Specialty Tours
Specialty Tours
Specialty Tours
Specialty Tours
-3-
Specialty Tours / Abruzzo Floral Walk
of flowers. Ascent 350m, 12km. DAY 3 - Monte San Nicola,Valle Fondillo We take a short ride to the Pass of Forca d'Acero, from where we begin our wonderful walk, one of the best in the park. Near the altitude meadows, Little Blu Gentians (Gentiana Koch), Yellow gentians (Gentiana lutea), genzian blu (Gentiana dinarica), Viola tricolor, and many others. Ascent 500m, 14km.
Abruzzo Floral Walk
DAY 4 - Orchid hunting day Today we walk to meadows and secret places where we can spot the most magnificent flowers of the park. Wonderful views and high peaks, home of lynx, bear and wolf, the core population of the Park. Ascent 200m, 10km.
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Opportunity to visit Sulmona, home of the world famous confetti, and Scanno, traditional Abruzzo village • Possibility of spotting brown bears, wolves, links, chamois and other wildlife disappeared in most of Europe • Famous traditional Abruzzo cooking • The oldest National Park in Italy created 1922 • Music and barbecue night • Cheese and ricotta making by real shepherd • Spot the Lady's slipper, one of the rarest orchid in Europe • Home of about 2000 species of flowering plants
DAY 5 - Tour day A tour of some of the best places of Abruzzo: first, we will visit the medieval village of Scanno on the shores of the lake of the same name with its intricate network of streets, mansions and unexpected small squares. Then a beautiful drive along the Sagittario gorge will take us to Sulmona, the birthplace of the great poet Ovid, where we will stop for lunch (free). Sulmona is also the home place for "confetti", Italian for sugar-almonds, the world famous bon-bon made with almond glaced with sugar. From here we will follow the road to Pacentro, medieval towered village on a panoramic edge of the Majella mountain, before we descend for a visit to the picturesque ancient village of Pescocostanzo, at almost 5000 feet of altitude, where we will stop for a wonderful dinner in a small, traditional restaurant. DAY 6 - La Ruccia, the Campitelli plateau and the spring A wonderful walk full of variation that takes to an excellent place for bird watching and flower watching in some of the most attractive areas and one
DAY 1 - Arrival day Leaving Rome we head to Abruzzo, and our hotel in Barrea near the biggest lake of the area. Welcome drink, introductory talk before dinner. DAY 2 - Villetta Barrea - Colle Sant'Janni- Camosciara Civitella Today we will walk across one of the most beautiful forest of the park. Spectaculars views of the high peaks of the Camosciara massif are the backdrop to this route where it is possible with the help of luck to watch tracks and signs of the presence of the Brown Bear and the Wolf! Along the way, the Lady'slipper (Cypripedium calceolus) orchid and many other different variety -4-
Specialty Tours / Abruzzo Floral Walk
of the finest hikes of the Park. After the walk, we descend towards Barrea through an ancient road once used by Sheppard. In the evening there is a picnic, where Carmelo, our host, cooks many local specialties and a genuine local shepherd make ricotta with sheep-milk for our dinner! Ascent 350m, 14km.
and pizza, bank and a post-office. .
DAY 7 - Stazzo di Ziomas, Passo di Monte Godi A take a short trip to the Monte Godi Pass before we begin our walk to the "stazzo", once a milking station for sheep. From there it will be possible to see the entire north side of the Park. This is also one of the best place to observe wild animals. All the surrounding area is covered with all sorts of flowers including wild orchids. Ascent 300m, 11km. DAY 8 - Departure day After an early breakfast we arrive back at Rome Fiumicino airport. HOTEL LAGO VERDE Hotel Lago Verde is situated in Barrea, a small town in the central district of National Park of Abruzzo, the first to be created in Italy in 1922. Barrea lies at a 1100m of altitude, in a wonderful valley where silence and wildlife co-exist harmonically with mankind. Bears, wolves, links, chamoises, foxes, deers, eagles and many different animal species are living in these mountains, where the flora is equally rich and various, thanks to the many different flower species present in the National Park, among which there are 42 species of wild orchids. The hotel, family runned, lies on a terraced land, facing the lake of Barrea, where swimming, wind- surfing and rowing are permitted. In the hotel you can find a bar, and a restaurant, where the traditional Abruzzo cuisine delights the palate with wonderful dishes made with the best local ingredients. In the town of Barrea, and a 300 mt. walking distance, there are restaurants -5-
Specialty Tours / Cooking Courses
• For stays in May or October, a guided tour of Siena (guests must provide own transportation to Siena where they will meet the guide).
Cooking Courses Courses
Lazio Indulge and relax at a real Italian cattle ranch and farm
3 days - 2 nights Group Minimum 6 persons The cattle ranch and farm hosting this eclectic package consisting of both a cooking class and a thermal bath visit is located in the pristine countryside, yet at only a few minutes' drive from Civitavecchia on the northern Lazio seaside, and a 70 minute drive from Rome. Package includes: • 2 nights in accommodation in full board (drinks excluded) in twin or double room • Welcome appetizer on arrival • A Pasta Party where guests will learn how to prepare three different kinds of pasta, followed by a lunch with the freshly made pasta • An outing to a nearby thermal bath center • Sightseeing tour of the ruins of an ancient Roman thermal bath complex called the Terme Taurine.
Tuscany Make yourself at home in the Chianti countryside 5 days - 4 nights from Monday to Friday - May/October The gorgeous country estates of the rolling Chianti countryside have inspired countless novels and films. This is your chance to experience life on a charming farm estate in this magical region of Italy, while tasting the best of local farm products and learning to cook as the locals do. Package includes: • 4 nights accommodation in twin or double room • 4 buffet breakfasts • 1 dinner at the restaurant • A wine tasting of 3 different local wines produced at the farm, as well as the world-famous Brunello. • An olive oil tasting of 3 different olive oils produced at the farm • A cheese tasting of various pecorino (sheep's milk) cheeses
Campania The best of both worlds in Sorrento 3 days - 2 nights Group Minimum 6 persons Can't decide between a seaside or countryside holiday? Now you don't have to. Sorrento, world-renowned for its incredible hotels and villas with views over the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, all located just minutes from the Amalfi Coast drive and the island of Capri, is also surrounded by lush green hills spotted with farmhouses
• A Pasta making lesson where guests will learn to make homemade pasta • A Bread making lesson where guests will learn to bake homemade bread • A guided tour of the 15th century villa adjacent to the farmhouse and its cellars -6-
Specialty Tours / Cooking Courses
surrounded by vineyards and olive and lemon groves. This farm stay at a family estate in the countryside overlooking Sorrento truly offers the best of both worlds! Package includes: • 2 nights accommodation in half board (drinks excluded) in twin or double room • Welcome appetizer on arrival • A Cheese Party, where the hosts will explain how some of the most renowned local cheeses (mozzarella, provolone and ricotta) are made, followed by a cheese and local deli meat tasting A Pizza Party, where guests will learn how to make pizza dough from scratch, and get the chance to make their own Neapolitan-style pizza in a wood-burning pizza oven. They'll then dine on homemade pizza accompanied with the farm's own homemade wine and limoncello liqueur.
legumes, ending by creating fresh and delicate pastry. Programm: 09:30 - pick up of the guests from Sorrento central Hotels 10:00 - the interpreter will provide a brief overview of the lesson explaining the menu of the day and giving each student a book of recipes, the school's apron and the shopping bag where to put everything at the end (even your doggy bag!) 11:00 - first tasting of the appetizer prepared (generally fritters!) with a flute of prosecco wine 13:00 - the lesson has come to the end and finally everybody can seat at the big dining table to eat what has been prepared and enjoy local wine and limoncello liqueur as digestive. 14:00 - return to the Hotel During your free time you can ask for different gastronomic activities, which will expand your knowledge on the Neapolitan culinary resources and culture.
