Monastero degli Olivetani
Ancient monastery ruins atop Monte Venda, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Colli Euganei.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best panoramic views
Monastero degli Olivetani
Best Time
Best panoramic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient monastery ruins atop Monte Venda, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Colli Euganei.
"The hike itself makes the trip worth the effort, with pleasant trekking and nice views."
Wear sturdy shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check the weather
Clear days offer the best views. Fog can create a magical 'sea of clouds' effect. ☁️
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 373 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monastery Ruins
Summit of Monte Venda
Explore the atmospheric ruins of this ancient Benedictine monastery, offering a glimpse into history.
Panoramic Vistas
Monastery grounds
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Colli Euganei and surrounding landscapes from the hilltop.
The Hiking Trail
Monte Venda trails
The journey to the monastery is as rewarding as the destination, with shaded paths and scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek to the Ruins
+1Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check the weather
Clear days offer the best views. Fog can create a magical 'sea of clouds' effect. ☁️
Look for the latch
To enter the site, find the small door on the right of the main gate and lift the latch. 🚪
Trail options exist
Consider trails from Casa Marina or other starting points for varied hiking experiences. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check the weather
Clear days offer the best views. Fog can create a magical 'sea of clouds' effect. ☁️
Look for the latch
To enter the site, find the small door on the right of the main gate and lift the latch. 🚪
Trail options exist
Consider trails from Casa Marina or other starting points for varied hiking experiences. :hiking_boot:
Beware of wildlife
Some hikers mention the possibility of encountering wild boars on the trails. 🐷
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Monastero degli Olivetani for its stunning panoramic views and the rewarding hiking experience to reach the atmospheric ruins. The journey through the shaded trails of the Euganean Hills is often highlighted as a significant part of the visit's charm. While the ruins themselves are appreciated for their historical context, the overall natural beauty and the expansive vistas from the summit are the primary draws for most visitors.
"We did a treking from Castelnuovo, from Storica Trattoria alla Chiesa where we had lunch. It’s easy to find a way as you can just take the road on the right. Although the road is not busy at all and it’s below trees and next to vineyards it’s better when you are able to turn on forest walkway (at about half of the way). Very pleasant treking with birds signing and nice views. It took us an hour and it’s quite steep on some parts, but not too much. At the top you are almost at 600 m. It is nice because of the view and ruins are quite interesting but it is the way itself that makes the trip worth the effort. Not sure how to reach the top of Monte Venda as the area is surrounded with military fence."
Nataša Jeraj Kampuš
"Beautiful and worth the visit!! It is located on top of a hill. The ruins are kept in good condition and the panorama from the monastery is just gorgeous.
You get a good glimpse of the Colli Euganei and the hike to the top is totally worth it. To enter the site once you get to the main gate, there is a little door on the right hand side, thta has a latch to open."
Fran Fulvi
"This is a magic place when there is fog in the plato and up here the sun: you can see like a "sea of clouds" all around you"
Lorenzo Possamai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach the Monastero degli Olivetani is by hiking. Trails such as #9 from Casa Marina (Galzignano Terme) are recommended, offering a pleasant, shaded trek through the Euganean Hills. Some parts are steep but manageable. +1
While some roads lead towards Monte Venda, the final approach to the monastery is often best done on foot. The summit area of Monte Venda itself is surrounded by a military fence, limiting direct vehicle access to the monastery ruins.
Casa Marina in Galzignano Terme is a common starting point, offering access to trails like #9. Another option mentioned is starting from Storica Trattoria alla Chiesa in Castelnuovo.
The hike can take approximately one to two hours, depending on your starting point and pace. The effort is considered well worth it for the views and the historical site.
The trails are generally manageable, but there are steep sections. It's a pleasant trek, but good walking shoes are essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required to visit the ruins of the Monastero degli Olivetani. Access is generally free, as it's an open historical site.
As the site consists of ruins, there are no official opening hours. Visitors can typically access the area during daylight hours.
Upon reaching the main gate, look for a small door on the right-hand side. It has a latch that you can lift to open and enter the site.
The hiking trails leading to the Monastero degli Olivetani are part of the natural landscape and do not typically have an entrance fee.
While the site is generally accessible, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings and views.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the hilltop are spectacular, especially on clear days. The atmospheric ruins themselves also make for compelling photographs, capturing a sense of history and solitude.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for landscape and architectural photography. Visiting during a foggy morning can create a unique 'sea of clouds' effect.
Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's always best to check local regulations or inquire on-site if you plan to use a drone.
Focus on the textures of the stone, the arches, and the way the ruins integrate with the natural landscape. Shots looking out from within the ruins towards the vista are also very effective.
The entire summit area offers great vantage points. Explore around the main ruin structures to find your preferred angles for capturing the expansive scenery.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Hiking
The trails are primarily uphill and can be steep in parts. They are mostly shaded, passing through woods and alongside vineyards, making for a pleasant hike.
Trail #9 from Casa Marina is frequently mentioned. Following the Monte Venda Trail, often marked, is also a good option.
You'll be hiking through the natural beauty of the Colli Euganei, with shaded forests and the sounds of birds. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
Some visitors have noted the possibility of encountering wildlife, such as wild boars, so it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings.
The monastery is located at the top of Monte Venda, which reaches an altitude of nearly 600 meters (approximately 1970 feet).
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit