Euganei Hills
Just a few kilometers from Hotel La Corte lies an extraordinary area, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, discover historic villages, or enjoy moments of total relaxation: the Euganean Hills. This group of volcanic hills rises from the Venetian plain between Padua and the thermal basins, offering a gentle and harmonious landscape dotted with woods, vineyards, olive groves, castles, Venetian villas, and centuries-old abbeys.
Nature excursions
The Euganean Hills are a true natural oasis, ideal for walks, hikes, bike rides, and outdoor picnics. Numerous well-marked trails cross wooded and panoramic areas, offering unique views of the Venetian countryside. Excursions can be organized for all levels, from relaxing walks to more challenging routes for experienced hikers.
Villages and monuments
Within the green embrace of the hills lie historic villages of rare beauty, such as Arquà Petrarca, the town where poet Francesco Petrarca lived and was buried. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time, among medieval buildings, ancient fountains, and breathtaking views.
The area also hosts many Venetian villas, medieval castles, and abbeys such as the still-active and visitable Praglia Abbey. These places tell the deep story of a land that has always been a crossroads of culture, spirituality, and art.
Euganean Thermal Baths: Abano, Montegrotto, and Galzignano
Within the Euganean Hills Regional Park are the famous Euganean Thermal Baths, known throughout Europe for the beneficial properties of their thermal waters and therapeutic muds.
ABANO TERME
Abano Terme is currently one of the most renowned thermal baths in Europe. The city centre features a wide pedestrian area populated by many ancient and modern buildings. Among the several historical monuments, Abano Terme also contains the thermal baths of the God Aponus and the archeological area on the Montirone Hill.
MONTEGROTTO TERME
Montegrotto Terme is the main centre of the local thermal baths. According to the archeological sources, the ancient lacustrine sacred place, attended by Venetian people between the end of the 8th Century (BC) and the 3rd Century (BC), was located right under the city, in the area between the Mount Castello and the Montagnone Hill.
Galzignano, smaller and surrounded by nature, offers a more intimate thermal experience, nestled in hilly landscapes perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. It’s an ideal destination for combining wellness with the discovery of the local area.
Butterfly Arc: the House of Butterflies
For those visiting with children—or anyone who loves nature in all its forms—a must-see is the Butterfly Arc, the House of Butterflies in Montegrotto Terme. Here you can walk through a tropical greenhouse inhabited by hundreds of colorful butterflies from all over the world. The park also includes the Fairy Woods, with educational trails and enchanting settings perfect for families.
