italy… - Intrepid Travel

Venice
italy…
Take the road less travelled and
experience Italy’s classical countryside by
foot or by bike. From the stunning coastal
paths of the Cinque Terre to the mountain
lakes of the Dolomites and the artistic
treasures of Tuscany, follow ancient
paths through vineyards, olive groves
and colourful villages and discover the
timeless beauty of Italy.
Sestri Levante
Levanto
Cinque Terre
San Gimignano
Siena
Norcia
Pitigliano
Todi
Viterbo
Rome
ITALY
Ravello
Enna
italy
cinque terre
5 ordays,
15
8 days
Bangkok
self guided walk, Levanto to Portovenere
Departs
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Levanto The adventure begins with an
optional walk to the site of Monte Bardellone, tower of the feared
Zolaschi who once controlled the ancient ridge-top trade route
connecting the isolated villages of the Cinque Terre. Days 3-4
Levanto to Monterosso Follow your choice of routes along stony
mule paths through woodland and scrub-covered slopes. From cliffs
high above the sea the views are endless, encompassing the whole of
the Cinque Terre. Spend a free day admiring Monterosso’s laneways,
twisting and turning through colourful buildings. Day 5 Monterosso
to Manarola/ Riomaggiore Follow the spectacular coastal path to
Vernazza and take in the sweeping views from its 11th century castle.
Physical
culture shock
TRIP CODE
ZAC
Soak up the beauty of picture-perfect Corniglia before continuing
on to either Manarola or Riomaggiore for the evening. Days 6-8
Manarola/ Riomaggiore to Portovenere A final day’s walk will take
you up through terraced vineyards and pine and chestnut woods.
Descend to Portovenere where it is possible to take a boat and admire
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 23 Jun and 1 Sep - 24 Oct
the five towns from the sea.
hidden gems
Vernazza Some of the most beautiful paths in the
Cinque Terre span out from Vernazza’s piazza. Take the
time to follow one up to the pilgrim church of Madonna
di Reggio. The church is set against a hillside and shelters
a black Madonna, purportedly brought by the returning
crusaders.
Corniglia Perched high above the sea but well below
the terraces of vineyards, visit Corniglia’s quaint parish
church, a beautiful example of the region’s gothic
architecture.
• Walk one of the finest coastal
paths in Europe
• Explore picturesque fishing villages
linked by an ancient network of
footpaths
• Take excursions into the hills behind
the villages and enjoy spectacular
views
• Take a dip in the Ligurian Sea
italy
southern tuscany
5 or 8 days self guided walk, Siena to Pienza
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Siena to Lucignano Take the time to
wander through Siena’s narrow alleyways for a sense of Tuscany in
the days of old, then head south across the region’s open hills. Day
3 Lucignano to Buonconvento A walk filled with vineyards and
olive groves, with views down to the Arbia and Ombrone Valleys,
makes for a quintessentially Tuscan day. Days 4-5 Buonconvento to
Montalcino After walking through the famous vineyards of Brunello
there is plenty of time to sample the local drop on a rest day. Set high
above the Orcia Valley Montalcino’s wonderful views are the perfect
accompaniment to your wine tasting. Day 6 Montalcino to Bagno
Vignoni Walk to the superb Romanesque church of Sant’Antimo,
before continuing on through the Orcia Valley to Bagno Vignoni for
a well deserved soak in the Roman thermal baths. Days 7-8 Bagno
Physical
culture shock
TRIP CODE
ZAs
Vignoni to Pienza The final day’s walk will take you across farmland
to Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You have the option of
finishing your journey among the town’s churches or extending it to
Montepulciano.
hidden gems
Siena While it’s easy to get swept up in the glory of
Siena’s cathedral (one of Italy’s great Gothic churches),
don’t overlook the nearby baptistry. While the exterior
has an unfinished air about it, the interior is covered in
rich frescoes.
Sant’Antimo A visit to the town’s beautiful church would
not be complete without a prayer session. Local monks
come a couple of times a day to chant and sitting with
them as their voices resound off the stone walls is a
magical experience.
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct NOTES This
itinerary also runs as a cycling trip. Please
refer to trip code ZASC at
www.intrepidtravel.com
• Traverse the rolling landscapes of
Southern Tuscany
• Sample local wine from some of Italy’s
best wine-producing areas
• Experience the superb art and
architecture of the region
italy
tuscany & siena
5 ordays,
15
7 days
Bangkok
self guided walk, San Gimignano to Siena
Departs
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 San Gimignano Warm up with an optional
walk around the beautiful town of San Gimignano or get acquainted
with Tuscan life at the Piazza della Cisterna. Day 3 San Gimignano
to Colle Val d’Elsa Follow paths through forests and over Tuscany’s
famous hills for views of its undulating landscape. Continue on to
Colle Val d’Elsa, once three villages, now one beautiful meandering
town with districts distinct in style and history. Day 4 Colle Val d’Elsa
to Monteriggioni Walk to the hilltop town of Monteriggioni across
an area dotted with small farms. Except for some brief work in the
Physical
culture shock
TRIP CODE
ZAT
16th century, little has changed on the town’s walls or buildings since
it was first built in the 13th century. Day 5 Monteriggioni to Siena
The final walk to Europe’s best preserved medieval city follows a route
through forests, castles and open farmland, taking in the amazing
views along the way. Days 6-7 Siena Take an optional city walk and
admire the town's unique Piazza del Campo. This is the site of the
famous Palio horse race. In non-racing times it is surrounded by cafes,
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(6 nts) MEALS 6 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€250 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 25 Oct NOTES This
itinerary also runs as a cycling trip. Please
refer to trip code ZATC at
www.intrepidtravel.com
churches and shops, the perfect place to reflect upon a wonderful
week's walk.
hidden gems
San Gimignano For stunning views over the town’s 13
towers and the rolling Tuscan countryside, head up to
the Rocca, the remains of the San Gimignano’s fortress.
Colle Val d’Elsa Since 1331 the town has been one of
the world’s leaders in glass making, particularly leadcrystal. Visit the Museum of Crystal for an insight into its
history or take the opportunity to buy some of your own,
packed carefully of course!
• Walk through scenery straight out of
a Renaissance masterpiece
• Explore the hilltop towns of Tuscany
• See Siena’s outstanding Gothic
architecture
• Wander among the many towers of
San Gimignano
• Stay in some of Italy’s best preserved
medieval towns
italy
chianti & florence
8 days self guided walk, Siena to Florence
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Siena to Dievole After a day exploring the
14th century architecture and art of Siena, it’s time to step out into
the Tuscan countryside. Spend the night in a 16th century villa, once
home to Florence’s nobility. Day 3 Dievole to Gaiole-in-Chianti
Cross a valley to the fortified Romanesque church of San Polo in
Rosso. From here, follow the path to Gaiole-in-Chianti, an ancient
trading town. Days 4-5 Gaiole-in-Chianti to Panzano Walking along
farm roads, follow the trail along a ridge before descending to the
valley. Enjoy a rest day in Panzano or take an optional walk to Grevein-Chianti, a busy centre of the Chianti Classico wine region. Day 6
Panzano to Strada-in-Chianti Tuscany’s full charm is on display
on a walk along undulating paths, fertile valleys and past two fine
castles. Days 7-8 Strada-in-Chianti to Florence Tracks lead through
Physical
culture shock
TRIP CODE
ZAf
farmland before coming to the outskirts of Florence. Descend to the
city and cross the Ponte Vecchio, to arrive in the heart of Tuscany and
the birthplace of the Renaissance. Florence is like a living museum
with galleries, stunning buildings and statues scattered throughout.
hidden gems
Florence Take some time out from the museums and
galleries to climb up to the Piazzale Michelangelo for
some stunning views over Florence’s famous red roofs.
At sunset in particular the scene below is rich in reds and
oranges.
Gaiole-in-Chianti While away an afternoon in Gaiole’s
quaint piazza. There are a number of good restaurants
to enjoy a Tuscan evening and savour Chianti’s world
famous wine.
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct NOTES This
itinerary also runs as a cycling trip. Please
refer to trip code ZAFC at
www.intrepidtravel.com
• Walk from the magnificent
medieval city of Siena through
the high-forested hills of Chianti
to Florence
• Explore the birthplace of the
Renaissance
italy
riviera & portofino
8 days
15
days,
self
Bangkok
guided walk, Sestri Levante to Camogli
Departs
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Sestri Levante Set upon the Bay of the Fables
and the Bay of Silence, Sestri Levante is a picturesque town in which
to begin your Riviera walking adventure. Day 3 Sestri Levante to
Chiavari Follow the coastal path and enjoy views to the 13th century
Basilica of San Salvatore dei Fieschi. Continue on to Chiavari, a resort
with a medieval flavour, best known as the home of ‘Chiavari’ chairs.
Day 4 Chiavari to Rapallo Wander along slate-paved paths through
olive groves and past small rural churches before descending to
Rapallo, a town well known for its lace. An alternative is to take the
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ZAp
high route for spectacular views over the region. Days 5-6 Rapallo
to Paraggi/Portofino Quiet paths and alleys lead around the bay to
Santa Margherita Ligure, a fashionable resort with a beautiful harbour
area. There is plenty of time to stop and take a swim along the way.
Spend a day exploring nearby Portofino, once described as the 'most
beautiful small harbour of the Mediterranean. Days 7-8 Paraggi to
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET
Allow EU€280 for meals not included
DEPARTS Daily from 1 Apr - 23 Jun and
1 Sep - 24 Oct
Camogli For the final walk, climb past ruined mills for lovely views
down to the 11th century Monastery of San Fruttuoso. Visit the
monastery and cool off in the sea before climbing through woods
and terraces to the central mountain ridge for a final descent past the
church of San Rocco and to Camogli.
hidden gems
San Fruttuoso In 1954 locals lowered a bronze statue of
Christ 15m down to the sea bed to bless the waters and
divers lost at sea. Visit the church beside the abbey to
see a replica (in a fish tank!).
Camogli On a clear day, walk along the seafront to be
rewarded with views as far as France and the Alps.
• Walk from Sestri Levante’s beautiful
Bay of Silence to the ancient fishing
port of Camogli
• Enjoy stunning coastal scenery and
views
• Stay in colourfully painted towns and
villages
• Explore the dramatic Portofino
Peninsula
• Savour the region’s fresh seafood
italy
unknown umbria & spoleto
5 or 8 days self guided walk, Norcia to Spoleto
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Norcia to Roccaporena Although having
suffered at the hands of earthquakes over the centuries, Norcia
still retains its medieval charm. Spend time exploring its churches
and castles or take a day trip to Castelluccio for a walk across the
Piano Grande, possibly the most inspiring highland plain in Europe.
The following day walk through oak woods and follow farm tracks
across low hills to the small town of Cascia. Here you will join an
ancient pilgrim path along the gorge to Roccaporena, birthplace of
St Rita, patron saint of desperate causes. Days 4-5 Roccaporena to
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culture shock
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ZAk
Scheggino Traverse hills and woodlands famous for their Umbrian
truffles. The path becomes an old road heading steeply down to
Scheggino, a quaint town nestled by the River Nera. There is an
optional walk to the Valnerina Valley and the Monastery of San Pietro
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct
in Valle. Days 6-8 Scheggino to Spoleto Follow the route of a disused
railway and cross over a pass before descending through chestnut
woods to Spoleto. The entrance to the city is across the Ponte delle
Torri, possibly the most elegant approach on foot to any city in Italy.
You have a final free day in Spoleto to enjoy its medieval sights.
hidden gems
Norcia This lovely town is a gastronome’s delight. Try the
much cherished local specialty, salami, or Norcia’s world
famous black truffles.
Abbey of San Pietro in Valle The abbey is truly a
creation of all ages. Founded in the 5th century, the main
church was added in 850AD and includes a 12th century
bell tower, frescoes from the 15th century, Roman
decorative fragments and an 8th century sarcophagi.
10
• Enjoy one of the least visited and
most beautiful areas of Europe
• Take in views of the rounded peaks
of the Monti Sibillini and the flower
filled Piano Grande
• Sample the region’s delicious
specialties: pork, truffles and wine in
particular!
• Explore Romanesque monasteries and
frescoed churches
• Savour the elegant approach to
Spoleto via its arched bridge
italy
umbria & assisi
5 ordays,
15
8 days
Bangkok
self guided walk, Todi to Assisi
Departs
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Todi to Giano dell’Umbria Set on a craggy
hilltop, Todi has managed to maintain much of its old world charm.
The prosperity of its former days is evident in the grandeur of its
central piazza. Head downhill to the Tiber Valley, then walk up to
the pastures of Monti Martani before descending to Giano for the
evening. Day 3 Giano dell’Umbria to Montefalco Explore Umbria’s
rural landscapes as the trail winds through sheep pastures, vineyards,
olive groves and wheat fields to the Ringhiera dell’Umbria (Balcony
of Umbria). Sit back and relax in the evening, enjoying expansive
views over the Umbrian hills. Day 4 Montefalco to Bevagna Spend
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a relaxed morning exploring Montefalco before an afternoon walk
down through vineyards and farmland to the walled medieval town
of Bevagna. For a taste of the Roman days, visit the former Roman
hot baths where there are some impressive mosaics on display. Day
5 Bevagna to Spello Cross fertile plains to Spello, a lovely town
complete with narrow cobblestone laneways and a 14th century
fortress. Days 6-8 Spello to Assisi The final walk traverses scrub
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct NOTES This
itinerary also runs as a cycling trip. Please
refer to trip code ZAAC at
www.intrepidtravel.com
and wood to Monte Sunasio, then down the stony path once used
by St Francis.
hidden gems
• Enjoy a walk that travels from the
banks of the Tiber and to the spiritual
heartland of Assisi
Assisi There is plenty to keep art lovers occupied in the
home town of St Francis. The best place to start is the
Bascilica di San Francesco, a beautiful church decorated
in frescoes depicting scenes of the saint’s life.
• Mingle with pilgrims walking to the
birthplace of St Francis
Montefalco The birthplace of 8 saints, Montefalco is
unsurprisingly filled with an excellent collection of richly
decorated churches.
• Visit some of the finest Umbrian
hill towns en route
• Walk through Italy’s ‘green heart’
11
italy
roman roads to orvieto
8 days self guided walk, Viterbo to Orvieto
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Viterbo Spend free time in Viterbo or walk
to nearby Bagnaia to see the Villa Lante, famous for its fine gardens.
Viterbo has a wealth of sights to explore including the 13th century
Palazzo Papale, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova and its beautifully
preserved medieval quarter. Day 3 Viterbo to Montefiascone Cross
a plain, where it’s possible to take a dip in one of the many thermal
springs before following a fine section of the Roman Via Cassia to
Montefiascone, located on the highest point of the volcanic ridge
surrounding Lake Bolsena. Days 4-5 Montefiascone to Bolsena
Continue along the ancient Via Cassia until it disappears into the
woods. From here your path will follow farm tracks with views of
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culture shock
TRIP CODE
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the lake and Bolsena. Enjoy a free day to mingle with the pilgrims
at the Church of Santa Cristina, take a dip in the lake or walk to
Acquapendente, a town famous for its pottery. Days 6-8 Bolsena
to Orvieto Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims along the old plateau
route to Orvieto. Sitting dramatically upon a volcanic tufo, the beauty
of Orvieto’s location is only surpassed by the magnificence of its
cathedral. Enjoy a final, optional city walk.
hidden gems
Bolsena No trip to Bolsena is complete without a visit to
the tomb of Santa Cristina, perhaps best known for the
miracle of Corpus Christi that is said to have occurred
there in 1263.
Orvieto Be sure to visit St Patrick’s Well, known as ‘one of
the second Seven Wonders of the World.’ At 62m deep
and 13m wide St Patrick’s Well has two spiral staircases,
one up and one down and is wide enough for a donkey.
12
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct NOTES This
itinerary also runs as a cycling trip. Please
refer to trip code ZAOC at
www.intrepidtravel.com
• Journey from the papal city of Viterbo
to magnificently situated Orvieto
• Explore fascinating volcanic
landscapes
• Walk along ancient Etruscan and
Roman roads with 2,000-year-old
paving
italy
etruscan lanes to orvieto
5 or 8 days self guided walk, Pitigliano to Orvieto
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Pitigliano to Sovana The town of Pitigliano,
seemingly grows from a rocky outcrop that rises from a gorge.
After a free morning exploring the town’s medieval fortress and
synagogue, it’s time to take your first steps along an Etruscan road
to the charming town of Sovana. There is plenty of opportunity to
explore the town’s Romanesque churches and Etruscan ruins for
which the area is renowned. Day 4 Sovana to San Quirico Enter an
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impressive gorge before walking up to Sorano, situated high on a
rocky spur. This small medieval town has remained largely unchanged
for hundreds of years. Continue up the gorge towards the ancient
troglodyte village of Vitozza and then on to San Quirico. Days 5-6 San
Quirico to Bolsena Follow cart tracks as they lead across farmland
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Oct
to an escarpment. Climb through chestnut woods to the rim of a
volcanic crater and descend to Lake Bolsena. The following day is
free to explore Bolsena, including the church and catacombs of Santa
• Stay in historic crag-top towns
road through woodland and across farmland, the first view of Orvieto,
• Visit the ancient troglodyte village
of Vitozza
situated upon a towering extinct volcano, is breathtaking.
