Nove, Italy (Kristen Thoennes)
We have all heard about Polish pottery, but what about other pottery shopping in Europe? While stationed in Stuttgart, I was introduced to Nove, Italy. Aside from my spouse club friends, not many people talk about this seemingly sleepy town not far from Aviano and Vicenza.
Pottery shopping
If you’re like me, Polish pottery just isn’t your style (I know…gasp!), then Italian pottery in Nove might be just the thing for you, too. There, you will find a variety of shops selling beautiful pieces from salt and pepper shakers to large serving platters and everything in between. I am not a big shopper, but on both of my visits to Nove, I was able to find pieces that bring me joy.
Nove, Italy (Kristen Thoennes)
Pewter shopping
On my last visit, one member of my carpool group suggested we visit the pewter store. My first thought was, “Pewter is for old people.” Nonetheless, I went along because you never know what you’ll discover. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the pewter store! You can tell right away that it’s a popular store for military units in the area. You can find a variety of gifts like decanters, ornaments and more. I found the most adorable teeny-tiny greyhound and a Merano glass ornament.
Antiques
A big reason why my group visited was to shop until we dropped at the Mercatino delle Cose d’Altri Tempi. Before my first visit, my group tried to warn me about how large the market is, but nothing can properly prepare you for the sheer magnitude of the shopping potential! You can really make out with a large haul. There are a variety of food vendors, too, so you can shop all day without skipping a beat.
Nove, Italy (Kristen Thoennes)
Eat well
Being in Italy, it’s no surprise that you will eat well while visiting Nove. I am still dreaming about the wine and pizza tasting at La Dolce Vigna in Trambacche di Veggiano. The owners were so delightful and welcoming. It’s another popular spot for those stationed at Aviano and Vicenza and I could taste why.
Another recommendation for our wine lovers out there is, a visit to Riva Grand. If you enjoy a sweet, white wine their bottle of Loara will be your new favorite!
Lodging
I recommend Le Nove Hotel. It’s conveniently located near all the pottery shops, has a nice breakfast spread and has A/C. When visiting last August, the A/C was a must!
Nearby must-see spots
Bassano del Grappa: grappa tasting and an Instagram-worthy photo spot on the covered bridge
Marostica: life-size chessboard
Le Vie Angarano is a woman-owned winery for wine tasting and delicious olive oil
Nove, Italy (Kristen Thoennes)
