play sports; then, following the cycle paths, you enter the large and popular square of the city: Prato della Valle.
The route follows the embankment throughout and runs almost entirely along a tarmac cycle path. The tourist signposts are marked with the code I1. The route is easy and safe; it is also suitable for families with children.