• See 2,500-year-old Etruscan sites
Cristina. Days 7-8 Bolsena to Orvieto After following an old Roman
hidden gems
• Take time to sample the region’s
famous wine
Pitigliano For hundreds of years Pitigliano was home
to a strong Jewish community who had fled from the
Counterreformation persecutions in Rome. Nowdays
there are few Jews left although the synagogue, with
furnishings from the 17th and 18th centuries, remains.
• Admire Orvieto’s magnificent
cathedral
Sovana Just outside of town are several Etruscan tombs
including the Tomba Ildebranda, the only surviving
example of the Etruscan temple-style tomb.
• Walk through gorges, woods and
volcanic landscapes
• Mingle with pilgrims at the lakeside
town of Bolsena
13
italy
amalfi coast
5 or 8 days self guided walk, Ravello to Positano
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Ravello to Amalfi Warm up with a day’s walk
along ancient stairways to the fishing village of Atrani and its maze of
whitewashed alleys. Return to Ravello for the evening. From Ravello a
high path leads to the famous nature reserve of ‘Valle delle Ferriere’,
and through meadows, chestnut groves and past waterfalls to the
village of Pogerola. Return to the coast via an ancient flight of steps.
Day 4 Amalfi to Conca dei Marini Spend the morning exploring
Amalfi then walk the 1,000-year-old footpath, the Maestro dei Villaggi,
through historic villages. In the afternoon there is the opportunity to
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visit the Grotta dello Smeraldo. Day 5 Conca dei Marini to Vettica
Maggiore A stepped footpath passes churches with panoramic views
and descends to the spectacular fjord of Furore, its clustered houses
built into the rock. Then the Via dell’Amore leads into the green Praia
Valley. Descend to Vettica Maggiore for a taste of quiet village life.
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast (7
nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 24 Jul and 1 Sep - 24 Oct
Days 6-8 Vettica Maggiore to Positano Climb up the Via Croce to
the Monastery of San Domenico and along the Sentiero degli Dei,
footpath of the Gods, before descending through olive groves to
Positano. For final, breathtaking views over the coast, take a day walk
along scenic paths to Santa Maria al Castello.
hidden gems
Conca dei Marini Locals claim that the nuns of the local
Convent of Santa Rosa invented the ‘sfogliatella,’ a
delicious cake, so famous it has its own festival!
Ravello In a town that plays home to some stunning
villas and gardens, two in particular are worth visiting:
Villa Rufolo whose gardens inspired Wagner and Villa
Cimbrone with its sweeping panoramas.
14
• Walk from idyllic Ravello to the
elegant town of Positano
• Journey through outstanding
coastal scenery which can only be
appreciated on foot
• Visit picturesque towns and colourful
fishing villages
• Travel along ancient paths linking
villages and farms
• Try the pasta and pizza the region is
famous for
italy
sicily
8 days self guided walk, Enna to Cefalu
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Enna to Gangi Set up high, in the middle of
Sicily, is Enna, one of the island’s oldest towns. Follow roads across
gently rolling countryside, in sight of the steaming volcanic giant, Mt
Etna. The village of Gangi is spectacularly situated on a hilltop and
houses one of the prettiest Baroque churches in Sicily. On a free day
in the city you may choose to relax and sample the local specialties or
perhaps take a walk around the city, exploring the myriad tiny streets.
Day 4 Gangi to Pomieri Continue walking along farm tracks before
reaching a medieval road. Stop to admire the ruined Saracen Castle in
Geraci Siculo before continuing across the Madonie Mountains. Spend
the night in a hotel with spectacular views across the mountain peaks.
Day 5 Pomieri to Piano Torre The scenery of the Madonie is inspiring
as the path continues through the mountains, crossing a ridge and
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descending to a wildlife reserve. Keep an eye out for the resident
fallow deer. Days 6-8 Piano Torre to Cefalu Climb to a sanctuary
church before following a pilgrim route through increasingly subtropical vegetation. The journey ends at the seaside town of Cefalu.
hidden gems
Enna The Castello di Lombardia retains six of its original
towers. A climb up the tallest of these is rewarded with
spectacular views all the way out to the distant Mt Etna.
Gangi After a day’s walk, put your feet up and watch
Sicilian life wander by at the Piazza del Popolo, the
town’s main square. The square is the centre of Gangi’s
life and is dominated by the soaring 13th century Torre
Ventimiglia.
