ISOLA DI BARBANA

A 25-minute boat ride takes you to the island of Barbana, in the heart of the Grado lagoon. The island is home to the Benedictine sanctuary of the Beata Vergine Maria and the adjoining convent. There is also a bar and restaurant. The island is inhabited only by the monks and a cat who enjoys the coolness of the church. The place is peaceful and relaxing, and the walk around the island is very pleasant, offering suggestive views over the lagoon, with the Alps in the background, snow-covered for part of the year.