RIVER MINICRUISE ALONG THE BRENTA RIVIERA AMONG ANCIENT VILLAS, VERDANT GARDENS, SWING BRIDGES AND NAVIGATION LOCKS (WITH RETURN TO STARTING POINT) - GUIDED TOUR OF VILLA WIDMANN IN MIRA
FULL PROGRAM
Boarding and departure from Dolo. Meeting point at the Dolo wharf (Via Fondamenta, corner of Via Mazzini, nearby Piazza Cantiere).
We will follow the historic route of the Venetian burchielli – traditional boats - of the 1700s, skirting villages, town houses and summer residences of the Venetian nobility. Originally, these boats connected Venice to Padua and were mainly used by Venetian nobles to travel to their mainland estates. They were made of wood with an elegant cabin equipped with balconies, finely decorated and adorned with mirrors, paintings and precious carvings. On the journey to the lagoon they traveled pushed by the wind or oars, while along the Riviera del Brenta they were pulled along the banks by men, oxen or horses.
The bustling village of Dolo from which our water route begins is famous for its picturesque Molini - watermills - and the Squero, an old shipyard where boats were once repaired. After passing the Conca di Dolo and the Conca di Mira, veritable water elevators, we cross the oldest stretch of the Brenta Riviera, full of sumptuous villas and flower gardens with centuries-old trees.
During the tour, there will be a stop to visit Villa Widmann in Mira overlooking the left bank of the Brenta Canal. It is one of the most beautiful 18th-century villas located along the Naviglio. The villa maintains intact all the patterns of a Venetian Villa with the main body, stables, guest quarters, private chapel, and park. The central hall of the Villa is completely frescoed with light colors that give brightness to the room. Giuseppe Angeli, in fact, inspired by his master Giambattista Piazzetta, had opted for a fresh and soft painting. Suggestive is the porch that encloses a Venetian-style Campiello and the collection of antique carriages. The monumental park covers more than 16,000sqm among avenues of hornbeam trees, ancient roses and a romantic pond with watery bald cypresses.
During the navigation back to the starting point, we will conclude the tour with the inevitable toast served by the crew.
Duration of the tour: about 3 1/2 hours