ACCOMMODATION Bed and Breakfast
(7 nts) MEALS 7 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow
EU€280 for meals not included DEPARTS
Daily from 1 Apr - 23 Jun and 1 Sep - 24 Oct
• Journey across Sicily, from the centre
to the sea
• Walk through vineyards and olive
groves
• Spot wild deer along the way
• Join pilgrims on the approach to
Cefalu
15
italy
active tuscany & cinque terre
8 days, Cinque Terre to Lucca
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Cinque Terre Begin with a hike along
the stunning coastal path that connects the quaint, pastelcoloured villages of the Cinque Terre. The vistas along the way are
breathtaking. The following day, get off the beaten track with a
challenging hike to Portovenere for more beautiful views from the
church of San Pietro. Return by bus to Riomaggiore for the evening.
Days 4-5 The Garfagnana Leaving the Cinque Terre, we travel to
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the Apennines where our guided mountain bike adventure begins.
Although we ride on sealed roads for most of the way, the terrain
in the beautiful Garfagnana region is hilly and challenging. Spend
the evening dining on traditional local fare in a 17th century farm
building. The following day, take to the hills again and hike one of the
many trails in the area. Days 6-8 Lucca Stretch those legs as we follow
the old mule track to the medieval hilltop town of Barga. In Lucca, a
ACCOMMODATION Multishare
apartments/rooms (7 nts) TRANSPORT
Train, minivan, bicycle, walking GROUP
SIZE Max 12 MEALS No meals included
BUDGET Allow EU€280 for meals not
included DEPARTS Selected Sun
leisurely bike ride on the city walls offers a unique introduction to this
picturesque town. Later we cycle out into the Tuscan countryside and
follow the Serchio River as it winds through the rolling landscape.
hidden gems
Cinque Terre Aside from the heavenly views, the Cinque
Terre is renowned for its delicious drinks. To awaken the
senses, sip on some local limoncino, a lemon liqueur
with a kick.
Lucca Be sure to visit the San Marino Cathedral in
Lucca. Inside is housed the Volto Santo, a wooden work
depicting the crucifixtion of Christ. Some say the crucifix
was sculpted in Jerusalem by Jesus’ disciple Nicodemus
who was present at the crucifixtion.
16
• Walk the dramatic coastal path of the
Cinque Terre
• Explore quaint seaside villages
• Experience the Apennines by foot
and bicycle
• Cycle through Tuscan countryside
• Hike to the beautiful Church of San
Pietro
• Stay in a 17th century farmhouse
• Ride along Lucca’s city walls
italy
active dolomites
8 days, ex Venice
trip facts box
ITINERARY... Day 1 Venice Our Active adventure begins in the
magical city of Venice. A short walk will acquaint you with the major
sights but the charm of Venice is being able to lose yourself in the
maze of streets and alleyways. Days 2-3 Cortina d’Ampezzo The
famous resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo beckons - first it’s a cycle
ride through the alpine valley, past dramatic cascades with the
Dolomites’ peaks always above us. Then see the mountains close-up
as we head up to the delightful Rifugio Palmieri. Days 4-6 Canazei
A bus journey through the mountains takes us to the stunning Val
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di Fassa, dominated by the highest mountain in the Dolomites - the
Marmolada. Stay in Canazei, an ideal destination for sport-lovers as
it has so much on offer. Walking, climbing, cycling, parasailing - the
list is endless. After a day, it’s time for us to get up among the heights
as we take a cable car up to 2,000m to start the high-level walk,
culminating in an overnight mountain hut stay. Days 7-8 Venice Bid
goodbye to the mountains as we head back to Venice.
hidden gems
Cortina d’Ampezzo Visit the Rifugio Palmieri for an
insight into the work of the Italian Alpine Club.
Venice The basilica is a stunning building to visit and
home to some ghostly, legends. In 828AD the body
of the city’s patron saint, Saint Mark, was stolen from
Alexandria by Italian sailors and taken to Venice where a
basilica was built to house it. During construction of the
new basilica in 1094 the relics could not be found. It’s
claimed that the saint himself extended an arm from a
pillar and pointed the way to his remains.
ACCOMMODATION Hotels (6 nts),
mountain hut (1 nt). On this trip, we spend
one night in a mountain hut with multi-sex
shared accommodation and basic facilities.
TRANSPORT Train, bus, bicycle, cable car,
walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS No
meals included BUDGET Allow EU€280 for
meals not included DEPARTS Selected Sun
and Mon from Jul to Sep
• Experience one of the world’s most
romantic cities, Venice
• Cycle to beautiful Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Explore the valleys of the Dolomites
by foot
• Enjoy the hospitality of a mountain
refuge
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