not only a sinlge and unified area as in the case of the Euganena and Berici hills, here we find the solitary Montello in the middle of the plain, a small-sized yet magnificent ridge on which lies Asolo, and, in the northern part lying past Piave, the famed 'prosecco hills' of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano. The only hill outcrop to be found in the north-east plain of the March area (above Treviso) is the Montello, preferred holiday retreat for the inhabitants of Treviso who find here the ideal refuge from city life, a refuge of natural wonder and silence. The hill (rising less than 400meteres) was already famed in the past for its prized oak wood which was used for the sailing ships of the Venetian Republic and the foundations for its buildings, though the area suffered a tremendous deforestation which only found a respite in the aftermath of the Second World War, with the systematic planting of robinia. The music of the flowing river Piave at its feet and the mild climate provide a paradise for the walker thanks to the plentiful trails through the forests, as well as a natural training ground for cycling enthusiasts and a green carpet for family picnics. History is ever-present though, particularly in the memorials to the fallen of the First World War: Nervesa della Battaglia and Santa Croce del Montello commemorate the wartime occurances on these lands.

The area of rolling hills which embrace Asolo hearken back to yet further past times, to times more remote and idyllic, bringing to mind the Parnassus of Caterina Cornaro and her court, an intellectual and artistic ferment in keeping with the spirit of the Renaissance. Yet other cultures, traditions, mysteries and doctrines surround the rock and its outlying countryside: we hear of tales of connections with the heretical sect of the Cathars. The view however is filled with dense forests, meadows, vineyards and olive plantations, interspersed with splendid Palladian villas such as the superb Villa Barbaro. Here we have the possibility of following ancient pathways or quiet stretches of countryside, on foot, by horse or mountain bike. Other noteworthy historical towns include Possagno, home of Canova, and Altivole.

Aove all this area is of great interest to wine lovers, the highest achievements going to the twin towns of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano and their 'Road to Wine', one of the earliest wine itineraries created in 1966: a road which links the wine centres with the historic ones. Among the vineyards castles, villas, churches and abbeys arise (in addition to those in the two main centres), and also small winebars and restaurants where one can sample the finest and choicest gasronomic delights and superb hospitality.  

With its geographical variety the 'Glorious and joyful March' numbers among the most beautiful areas of the hills of the Veneto, yet also boasts a history and tradition rich in legends: