World Expo Milano - Gadis Tourist Service Italia
Transcription
World Expo Milano - Gadis Tourist Service Italia
2015 World Expo Milano Group travel to Italy since 1985 Gadis Italia Since 1985 Travel Ideas 2015 This is the 30th Gadis catalogue. Soon we will be celebrating our 3rd decade of business in the Group Incoming industry. Our clients often compliment us on how we are just as enthusiastic and passionate about what we are doing today, as we were when we started 30 years ago. New tours and evergreens New ideas for your travel excursions The best of Italian Food and wine tradition We feel honoured and even more motivated to keep doing our very best to share our knowledge and appreciation of Italy: the marvellous, extraordinary, and (at times) complicated country that it is. With help from the entire team, we wanted the new catalogue to emphasise fresh ideas and newly inspired itineraries for our clients; now more than ever it is important to offer tantalising products that whet tourists’ appetites for exploration. Music related Program Art cities of Italy Active travel We believe we are headed in the right direction; Happy reading from your Gadis Team! Our favourite hotels suitable for groups Selected Events lo w Travel slowly, enjoy fully S especially considering the growing success of our specially crafted - sometimes exclusive - itineraries for groups and events. We accompany you on your journey through Italy’s regions with more than 200 travel ideas. If you don’t find one that interests you, please do call us: we have plenty more ideas that we haven't yet published! News, curious facts and useful information World 2 World Expo Milano 2015 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Inhalt Italien Index World World Expo 2015 4 Piemonte 6 Liguria & Côte d’Azur 10 Lombardia 14 Lago Maggiore & Lago di Como 18 Lago di Garda & Trentino 24 Veneto & Friuli Venezia Giulia 28 Emilia Romagna 32 Toscana 34 Umbria 38 Lazio 42 Marche & Abruzzo 46 Campania 48 Puglia & Calabria 52 Sicilia 54 Sardegna & Corsica 58 Tour Italia 62 Good to know & TOS 66 www.gadis.it/expo more info Aosta Piemonte Lombardia Trentino Liguria Veneto Emilia Romagna Friuli Toscana Corsica Umbria Marche Lazio Abruzzo Sardegna Molise Campania Puglia Basilicata Calabria Sicilia tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 3 World Expo Milano 2015 May 1st - October 31st, 2015 World Gadis has been active in Milan and the Lombardy region for many years: our office in Baveno is just 1 hour drive from the Expo and we are taking prepared in terms of allotments and ticketing. Extraordinary and unique... This is how Expo Milano will introduce itself from May 1st to October 31st, 2015. To keep yourself up to date, please visit gadis.it/expo . And it will indeed be a Universal Exhibition with entirely innovative characteristics. Not only a collection of exhibits, but more an intense process of participation that will actively involve the interestwww.gadis.it/expo ed parties – the organismore info ing country, participating nations, international organisations, civil society, visitors, partners, scientific and International economic communities – to focus on one central theme for the fate of humanity: „Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life“ See Expo offers Expo Tour Italia World Expo and Hotel in Milan 7 Nights HB Good middleclass hotel Excursions programme World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 8 days 3 Nights BB Excursions World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 4 days Good 4 Hotel in Milan Around Milan from 4 | See Expo offers € 549 from € 339 from € 209 3 Nights BB Excursions + Coach World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 4 days Good 4 Hotel in Milan Around Milan from € 407 Contact: Lucia & Noemi +39 0183 548 410 - [email protected] from € 279 Gadis Tips & Offers See Expo offers See Expo offers Lake Maggiore Lake Como Garda Lake 5 Nights HB 3 Hotel, Lake Maggiore Excursions World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 4 days 3 Nights HB 4 Contract Hotel Excursions World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 4 days 4 Nights HB 3 Hotel, Garda Lake area Excursions World Expo Ticket Package price per person, 5 days from € 384 from € 277 Contact: Lucia & Noemi +39 0183 548 410 - [email protected] from € 299 | 5 Piemonte Travel Ideas What else to do in Piedmont Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Piedmont tour programs: S lo w Piedmont - The "Slow Food" phenomenon: know what you eat! Eating in a conscious way that is the antithesis of fast food: this is the motto of Slow Food movement, founded in 1986 in Bra, in the region of Piedmont. As an antidote to hectic daily rhythms and mass production, Slow Food promotes small producers offering local, carefully processed products under the "Slow Food" logo. The Slow Food movement is clearly in favour of biodiversity and against mass production and genetically-modified food. This ensures the survival of local products, supplied carefully selected and vetted local farmers. Large events - such as the "Taste Show in Turin", the "Bra Cheese Festival" and Slow Fish in Genoa - have become established in record time. Many restaurants, farms and wine cellars offer products and guided tours of their farms. These can be incorporated into the excursions. Turin - "Choco card" Make your visit to Italy's former capital even sweeter with the ChocoPass, your ticket to nine amazing Tour Example samplings of world-famous Turin chocolate speThe homonymous car achieved cult status in Hollywood with Starsky & Hutch at the end of the 60es cialties. Spend two days revelling in Gianduiotti and even Clint Eastwood's film was inspired by this wonderful car. Today Turin, once considered the and hot chocolate. Grand Torino "Italian Detroit", is a marvellous city that deserves to be discovered. Where to begin? ...the Venaria Reale, Palazzo Madama, with the magnificent staircase by Juvarra, its Roman ruins, Palazzo Carignano, the Mole Antonelliana, the Royal Palace... You would need to spend much more time to visit this city, but even a couple of well-planned hours are enough to reveal the beauty of the old Italian capital. Immerse yourself in a past that has left its traces here: churches, cloisters and the real jewels - its Romanic and Baroque castles that open their doors to those who want to discover the secrets of this period. Day 1 Arrival at the hotel for a 3-night HB stay. Day 2 After breakfast, sightseeing in Turin, the former capital of Italy. A full day to admire this beautiful city, visit the Venaria Reale and its breathtaking gardens. Take some time out to sit in one of the coffeehouses whose chocolate has made Turin famous. Day 3 Breakfast in the hotel. Today you will visit Chieri, a town that was very renowned for its fabrics in the Middle Ages. Visit the Duomo, Santa Maria delle Scale, one of the most famous cathedrals in Piedmont! You will also have the opportunity to join a wine-tasting session. The highlight of the day will be Vezzolano Abbey, a masterpiece of Romanic and Gothic art! 6 Day 4 After breakfast, departure. Turin - Caffè Platti, emblem of coffee culture What better way to enjoy classic chocolate specialities or a good cup of coffee than in the pleasant, friendly surroundings of an historic café in the heart of Turin. Torino - the Via Francigena Walk along the Via Francigena, a centuries-old pilgrim route, to the Novalesa Abbey. Then visit Susa and admire the city which embodies over 2000 years of history. In the afternoon, the Sant'Antonio di Ranverso Abbey awaits you. Here you can admire the church with the splendid Giacomo Jaquerio frescoes in the presbytery and sacristy. Programme details 3 nights HB in a 4 hotel in the Turin area 1 full-day guided tour of Turin 1 visit to the Venaria Reale 1 chocolate tasting in Cafè Platti 1 full-day guided tour of Chieri and Vezzolano Abbey The ice-cream factory in Pianezza 1 wine tasting in Cantina Balbiano From milk to ice cream. Follow the entire process, Package price per person, 4 days from milking to processing of milk and wool! At the conclusion, an ice cream tasting. from € 249 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example Torino - the Venaria Reale Wine and food tour in Piedmont Thanks to the recently completed renovation of the Palace of Venaria in Venaria Reale, one of the most important residences of the Royal House of Savoy, the Baroque castle on the UNESCO Heritage List with extensive gardens can now once again display all of its former glory. A recovered artistic and architectural gem from the 17th and 18th centuries. The land of wine and excellent cuisine, Langhe and Roero offer a wide range of memorable activities. The rolling hills of the Bassa Langa, the Rocche del Roero, and the green Alta Langa are the backbone of an area which offers views out over the native land of the noble vineyards of Piedmont and the great D.O.P cheeses. Langhe - Vespa tour through Barolo's vineyards There's no better way to experience the Italian "dolce vita" than from the seat of a Vespa or an original Fiat 500 convertible. Scoot across the vineyards of The Langhe and sample the specialities of this region, like the Barolo and Barbaresco wines and the world-famous truffles. The Langhe - Carriage ride with snack Experience Piedmont's picturesque countryside the way royalty used to - from a magnificent carriage. Or maybe you'd prefer a more down-home version, from the saddle of a donkey. No problem! In any case, you'll be treated to a nice snack. The Langhe - Visit a hazelnut plantation Come find out how a plantation works, by harvesting, processing, and sampling the "Tonda Gentile Trilobata" hazelnuts. Hazelnuts have been used for pralines and sweets since back when an entrepreneurial chocolatier from Turin recognised their potential and created the first gianduja recipe. Day 1 Arrival in Piedmont. Day 2 After breakfast, depart for Alba, the capital of Langhe, to explore its fascinating medieval nooks and crannies. Here you can sample traditional truffle-based products including olive oil infused with Alba white truffles or a black truffle spread. Day 3 Our Piedmont tour isn't complete without a visit to Asti, the city of art and the centre of one of the most important winemaking areas in Piedmont. There are medieval palazzos and a historic centre to explore. The city hosts important religious buildings, including its cathedral which is one of the most important gothic churches in the region. After the visit, you head out for a tour through Monferrato, where small groves of trees alternate with vineyards cresting over hilltops. During the day, you will have the opportunity to sample typical Piedmont cheeses, as well as drink a toast with a glass of fine spumante! Day 4 Turin is undoubtedly one of the world centres for automobile design: an off-shoot of this almost century-old tradition is its design school which is always at the cutting edge of visionary automobile concepts. For a full-immersion experience into the world of luxury cars, there is nothing better than a visit to the National Automobile Museum in Turin. The tour includes a history of the evolution of the automobile, its transformation from a means of transportation to a cult object, all by way of spectacular exhibits displaying the precious pieces in the collection. Day 5 Return trip home. Programme details 4 Nights half board in 4 Hotel, Alessandria area 1 Full-day escorted tour Alba and Langhe region 1 tasting of truffle-based products 1 Full-day escorted tour of Asti and Monferrato 1 Cheese tasting 1 Wine tasting 1 Full-day guided tour of Turin and the National Automobile Museum 1 Entry ticket to the National Automobile Museum 1 Cappuccino break in Turin Package price per person, 5 days from € 269 Dance your way through Piedmont! We offer you dance courses that can be adapted to the needs of your clients and can be held wherever you want: in the hotel, in a restaurant or in a particularly suggestive location. The dancers are professional, reputable teachers that know how to get their clients going with their passion and dedication. Course can be structured depending on client requirements, level of ability and age. Langhe - Cooking course in the "Io e la luna" restaurant Watch your chef prepare your menu and learn what ingredients and combinations of herbs and local specialities will end up on your plate. And, later, tuck into the freshly cooked meal whilst looking onto the vineyards of the Roero area! Rice farm - Principality of Lucedio Visit a Piedmont rice farm which started back in the 14th century. You take part in a guided tour through the splendid medieval halls of the Abbey and sample rice from their own production. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 7 Piemonte Tour Example Royal Piedmont Travel Ideas The residences and castles in Turin and the surrounding area are all part of a splendid UNESCO world heritage site that we would like to present to you. The kingdom of Savoia naturally also influenced What else to do in the surrounding strips of land belonging to wealthy noble families, bringing to light stunning palaces and castles throughout the area. Join us on a journey back through history in a totally unprecedented Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your programme! Some of these buildings have been radically renovated and restored, in particular the Piedmont tour programs: Reggia di Venaria, in which the extraordinary, recently restored 'Galleria di Diana' can now be visited. Piedmont Day 1 Arrival, accommodation in a 4 hotel in Piedmont for 3 nights HB Day 2 This day is devoted to some of the Savoia residences located mainly in Turin and the surrounding area. These are true works of art which are even on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. These palaces are of striking beauty and have a particularly wide variety of decorations. The architectural style is a mixture of Mannerism and the triumphant Piedmont Baroque. Feel like a king and take a stroll through magnificent chambers, finely laid out gardens and pompously decorated galleries. Day 3 After breakfast, the first stop is in the Barolo region, where counts and the higher nobility of the time built their castles, shaping the romantic image of the world famous vineyards until this day. A winetasting session is an absolute must, and will naturally include the king of Piedmont wines, Barolo. Day 4 After breakfast, journey home 8 Programme details 3 nights HB in 4 hotel in the Asti & Langhe region 1 full day guided tour to Turin 1 admission to the Venaria Reale and gardens 1 admission to Palazzo Madama 1 admission to Palazzo Reale 1 full day guided tour to the Barolo & Langhe region 1 admission to Barolo castle 1 wine-tasting with light snack 1 admission to the castle of Grinzane Cavour 1 admission to Castello Govone Turin - The Cinema Museum The cinema museum was built in the well known Mole Antonelliana which is a symbol of Turin. In this exhibition one can not only find optical equipment and old and new equipment for cinemas but also props from the first moviessets and loads of other national and international rarities. The muesum has 5 floors and on these the visiter can see movieposters, filmreels and books. Within the museum one can also take a glass elevator. This elevator goes non-stop up to 85m hight. Up there one can find a platform from which the visiter has a breathtaking view of Turin. Package price per person, 4 days from € 239 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Turin- Egyptian Museum The Egyptian museum is the biggest museum about Egypt right after Cairo. This is due to the fact that in the beginning of the 1900 items found were still shared between the nations who found it and the nation on whos ground it was found. The exhibition comprises not less than 5.268 objects. Statues, papyrus scrolls, sarcuphagus, mummies, amulettes and articles of daily use stand side by side. Europe´s most spectacular abbey After a visit to the Sacra di San Michele you will realise that the location of the abbey and its impressiveness make it a unique piece of art. Located a few kilometers far from Turin, the abbey is a must see for visitors interested in learning more about the history and the culture of Piedmont. Since walking up to the top makes you hungry, on our way back we stop at the restaurant La Caccia Reale, renowned for its exquisite game specialties. In search of the famous truffle of Alba The truffle comes from a mycelium: since it does not have any chlorophyll to build organic substances, the truffle has to feed on other living organisms like a parasite. There are several types of truffle, the most famous of which, together with the Perigord, is the white truffle from Alba; its colour varies from pure white to grey with red and brown nuances depending on soil conditions and vegetation. The ideal environment for the white truffle of Alba is oak wood, wild poplars and calcareous soil. During a short but very interesting tour you will see how the famous “trifulau” together with his faithful dog brings to light this treasure of nature. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events A walking programme for everyone Slow Info Tour Example Discover the most beautiful pockets of land in the Piedmont on foot on easy walks that offer a broad pallet of colours, impressions, and images. Follow your nose on pleasant and accessible rambles in the middle of a gentle hilly landscape and discover impressive buildings from long bygone days when kings and generals battled to possess them. Get out your walking boots and strike out on new paths - the scent of history, vineyards, and grapes awaits you. Day 1 Arrival and check-in Day 2 Today you can look forward to a walk through "Sentiero del Barolo" and a city tour of Alba. The tour takes you through the heart of the Barolo region past some of the most famous vineyards and wine villages of Langhe. After the walk, the private bus will take you to Alba for the city tour and then for wine-tasting in a winery and dinner in Allegria. Walk length about 3 hours / difficulty: easy. Day 3 Enjoy a pleasant walk through the nature park of the holy mountain of Crea. During the walk, you can admire the lovely Cerrina valley. Then head down to the village of Serralunga di Crea, where remains of the former perimeter wall are still visible. Walk length about 3 hours / difficulty: easy. Day 4 The first point of reference on today's walk is the romantic old town of Saluzzo and a visit to the cathedral of S. Maria Assunta and the church of San Giovanni. Here you'll have some time for lunch; then, after a short rest, you'll continue in the afternoon to the almost completely preserved abbey of "Staffarda". Drive back and dinner at the hotel. Walk length about 3 hours / difficulty: easy. Day 5 Journey home after breakfast Programme details 4 night accommodation with breakfast in a good 3 hotel in the Asti -Langhe region 3 dinners at the hotel 1 full-day guided walks in the Barolo region and Alba 1 full-day guided walk in Serralunga di Crea 1 full-day guided walk in Saluzzo 1 admission to the abbey of Staffarda 1 dinner at a winery including wine-tasting Package price per person, 5 days from € 225 Cogne & Gran Paradiso National Park Cogne, located 30 km south of Aosta, represents the entry gate to the Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy’s first park of this kind. The town’s origins date back to Roman times (Cogne boasts one of the best preserved bridges in the world) and are linked with the nearly located iron mines and water falls. Here you can visit the typical historic centre and the water falls from Lillaz. We head further to Valnontey at the entrance of the Gran Paradiso National Park tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 9 Liguria & Côte d’Azur Liguria & Côte d ’Azur Travel Ideas What else to do in Liguria Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Liguria tour programs: Taste the original farinata "Farinata" is the Italian name for a pancake whose main ingredients are chickpea flower, olive oil, salt and water. The recipe originates from Genua and is a local speciality, with different variants, in a number of towns in Liguria. Cinque Terre: Ahoi! Enjoy the picturesque coastline the way the local sailors do - from the sea. Start out by boat from Genoa and visit Portofino, Camogli, and Monterosso and then come ashore for a walk along the Via dell'Amore. Ahoi! Savona - The city of Popes Who would have thought? Two of the seven Popes from Liguria were born in Savona. One of them, SixTour tus IV, was the builder of the Sistine Chapel, and the Example other, Julius II, was one of the greatest art patrons of ... that is to say: the blue of the seaside, the green of the pestos, the little houses huddled against each all time. Both of them commissioned works in their other that were once brightly coloured are slowly fading witnesses of a past era. These are the colours hometown of Savona, several of which are still intact that will follow and fascinate you during your journey. You will sleep in the 4 Loano 2 Village hotel, today. Brilliant colours of the Riviera only 1.5 Km from the coast. From there, each day, you will explore the so-called old borghi, the boutiques of Alassio and the alleys of Genoa. However, you will not only take in the beauty of this region, but also discover the funny side of its lively inhabitants. Take part in an amusing pasta quiz, where you have to guess different types of sauces and pastas and, of course, eat them at the end of the game! Day 1 Arrival and check-in for a 3-night HB stay Day 2 Today we go to Cervo, a picturesque fishing village, a swarm of white houses perched on a cliff on the Riviera of Flowers. From here, you can enjoy a wonderful view over the bay of Diano Marina. Following the Via Aurelia we get to Alassio, a sunny location with a beautiful sandy beach and a small love wall that is its landmark. Toward midday, we leave to have luncheon in the hinterland of Imperia. In this restaurant, your guests will be able to enjoy a warm, friendly atmosphere and typical Ligurian dishes. After lunch, return to the hotel and free time. Day 3 We head for Genoa, the capital of Liguria, which owes its historical centre (one of the largest in Italy) to its past as one of the great Maritime Republics. Sightseeing and departure towards Rapallo, one of the best-known holiday resorts of the Eastern Riviera. Visit to the luxurious promenade and the yacht harbour. From here, we navigate along the 10 Riviera of Flowers - Aperitif with an archaeologist A medieval banquet in 2012? We'll most elegant strip of Italian coastline to Portofino. make it happen! A dinner with historical dishes, The Portofino cape is a promontory covered in whose origins are explained by an archaeologist. olives and maritime pine and its bay is where VIP's yachts and boats are moored today. Day 4 After breakfast, departure. Riviera of Flowers - Pasta feast: the Programme details speciality of Elvira! Do you know what's on your 3-night HB stay in 4 hotel Loano 2 Village plate? You'll be served four pasta dishes and have to guess what type of pasta is used in each one. The per1 welcome drink son who answers correctly will not only be declared a Salad buffet true-blue Italian but also receive a prize. On your 1 Half-day guided tour of Cervo and Alassio plates, set, go!!! 1 Pasta Festival by Le Mignole 1 Full-day guided tour of Genoa-Portofino 1 boat excursion from Rapallo to Portofino and return Package Price per person, 4 days from € 169 Riviera of Flowers - Italy's smallest theatre Italy's smallest theatre, the Teatro Salvini outside of Imperia, has the charm and elegance of grand stages, only in miniature. Rent this tiny theatre for a big event - exclusively for your customers. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Riviera of Flowers - Bicycle tour along the sea Just follow the coastline. At 24 km, it is one of the Mediterranean's longest and most beautiful bike routes, leading from Imperia to San Remo. Experience a one-of-a-kind view of the sea from the seat of a bicycle, with fascinating stories told by an experienced cyclist. The Riviera of Flowers - The smallest rose in the world It is so small that it can fit into an espresso cup! Surprise your customers with something unique and exclusive, a very nice "Rose to go"! Known for its resilience and beauty, it is a really special gift! Riviera of Flowers - Grappa tasting The Cantina di Re Carciofo (Cellar of the Artichoke King), a small, under-the-radar shop in Albenga's old city, distils exotic liqueurs and grappa varieties of the highest quality. Try a few vegetable pastries or a charcuterie platter as you sample an artichokeasparagus liqueur or a bitter-orange grappa. Riviera of Flowers - Visit to a ranunculus farm What would the Riviera of Flowers be without its flower farms. Watch gardeners up close as they plant and tend the flowers, which are destined for delivery through Europe. You'll take home a "scented" memory of the Riviera! lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Cinque Terre, 5 miles of pure beauty! Slow Info Tour Example The rocky coast of Cinque Terre is filled with little inlets and narrow promontories: these are some of the local features which create a truly unique landscape. The continual alternating of beaches, woods, and inlets charms and attracts tourists the world over to visit the Riviera di Levante and its two most precious pearls: Cinque Terre and Portofino. Hotel Bristol, in the town centre of Lavagna, will pamper you with its fine cuisine and warm familial atmosphere. Day 1 Arrival in the Cinque Terre area and check in to hotel for 4 nights HB. Day 2 Full-day excursion to Cinque Terre. Here you can explore the beautiful landscape by foot, train, or boat, and experience the charm of this diverse area. Admire the rocky villages in the hills or the infinite deep blue that stretches out like a carpet before the coastline. Day 3 Half-day dedicated to the old city of Genoa. A medieval city with marvellous monuments, it is worth taking a walk through the famous caruggi i.e. alleyways. You will also discover an old gate and the modern architecture of world-famous architect Renzo Piano! You will have the opportunity to sample traditional dishes like la Farinata (optional), a local speciality based on chickpea flour and olive oil; it is still prepared the traditional way on a wood fire and is an absolute must try! Your guide will take you to explore the most popular Farinate ovens! Day 4 Head to Rapallo, a sleepy and beautiful town overlooking the sea. From here you travel by boat to Portofino, where you will find the famous high-fashion boutiques, fishing boats, and gorgeous yachts. Explore the peninsula strolling through the port; you might just come across a VIP... Day 5 After breakfast, departure for the return trip home. Programme details 4 nights half board at the 3 Hotel Bristol 1 Welcome drink Salad buffet 1 Special candlelit dinner at the hotel 1 Full-day guided excursion to Cinque Terre 1 Cinque Terre Train Card 1 Half-day guided excursion to Genoa 1 Full-day guided excursion to Portofino and Golfo del Tigullio 1 Ferry from Rapallo to Portofino and back to Santa Margherita Package price per person, 5 days from € 178 Get your hands dirty! Mini-course in ceramics Spend two enjoyable hours modelling an object of your own composition by hand. Supervised by a ceramicist, you will learn the secrets of how to transform a piece of clay into a real object. At the end of the lesson, the best work will win a prize! Cote d'Azur - The museums of Nice: contemporary artists and the Far East The metropolis on the Cote d'Azur is the hub of modern and contemporary art. In addition to MAMAC, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the city is home to the famous Matisse Museum and the Chagall Museum, active centres with many of the artists' masterpieces, as well as the Musée International d'Art Naïf (International Museum of Outsider Art) and the Musée des Arts Asiatiques (Museum of Asian Art). tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 11 Liguria & Côte d’Azur Liguria & Côte d ’Azur Tour Example Cooking and tasting Ligurian food: Ligurian cuisine awaits you! The Riviera: a narrow strip of land, green hills, a row of bays surrounded by steep cliffs or sandy beaches, olive groves and vineyards that slope down to the see in terraces, sophisticated coastal towns and quiet medieval villages in the interior. This region breaths history: museums, historic palaces and Baroque churches, old oil mills and country inns where you can taste the dishes of the Ligurian tradition, a very aromatic cuisine whose character lies in the aroma of its herbs and unique ingredients, its extra-virgin olive oil and the DOC wines of its vineyards. Day 1 Arrival and check-in into the hotel for a 3-night stay. Dinner in the hotel. Day 2 Today we go to Taggia, the cradle of the famous "Taggiasca" olives. Taggia boasts an interesting historical legacy and small treasures: the medieval patrician palaces, whose antique slate portals are decorated with the coats of arms of Taggia's noble families. Here we visit an old mill and taste the locally produced olive oil. Free time up to midday. Toward midday, we head on towards the Olive Oil Museum in Oneglia, full of interesting information about the tradition and history of olive oil. In the late afternoon, we arrive at Elvira, the chef of a small restaurant, for our cooking course. You will learn the local dish of the day and familiarise yourself with antipasti and pasta of real Italian cuisine. The day ends with a relaxed evening meal in a family establishment in the middle of olive groves, feasting 12 on local wine and great food - the essence of true Liguria! Day 3 After breakfast, we head for Sanremo, one of the most important winter health resorts in Italy. Here, in the capital town of the Riviera, we