Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ing a local tradition of shoemaking. The contribution of Brenta cobblers is commemorated
with a
Shoemakers' Museum
at this 18th-century villa, a multiroom dream wardrobe that in-
cludes 18th-century slippers, kicks created for trendsetter Marlene Dietrich, and heels
handcrafted for Yves Saint Laurent.
Tours
Seeing the Brenta by boat reveals an engineering marvel: the ingenious hydraulic locks
system developed in the 15th century to prevent river silt from being dumped into the la-
goon.
Il Burchiello
( 049 876 02 33;
www.ilburchiello.it
;
adult/reduced half-day cruise €55/45, full day from €94/55)
This
modern luxury barge lets you watch 50 villas drift by from velvet couches with a glass of
prosecco
in hand. Day cruises stop at Malcontenta, Widmann and Pisani villas; half-day
tours cover two villas. Full-day cruises leave from Venice's Stazione Maritima (Tuesday,
Thursday and Saturday) or Padua (Wednesday, Friday and Sunday), with bus transfers in-
cluded.
BOAT TOUR
Festivals & Events
CULTURE
Riviera Fiorita
(
www.rivierafiorita.it
)
Party like it's 1527 with baroque costume parties at the Villa Pisani and
Villa Widmann, historically correct country fairs that even have gelati in baroque-era fla-
vours. Held on the first or second weekend in September.
Eating
Osteria Da Conte
( 049 47 95 71;
www.osteriadaconte.it
; Via Caltana 133, Mira; meals €35-45; 10am-4pm & 6-10pm
Tue-Sat)
This unlikely bastion of sophistication is lodged practically underneath an over-
pass. Da Conte has one of the best wine lists in the region, plus creative takes on classic
lagoon cuisine, from roasted quail to ginger-infused langoustines.
MODERN VENETIAN
€€
Getting There & Around
