The Italian Grande Tour 2012
Number of days: 18 Days
Departs from: Milan
Avg distance travelled / day: 172 kms
Italian Lakes on the Italian Grande Tour 2012
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Stresa on Lake Maggiore
Commencing in central Milan at midday we will transfer you to Stresa on wonderful Lake Maggiore, where you will stay the next four nights. Join us tonight for a welcome drink before dinner. This is an ideal chance to meet, and get to know, your Tour Manager and fellow travellers.
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Your feature Hotel in the Italian Lakes – La Palma Hotel
Set in its own private gardens and within an easy walking distance of Stresa’s old town, this first class hotel is superbly located on the lakeside promenade with magnificent views across Lake Maggiore to the Borromean Islands. The elegant dining room leads out into the hotels manicured gardens, and the swimming pool is located opposite the hotel, on the lakeshore. This hotel is the perfect place to spend your first four nights on tour! See www.hlapalma.it/en
Day 2: Stresa on Lake Maggiore
Today we explore the famous Italian Lakes District. After a leisurely start we drive to the town of Como and follow the shore of the lake to Tremezzo, where we visit the world famous Villa Carlotta. This wonderful Villa is set in 70,000 square metres of romantic Italianate Gardens and faces across Lake Como to the Bellagio peninsula. The classic gardens boast fountains and pergolas and in spring time is famous for its Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Later we board our private boat and enjoy a cruise on Lake Como, past a number of striking lakeside villas, to delightful Bellagio. This beautiful town is situated at the tip of the peninsula separating the lake's two southern arms, with the Alps visible across the lake to the north. It’s time to relax in this delightful town which boasts peaceful villas and gardens nestled by the lakeside, elegant shops and walkways plus stylish al fresco dining at its very best. Later we return to Stresa.
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Day 3: Stresa on Lake Maggiore
Mountain peaks soar either side as we drive north over the spectacular Simplon Pass into the mighty Swiss Alps and down into the ‘Swiss Valais’. Arriving at Taesch mid morning, we board the Alpine cog railway up to the picture postcard village of Zermatt. Set at an altitude of 5,315 feet, the village is surrounded by a dozen huge peaks and dominating all is the Mighty Matterhorn. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere in this alpine village or perhaps take the Gornergrat funicular train (not included) to the highest open air railway station in Europe, where at 10,170 feet the views across the Alps are beyond belief. Later we return to Stresa in Italy.
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Day 4: Stresa on Lake Maggiore
Boarding our private boat we visit the famous islands of Lake Maggiore. First stop will be Isola Bella where we have included entrance and a guided tour of the palatial Borromeo villa and gardens, which dominate the island. The villa boasts Murano glass chandeliers, gobelin-covered chairs, intricate tapestries and paintings. The spectacular formal gardens rise behind the ornate villa, with patterned flower beds falling in terraces, with statues and ornamental stonework completing the Italianate style. Next we visit Isola Pescatori (the Fisherman’s island). Lunchtime is at leisure on this small, picturesque island with its quaint cafes and restaurants set amongst the old houses with wooden balconies, tiny boats and fishing nets. The afternoon and evening are at leisure in delightful, lakeside Stresa.
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Day 5: Castelbrando
Bidding farewell to Lake Maggiore we drive east and arrive at Lake Garda late morning. This is the largest of the Italian lakes and the meeting point of three Italian regions. With a circumference of about 100 kilometres, the lake is surrounded by lemon and citrus groves. There will be time at leisure for lunch in one of the colourful and diverse lakeside towns. Later we reach the foothills of the Dolomites and the superb CastelBrando, where we stay for the next two evocative nights. Located above the village of Cison di Valmarino, this 2,000 year old Roman fortress was turned into a sumptuous noble’s palace in the 13th century. Access to the castle is by funicular. On arrival we have included a guided tour of the castle.
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Your feature Hotel in Italy – CastelBrando
Skilful restoration and sensitive modernisation have brought the original magnificence back to life. Guelph style decorative battlements, stone cellars, tapestries, swords and suits of armour set the scene for the elegant halls, dining rooms, manicured gardens and terraces overlooking the valley. Glorious for those après dinner drinks on those long summer evenings! See www.castelbrando.it
Day 6: Castelbrando
After a leisurely start we descend to the Po Valley and visit nearby ‘Venezia’ (Venice) – arguably one of the most romantic cities in the world. At Tronchetto we board a private boat to take us to St Marc’s Square, where we join our expert local guide for a walking tour. The rest of the day is free to meander through the myriad of narrow, water lined streets and alleys spanned by humped back bridges. Dinner this evening is back in ‘our’ magnificent castle.
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Day 7: Montecatini Terme in Tuscany
A leisurely start to the day as we bid farewell to our castle and travel south to Tuscany. We arrive in the charming spa town of Montecatini Terme mid afternoon. This was once a favourite ‘cure resort’ of the crowned heads of state from all over Europe. We stay here for the next five nights, in a traditional family run, four star hotel, close to the major sights. As a highlight, this evening we drive into the picturesque Tuscan countryside, where we have arranged dinner at Fattoria il Poggio with its winery and olive groves.
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Your feature Tuscan Hotel – Ercolini & Savi Hotel
Dating from the second half of the 19th century, the splendid Liberty-style building which hosts Hotel Ercolini & Savi is one of the oldest in the town. The hotel is in an extremely central location in the elegant Via San Martino, close by Piazza del Popolo.