Appetite comes with eating and... studying Italian cuisine
Umbria Traditional cuisine, fresh and genuine
Sorrento Mediterranean cuisine
The best of Umbrian living with our Cooking Classes, special weekends and short breaks. The School/Kitchen is open all year round to guests for individual or group tuition from our Chef. Whatever your culinary ability or interests we are happy to customize classes to your needs and share our love of Italian cuisine with you. The cooking style of our Chef is Umbrian and Mediterranean, fresh and genuine. Many ingredients come from the farm gardens, so all are organic and seasonal, producing a robust taste that lingers in the mouth. The courses are available anytime during your stay and can be arranged for individuals or groups in English or Italian. We have the following suggestions for courses:
Lessons are taught in English - with max 14 students at each lesson. Every day you have the possibility to learn a different menu and you always eat what you have prepared during the lesson. Most of the dishes chosen can be easily made at home and the ingredients can generally be found in your country of origin. They are surprisingly simple to prepare yet are unforgettably flavourful and will have a profound effect on your future guests. Your program will give a balanced knowledge to acquire the principal techniques for dressing the plates, making the fresh dough for pasta, pizza and bread, learn about fish, vegetables meat and
-7-
Specialty Tours / Cooking Courses
Secrets of the Italian Kitchen Home-made bread and pasta Highlights of The Umbrian Kitchen (seasonal dishes) Wood fired pizza and focaccia (with create your own) Traditional Desserts Everything Chocolate! After your cooking class you will have a lunch or a dinner tasting the dishes you have prepared earlier. Included in the course is a linen apron made in Anghiari, a recipe book and a chef's hat.
Rome the pleasure of cooking In the heart of ancient Rome Cooking lesson With a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 students per class. It includes the 4 course meal that we will teach you to make! All recipes will be made from scratch from appetizer through dessert, from our regional Roman cuisine. If you have any special requests for a specific Italian dish that you would like to prepare, please let us know in advance as We would be happy to satisfy your request. Classes are held before lunch time (starting around 11:30am) on the day of your lesson, so we'i ll have enough time to go through the whole preparation of dishes and you'll have enough time to sit in the dining room and enjoy your recipes! Classes usually run for approximately 4 hours.
-8-
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
as a "dudaims" eater; the Greek created the name "ydnon", from which idnology (science of truffles). The best names of Latin and Greek culture can be joined with truffles: Plutarch considered it the fruit of a mix of rain, heat and the ground; Plinius defined it as a "miracle of nature", a "jewel of the ground"; Goivenales called it son of the lighting. The fortune of truffles is surely due also to the aphrodisiac properties it was believed to have, for which it was dedicated to Aphrodites, goddess of love. In the Middle Ages truffles were unknown. Out of the official culture, they were only present in popular culture; later, they became a traditional gift for the lords. Their fortune changed in the Renaissance, together with the brginning of a true culture of food and cooking. The truffle knew the luxury of the most refined courts, and became an essential ingredient of haute cuisine. In the Eighteenth century it was discovered from a naturalistic point of view: in this century the micologic science begins. The first official classification of the white truffle was made by count De Borch, a polish naturalist ("Lettres sur les truffes du PiĂŠmont" - 1780); he was followed, after a few years, by the official classification of the mushroom as "tuber magnatum" (supposed to be "magnatium", i.e. "of the greats") by the Piedmontese scientist Vittorio Pico. From then on many stidues and books, more and more precise, have been written: At the beginning of the Nineteenth century, idnology was already a true science of its own. Truffles and truffle places Walking in the Langa's woods, in Castino with the trifolao (truffle-man) and his dog searching the black truffle of Piemonte Lenght: from 4 pm to 6 pm Lunch at the bag along the journey . Searching the truffles 10 km ring excursion searching the truffles in the woods around Crocetta Farm at Castelletto Uzzone. Visit at Cascina Crocetta: an ancient farmhouse made entirely of sandstone which has kept intact all the traits of the old rural buildings from these Valleys. Lunch at the bag along the journey
Food and Wine Tours Walking Tours int the Langhe, Barolo Wine and Wineyards
Discovering the vineyards Ring excursion across the trail that leads to La Morra from Barolo throught the most prestigious vineards and crus. The track will reach the village of Novello and Barolo. Historical center visit and tastings wine opportunity in the local Enoteca Regionale del Barolo. Lunch at the bag along the journey Depart/Return: Barolo - Trail Lenght: about 13,5 km. Langhe Hills and Barolo Wine Ring excursion on the Barolo trails to Monforte d'Alba throught the vines that give life to the most precious "cru". Arrival in Monforte d'Alba and tour visit of the centre of the village called "Saracca" (historical centre that gave hospitality during the middle-age to the "Catari" community). The excursion continues to the villages of Novello and Barolo, visiting the historical centre and the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo where it will be possible to taste some wines. Lunch at the bag along the journey Depart/Return: Barolo - Trail Lenght: about 10,5 km.
WALKING TOURS IN THE LANGHE TRUFFLE BETWEEN HISTORY AND LEGEND The history of truffle offers many surprises. It's present in Mediterranean cultures from very ancient times: in the Bible (Genesis), Giobbe is referred to -9-
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
and art in the 17th and 18th centuries. A unique environmental and architectural experience of extraordinary interest, an immense, varied and imposing space full of ancient atmosphere is waiting to be discovered. At the end of visit return to the Hotel in Turin. In the afternoon we suggest to visit Eataly, the biggest food store in Italy where the products are closely tied to their own history, culture and true flavour. There you will find and taste handmade pasta, Italian best wine, oil, ham and salami, cheese, meat or fish, having a free lunch in one of the many restaurants. Free dinner & overnight.
DISCOVERING PIEDMONT 1st day TORINO Arrival at Turin airport and pick-up your rental car. Transfer to the hotel. Accommodation, dinner in a local Restaurant and overnight at the Hotel. 2nd day - TORINO Breakfast at the hotel. Full day visit of Torino. In the morning half day tour for "Your first time in Turin" as follows: walking tour to discover the historic centre, from its Roman origins to its wonderful examples of wonderful baroque buildings and futuristic architectures. Art and history are very much at home in Turin! Visit of the Egyptian Museum: you will discover the Egyptian culture in the world's second largest collection after that of Cairo. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon free time exploring Torino. We suggest as follows: - City Sightseeing Torino with open-top bus (10% discount with Torino+Piemonte card) - Royal Palace & Palazzo Madama (free admission with your Torino+Piemonte card) - National Museum of Cinema (free admission with your Torino+Piemonte card): the only one in Italy and the most important one of the world, located inside the Mole Antonelliana, the historic building representing the city of Turin. Free Dinner & overnight at the hotel.
4th day - TORINO / ASTI / LANGA ASTIGIANA / POLLENZO Breakfast at the hotel and depart to Asti. Quick tour of the city of Palio and wine tasting of the most famous productions of the area (the sparkling wines Asti Spumante and Moscato d'Asti, the red wines as Barbera d'Asti, Dolcetto d'Asti and Brachetto d'Asti). fter lunch depart to the "Langa Astigiana" where you can admire the beautiful hills and its vineyards. Continued to Pollenzo. Arrival at the hotel. Accommodation, dinner & overnight at the hotel. 5th day - POLLENZO - RACCONIGI - POLLENZO Breakfast at the hotel and depart to Racconigi. Visit the Racconigi Castle (admission fee not included), one of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy included by Unesco in the World Heritage Sites list. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon return to Pollenzo and visit of the BANK OF WINE, an enchanting showcase of the most famous wines of the Langa Region. The extraordinary salubrity, the environmental characteristics and the historical importance of the building are ideal
3rd day - TORINO - LA VENARIA REALE - TORINO Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning drive to Venaria Reale. Arrival and visit (with your personal audioguides) to the imposing Baroque Reggia di Venaria, one of the most significant examples of the magnificence of architecture - 10 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
elements to refine in the best possible way the finest wines produced at an international level. The visit is followed by a wine tasting. Free dinner & overnight at the hotel.
included), acccording to experts, the Serralunga Castle is one of the most refined examples of fortified Gothic architecture, followed by a truffle hunting activity in the natural truffle grounds, experiencing a real "truffle hunt" along a scenic trail, accompanied by a real " trifulau" and his dog (during time approx 2 hours). Free time for lunch In the afternoon depart to Barolo and visit of The Marchesi di Barolo wine cellar, with wine tasting. Marchesi di Barolo was and is a winery that has received numerous awards for its wines and has been frequently recognized in the press and media. We will end the visit of this beautiful area of great wine by visiting La Morra, with its enchanting panoramic view on the 11 villages producing Barolo wine. Depart to Torino. Accommodation, free dinner & overnight at the hotel.
6th day - POLLENZO - GRINZANE CAVOUR - ALBA BARBARESCO NEIVE - POLLENZO After breakfast, depart to Langhe Region, the land of the famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines. In the morning visit of GRINZANE CAVOUR with its medieval manor house (admission fee not included), imposing and haughty, which from its peak looks over the village lying below and guards a wellknown Regional Wine Exhibition Center. Then continue to ALBA, also known as the "city with one hundred towers", the capital of the Langhe region, worldwide known for its wines and its prestigious white truffles. Free time for lunch in Alba or in one of the many typical restaurant located in the surrounding area of this pleasant town. In the afternoon depart to BARBARESCO, the land of Gaja, probably the best Barbaresco on the market. Visit to the Enoteca Regionale del Barbaresco, created to promote the local wine production. The Enoteca rooms propose different opportunities: starting from free tasting, moving to labels and wineries presentation, to education and history of the Barbaresco to technical, economical, turistic and gastronomy information. In a short driving distance you will reach NEIVE, with its wonderful baroque centre. Return to Pollenzo, dinner & overnight at the hotel.
8th day -TORINO - CASELLE AIRPORT After breakfast, check out the hotel and departure to Torino Caselle Airport. Return of your rental car and depart with your flight.
Tasty and mysterious Umbria
Discovering the most wholesome taste and products of the Umbrian tradition. A trip to discover the hidden Umbria‌.. the underground Umbria, a leap into the past bound to surprise even the most curious of travelers. 1st day Rome - Umbria Arrive to Rome Airport and transfer to the city. Guided tour of Rome. Continuation of the journey to Umbria. Accommodation in hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
7th day - POLLENZO - SERRALUNGA D'ALBA BAROLO - LA MORRA POLLENZO - TORINO After breakfast, check out the hotel and depart to Serralunga where you will meet your guide. Visit of the castle (admission fee not
2nd day Perugia - Gubbio
- 11 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
Breakfast and departure for a full day guided excursion. In the morning visit of Perugia. We'll visit "Piazza Grande", a beautiful square in which a lot of significant buildings stand, such as the Priori Palace, the cathedral and, in the middle, the Maggiore Fountain. Lunch in a typical restaurant. In the afternoon continuation of the journey to Gubbio, the most beautiful medieval town of Umbria. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
Todi and visit of the town. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. 5th day Franciscan Umbria: Assisi - Santa Maria degli Angeli - Spello Breakfast and departure for Assisi. Guided tour of the beautiful St. Francis's city. Lunch in a typical restaurant. In the afternoon visit of the Porziuncola Basilica and continuation of the journey to Spello. Walk across the old streets of this little medieval village. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
3rd day Spoleto -e Clitunno Spring Breakfast and departure for Spoleto: a medieval town with the influence of the Romanesque architecture too, is worldwide known for his Festival Of The Two Worlds, one of the most important and popular cultural events on the international scene. Lunch in a typical restaurant. In the afternoon visit and products tasting in an old Oil Mill in the surroundings of Clitunno Springs. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
6th day Florence - Cortona Breakfast and departure for Florence for a city guided tour. Lunch in a restaurant in the centre of Florence. Free afternoon in the city and continuation of the journey for a visit of the beautiful city of Cortona. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. 7th day Narni - Marmore Waterfalls - San Pietro in Valle's Abbey Breakfast and departure for Narni, a typical Umbrian town with strong medieval traces, it was a Latin colony under the name of Narnia, today worldwide known thanks to the movie "The Chronicles of Narnia". Visit of Narni Underground, that offers a variety of important areas to be visited in the guided tour in the basement of the town. During this tour we can also visit the undergrounds of the St. Cathedralnico's Churc, with his Roman cistern and a cell full of graffiti made by prisoners of the Inquisition. Continuation of the journey to Marmore Waterfalls and visit. Lunch in a typical restaurant. Continuation of the journey to visit the Benedictine Abbey of San Pietro in Valle. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
4th day Orvieto: underground city - Todi Breakfast and departure for a full day guided excursion. In the morning guided tour of Orvieto, an old Etruscan town that still preserves some magnificent architectonic masterpieces, as the Gothic Cathedral, the St. Patrick's Well and the medieval quarter. At 11:30am guided tour and wine tasting in the Regional Wine Cellar at the "Taste Palace". At 1:00pm lunch in a typical restaurant in the old town centre, waited on in medieval costumes. At 2:30pm visit of Orvieto Underground, a pleasant guided tour along a very easy route makes it possible to get to know Orvieto's underground world, created by its ancient inhabitants over about 2500 years of uninterrupted digging. An hour-long tour on a discovery of a millenary, surprising and unexpected " Underground City". At the end continuation of the journey to
8th day Rome Breakfast and departure for Rome, free lunch. Visit of - 12 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
the city and transfer to Rome airport.
The Chianti, Nobile & Brunello wines The great Etruscan wines 1° - Greve In Chianti or surroundings Arrival to Greve in Chianti driving through chiantigiana scenic route and its characteristic villages as Gaiole in Chianti, Vagliagli, Badia a Coltibuono, that gave the names to great wines D.O.C.G. Gastronomic Dinner with D.O.P. Tuscan product and wine tasting. Overnight stay at hotel in Chianti area.
1° - Livorno Arrival to Livorno and visit of the city and its historical center. dinner and overnight stay in Livorno. 2° - Montescudaio - Guardistallo - Volterra After breakfast departure to Montescudaio driving through the beautiful Etruscan coast. Short visit of this village and stop in an old winecellar to taste the famous Montescudaio red win; tour continues to Guardistallo, short visit of the village and transfer to Volterra. Dinner and winetasting in a typical winery of the historical center. Overnight stay at hotel in Volterra.
2° - Greve in Chianti - Montepulciano - Pienza - Chiusi After breakfast departure to Chiusi and stop at Montepulciano for a short visit of this old village ,winetasting and Tuscan snack in a winery. Tour proceeds to Pienza, visit of the village and Pecorino D.O.P. Cheese tasting. Arrival to Chiusi or surrounding ,check in at hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
3° - Volterra - Bolgheri - Ornellaia -Castagneto Carducci After breakfast departure from hotel: walking tour of Volterra well known for Albaster. Tour proceeds to Bolgheri, well known for its " Super Tuscans", the famous wines of Tuscany. Lunch with wine tasting. In the afternoon winetasting of Ornellaia wine in the homonymfarmhouse. Tour continues to Castagneto Carducci, here dinner in a local winery to taste the D.O.P. products of the area. Overnight stay at hotel on the coast.
3° - Montalcino - Trequanda - ( Friday) After breakfast departure to Montalcino, short visit of this village and transfer to Trequanda, one of the most pleasant village of tuscan countryside where we will make the classical " vita in fattoria"! Dinner and overnight stay in the farmhouse. 4° - Trequanda - Montalcino - Sant'A ntimo (Suturday) Breakfast with spectacular home made cakes and after breakfast transfer to the winecellar of " Casato Prime Donne" at Montalcino; guided tour and taste directly from the barrel a future Brunello wine, guided tour of the winecellars of '500 ,winetasting of 3 kind of Brunello. In the afternoon optional visit of the village of Montalcino with the Abbey of Sant'A nitmo. Return to Trequanda farmhouse to have an aperitif of
4° - Suvereto - Populonia After breakfast relax to Venturina SPA .In the late morning transfer to Suvereto, visit of a winecellar to taste wines with lunch Tour continues to Populonia here stop for a short visit of this old village. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel on the coast. 5° - end of services
- 13 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
Wines or cigars or other special local products. At 8:00 p.m. the Chef will prepare for you the famous "Pici", the typical handmade pasta of Siena, and " tagliata di Chianina", the white giant that grazes on our country hills. Overnight stay.
