The Italian Lakes – Gardens & Villas of Como and Maggiore

THE ITALIAN LAKES – GARDENS & VILLAS OF COMO & MAGGIORE

SIX NIGHT HOLIDAYS | 3 MAY & 3 JUNE 2023

One has to go far to find a more perfect and peaceful landscape than the shores of Lake Como, where this tour is based. Tranquil, serene and timeless, the mountains that fringe the crystal waters provide a dramatic backdrop, as do the countless pristine villas that stretch up the hillsides from the lake shores. These villas that have been built over the centuries by wealthy Milanese families have superb gardens which we will visit during the tour. A visit to the shores of Lake Maggiore, quite different in atmosphere from Lake Como, completes this discovery of one of the most beautiful regions of Italy.

the itinerary

1

We fly from Heathrow to Milan before transferring to the lakeside town of Como where we stay at the 4* Hotel Terminus for the duration of the tour.

2

After a morning walking tour of Como, we travel by hydrofoil to Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of the lake’. At the Villa Melzi exotic species thrive in the warm climate – the garden is renowned in spring time for its riotous display of azaleas.

3

We drive to Villa Carlotta which was built in the 17th century and spreads over 14 acres that tumble down to the water’s edge. We then take a private boat to Villa Balbianello which sits on a promontory in an impossibly romantic setting.

4

We spend the day at Stresa, the principal town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. We will visit the beautiful Borromean Islands by boat and at Isola Bella will explore a magnificent palace surrounded by terraced gardens. At Isola Madre, we see brightly coloured annuals and other exotic species flourishing around a romantic unfinished villa. Lunch is included today.

5

Today we visit two stately villas with elegant interiors and formal gardens. First is the Villa Cicogna which is still owned and lived in by the ancestors of the family who built it in the 15th century. Our second garden is at the Villa della Porta Bozzolo. It clings to a steep hill leading from the centre of the village of Casalzuigno. Lunch at the Villa Cicogna is included.

6

We will take the ferry the short distance to Cernobio where we’ll enjoy lunch at the fabulous Villa D’Este, one of the finest hotels in Italy. The afternoon is free for independent exploration; ferries depart from close to the hotel to numerous towns.

7

On our way to the airport we will visit Monza Cathedral to see the famous Iron Crown of Lombardy used at the coronation of the Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VII in 1312.

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Lake Como

TOUR INFORMATION

DEPARTURE DATE & PRICES

DATE PRICE SINGLE SUPP

3 May 3 June £3,169 £780

Our prices are per person, based on the shared occupancy of a twin/double room. Supplement for single occupancy as shown.

FLIGHT DETAILS

Flights with British Airways: May departure: Depart London Heathrow at 11.55, arrive Milan (Malpensa) at 15.00 Depart Milan (Linate) at 14.15, arrive London Heathrow at 15.15 June departure: Depart London Heathrow 10.15, arrive Milan (Linate) 13.15 Depart Milan (Malpensa) 13.15, arrive London Heathrow 14.20

WHAT WE INCLUDE

• Return flights • Six nights’ accommodation with breakfast • Two dinners at local restaurants and three lunches including one at Villa D’Este • All sightseeing, entrance fees and gratuities • The services of the Kirker Tour Lecturer

Lake Maggiore

the hotel

The Hotel Terminus is a delightful, privately-owned property located in the heart of the fine town of Como. Recently refurbished, the hotel has a lounge and a large hall (with painted ceiling and antique furniture). The most attractive bar, where delicious café-style meals are served, leads on to a terrace with views of the lake and the surrounding hills. The 40 bedrooms are all well furnished.