Day 8: Montecatini Terme in Tuscany
Today is dedicated to nearby ‘Firenze’ (Florence). We catch a train to swiftly reach the city centre, where you are joined by a local guide who will bring to life this truly beautiful city, which is otherwise known as the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’. We see the Duomo and take in the magnificent statues in the Piazza della Signoria. Your tour ends inside the famous Uffizi Gallery - one of the world’s greatest collections of Italian, Florentine and Renaissance art. Your afternoon is entirely free to enjoy Florence at your own pace. Espresso Coffee on Piazza Santa Croce where Michelangelo is buried? A gelato whilst strolling across the Ponte Vecchio? Don’t forget the excellent shopping.
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Day 9: Montecatini Terme in Tuscany
The whole of today has been purposely left entirely at leisure. This is a perfect opportunity for you to do as little, or as much as you want! Maybe take the local train back to the museums and shops of Florence. Alternatively explore Montecatini’s old centre and parklands, or pamper yourself in one of the Spas. Perhaps just relax in your hotel or sip wine in a café and watch the world go by!
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Day 10: Montecatini Terme in Tuscany
A delightful day is planned as we explore the famous Cinque Terre. The name means ‘five lands’ and comes from the five unspoilt fishing villages that cling to the cliffs, overlooking the sea. We have arranged a coastal boat ride for you to admire the spectacular scenery and almost inaccessible fishing villages, and to visit Porto Venere, Vernazza and Monterosso. Our return journey is by train through the tunnels and cliffs above.
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Day 11: Montecatini Terme in Tuscany
Our first stop today is in one of the most typically ‘Tuscan’ towns in the area, Lucca - a medieval walled city, filled with palaces, churches, ancient houses and the former home of Puccini, where he wrote Turandot. Walk on top of the city walls for the very best city views, or visit Piazza San Michele and stroll along the shops of Borgo Giannotti. Later we visit Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower, Cathedral and Baptistery in the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli. This afternoon at ‘I Cipressini’ farmhouse, near Montecatini Alto, owner Dante will host an olive oil tasting accompanied by Tuscan wines and a selection of antipasto including local meats, cheese and bread. You will also enjoy Vin Santo and Cartucci – specialities of this region.
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Day 12: Spoleto in Umbria
We make the short drive across Tuscany to the fairytale ‘town of towers’ San Gimignano, famous for its 13th and 14th century Tuscan towers. Exploring the pedestrian walkways of this hilltop town is an absolute delight. Lunchtime will be at leisure in the beautifully preserved streets of medieval Siena amongst the great sights such as the gothic town hall and the Piazza del Campo, scene of the famous Palio horse race. Next we wind up to the hills of Umbria and the wonderful walled town of Spoleto where we stay the next two nights. Medieval Spoleto is easily explored on foot. There are numerous Romanesque churches and cobbled stone alleyways lined with shops, bars and trattorias.
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Your Umbrian feature Hotel – Hotel Dei Duchi
This unpretentious, family run hotel is located literally just outside the old city walls and is known locally for its cuisine. The dining area has wide panoramic views of the stunning Umbrian countryside. The hotel has the dual benefit of being a 'town' hotel but at the same time giving the feeling as if you are in the middle of the countryside - so you have the best of both worlds. Perfect for those after dinner strolls into the medieval centre to enjoy a gelato or nightcap in a local café!
Day 13: Spoleto
We spend this morning in the nearby beautiful Umbrian city of Assisi. Badly damaged by earthquakes in 1997 the city, dominated by two medieval castles, undertook a remarkable programme of restoration which soon brought it back to all its glory. On arrival in Assisi we are joined by a lay Franciscan Monk for a guided tour of the Basilica of St Francis with its magnificent frescoes. Afterwards there is time for you to explore Assisi at your own pace. Returning to Spoleto, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps take a leisurely walk along the path around the castle and across the medieval viaduct in to the Umbrian countryside. This is the real Italy!
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Day 14: Maiori on the Amalfi Coast
Driving south past Vesuvius we visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where a local guide takes us through the city that was buried under volcanic ash in AD 79. Paintings, furniture, mosaics, sculptures, graffiti and even loaves in ovens are wonderfully preserved. From here it’s only a short drive to the Amalfi coast and the port town of Maiori, where we stay in the Reginna Palace Hotel for the next three nights. We have selected this hotel for its position and style, local ambience and the warm, welcoming service you will receive during your stay. A perfect base for visiting all the local sights and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast!
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Your Maiori Hotel – Reginna Palace Hotel
Day 15: Maiori on the Amalfi Coast
Enjoy your day as we take you on the ferry across to Marina Grande, on the island of Capri, which the Roman emperor Tiberius made his capital. On arrival we catch a local shuttle bus up to the top of the island to explore the charming village of Anacapri. We also spend time at leisure amongst the boutiques and galleries in the main town, Capri. Later, we will enjoy an afternoon boat cruise around the island.
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Day 16: Maiori on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its twisting, winding scenic drive with picturesque villages and towns hugging the cliffs and craggy coves. This morning we catch a ferry from Maiori along the dramatic coastline to our morning stop in Amalfi. Later we continue by ferry to perhaps the most scenic of towns, Positano. The town clings, in tiers to the rock face down the steep, rugged hillside to the old port, which is only directly accessible by boat. Mid afternoon we return by ferry to Maiori, where the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Prior to dinner, we have arranged a tasting of one of the region’s famous liquors – Limoncello.
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Day 17: Rome
On arrival in Rome we enjoy a guided panoramic tour around the famous landmarks of this grand city, from the magnificent fountains by Bernini, the palaces and open squares to Piazza Venezia and the massive Colosseum (entrance not included). After checking into our central Rome hotel, our finale will be a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
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Your Rome Hotel – Hotel Massimo D’Azeglio
Day 18: Rome
Sadly your tour ends after breakfast in your hotel.
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