.Dinner in the restaurant of Monteriggioni castle and overnight stay at hotel in Monteriggini . 3° -Monteriggioni -M Badia a Passignano After breakfast visit of Monteriggioni castle and go back to hotel to have the cooking class with your chef and your Sommelier for wines lesson. Lunch will follow .After a short relax ,departure to Badia a Passignano to the famous and well known Cantine Antinori . Visit of the vineyards around the Abbey, from which the Chianti Classico Reserve wine " Badia a Passignano" is produced, and which is aged in the cellars beneath the monastery.Wine tasting and Dinner at the Osteria with special menue associted at Special Wines. Overnight at Hotel.
5° - (Sunday) After breakfast, around 10:00 o' clock check out and cooking lesson in a Farm house in the area. Lunch and Departure in the early afternoon. END OF SERVICES
The exclusive Chianti tour
4° -s End Of services After breakfast, check and departure.
•D 3 nights at a pleasant tuscan Borgo in Monteriggio with B&B •D 1 Dinner at hotel •D 1 cooking class and Dinner + 1 wines lesson •D 1 Dinner and wine tasting at Osteria da Passignano •D 1 Lunch at Monteriggioni castle •D 1 Lunch with wine tasting at Meleto Castle
Umbria Mini tour 1st day Rome -o Spoleto Arrive to Rome Airport and transfer to Umbria. Stop in Sploleto and guided tour of the city. Continuation of the journey to Perugia, accommodation in hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
Package non includes: transport tour escort/guide Anything not mentioned in the package includes 1°Monteriggioni Arrival to Monteriggioni and chek in at Hotel .Welcoming cocktail ,dinenr and overnight stay. 2° - Castellina in Chianti, Radda in Chianti ,Gaiole in Chianti After breakfast departure Gaiole in Chianti throught e secondary street of Chiantigiana .Visit of castle of Brolio and The massive Meleto Castle rises in the heart of the Chianti Classico , where we will stop to see the old winecellars ,to taste wines and to have a light lunch
2nd day Perugia -e Assisi Breakfast and departure for a full day guided excursion. In the morning visit of Perugia. We'u ll visit " Piazza Grande" , a beautiful square in which a lot of significant buildings stand, such as the Priori Palace, the cathedral and, in the middle, the Maggiore Fountain. Lunch in a typical restaurant. In the afternoon continuation of the journey to Assisi for a guided tour of the beautiful St. Francis't s city. Return to the hotel, dinner and - 14 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
overnight stay. 3rd day Orvieto: underground city -i Todi Breakfast and departure for a full day guided excursion. In the morning guided tour of Orvieto, an old Etruscan town that still preserves some magnificent architectonic masterpieces, as the Gothic Cathedral, the St. Patrick'l s Well and the medieval quarter. At 11:30am guided tour and wine tasting in the Regional Wine Cellar at the " Taste Palace" . At 1:00pm lunch in a typical restaurant in the old town centre, waited on in medieval costumes. In early afternoon visit of Orvieto Underground, a pleasant guided tour along a very easy route makes it possible to get to know Orvieto' s underground world, created by its ancient inhabitants over about 2500 years of uninterrupted digging. An hour-long tour on a discovery of a millenary, surprising and unexpected " Underground City"g . At the end continuation of the journey to Todi and visit of the town. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
Taste of Campania
Day 1 Pick up from the airport of Naples and transfer to Sorrento . Dinner in a typical restaurant of Sorrento " Ristorante Da Cataldo " situated in the beautiful scenery of Marina Grande " and overnight at the " Casale Antonietta B&B " . Day 2 After breakfast drive to Naples . Once in the city , you will make a panoramic city tour including Mergellina , Castel dell'l Ovo , the Royal palace . Lunch in a typical restaurant of Naples " Ristorante Medina " , you will taste typical Neapolitan' s courses . After lunch you have free time in Naples . Departure to Sorrento . Overnight at the Casale Antonietta . Day 3 After breakfast drive to Positano ,Amalfi and Ravello .Wine Tasting of 5 type of wines and lunch with farmers at the " Tenuta San Francesco farm " You will enjoy an unforgettable day in rediscovering the tastes and flavours of a rural world. Return to Sorrento and overnight at the Casale Antonietta .
4th day Narni -a Marmore Waterfalls Breakfast and departure for Narni, a typical Umbrian town with strong medieval traces, it was a Latin colony under the name of Narnia, today worldwide known thanks to the movie " The Chronicles of Narnia"l . Visit of Narni Underground, that offers a variety of important areas to be visited in the guided tour in the basement of the town. During this tour we can also visit the undergrounds of the St. Cathedralnico'l s Churc, with his Roman cistern and a cell full of graffiti made by prisoners of the Inquisition. Continuation of the journey to Marmore Waterfalls and visit. Lunch in a typical restaurant.
Day 4 After breakfast you have free time and possibility to visit some Artisanal lemon liqueur factory and sampling of various liqueurs in Sorrento. Transfer on your own . In the late afternoon you will return at the " Casale Antonietta " where the owner will show you the " Mozzarella making " and after you will taste one of the best pizza . Overnight at the Casale Antonietta .
Continuation of the journey to Rome Airport.
- 15 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
Day 5 After breakfast drive to the Vesuvius where you will try the unique experience of climbing the Volcano Vesuvius using the 4 wheel drive special vehicles trough the national park, on the old road Martone , up to the Volcano . After this experience , the second unforgettable experience in the lacryma Christi vinery yard for a wine tasting and lunch ( 3 wines lunch and grappa ) . In the afternoon drive to Pompeii , the Roman town .Guided visit to the excavations where you'l ll enjoy the streets , baths , villas , the forum and beautiful frescoes . The tour of Pompeii will last 2 hours , after return to Sorrento and overnight at the Casale Antonietta .
creams and typical products .
1st day -a Arrival . Catania by night (Km 20). Catania. Dinner with typical farm products. Catania by night with cakes tasting (crushed ice drink or cakes) Arrival of participants at the airport of Catania , optional transfer to the hotel (with supplement) Arrangement in hotel . Time at disposal . Dinner with typical products . After dinner optional excursion panoramic by bus " Catania by night " stop for a coffee and cake tasting or crushed ice drink. 2nd day - Siracusa, Noto, special evening, Catania (km 230). Catania Breakfast. Free lunch. Special dinner in a country house with specialities of Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast . Excursion to Siracusa , guided visit of the archaeological park and time at disposal for the visit of the island of Ortigia . Visit of Noto, the capital of the baroque . Dinner and special evening in a country house with tasting of " ecumenical"t cuisine . In Alternative in a characteristic restaurant Overnight at the hotel.
Day 6 After breakfast transfer to the Giardino Degli Esperidi . Hands on cooking, preparing lunch with your hands under supervision of the resort's s chef and lunch . Return in Sorrento and afternoon at leisure , enjoy a short walk trough the typical old town streets. Return to Sorrento and overnight at the Casale Antonietta . Day 7 - Departure to Naples apt.
