A panoramic viewpoint not to be missed
Surrounded by nature and offering breathtaking views, the Big Bench in Capovalle is a must for anyone visiting Lake Idro and looking for a unique experience combining nature and creativity. This colourful installation, part of the international circuit of the Big Bench, invites young and old alike to discover the area with a new perspective: sitting on a huge bench makes you feel like a child again, stimulates the imagination and provides the ideal backdrop for spectacular photos.
From the location, Località Mandoal, you have a panoramic view of the mountains and forests of the upper Valle Sabbia. The route to get there is well suited for families and offers a pleasant walk with beautiful views.
How to get there
The Big Bench is easy to reach starting from Località San Rocco, located at the beginning of the village when coming from Idro or via the centre of Capovalle, where you can park your car in the municipal car park in Piazza Marconi. From there, follow the yellow signs to the Big Bench: a walk of about 30 minutes, also suitable for people who are not particularly sporty. The road does have some elevation, so keep that in mind.
If you park in Località San Rocco, you will pass the Azienda Agricola Eggiolini, where you can buy the famous Tombea cheese, butter, yoghurt and formaggelle.
Fun fact
The Panchina Gigante in Capovalle is part of the international Big Bench Community Project, an idea by American designer Chris Bangle to put small villages and lesser-known landscapes on the map and promote slow and sustainable tourism.
Don’t forget to get your Big Bench passport stamped! You can do this at the participating points in Capovalle: a fun way to keep a souvenir of your visit and discover the other benches throughout Italy.
Stamps available at:
- Rifugio Monte Stino
- Locanda Da Tullio
- Ristorante da Bianca.



