Strolling Italy's colossal benches: Experience awe in a breathtaking, grand landscape
Feeling Small Yet Breathtaken: Italy's Giant Benches
Wanna feel a tiny speck amidst the vast beauty of the world? Italy's Giant Benches got you covered! With over 200 colorful, humongous benches scattered across the country, these bad boys offer more than just a quirky photo op. They connect you with the local charm and breathtaking landscapes of Italy like never before.
Whether you're a vineyard enthusiast or a mountainside explorer, Italy's giant benches are here to elevate your Italian adventure. So, swing your legs off a seat that dwarfs you, take in the breathtaking views, and remind yourself that this world is both vast and beautiful.
The Giant Benches Magic
It's an oddly humbling feeling sitting on a bench that makes you feel small. But there's something about it that's almost childlike - a refreshing reminder of the awesomeness of our world. Each bench is strategically placed to frame an incredible view, be it rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, or dramatic mountain peaks. You'll be hard-pressed not to stop, sit, and take it all in.
Created as part of the Big Bench Community Project, these installations bring a playful yet reflective aspect to touring Italy. They're not just tourist traps; they connect visitors to the surroundings and local communities, effortlessly blending playfulness with the grandeur of Italy's breathtaking scenery.
Why Big Benches?
Started by Chris Bangle in 2010, the Big Bench Community Project aimed to bring people closer to their environments through joyful interactions. Proceeds from bench passports (stamped at nearby shops) go back into the local areas, making it not only sustainable but meaningful travel.
A Growing Project
Currently, there are over 200 Big Benches across Italy, with more added regularly. You'll spot them in regions like South Tyrol, Emilia-Romagna, and Veneto, each offering a unique landscape and vibe.
Where to Begin Your Bench Journey
With over 200 benches across Italy, you'll find plenty of options to inspire your journey. Here's a glimpse at some regions that make for unforgettable bench-hopping experiences.
Piedmont: The Giant Bench Headquarters
Piedmont is the ultimate destination for a bench-inspired journey with over 100 benches spread across the Langhe, Monferrato, and Roero regions. Start in the vineyards of Barolo or La Morra, where vibrant benches amid UNESCO World Heritage landscapes will leave you in awe.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the autumn harvest for golden vineyard views and fewer crowds. Check the Piedmont Tourism Site for nearby attractions.
- Must-Visit Benches: The Red Bench in La Morra and the Blue Bench near Barolo, offering breathtaking views of UNESCO-listed vineyards.
- Experience Tip: Pair your bench visits with wine tastings at local wineries.
Tuscany: Timeless Utilities with a Giant Twist
Tuscany isn't just about rolling hills and cypress-lined roads; it's also home to some stunning Big Benches. Whether you're near Montalcino or the Val d'Orcia, these spots harmonize perfectly with Tuscany's famous wines and rustic charm.
- When to Visit: Spring and late autumn offer cooler weather, perfect for walking tours. Use Visit Tuscany to plan your stops.
- Must-Visit Benches: The Green Bench near Pienza and the Terracotta Bench by San Gimignano reveal the region's timeless beauty.
- Experience Tip: Visit in late spring or early autumn for the best light and fewer crowds.
Liguria: Discover the Hidden Gem Benches
While Liguria is famed for its coastal beauty, its inland areas have hidden gems that offer unique vantage points through Big Benches. For instance, the Blue Bench in Rossiglione (Bench #116) offers a serene view of the Valle Stura, while the Fuchsia Bench in Crocefieschi (Bench #173) provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. These benches, located away from the bustling coastal areas, offer a tranquil retreat into nature. For detailed maps and information, refer to the Big Bench Community Project website.
- What to Expect: Liguria's trails can be steep, so pack comfortable shoes and water. Plan your trip with Liguria Tourism.
- Must-Visit Benches: The Blue Bench in Rossiglione offers a serene view of the Valle Stura.
- Experience Tip: Combine bench stops with leisurely walks along the Sentiero Azzurro.
Planning Your Giant Bench Tour
- Download the Bench Map: Use the official Big Bench Community Project website to plan your route.
- Timer's Everything:
- Spring: Blossoming landscapes in Piedmont and Tuscany make benches even more magical.
- Summer: Escape to the Alps for cooler weather and high-altitude benches.
- Autumn: Golden vineyards in Piedmont are a must-see.
- Winter: Snow-dusted benches in the Alps create a dreamlike setting.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and a journal for jotting down reflections inspired by the views.
- Stay Local: Support the surrounding communities by dining in village trattorias and staying in agriturismos.
The New Big Bench Passport
The Big Bench Passport lets you collect stamps for each bench you visit. It's a fun way to document your adventure while supporting local communities. Passports are available at nearby shops, wineries, or tourism offices listed on the Big Bench Community Project site.
Are You Ready to Sit?
The best adventures sometimes make us feel like a kid again. Whether you plan a tour around one region or aim to see as many benches as possible, these vibrant installations turn a simple journey into something extraordinary. Ready to rediscover wonder?
Want to Plan Your Trip?
- Find locations and details on the Big Bench Community Project.
- Explore regional resources:
- Piedmont Tourism
- Tuscany Tourism
- Liguria Tourism
So, what're you waiting for? Your next adventure-and your next bench-awaits!
By blending travel and lifestyle, the Big Bench Community Project offers unique tips for trip success. With over 200 vibrant benches scattered across Italy, these giant installations are not just photo ops; they connect visitors to the surroundings and local communities, creating unforgettable moments during a memorable vacation. Whether you choose the vineyards of Piedmont, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or the hidden gems of Liguria, these breathtaking landscapes offer a refreshing reminder of the awesomeness of our world.
