Located in a panoramic position behind Riva di Solto, Solto Collina is a small medieval hamlet dating back to the 11th century. Lying on gentle hillsides, it is much appreciated for the quietness of its forests and the enchanting beauty of its landscape with its green meadows and cultivated terraces.

SIGHTSEEING ATTRACTIONS
The old town has narrow cobbled streets, wells, fountains, gates and stone buildings. In contrada Castello, north-east of the hamlet, lies the original residence of the Solto Lords: the castle was first mentioned in mid-11th century. In contrada Canzanico it is possible to admire the imposing Foresti Tower and the beautiful 1868 fresco on the adjacent building, in contrada Dosso instead it is possible to admire the characteristic “tower house” with a rectangular plan and masonry in local stone ashlars. The parish church dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta is of great importance: already documented in the 12th century, it houses precious masterpieces, including anAnnunciation of the Virgin, a late work of the highest quality by Domenico Carpinoni and an organ by Andrea Fantoni. In the vicinity it is possible to admire several small churches also known as “santelle” or “oratori“, among which stands out the one dedicated to San Defendente, one of the most popular destinations for many walks, seeing that, from this place, located in a prominent position on Mount Greno (675 m a.s.l.), it is possible to enjoy a beautiful view of the lake. Do not miss a visit to the Oratory of Disciplines with Andrea Fantoni’s wooden work, the church of S. Gaudenzio in Esmate and the small church of S. Rocco and S. Antonio in Piazza S. Rocco.

NOT TO BE MISSED
“Valle del Freddo” (Cold Valley) Natural Reserve – Located at altitudes between 350 and 700 meters above sea level, it has a wide variety of plant species (including edelweiss, gentians and rhododendrons) usually found at altitudes above one thousand meters and quite often at 1,500 meters. This is due to a marked micro-thermal phenomenon, manifested by the emission of icy air from some “cold pits” or “mouths” in the ground. The site is open only on Saturdays and Sundays in May, June and July. There is no entry fee.

EXCURSIONS
San Defendente – Its excellent panoramic position, the easy path and the unspoiled natural environment are well worth a hike. San Defendente offers an extraordinary view of the Valle Camonica and Iseo, through Lovere, the impressive Corna Trentapassi and Monte Isola, the largest inhabited lake island in Europe.
The Esmate plateau and the erratic boulders – The Esmate plateau, of great geomorphological interest, preserves an unexpected heritage of erratic boulders of camuna origin, dragged and abandoned on the territory by the most recent quaternary glacial phase that covered with ice the Valcamonica and the Sebina area. The route consists of a 5 km long loop.
Lake Endine – A stretch of water nestled among the green hills of the Cavallina Valley, immersed in unspoiled nature, which preserves its natural environment almost intact. With a perimeter of about 14 km walkable, it is ideal for a pleasant walk.

HOW TO REACH IT
By bus – Solto Collina can be reached only by bus, with the company Bergamo Trasporti