Giant benches are very common in many Italian towns and are often found in wonderful places. There are currently already 350 in the world and another 71 will soon be added. These are normal “extra large” benches from which you can admire the view from a different point of view. You discover where to find the giant benches and, above all, what their meaning is.
Neive
Neive is one of the most fascinating villages in Piedmont, located in the heart of the Langhe, a region famous for its UNESCO heritage wine-growing landscapes. There giant bench from Neive it is located in a panoramic position that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards. To reach this attraction, you can follow the signs, as it is located slightly outside the historic center.
Once in Neive, in addition to taking souvenir photos on the giant bench, you can explore the historic village, with its cobbled streets and ancient churches. Don’t miss a visit to the local cellars to taste some of the best Piedmontese wines, such as Barbaresco. In the surrounding area, you can also take walks through the vineyards or visit other characteristic villages of the Langhe.
Bellano
Located on the shores of Lake Como, Bellano also has a giant bench from which you can admire the view. The giant bench is located in a privileged position that allows you to enjoy the view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. To get to the bench you will have to follow the signs for Alpe Giumello and then for the attraction.
After visiting the giant bench, don’t forget to visit the other beauties of Bellano, such as the horrid, an impressive natural gorge formed by river erosion. You can also take a walk along the lakeside or explore the alleys of the historic center.
Careggine
The giant bench in Careggine offers a spectacular view of the Apuan Alps and on Lake Vagli. Located in the province of Lucca, this peculiar attraction is easily reachable by car, following the road signs for the municipality of Careggine or using a navigator.
Once you arrive in Careggine, you can visit the small villagego on excursions to discover the landscapes of this area, reach Lake Vagli or explore other surrounding towns, such as Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.
Rionero in Vulture
The giant bench of Rionero in Vulture is located in Basilicata, nestled among the green landscapes of the Vulture Regional Park. To reach this attraction you will have to move away a little from the city center and reach the town of Monticchio, where there are also two beautiful lakes.
In the surrounding area, you can explore the historic center of Rionero in Vulture, rich in history and culture. In particular, there is something to see mother church, in baroque style, the Palazzo Fortunato and, outside the centre, the Benedictine Abbey of San Michele. For fans of food and winethe area is famous for the production of Aglianico del Vulture wine, to be tasted in the numerous local wineries.
Intelvi Valley
The Intelvi Valley, located between Lake Como and Lake Lugano, hosts one of the many giant benches in Italy. To reach the giant bench, you can venture along the hiking trails of the valley or follow the road signs starting from the nearest towns, such as Casasco d’Intelvi.
Nearby, consider visiting the Balcony of Italy, a panoramic point that offers spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. Furthermore, the valley is full of mountain bike routes and trekking itineraries that will allow you to explore uncontaminated nature.
Pietrasanta
Just above Pietrasanta, also in the province of Lucca, there is another giant bench that offers a wonderful view of the Versilia cityalso known as Little Athens due to the presence of many sculptures and the numerous artists who stayed there.
Once in Pietrasanta, among the things to see there are certainly the Cathedral of San Martino, the Rocca di Sala and the Bozzetti Museum. Around Pietrasanta, you can also explore the beaches of Versilia or go on an excursion to the Apuan Alps.
