The Big Benches—those famous giant colorful benches—have become, in recent years, a unique way to explore the landscape from an unusual perspective.
There are several of them in the Piacenza area, situated in scenic locations among hills, vineyards, and small villages, off the beaten path.
This itinerary takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes, winding through the Nure, Trebbia, and Arda valleys, and offering visitors a fresh perspective on the province.
Tips
Useful Information
The journey begins at the latest bench installed in the Piacenza area, Big Bench number 462 in Travo.
A special bench in yellow and green, but above all accessible. A rear opening allows people with reduced mobility to access it with wheelchairs.
The view from the bench takes in Travo’s two famous rocks: the Pietra Perduca and Parcellara, iconic landmarks of the Trebbia Valley.
Tip
In the village of Travo, the Neolithic Village Archaeological Park and the square overlooked by Anguissola Castle are well worth a visit; in summer, the castle hosts evenings of the literary festival dedicated to Giana Anguissola.
After admiring the rocky peaks of the Trebbia Valley, continue on towards Veano before stopping for lunch or a wine tasting at a local winery.
This town is located between Val Nure and Val Trebbia. Veano’s red and white Big Bench is situated in a scenic setting, is easily accessible, and is perfect for a relaxing break. It is located near the Collegio Alberoni villa and also offers a historical tour accessible via a QR code on a sign.
From the bench, the view extends to the right along a tree-lined avenue that winds down the hillside, offering a breathtaking vista all the way to the city on the horizon.
Travel Tips
Three possible stops along the way before reaching the third Big Bench:
A perfect spot for a break that combines culture and scenery.
Curiosity
The villa, which over the centuries has hosted illustrious figures including Duchess Marie Louise of Austria, is now used as the College’s summer residence.
The first bench installed in the Piacenza area is situated in a flat stretch of land, not far from the pretty village of Grazzano Visconti; this could serve as a stopover before parking your car in Villò and continuing on foot through the vineyards to the bench.
From there, you can park your car in Villò and continue on foot through the vineyards to the first bench.
The red bench is nestled among the vineyards of one of the local producers, which offers tours of its cellars and wine tastings.
Strada dei vini e dei sapori dei Colli PIacentini (The Colli Piacentini Wine and Flavors Route) provides information on all available services, including the purchase of the Big Bench passport.
From the bench, you have a pleasant view of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside.
Must-see
Grazzano Visconti is a village built in the early 20th century in the Neo-Gothic style around a castle dating back to the late 14th century. A stroll through the village offers a glimpse into a small artisan community, while a visit to the castle and its gardens provides insight into the eccentric genius of the village’s creator, Giuseppe Visconti di Modrone.
The area offers a large number of farm stays where you can spend the night and sample local specialties.
In the morning, head to Groppovisdomo and after about ten minutes, park your car in Grondesco. From here, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the yellow and green Big Bench, situated in a beautiful natural setting—perfect for a snack break. Ahead, a view of the surrounding hills opens up, leading your gaze toward the plain and, on clear days, all the way to the Alps.
Tip
For those who enjoy hiking, you can reach the bench on a hike of about 1 hour and 30 minutes (elevation gain: 250 m).
At the end of the route, you reach the Val d’Arda toward the final stop: the Big Bench in Lugagnano Val d’Arda. Its colors are the red of grape skins and a sandy hue reminiscent of the badlands.
Dedicated to the Unification of Italy, it is situated on a hilltop with a picturesque view of the vineyards.
Must-see
In the Lugagnano Val d’Arda area, you’ll find:
Travel Tip
Before reaching Lugagnano, if you’re coming from the north, you’ll pass through Castell’Arquato, one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the region. An ideal place to stroll through winding streets, it’s worth visiting the monumental square and climbing to the top of the Rocca Viscontea to admire the surrounding landscape from above.