3rd day - Etna and Taormina (Km 100). Catania Breakfast . Brunch and wine tasting . Dinner with sea food' s specialities Breakfast . Visit of Etna mount . Time at disposal for brunch , tastino of wine and of other products of the Etna mount . In the afternoon visit of Taormina, with the caracteristic streets , with the breathtaking panorama .Time at disposal for shopping . Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Grand Tour of Sicily.... between art and gastronomy Classic tour of Sicily. Hotel 4* included HB and light lunch with typical products.. Guided visits,tasting and special evenings. Special attention reserved to the gastronom : proposal of typical courses, wine tasting, cakes ,ice
4th day -a Ibla and Modica. Ibla by night (Km 250) Breakfast . Tasting of " scacce " and chocolate. Dinner with typical products of Ragusa . Ibla by night with ice cream tasting . Breakfast . Departure - 16 -
Specialty Tours / Food and Wine Tours
(h.07.00)fort the baroque region of the south , famous scenery of the romances of the Montalbano commissioner . visit of the baroques cities of Ibla e Modica. During the visit of Modica chocolate tasting and on Ibla, of the " scacce of Ragusa" . Overnight and dinner in hotel . Typical cuisine of Ragusa (… scacce, rabbit cooked with capers - herbs laurel and wine , cheese , vegetables ) Promenade in the historical centre of Ibla with ice cream tasting . Overnight at the hotel.
balls and others typical products of Palermo . In the afternoon visit of Cefalù and dinner . Overnight at the hotel. 8th day - Airport of Catania or Palermo / Cefalù, Taormina, Giardini Naxos Breakfast . Time at disposal . Optional transfer to the Catania airport or Palermo airport . Possibility to extend for Cefalù, Taormina or Giardini Naxos
5th day - visit of Greek city of Agrigento and visit of Erice (km 310) Breakfst . Typical brunch in Agrigento . Wine tastino . Typical dinner in Erice. Erice by night. Breakfast. Departure for Agrigento . Guided visit of the archeological complex of the " Valle dei Templi" Brunch with typical products (" u schiticchiu giurgintanu"- at the Kolymbetra garden ). In the afternoon visit of a cellar with wine tasting . Proceed to Erice, medieval city . Overnigh in hotel and dinner. Typical dinner . After dinner promenade to Erice with tasting of various typical liqueurs. 6th day -a Erice / Saline / Palermo by night (Km 150) Breakfast . Brunch in Saline . Dinner and Palermo by night with tasting . Breakfast . Departure to Erice and visit with cake tasting , after visit of Trapani and brunch . Departure for Palermo . Return at the hotel . Dinner with typical products of Palermo. After dinner optional excursion of Palermo by night with cake tasting. 7th day - Monreale / Palermo / Cefalù (Km 250) Breakfast . Brunch in Palermo . Dinner in Cefalù . Breakfast . Guided visit of Monreale ( the cathedral , and Bizantine mosaics) and historical centre of Palermo (Cathedral , Pretoria square , Norman palace etc) Tipycal brunch in Palermo strada : fried rice
- 17 -
Specialty Tours / Sicily and Mount Etna
• Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Walking through vineyards immerse in lava Day 1 - Catania Group assembly in Catania airport; drive to Hotel; relaxing time, introduction to the area, to the culture of Sicily and to the walking program. According to the time of arrival, there will be time for a short stroll in the surrounding. Day 2 - Monti Sartorius and Pineta Cubania First, easy walks on the slopes of Mount Etna, on the solidified lava from an eruption dated 1865, still not colonized by the vegetation, forming small mountains called "little buttons", due to the small cones shape. Different is the other itinerary inside the abundant vegetation of the "Pineta", a pine wood rich of different species of plants usually growing on lava ground. 150mts ascent, 8 km distance. In the afternoon we move to discovery the beauty of Catania. The history of Catania and its Province seems to identify itself with that of Mt. Etna, the Vulcano which dominates the city. It is a city of ancient origins: its foundation goes back to the second half of the 8th century BC. 13kms, 200mts ascent, 4hrs. Day 3 - Syracuse Day to discover the one of the wonder of Sicily: Syracuse was the only city in all of Magna Grecia to resist and defeat the Athenians eventually deporting them from the island. The Carthaginians suffered a similar treatment, confirmation not only of the superior military might of the Syracuse but above all their cultural and economic superiority. A superiority maintained and nurtured under the " Tiranni Illuminati" (Enlightened Tyrants). After its decline, following the Norman domination in the Renaissance Period, the city managed to reestablish itself in the 18th century by concentrating on craftsmanship and small middle-sized family businesses. Today, the area is ready to challenge the new-European Markets, and is
Sicily and Mount Etna
Sicily is one of Italy's best-kept secrets, with its fascinating geography and rich historical and cultural legacy. Every great Mediterranean civilization of the past 2500 years has left its mark on Sicily: the ancient Greeks scattered temples and theaters; the Romans, bridges and aqueducts; the Saracens, mosques and towers; and the Normans, churches and castles. Sicilians, however, don't revel in their island's traditions. Today, they speed unabated toward the future, installing condom-vending machine in front of medieval cathedrals and demonstrating against their most well known institution, the Mafia. The tempestuousness of Sicilian history and political life is matched only by the island's dramatic landscape and climate. The countryside is dominated by sheer, rock-strewn crags, and Europe's highest volcano, Mt Etna, serves as uneasy reminder that Sicily rests on the edge of the European geologic plate. On this trip we explore great walking routes in the mountainous interior, follow coastal paths beside the Mediterranean in the Aeolian Islands, and even hike on the volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna - at 10,700 feet, the highest point on the island. Sicily's colorful past has left behind an intriguing mix of prehistoric, Greek and Roman remains, along with evidence of Byzantine, Arab, Norman and Spanish conquests.
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to ancient eruptions • Visit to the famous Taormina, Agrigento, Siracusa - 18 -
Specialty Tours / Sicily and Mount Etna
able to make the most of its natural reserves, and artistic and architectural beauty. Trade and tourism are the two cornerstones of the province and offer to whoever visits, the opportunity to pass through the history of man: from prehistoric times to the first settlements, to the Hellenic world, to the Roman Byzantine traditions, from the Norman culture, to that of the Spanish and Baroque, to arrive finally to our modern day 'industrial archaeology. Day 4 - Rifugio Sapienza - summit craters Today we walk to the top of Mount Etna, in an easy walk which will take us near to the impressing smoking top; along the way will be possible to observe the different eruption with the lava scattered from the central cone in the past years. 14kms, 700 mts ascent, 5hrs. NOTE: ascent according to the safety rules of the moment. Day 5 - Taormina, Agrigento and the Valley of Temples. We begin our relaxing day in Taormina, city of unsurpassed beauty, a cliff-top city of mansions, pine trees, and purple flowers, with a hazy-blue coastline stretching out below. The 3rd century Greek theater, at the very edge of the cliff, is arguably the most dramatically situated theater on earth; the Roman Odeon and the medieval castle, reached by a small set of steep steps snaking up the mountainside, will complete the fascinating tour. The rest of the day will be dedicated to the discovery of Agrigento with the huge area of the Greek temples, such as Temple of Concord, one of the world's best preserved. Agrigento, which has been inhabited since Pre-Historic times, developed around the city of Akragas. Akragas was founded at the beginning of the 6th Century BC and reached its height of power and influence 200 years later under the reign of the tyrant Theron. The town center displays the varied history of this town; in particular the 10 years of battle
between the Romans and Carthaginians. Day 6: Departure day After an early breakfast we drive to Catania airport - end of services.
- 19 -
Specialty Tours / Tuscany and Umbria
After visiting the abbey, one of the best preserved medieval complex, we pass trough typical wine country with wonderful views and abandoned farmhouses and then on to the ancient town of Buonconvento, where we can enjoy a good gelato. DAY 5 - Montalcino to Abbazia di Sant'Antimo From Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello wine, we follow an ancient route to the Abbey of Saint Antimo. A day of walking trough olive groves and woodlands of evergreen oak and laurel. DAY 6 - Siena, Umbria Today we will travel to Umbria, but not before a stop in Siena. A chance to enjoy and explore the irresistibly classic city of Siena. Arrive in Umbria at Monte Castello di Vibio at dinner time. Free lunch Day 7 - Medieval Towers and The Town of San Martino From our hotel we follow paths through ancient woodland and vineyards We continue through ancient agricultural hamlets encircled by olive groves before descending to the ancient town of San Martino. In the afternoon, stroll to Todi. DAY 8 - Meanders on Mount Subasio A day in the Natural Park of Mount Subasio, a protected area with peaceful paths across open meadows and ancient oak and chestnut trees. Below us lies Assisi. DAY 9 - Titignano and Lakeside Lingering We follow the shores of Lake Corbara, lined with the sleepy village of Titignano and surrounded by rolling hills. Day 10: Departure day After an early breakfast we drive back to Rome airport end of services.
