Sulzano

A picturesque lakeside village with hidden alleyways and houses clustered closely together, Sulzano is now the most convenient port from which to reach Monte Isola, thanks to the frequent day and night services.

WHAT TO SEE

As evidence that the original settlement was founded on the hillside and only expanded towards the lake following the construction of the coastal road in 1850, the 18th-century parish church dedicated to San Giorgio is situated in the upper part of the village. The church has a single nave with Baroque decorations. Further up, in a panoramic position along the Antica Strada Valeriana, stands the church of Saints Fermo and Rustico (15th century). The façade is gabled with a rose window, and the interior has a single nave with a trussed roof. A stroll through the typical lakeside village, along Via Cadorna, leads to a romantic spot near the Church of the Visitazione. Every five years, Sulzano celebrates its patron saint with the Palio del Drago.

HIGHLIGHTS

Panoramic view from Santa Maria del Giogo – This was the spot chosen by the artist Vladimir Christo to admire his work from above (“The Floating Piers”, 18 June – 3 July 2016). Accessible on foot, by mountain bike or by car via the road to Nistisino, at an altitude of around 1,000 metres, lies the 15th-century church of Santa Maria del Giogo. The view over the lake is breathtaking. It is also a lovely spot for a picnic or to enjoy a traditional dish at the nearby trattoria.
An aperitif at sunset – If you’re looking for a trendy venue with a romantic atmosphere, an enviable location, elegance and magical lighting… Darsena 21 is the place for you!

WALKS AND EXCURSIONS

Tour of the Three Islands – A boat tour exploring the islands of S. Paolo, Monte Isola and Loreto, departing from the Sulzano jetty. An unmissable opportunity to discover the views, picturesque spots and historic villas from the lake. Info: Navigazione Lago d’Iseo
Petoi Waterfall – A short walk through the woods leading to the picturesque little waterfall where a small statue of the Virgin Mary stands. Head north along Via Tassano, then turn right at a small wooden bridge, where the woodland path begins (walking time 30 mins).
Hike to Santa Maria del Giogo – From the centre of Sulzano, a steep cobbled mule track leads first to the hamlet of Nistisino and then to the summit, where the panoramic Church of Santa Maria del Giogo stands (walking time 2 hours – elevation gain 750 m).
Antica Strada Valeriana Hike – Starting from Sulzano, this walking route, one of the most scenic and picturesque around the lake, offers two options: a short, easy walk southwards (5 km) and a more challenging hike northwards (20 km).

THINGS TO DO AND EVENTS

Palio del Drago and Feast of San Giorgio – Every five years in April, during the patron saint’s festival, the historic centre is decorated with thousands of colourful paper flowers, handmade by the women of the town. The village also comes alive with competitions between districts, costume parades, and live music, in an atmosphere of celebration and tradition.
Wild Boar Festival – An eagerly awaited autumn event for lovers of culinary traditions, folklore, and local cuisine, featuring participating restaurants that offer special menus centered on wild boar.

INFO SHOPPING

The weekly market takes place every Tuesday from 08:00 to 13:00 in Piazza Teofilo Folengo.

HOW TO GET THERE

By train – Sulzano is served by the Brescia – Iseo – Edolo regional line operated by Trenord. The train station is a 2-minute walk from the centre. Info and timetables: Trenord
By bus – Sulzano is served by the FNMA company, which connects the town directly to the eastern shore of Lake Iseo and the Camonica Valley. Info and timetables: FNM Autoservizi
By ferry – Sulzano can be reached by boat using the regular service operated by Navigazione Lago d’Iseo. Info and timetables: Navigazione Lago d’Iseo