Asolo, Italy

Asolo is known as the "Town of a Hundred Horizons" because of its panoramic views, this nub of a medieval hill town (though it was founded during the twilight of Imperial Rome) has become the secret hideaway for true Veneto aficionados. It's a required stop for folks interested in meandering the backcountry or driving the wine roads, and it's a great place for those on bike tours to take a midday break.

Festivals & Markets -- There's an antiques market the second Sunday of each month, with a special books and prints edition the third Sunday in October. The local folk festival is in honor of San Gottardo on May 5, with a market, procession, and the sale of traditional terra-cotta shepherd flutes. Asolo holds a Palio race the third Sunday of September, pitting the town's six contrade (neighborhoods) against each other to pull up the hill a Roman-style chariot bearing a local damsel dressed as Caterina Cornaro. There's also a Festival of Chamber Music in August and September.