Tuscany and Umbria
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to Montepulciano, Pienza and Montalcino in Tuscany; • Visits of Assisi, Spoleto and Todi, treasures of the Italian medieval art • Visits to Monte Oliveto Maggiore Monastery, and Abbey di Sant'Antimo, • Famous Umbrian cooking and olive oil • Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Visit the smallest Theatre in the world • Walking through vineyards • Opportunity to visit Siena • Gregorian Monks chanting in Sant'Antimo Abbey DAY 1- Arrival day Leaving Rome we arrive in San Quirico d'Orcia in time for a brief exploration of this medieval town. DAY 2 - San Quirico to Pienza Departing San Quirico, with its twisted medieval alleyways, we follow gentle tracks through the vineyards by the town and across the renaissance 'new town' of Pienza. . DAY 3 - San Quirico to Bagno Vignoni A uniquely different day spent crossing the Crete Senesi - one of the most amazing landscapes in Italy. The near desert region has a gentle bleakness with occasional houses and lines of Cypresses, the only signs of habitation a marvellous day to remember. DAY 4 - Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore to Buonconvento - 20 -
Specialty Tours / Tuscany Walking Trip
the way, jewels of the Romanic art such as the church of Santo Stefano a Campoli dated back to 903, the towered Badia Vallombrosana di Passignano built in 1049 and the hamlet of Montefioralle, dominated by the ancient church of Santo Stefano. Pernottamento in albergo. (Ascent 420m, descent 460m, 6.30h). DAY 4 - From Greve in Chianti to Gaiole in Chianti. Today we will walk along a landscape slightly different from the vineyards that made Chianti famous worldwide; we will walk along the wide edge of the hills, along meadows and abandoned churches, abbeys and ruins of the roman civilization; we will have our lunch at the foot of the wonderful ruined abbey of Monte Domini; then, keeping our walk, suddenly from the wood will appear the splendid Badia a Coltibuono, founded in 1049, before heading to the tranquil village of Gaiole. (Ascent 730m, descent 600m, 6.30h). DAY 5 - From Gaiole in Chianti to Brolio. We are still in the Chianti region, but the landscape seems to be very different. Once we leave the weel cultivated area, we reach the medieval hamlet of Barbischio walking across wooded and solitary environments. Eventually, we arrive at the Castle of Brolio, once famous residence of the Ricasoli family. The nowadays look dates back to the 1860 even if the origin are much more ancint, dating back to the 9th Century A.D.. (Ascent 690m, descent 520m, 5.15h). DAY 6 - From Brolio to Siena Leaving the small medieval hamlet of Brolio we follow the white tracks that snake their way through fields and forests to the ancient, well renowned town of Siena, founded by the Etruscans in the V century BC. and today worldwide famous for the Palio, the horserace, and for its spectacular medieval appearance. To arrive in Siena sign the end of our journey trough
Tuscany Walking Trip From Florence to Siena
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to Florence, Siena, Chianti hills • Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Walking through vineyards and rolling hills • Visits to Abbeys and ruined churches DAY 1 - Florence - Arrival day As first day, group assemble in Florence; together we go for a brief exploration of this wonderful city. Introductory talk and explanation of trip. DAY 2 - Florence to Impruneta The first steps will take us to a wonderful views of Florence from the height of the Florence hills; on the way, we will stop to visit the Certosa del Galluzzo, magnificent Church built in the 1341 and held by the cistercencians monks; then we will slowly head toward the hills of Impruneta, famous hometown of the "cotto", the red tile brick used for pavement. We will end our first day in Piazza Buondelmonti, right in front of the Basilica di Santa Maria. (asc.360m, desc.140m, 4.30h). . DAY 3 - From Impruneta to Greve in Chianti Left the magnificent and rich Impruneta we head to the rolling hills of the world famous Chianti, in a landscape where cypress tree sign the border of vineyards and oak woods, until we reach the small village of Greve. Along - 21 -
Specialty Tours / Tuscany Walking Trip
some of the best landscape and places of Tuscany. (Ascent 520m, descent 710m, 5h). DAY 7 - Roaming day in Florence. DAY 8 - Departure day. After an early breakfast we greet our group.
- 22 -
Specialty Tours / Tuscia - The Etruscan Land
paths that are woven between grasslands and woods on the tracks of the history. At the end of the walk, we will transfer to Oriolo Romano to visit the sixteenth-century Altieri Palace that preserves the only Popes' Gallery of the world. 200m ascent, 8/12km according to the group. DAY 3 - Barbarano A different day: transfer to visit the picturesque Etruscan necropolis of Marturanum, near of the beautiful medieval village of BARBARANO ROMANO. This necropolis, one of the most popular in Lazio, encloses all the types of Etruscan tombs in an intact and wild environment, protected by a regional park; here we can walk along woods, deep valleys and small streams where lives a rare and abundant wildlife, including the wolf. On the plateaus it is possible to visit old rural chapels; the day ends with the visit of the village of Barbarano. 150m ascent, 10kms. DAY 4 - Free day - Opportunity to visit Rome or Viterbo (transfer by train). NOTE1: FREE DAY IS NOT ATTENDED NOTE2: there are various possibilities for the free day, all available by train from Bracciano; 1) Rome (direct train); 2) Viterbo (direct train); 3) Bracciano (direct train). . NOTE3: train ticket for the above destinations is NOT included. DAY 5 - Manziana After visiting the castle of Bracciano, one of the best preserved of the late medieval era, we will walk through the thick forest of Manziana where we can admire an ancient Roman road perfectly preserved with its stones and bridge almost intact. Out of the forest we will reach the Caldara, a sign of residue volcanic activity of 500.000 years ago, with the typical "Maremma" (pratery) environment
Tuscia - The Etruscan Land
The Tuscia, a land to discover in the name of culture, the first and greatest population in Italy, aware in millennial paths, to warn the knowledge of life in deserted homes and the numerous necropolis, and in all areas that a deep human experience has made sacred
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to the only Popes Gallery in the world • Visits to the best Etruscan Necropolis • Visit to the ghost town of Monterano • Visits to Renaissance Palaces • Walking on the Devil's bridge and on original Roman Road • Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Opportunity of visiting Rome or Viterbo • Wonderful food and wine of Latium Region DAY 1- Arrival day Leaving Rome we reach Bracciano, beautiful town on the shore of a volcanic lake, in time for a brief exploration of this medieval town and its picturesque lake. DAY 2 - Monterano Transfer to Monterano, ancient "ghost town" where we can visit the medieval city that has been mysteriously abandoned since 1799. Here we can visit the church and the castle admirably drawn by Gianlorenzo Bernini. We will explore the tortuous medieval lanes, following then - 23 -
Specialty Tours / Tuscia - The Etruscan Land
background that was used as set for many "Spaghettiwestern" films. Our day ends with a good ice cream in the beautiful square of Manziana. No ascent, 12kms. DAY 6 - San Giovenale, Blera Another immersion in the Etruscan civilization: we will walk along an ancient Etruscan road through meadows, valleys and cliffs to explore another famous Etruscan necropolis, the necropolis of San Giovenale. Included in an intact environment, our path will take us to an ancient Roman bridge called "the Devil's Bridge", once part of the main communication system, today lead only to dense woods and impenetrable valleys. 300m ascent, 12km. Day 7: Caprarola, the lake, and Norchia, the necropolis Norchia is the most grandiose and spectacular rock necropolis of Etruria. The tombs (from IV to I century BC) are arranged on terraces in the steep slopes in front of the ancient city centre. After the visit, we will move to Caprarola, to visit the Farnese Villa: it is an imposing building planned by Vignola in the XVI cent., where the most illustrious artists of the time worked at it, like Taddeo and Federico Zuccari, Giovanni de Vecchi, Giacomo Bertoja, Raffaellino da Reggio, and others. Day 8: Departure.
