Tavernola Bergamasca

Tavernola Bergamasca is a picturesque town in Lombardy, situated on the left bank of Lake Iseo, and across from Monte Isola. Through the A4 motorway the cities of Bergamo (47 minutes), Brescia (51 minutes), and Milan (1h 29 minutes) are within relative easy driving distance, while the SP469 hugs Lake Iseo – making the drive to Sarnico, Paratico, Riva di Solto, and Castro all possible within 20 minutes. The most impressive, however, is certainly Lake Iseo. Tavernola’s ferry port allows you to explore the lake’s many remarkable communities, including Sensole and Siviano – located on the majestic Monte Isola.

The municipality is full of commercial and recreational activities itself, as well as its fair share of history. Local grocers and shops such as Alimentari Ghisellini Anna, Latteria Salumi, and Supermarket Vitali sell many basic necessities, including fresh produce, cheese, meats, and other daily essentials. Tavernola boasts a pharmacy, butcher, banks, salons, boutiques, and a number of popular bakeries that make a local favourite – black cherry cake. Several soccer fields and a gym allow for recreational fun and fitness. Buses run throughout the township, making transportation relatively simple, while neighbouring villages offer plenty of commercial and gastronomic variety.

A number of historic churches call Tavernola Bergamasca home, including the 13th century Chiesa San Pietro, which is beautifully decorated with several 15th to early 16th century renaissance frescoes, including some from Girolamo Romanino. Another 13th century church is the famous Little Church of Saint Michele in Cambianica, which still retains its original mural artworks. Although normally closed, the jovial owner of Bar Alpino across the street has the keys and is always willing to open it up for private viewing. Aside from places of worship, this stunning locale also has a historic clock tower called the Torre de Fenaroli, whose original construction is dated to the 14th century.

Walking around Tavernola Bergamasca is a rewarding experience. Many of the town’s cobblestone roads and pathways are still preserved, leading residents past charming Italian architecture and under iconic balconies – many adorned with hanging gardens. Along the water, parks like Parco Pubblico Attrezzato, and a stone tile boardwalk, provide stunning views of Lake Iseo. Gorgeous commercial buildings and apartments, made with a combination of stonework and warm pastel colours, stand out along that lakeside view. These types of traditional and tall Italian apartment-style flats are the norm near the waterfront, but this begins to gradually change as you move further into the hills, where fenced in houses become common. As you get further away from Lake Iseo, the winding and narrow streets grant breathtaking views of the rolling hills of Bergamo, and the incredibly lush vibrancy of the Italian countryside.

Tavernola Bergamasca is a municipal settlement opportunely located on the banks of Lake Iseo. With major destinations all within driving distance, and plenty of commercial options within the town, residents are free to enjoy the uninterrupted pleasures of nature in this cultural Italian gem - without worrying about sacrificing convenience. This balance of accessibility and tranquility makes Tavernola Bergamasca one of the best spots to live in along the banks of Lake Iseo.