take a walk: the romantic historic centre, the Casino, the Russian Church and the wonderful boutiques await you! We then drive through the vineyards where the "Rossese" wine is grown, in the Ligurian interior, until we reach Dolceacqua, a lovely 12th century village. Visit the tiny alleyways and the typical stone houses; the medieval bridge shaped as a donkey's back will not fail to impress you! Later, a wine tasting with a side dish of typical Ligurian products awaits you. In the afternoon, return to the hotel and dinner. Day 4 After breakfast, departure. Programme details 3 nights BB in a 3 Hotel, Alassio - Sanremo area 2 dinners at the hotel welcome drink Salad buffet 1 Fullday escorted tour Taggia - the Olive oil route 1 olive oil tasting 1 entry ticket to the olive oil museum 1 mini Ligurian cuisine cooking course followed by evening meal & drinks (1/2 l. water + 1/4 l. wine) 1 Full-day escorted tour Sanremo and Dolceacqua 1 wine tasting with snack Package price per person, 4 days from € 155 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Travel Ideas What else to do at the Cote d'Azur Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Riviera tour programs: Cote d'Azur - Monte Carlo circus festival The world's most famous festival, where each January the streets of Monaco are transformed into a giant circus, is a world championship of artistry that fills the Principality with colourful life over several days. Menton Lemon Festival We take the highway “Dei Fiori” to Menton, the city of lemons. After a city tour we take a stroll through the picturesque old centre with its narrow streets up to Michael’s cathedral. Visitors can enjoy their free time in the pedestrian zone full of boutiques, ice cafés, cafés, pubs and restaurants. Later we attend the Lemon Festival. Every year 100 tons of lemons are used to create works of art which line up in the Bioves garden to be admired. The works of art are based on the year’s theme such as "Asterix and Obelix in lemon land" or "Walt Disney in lemon land". Cannes and the Lerin islands Cannes is the most elegant town and is considered the pearl of the Côte d´Azur. Thanks to its location overlooking the Lerin Islands, its bay with fine sandy beach and its luxury hotels and villas it has become a worldwide renowned jet set. A ferry journey takes us to the largest of the Lerin Islands, Ste-Marguerite, which today is a true botanic garden rich in walking trails. The island hosts a fortress that was also used as a prison from 1685 until the 20th century. Today the fortress houses a small aquarium and a museum where impressive grave remains are on display such as a Roman wreckage, amphora, Roman ceramics etc. Since the 19th century the Municipality of Cannes has been strongly engaged to keep this quiet paradisiacal garden unspoilt. The island St. Marguerite is also the scene of the novel "The three musketeers " by Dumas and the prison of “The Man in the Iron Mask”. We take the highway back to the hotel. lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events The Riviera of Flowers... a true classic! Slow Info Tour Example A classic in any Italian tour: the Riviera of the Flowers and the Cote d'Azur. From tiny tourist groups in the 50es to the millions of people that today take the memory of the smells and the colours of the sea and the Ligurian coastline back to their homeland. We offer you this experience, with a couple of extra surprises, such as a dinner based on regional specialities set in a Ligurian olive grove... Day 1 Travel and check-in in the hotel for a 4-night HB stay. Day 2 This morning we travel through Monaco to Nice, with a short stop on the way to Eze Village, to visit a perfume factory. Once you arrive in Nice, the modern districts, as well as the old town alongside the harbour, with its wonderful Liberty buildings, will captivate you. Free time for shopping and lunch. After visiting the capital of the Côte d'Azur, departure for Monaco in the afternoon. Visit to the historical centre and the Prince's Palace in the fortress, taking in also the "Hotel de Paris", "Café de Paris" and the Casino. The drive back takes us over the Formula 1 circuit and "Autostrada dei Fiori" (Motorway of the Flowers) back to the hotel. Day 3 After breakfast, we leave for Genoa, where the city guide is waiting for us: the incredible wealth of the Genoese Maritime Republic can be spotted from the quays of the old harbour with its imposing palaces and colourful façades in lovely architectural styles. We cast a curious glance to these 150 noble houses of aristocratic Renaissance families to discover the luxury of unexpected courtyards, gardens, atria and external staircases. Today the Via Garibaldi, one of the most magnificent streets in Italy, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, free time or the chance of joining a tour to Portofino. In the evening, dinner at a restaurant with local dishes. Day 4 After breakfast, departure for Sanremo. The first thing that strikes the visitor is the way in which the Art Nouveau style has shaped the town, as demonstrated by the many hotels, villas and the Casino. Other key elements that have left their visual mark on the town, apart from the Russian Church and the San Siro Cathedral, are the flower plantations dotted around the hills above Sanremo, whose products are exported all over the world. We leave in the late afternoon, meandering through the "Rossese" wine vineyards in the Ligurian interior until we get to Dolceacqua, a lovely village that stems from the 12th century. Visit to the tiny alleyways and the typical stone houses, followed by a wine tasting accompanied by a generous snack. Day 5 After breakfast, departure back home. Programme details 4 nights B&B with breakfast buffet in a 3* hotel in the Alassio - San Remo area 1 welcome drink 3 dinners at the hotel with salad buffet 1 full-day escorted tour Nice, Eze Village, Monaco 1 half-day guided city tour of Genoa 1 full-day escorted tour Sanremo and Dolceacqua 1 wine tasting including a side dish of typical Ligurian products 1 typical dinner at a restaurant Package price per person, 5 days from € 169 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 13 Lombardia Lombardia World www.gadis.it/expo more info Tour Example In the footsteps of Verdi Travel Ideas What else to do in An understanding of Giuseppe Verdi - who has always been recognized as one of Italy's greatest musicians and is famous throughout the world - cannot help but include the places he was most attached to: the Parma countryside where he was born, and Milan, the city where he spent most of his time. Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your It is a trip to get to know the places where he grew and matured both as a man and as an artist. It is Lombardy tour programs: a trip to two cities with strong opera traditions: Milan and Parma. And finally, it is a trip to explore the simplicity of the man and the genius of the composer, one who has given us some of the greatest A green oasis just a few minutes from operatic masterpieces of all time, including Nabucco, Ernani, Macbeth, Rigoletto, Il Trovatore, and La Lake Como - A green oasis Traviata… Lombardy Day 1 Arrive and check in to a hotel in Milan for 4 nights, breakfast-board. Day 2 Breakfast at the hotel and an entire day dedicated to the musician's favourite haunts: the centre of Milan and especially La Scala which houses many memories tied to the great composer. In the late afternoon, a visit to the Casa Verdi, a retirement home for musicians, established by Verdi himself and where his tomb is located. According to the availability of the great musicians staying there, there may be the opportunity to organise a small concert for your visit. Day 3 After a good breakfast, you depart for Parma, the city where the Verdi Festival is held each year. After visiting the city, in the afternoon you continue on to Roncole and Busseto, the so-called "Verdi Places" with the opportunity to visit the house where 14 Package price per person, 4 days A 4 hotel with more than 70 rooms, just a short distance from Milan, Lecco, Como, Bergamo and Valtellina: this is a really strategic location for organising a tour of all of Lombardy. The recently inaugurated new wing has been made truly special thanks to the creativity of the owner, an artist and painter who has personalised the rooms with her works. One of the hotel's strong points is its restaurant, which has been family-run since 1919 and is quite famous. A large park and water way run alongside the hotel, making this place truly unique for its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, while still being just a short distance from the region's main attractions. from € 149 The largest aeronautical park in Italy Giuseppe Verdi was born, the Verdi Theatre, the Villa Verdi, or Casa Barezzi House (optional): a true immersion experience into the fascinating world of the great master. Day 4 After breakfast, return departure. Programme Details 3 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in Milan 1 full-day guided tour of Milan 1 Visit of Casa Verdi 1 admission to La Scala Museum 1 full-day guided tour of Parma and "Verdi Places" Lombardy and especially Varese province (near Milan) have always been an area with large aeronauti- tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour cal companies. Companies such as Caproni, Agusta, Aermacchi, and Siai Marchetti have made this a true flight district, including the Malpensa airport. The Aeronautical park offers a fascinating tour so you can immerse yourself in the world of aeronautical history; special focus is placed on the companies and individuals who have made history in the Varese province - the province "with wings" - as well as throughout Italy. The tour is broken down into five areas; it tells the story of how air was conquered, from the pioneering flights in hot-air balloons to the aircrafts of the early 19th century, to the tiltrotor - the perfect fusion of vertical and horizontal flight. The visit can be combined with half-day tour of Milan. Full-day guided tour from the Hotel · Entry to the Park. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example Over the Alps with the Bernina Express and a course in making pizzoccheri in Valtellina Valtellina is an area that is much-loved by those who have had the chance to visit and explore there. Sharing a border with Switzerland, Valtellina is home not only to famous skiing spots such as Bormio and Livigno, but also to a great wine-producing and gastronomic tradition, whose treats include excellent cheeses and cured meats. Exclusive glimpses of mountains alternate with typical little villages such as Teglio, the land of the famous pizzoccheri, Chiavenna, Morbegno and Sondrio, the capital of the province. The Tirano-St Moritz section of the railway, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is one of the most spectacular mountain crossings in the world: making its way through an extraordinary natural pass, the "Little Red Train" clings to mountainsides and valleys, through perpetual ice and snow, linking Northern and Southern Europe. However, you cannot miss a day dedicated to fashionable Lake Como and exclusive Bellagio, destination of international VIPs. To finish your trip in the best way, equipped with apron and rolling pin, you will learn how to prepare "pizzoccheri", artisan pasta made from buckwheat flour, a hearty dish of Valtellinese cuisine. You will be supervised Mantua - Restaurant Locanda delle by chefs from the Accademia del Pizzocchero di Teglio (the Teglio Pizzocchero Academy), who will Grazie accompany you right up to the well-deserved final dinner! Mantua is an area with a strong food and wine tradition and a great respect for the land and its bounty. Starting with the very best ingredients, many restaurants and farm inns offer delectable menus with homemade products. One example is Locanda delle Grazie, just a few kilometres from the centre of Mantua; here, Daniela, will enthusiastically welcome you into her "home" to sample a menu that will have your mouth watering! An aperitif at the Ape Bistro along one of Milan's most beautiful streets The Ape is an Italian icon which has been transformed into a trendy and fun setting for a totally unique aperitif: your clients will be delighted to find the Ape Bistro completely at their service for a before-dinner drink. The Ape can be placed in different locations around the city, in private locations, or ad hoc events in companies. Day 1 Arrival at hotel, in the Tirano/Sondrio area, for 3 nights HB. Day 2 All ready to enjoy a unique sight, seated comfortably in a cosy train that winds through the valleys and mountains between Italy and Switzerland: departure from Tirano and arrival in elegant St Moritz. After visiting the town, return to hotel by bus. In the evening, a pleasant tasting of typical valley produce. Day 3 After breakfast, we descend from the Valleys for a tour to discover Lake Como and its shores, abounding in villas and lush vegetation. After a morning dedicated to visiting the town of Como, a boat will carry you to visit the jewel in the crown of Lake Como - Bellagio. In the evening, you will have to roll up your sleeves for the cookery course dedicated to the art of making pizzoccheri, which you will be able to taste immediately afterwards. Day 4 After breakfast, departure for return trip. Programme details 3 nights B&B in a 3 hotel in Valtellina (Tirano/ Sondrio area) 2 dinners at the hotel 1 full day guided excursion on the Bernina Express from Tirano to St Moritz 1 ticket for Bernina Express, Tirano-St Moritz 1 full day guided tour of Como and Bellagio 1 boat from Tremezzo to Bellagio (round trip) 1 tasting of local wines and products 1 cookery course with typical dinner Package price per person, 4 days from € 247 Milano - A little-known treasure: the Museum of Science and Technology A day or a weekend is often not enough to fully enjoy all the cultural and architectural delights of Milan. For longer stays, it is certainly worth dedicating half a day to visiting the Museum of Science and Technology, one of the most important science museums in Europe. Inside, the room dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, where all his inventions and plans have been reconstructed, certainly stands out from among all the numerous areas of interest. The Enrico Toti submarine is also a star exhibit: the transportation of this "monster" of the seas from Sicily to Cremona via water and from Cremona to Milan via land involved and excited hundreds of people - just think, for it to arrive at its destination, even the road traffic had to be altered! tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 15 Lombardia Lombardia World www.gadis.it/expo more info Tour Example Travel Ideas Discover Lake Iseo and its culinary specialties What else to do in Lombardy Lake Iseo is a small jewel shared between Bergamo and Brescia provinces; the smallest of the alpine lakes, the changeability