Just 1 hour west of Venice east of Verona is this small town surrounded by the Soave wine region is Soave. If you drive too fast you might miss this gem, which has its own castle up on the town's highest hill. Soave Classico wine comes from this town and Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone, Bardolino and Prosecco wines come from nearby Verona and Lake Garda region called Veneto. Great place to stop and taste local wines, cheese, oil and vinegar and local cuisine from Northern Italy.

Hotel Al Gambero - 045.768.0010 - A lovely hotel that was established in 1870 has many large rooms with ensuite bathrooms and is decorated in simple antique furniture. Very reasonably priced, breakfast not included.

Restorante Albergo - Part of Hotel Al Gambero has won many awards for its culinary excellence and boasts Roman and Renaissance style cuisine in a traditional restaurant. Dishes include Polenta with Gorgonzola, meats with mushroom sauces and wine.

Entoteca Il Drago - At the centre of the old town, this magnificent restaurant is situated at the street level. Enjoy a lovely lunch or dinner sipping the great wines of the area. Dishes include local specialty Spaghetti Carbonara, Caprese infused with Balsamic from nearby Modena or handmade pasta with truffles.