- 24 -
Specialty Tours / Umbria
by olive groves before descending to the ancient town of San Martino. In the afternoon, stroll to Todi, built on top of a hill. 13km, 200mts ascent, 4hrs. DAY 3 - Meanders on Mount Subasio. After breakfast there is a transfer to the Natural Park of Mount Subasio, a protected area with serene paths, which meander through open meadows with ancient oak and chestnut trees. Mount Subasio is the sprawling mountain on whose flank Assisi is built. A haven of subtle beauty and spirituality, it was here that St. Francis preached to the birds from a simple stone altar. We descend from the top on foot, continuing through the wooded trails along the eastern side of the mountain. The final descent into the town of Assisi, in a commanding position across the slopes of Mount Subasio. The rest of the day is free to tour its many faceted historical centre and the Basilica of St. Francis. 13kms, 700mts descent, 5hrs. DAY 4 - Free day A great opportunity to visit Perugia and its many artistic treasures. NOTE1: FREE DAY IS NOT ATTENDED NOR GUIDED. DAY 5 - Titignano and Lakeside Lingering We follow the shores of Lake Corbara, lined with the sleepy village of Titignano and surrounded by rolling hills. Lined with tranquil shorelines and sleepy villages, and surrounded by rolling hills, Lake Corbara is a picturesque setting for today's leisurely outing in the countryside. Here, we will stroll through through the shore of the lake formed by the Tiber river, spotted by ancient villages where the rhythms of daily life have barely changed for centuries. 10kms, 300mts ascent, 4hrs. DAY 6 - The hills of Spoleto A beautiful day's walking along the green mountains
Umbria
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to Assisi, Spoleto and Todi, treasures of the Italian medieval art • Famous Umbrian cooking and olive oil • The smallest Theatre in the world • Visit to Mount Subasio Natural Park • Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Opportunity to visit Perugia DAY 1: Arrival day Leaving Rome we arrive in hotel and then for a stroll in Monte Castello di Vibio in time for a brief exploration of this medieval town, home of the smallest theatre in the world. DAY 2 - Medieval Towers and The Town of San Martino A walk in the sweeping hills of Umbria is a journey into Italy's artistic and agricultural heart. Our path follows history, beginning in Monte Castello di Vibio and on to San Martino close to the Tiber River; in early days, it was the natural borderline between the Umbrians and Etruscans: on the left the Umbrians, on the right the Etruscans. Todi was built on a hill near the river at the end of the large plain and represented the ideal connection between the two people. From our hotel we follow paths through ancient woodland and vineyards. We continue through ancient agricultural hamlets encircled - 25 -
Specialty Tours / Umbria
surrounding the ancient town of Spoleto. This is a mystical landscape with ancient spiritual associations and we pass ruined castles, abandoned villages, chapels and a long aqueduct suspended 280feet above the Flaminia valley. Spoleto, the medieval masterpiece of Umbria, will charm us with its intimate alleys and surprisingly spacious, panoramic piazza, flanked by the stunning palazzo comunale and the roman aqueduct. 14kms, 700nts descent, 5hrs. DAY 7 - Fratta Todina, San Venanzo. An easy day of walking from our hotel, through dusty roads and a small suspended bridge we will arrive to the walled town of Fratta Todina. Our walk through the neighbouring hills alternates between ancient woods and vineyards where the famous Torgiano white grape is grown for the renowned wine. This picturesque walk later continues through farmland, shady forests, old farmsteads, and hamlets surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees before we make the dramatic descent to the ancient San Venanzo Church. DAY 8 - Departure day After an early breakfast we arrive back at Rome Fiumicino airport.
- 26 -
Specialty Tours / Unkown Central City
Buonconvento After visiting the abbey, one of the best preserved medieval complex, we pass trough typical wine country with wonderful views and abandoned farmhouses and then on to the ancient town of Buonconvento, where we can enjoy a good gelato. DAY 5 - Montalcino to Abbazia di Sant'Antimo From Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello wine, we follow an ancient route to the Abbey of Saint Antimo. A day of walking trough olive groves and woodlands of evergreen oak and laurel. Day 6 - Bracciano Today we head to Bracciano. Several stops will make our transfer to the heart of the land of the Etruscans less stressing. Day 7 - Monterano The abandoned city: land of ghosts, witches, and wizards; ancient land inhabited since stone age, today is a Nature Reserve. We will walk along small waterfalls, caves, woods, ancient roads deeply excavated in the tufa rock, and the impressive ruins of the city, abandoned since 1799. On the way back, a visit to the Altieri Place of Oriolo Romano, which hosts the unique Popes' Gallery, with all the Popes' portraits since St. Peter Day 8 - Barbarano This is the site of an ancient Etruscan Necropolis. The Etruscan where the people which inhabited the area much before the Romans, dating back form the IX to the IV century B.C., before to be subjugated by the Romans. Here, we can admire some of the finest examples of the Etruscan art, with beautiful tombs carved in the rock by the ancient masters. Day 9 - Bracciano - Abruzzo In the morning we will spend time visiting the magnificent, impressive medieval Castle. Then we'll head to Abruzzo, crossing mountains and tunnels, to have a view of another face of Italy, small villages located on top of high mountains. Everywhere high peaks, green meadows,
Unkown Central City
EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Visits to Montepulciano, Pienza and Montalcino • Visits to Monte Oliveto Maggiore Monastery, and Abbey di Sant'Antimo, • Visit to the famous abandoned city of Monterano • Cheese, Olive oil & Wine tasting • Walking through vineyards • Visits of the Etruscan necropolis • Visit of the Pope's Gallery in Oriolo Romano, unique in the world • Possibility of spotting brown bears, wolves, links, and other wildlife disappeared in most of Europe • Famous traditional Abruzzo cooking • The oldest National Park in Italy created 1922 • Music and barbecue night in Abruzzo DAY 1- Arrival day Leaving Rome we arrive in San Quirico d'Orcia in time for a brief exploration of this medieval town. DAY 2 - San Quirico to Pienza Departing San Quirico, with its twisted medieval alleyways, we follow gentle tracks through the vineyards by the town and across the renaissance 'new town' of Pienza. DAY 3 - San Quirico to Bagno Vignoni A uniquely different day spent crossing the Crete Senesi - one of the most amazing landscapes in Italy. The near desert region has a gentle bleakness with occasional houses and lines of Cypresses, the only signs of habitation a marvellous day to remember. DAY 4 - Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore to - 27 -
Specialty Tours / Unkown Central City
lush trees. We are in one of the oldest protected areas of Europe: the Abruzzo National Parks. Our hotel will be in Barrea, located near the biggest lake of the area. Day 10 Colle Sant'Janni - Camosciara - Civitella Today we will walk across one of the most beautiful forest of the park; wonderful views on the high peaks of the Camosciara massif, will increase the spectacularly of the trail, along which it would be possible to listen to the deer's roar! Day 11 Abruzzo: the Walnut's hill, the spring, the lake. A wonderful various hike which will take us to admire some of the most attractive areas and also one of the finest hike of the Park. In the evening, we will all be invited to the big picnic, where on a big fire Carmelo, our host, will cook all local meat specialties. A real local shepherd, will make cheese and ricotta with sheep-milk in front of our eyes, ready to be tasted! Day 12: ABRUZZO - ROME Arrive in Rome early afternoon, free time to explore the city. In the evening, farewell dinner. Day 13: departing day.
