Asiago Plateau — Alta Via 1 Section

The Asiago Plateau day section is a roughly 12 km walk on the high plateau of the Sette Comuni in the province of Vicenza, in the Veneto region of Italy, at an altitude of around 1,000 m. It starts in Asiago town centre (36012 Asiago) and follows marked paths across meadows, pastures, and forest. Access from Venice is by train to Vicenza in about 55 minutes, followed by an FTV bus to Asiago in around 60 minutes; timetables are published at ftvicenza.it. Driving is also possible, and parking is available in the town. No permit is required. The walk gains about 400 m and takes four to five hours, placing it at a moderate level: gentle to steady climbs on gravel tracks, farm roads, and forest paths, without scrambling or serious exposure. Much of the plateau is open pasture with little shade, while forest sections offer cover. Landmarks include the alpine meadows, mountain farms (malghe), and views over the surrounding Prealpine ridges. The plateau was also a major First World War battlefield, and memorials and remains appear in the wider area. Route options allow shorter loops, and the road network provides bail-out points back to Asiago. The Asiago tourist office at Via Stazione 1 provides maps, which are important because junctions are numerous. Some malghe sell dairy products and meals in the season, though opening varies. Weather can change quickly at this altitude, with cool winds, sudden showers, and thunderstorms in summer. Snow covers the plateau in winter, so the walk is a summer and early autumn outing, and the area is then used for cross-country skiing. Water sources are limited outside the town, so hikers should carry enough for the day.