- 28 -
Specialty Tours / Walking Tours "Le Cinque Terre"
up walking at this point and get back by train instead of continuing on to Vernazza. Day 3: Levanto - Costa del Semaforo-Colle di GrittaMonterosso A short ride on the train will take us to Levanto. From here, passing by the castle, we will walk along the beautiful and panoramic trail on the mountains over Levanto, along an ancient way excavated just on the edge of the cliff, above the sea. Panoramic view all along the way. 15km, 650m total ascent. NOTE: group will board train to reach Levanto after 5 minutes ride, in order to begin walk; return walking directly at Monterosso; Day 4: Vernazza-Madonna di Reggio-Santuario di Soviore. A short ride on the train will take us to Vernazza, from where we will start our climb to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Reggio. From here a beautiful itinerary in the wood will lead us to another ancient Sanctuary, the Madonna di Soviore. From here we will start our descent to Monterosso following an ancient pilgrimage route. 9km, 550m total ascent. B, L, D. NOTE: group will board train to reach Vernazza after 5 minutes ride, in order to begin walk; return walking directly in Monterosso Day 5: free day. Opportunity to visit Portofino or Genoa (transfer by train). NOTE1: FREE DAY IS NOT ATTENDED NOTE2: there are various possibilities for the free day, all available by train from Monterosso; 1) Portofino (direct train from Monterosso to Santa Margherita Ligure and bus to Portofino in front of station); 2) Genoa (direct train from Monterosso to Genoa); 3) Pisa (direct train from Monterosso to Pisa). NOTE3: train ticket for the above destinations is NOT included. Day 6: Porto Venere - Riomaggiore. A boat will take us to Portovenere, where we will enjoy a short walking tour of the town, whose highlights include the churches of San Pietro and San Lorenzo and the
Walking Tours "Le Cinque Terre"
WALKING TOURS DAY 1 - Cinque Terre, arrival day. Arrival day; according to the time of arrival there will be time for a tour of the village. NOTE: People is suggested to arrive in Pisa which is the nearest place. Train to Monterosso are frequent and involve only 1 easy change. Other airports are indicated. Guides can go to Pisa Airport and travel by train with group. It is also possible to organize a bus transfer to Monterosso. Day 2: Riomaggiore-Corniglia A short ride on the train will take us to Riomaggiore. From here, along the famous "Love's path", we will reach Corniglia and Vernazza, across terraced vineyards, fields, Mediterranean vegetation suspended between mountain and sea. A great day, with a short way back on the train. 8km, 350m total ascent. NOTE: group will board train to reach Riomaggiore in order to begin walk; train ride will take approx 10minutes; lunch could be left free as the group will arrive in Corniglia at lunch time where ice cream, pizza, snack, restaurant and other eating places can be found. People can give - 29 -
Specialty Tours / Walking Tours "Le Cinque Terre"
Genovese Doria Castle. Portovenere, is a Roman-Byzantine town, where we can enjoy the view of both the sea and the nearby Apuane Mountains. The town paints a colourful canvas against the azure sea with its orange and yellow houses tumbling down the hillside. Perched high on a rocky cape overlooking the sea is San Pietro, a 13th-century Gothic church. Its black- and white-striped exterior has made it a landmark recognizable from far out at sea. From here, walking always along the sea, we will walk to reach Riomaggiore, from where a long descent will take us to the train station for the last ride home. 13km, 520m total ascent. NOTE: group will board the boat for a sailing to reach Portovenere, in order to begin walk; return by train from Riomaggiore; Day 7: Monterosso-Vernazza From Monterosso we will walk along the "blue trail", an ancient foothpath along terraced vineyards and olive trees that will take us to Vernazza, ancient fishermen villages just on the edge of the sea. Another short ride on the train will take us back to Monterosso. If the sea condition are good, the return will be via boat. 4.5km, 250m total ascent. NOTE: group will walk directly from Monterosso; return by train from Vernazza; lunch is free in Vernazza, whit a great offer of snacks, pizza, focaccia, and restaurants. Afternoon free for shopping or touring. Day 8: Departure day After an early breakfast we transfer by train to Pisa airport - end of services. NOTE: group will board train to Pisa, 1 transfer for Pisa airport;
• Famous traditional Alpine cooking and in contrast the Riviera cuisine • The oldest National Park in Italy created 1922 • The King's path, a hunting trail built in the 1800 for the former royal pleasure of hunting • Cheese tasting • Alpine environment with high rocky peaks with about 2000 species of flowering plants • Visits to the famous 5 Terre • Visit the famous Ligurian Riviera • Walking through terraced vineyards and olive groves in Liguria Day 1 - MILAN - CERESOLE Group assemble in Milan; drive to Ceresole Reale, mountain village at 1570 mts above sea level, located on a side of an alpine lake; we stop at Pont Canavese for lunch relaxing day and introduction to the area and the program. Nice stroll around the lake. Day 2 - ALPS: Pian del Nivolet Today we climb with our van at 8000 feet, in a superb Alpine environment . Walk on the superb alpine plateau, looking for chamois and wild goat, golden eagles and marmots, surrounded by the highest peaks, at 12000 feet and more. Blue small alpine lakes, high waterfalls and crystalline rivers everywhere. 10kms, 350m ascent. . Day 3 - ALPS: GTA TO NOASCA Along an ancient track, today we walk across magnificent meadows and woodlands, down to a great valley, full of old abandoned mountain villages, where the school, with desks, blackboard and chairs can still be visible. 14kms, 600m ascent. Day 4 - ALPS: RIFUGIO JERVIS Up, up and still up... to join one of the best plateau originated by the melting of a giant glacier, not too long ago.. stop and lunch beside a mountain refuge, near wonderful alpine lake, among high peaks and superb views everywhere. 650m elevation gain, 13kms. Day 5 - the Royal Path An easy, relaxing day to visit small and pretty alpine
Alps and Cinque Terre EXCLUSIVE TO THIS HOLIDAY • Opportunity to visit the colourful village of Camogli • Possibility of spotting wild ibex and chamois, plus other wildlife disappeared in most of Europe - 30 -
Specialty Tours / Walking Tours "Le Cinque Terre"
lakes, along the Royal Path, built excavating the hard granite in 1860, to provide an easy access to the king in order to hunt easily for chamois's and wild goats as well as lynx and wolves. Coming back, we can assist to the old, traditional way of making mountain cheese; those that wish can also buy some of this exquisite delicacy! 9kms, 500m elevation gain Day 6 - Transfer to the 5 Terre Three hours driving through wonderful scenery will take us to Monterosso, on the heart of 5 Terre. The group will be located in a very nice hotel where fish menu is preponderant. Day 7: Riomaggiore-Corniglia-Vernazza. A short ride on the train will take us to Riomaggiore. From here, along the famous "Love's path", we will reach Corniglia and Vernazza, across terraced vineyards, fields, Mediterranean vegetation suspended between mountain and sea. A great day, with a short way back on the train. 8km, 350m total ascent. . Day 8: Levanto - Costa del Semaforo-Colle di GrittaMonterosso A short ride on the train will take us to Levanto. From here, passing by the castle, we will walk along the beautiful and panoramic trail on the mountains over Levanto, along an ancient way excavated just on the edge of the cliff, above the sea. Panoramic view all along the way. 15km, 650m total ascent. Day 9: Monterosso-Vernazza From Monterosso we will walk along the "blue trail", an ancient foothpath along terraced vineyards and olive trees that will take us to Vernazza, ancient fishermen villages just on the edge of the sea. Another short ride on the train will take us back to Monterosso. If the sea condition are good, the return will be via boat. 4.5km, 250m total ascent. NOTE: group will walk directly from Monterosso; free return by train or boat
from Vernazza; lunch is free in Vernazza, whit a great offer of snacks, pizza, focaccia, and restaurants. Afternoon free for shopping or touring. Day 10: Departure day After an early breakfast we transfer to Pisa airport - end of services.
- 31 -
- 32 -