of its landscape makes it one of the most fascinating and romantic in all of Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Italy. Montisola, the largest lake island in Europe, is at its centre. This green beauty is covered with Lombardy tour programs: scattered little neighbourhoods and stand alone, aristocratic villas. Thanks also to its vicinity to Northern Europe, three days are enough to get a complete full view of this area and enjoy all it has to offer. Lombardia - the Mecca for all motorAnd to really get to know the local flavour, we can't miss stopping at a traditional valley restaurant to bike fans Not many people know that Alfa Romeo sample the famous Franciacorta wine. Day 1 Arrival and check in to a Lake Iseo/Brescia area hotel. Dinner at the hotel. Day 2 Tour Brescia, a fascinating city and among the most elegant in Northern Italy. In the afternoon, a scenic tour to Lake Iseo, with a visit to Montisola, the largest lake island in Europe. Spend an enjoyable evening in a restaurant near the hotel. Day 3 A day dedicated to touring Bergamo - one of the northern Italy's most important cities - and Franciacorta, famous for its vineyards - where some of the most Europe's most well-known sparkling wines are from. Lunch in a traditional restaurant with a sampling of local wines and products, not to be missed. In the late afternoon, return to hotel, and dinner. Day 4 After breakfast, return departure. Programme Details 3 nights B&B in a 3 hotel in the Lake Iseo/Brescia area 2 dinners at the hotel 1 dinner at a farm inn or traditional restaurant near Lake Iseo 1 full-day guided tour of Brescia and Lake Iseo with Montisola 1 ferry to Montisola, return 1 full-day guided tour of Bergamo and Franciacorta 1 lunch at a farm inn or traditional restaurant near Bergamo 1 wine tasting and traditional food sampling in Franciacorta Package price per person, 4 days from € 213 16 and Moto Guzzi originated in the region of Lombardy. The "Mille Miglia" race, an old-timer rally which counts many VIPS, enthusiasts and vintage cars, still takes place here! The museum of the same name offers a fantastic insight into the history of the race, as well as the culture and customs of Italy between 1927 and 1957. Lombardia - The Mincio Park and its natural beauties From the Riserva delle Valli nature reserve on a boat headed towards Mantua, we stop off at the lotus blossom island. In July and August the large leaves and pink flowers turn the lake into a scene reminiscent of Madame Butterfly. On the way back, as we cruise past the charming fisherman's village of Borgo Angeli, we can glimpse the pilgrimage church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The trip is rounded off with a fantastic lunch in the open air with local delicacies! tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events The Goose Festival in the village of Mortara Slow Info Tour Example Geese, culture and good food… A perfect combination which is celebrated every year at the end of September. This village festival is held in honour of its goose salami, and celebrates in 2013 its 47th edition. Goose specialities are served around the clock for 48 hours, with a medieval atmosphere and 'goose race' through the streets: a challenge accepted by the inhabitants of 7 'contrade', or town quarters. With games of skill and the support of archers along the traditional route, the quarters compete for the "cencio", a piece of canvas which is painted each year by a different artist from Mortara. The goose race and the goose festival, with its array of typical products, have attracted hundreds of tourists for 35 years. The event also hosts impressive historical processions which depict the court of Ludovico il Moro and Beatrice d'Este. The presence of 400 actors, flag-throwers and other people who bring the medieval period back to life, also makes this a unique event. Pavia and Oltrepò Pavese - city of culture and agricultural tradition The Pavese province and territory represent one of the richest areas in Northern Italy, and stronger still is the agricultural aspect of the territory, whose products are considered to be excellent by the enogastronomic world. Every weekend, hundreds of Milanese enjoy trips into the Oltrepò Pavese countryside, accompanied by good wine, bread and cured meats or tasty cheeses. In the morning, a visit to the university town of Pavia, followed by a visit to the flat Pavese countryside. Da Luca on Lake Iseo: haute cuisine for everyone In the centre of Sarnico, on Lake Iseo, there is a restaurant which does justice to Italian haute cuisine, without straining your pocketbook. The dishes are beautiful to look at and delicious to taste! Sample Menu: Carnaroli rice with Asparagus and Caprino (goat cheese) · Beef Steak with Rocket, Grana and Pan-fried Potatoes · Caramel Panna Cotta with Chocolate Sauce Day 1 Arrival at the hotel near to Milan/Pavia, dinner and overnight accommodation Day 2 Breakfast in hotel, sightseeing trip of the city of Pavia, known as Ticinum during ancient times as it was crossed by the river Ticino. This city has a host of churches and squares such as San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro, the Borromeo palace, the university and its cathedral which boasts the largest dome in all of Italy. Optional visit the the Certosa of Pavia, an impressive building complex which was donated by the seigniory of Milan. After a break, you will leave for Milan, a hub of international industry, trade and fashion, in addition to offering a wealth of cultural and artistic treasures. You can visit the cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the Scala theatre and the Sforzesco castle with an official regional guide. Return to hotel and overnight stay. Day 3 After breakfast in hotel you will leave for an unguided tour of Mortara. Upon arrival you will not only have a chance to taste goose specialities, but also watch the famous goose race which is held between the town quarters of Mortara. Famous members of the seigniory, noblemen, dukes and knights gather together, in costumes from the 15th century, accompanied by talented actors from Mortara. Enjoy the enchanting medieval atmosphere and a selection of the finest wines and food products. Return to hotel and overnight stay. Day 4 Breakfast and trip back home Programme details 3 nights HB in a Hotel in Milan /Pavia area 1 half day guided tour of Pavia 1 half day guided tour of Milan Package price per person, 4 days from € 145 Morimondo - The Abbey of Morimondo Not far from Milan lies Morimondo, a small town that is particularly famous for its extremely beautiful Abbey. The Abbey of Morimondo is one of the oldest in Lombardy, dating back to the first half of the 12th century, when the first monks stopped here after arriving from various parts of France and Italy. Facing this imposing structure, it almost seems as though you have returned to Medieval times, thanks to its perfectly preserved condition. The town is also famous for the Trecentesca display, an extremely wellcurated re-enactment of medieval history, set in the time of the Viscontis, which is held every year in May. Pavia - The magnificent Carthusian monastery (Certosa) of Pavia This impressive complex which took two centuries to complete was built by request of the rulers of Milan, the Visconti and Sforza families. It is one of the most meaningful historical monuments in northern Italy and is currently inhabited by Cistercian monks. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 17 Lago Maggiore & Lago di Como Travel Ideas What else to do at Lake Maggiore Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Lago Maggiore tour programs: Lake Maggiore - Best-selling hotel on Lake Maggiore In the centre of Verbania Intra, a short walk from the lake, one of the country's historic palazzos has been re-purposed as a boutique hotel. Each room has been furnished in a particular style, the lounge area has a view of the lake for those moments of relaxation and a brand new dining room retains its antique fireplace to warm up your evenings spent in its company. Vogogna - The Castle of Vogogna World www.gadis.it/expo more info Tour Example It is in Vogogna, a member of the "most beautiful villages in Italy" club, that the Castle of the same name can be found, built by the Visconti family to protect the whole valley. It dominates the landscape with its two towers, one square and one semi-circular, the latter being almost 20 metres in height. After being restored for more than eight years, it is now the focal point for visits and cultural displays: the ideal complement to a visit to the village of Vogogna. Lake Maggiore - a celebration of flow- All Inclusive Lago Maggiore ers upon the waters of the lake A whole day dedicated entirely to flowers: a trip to the elegant city The perfect formula, also for groups! A 3 family run hotel just a few miles away from Verof Locarno to visit the Park of Camellias, a little gem bania, with a panoramic view of the lake, where you will feel right at home. surrounded by green, with 900 different varieties of A programme which will take you to discover the delights of Lake Maggiore and Lake Como & Lugano, camellia spread over about thirty flowerbeds, coverwith a relaxing evening in the hotel whilst sipping a cocktail... all inclusive! ing an area of 10,000 square metres. In the afternoon, Day 1 Arrival at hotel and welcome drink. Dinner at Programme details we transfer to Brissago and embark for the Island of the hotel including beverages. 3 nights HB in a 3 hotel near to Verbania in a Brissago, home to the botanical gardens of the same name where they cultivate around 1,700 plant speDay 2 In the morning, you will be taken by boat panoramic location cies from the Mediterranean, subtropical Asia, South from Baveno to Isola Bella, for a visit to the beauti1 welcome drink Africa, the Americas and the Pacific Islands. ful palace and gardens. You will then be free to make salad buffet your own lunch arrangements, after which you will beverages in hotel inclusive (house wine and visit the Isola dei Pescatori. In the afternoon Lake Orta - A superb dinner on the lake draught beer, soft drinks, coffee and water) from you will be transferred by boat to Stresa for a stroll shore Enjoy a breath-taking panorama as you are 5.00 PM to 9.00 PM! around the town, and then by bus back to the hotel. cruised along the shores of Lake Orta aboard the mo1 half day guided tour to the Borromean islands Before dinner you can enjoy a guided walk to a stuntor boat Ortensia, a delicious meal, a welcome drink (Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori) ning lookout point just a short distance from the hoserved with pizza and 'brezel', rustic appetizers, first 1 boat transfer to the Borromean islands tel, for a last souvenir picture to take back home with course, main course and dessert. The evening is dedi1 full day guided tour to the 3 lakes and visit to you. Dinner at the hotel including beverages. cated to entertainment to keep spirits as high as posLocarno, Como and Lugano Day 3 Panoramic trip for a visit to the small town sible, with live music and dancing until the early 1 guided walk from the hotel to a lookout point on of Locarno. This is followed by a short transfer to hours: all ingredients to make your evening with us Lake Maggiore to take panoramic photos! Lake Lugano and Lake Como, allowing you to simply perfect. To round off your holiday, there is visit three of the most beautiful lakes in northern Italy in just one day! Dinner at the hotel including beverages. Day 4 Trip back home. 18 Package price per person, 4 days from € 169 nothing better than a taste of the local specialities against the romantic, picturesque backdrop of a sunset on Lake Orta. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Lago Maggiore - Good wine and PDO products at the Mogavero wine shop A wine shop with thirty years of experience is at your guests' disposal, but they won't be on their own: Fabio Mogavero himself will welcome you into Borgo dei Vini d'Italia to spend a pleasant hour in your company. An hour split between interesting explanations of the different techniques of wine-making, and tasting wines and typical local produce. The star flower of Lake Maggiore: the camellia The camellia could be considered as the symbol of Lake Maggiore and it is only here that it can claim PDO status. However, its origin lies far away from the lake, more precisely, in the East, from where merchants came in the 8th century to trade tea plants with the English. The most well-known species are the Camellia Japonica, which flowers in spring, the Christmas Camellia, which flowers in autumn, and the Camellia Reticulata, which is the one of the most delicate species. In addition to these species, also remember the Camellia Sinensis, from which different types of tea can be grown. The popularity of this flower is linked to the novel by Dumas, "The Lady of the Camellias". Val Vigezzo -The Miracle of Re A compulsory stop for tourists travelling by train from Centovalli is Re and the Santuario della Madonna del Sangue. The name of this sanctuary is linked to a miracle, from which the construction of this place of worship then originated. On the 29th April 1494, one Giovanni, nicknamed Blockhead, having lost at piodella (an old game with stones), hurled a stone in a fit of rage at a venerated image of the Virgin Mary on a church wall. Over the following days, a rivulet of blood was seen flowing from the Virgin's forehead, from the point where it had been struck. When the miracle was recognised in 1500, an altar was built which was then enlarged several times until it became the sanctuary it is today. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Travel Event on Lago Maggiore! Slow Info Tour Example Take advantage of Lake Maggiore's mild climate and plan a trip close to home at the beginning or end of the season. 5 days with us will recharge your batteries! And to really wow your customers, arrange for a special dinner aboard a ferry with a scenic and romantic tour of Lake Orta: an unforgettable experience as you sway along to the music… Day 1 Arrive and check in to the hotel for 4 nights. Dinner at the hotel. Day 2 After breakfast, visit the beautiful Borromeo palace, a testament to the great wealth and power of the Borromeo family which reigned in this region for centuries. In the afternoon, enjoy a bit of relaxation on the charming Isola Pescatori; and finish off the day with some free time and a bit of shopping in Stresa, one of the most popular cities on Lake Maggiore. Dinner at the hotel. Day 3 Breakfast at the hotel. Second only to the Borromean Islands tour - the tour of the valleys between Switzerland and Italy riding the Centovalli railway remains a popular favourite. Accompanied by a guide, you will travel over 83 bridges and through 34 tunnels: It is a striking journey through pristine valleys with craggy mountains and spectacular waterfalls surrounded by magnificent lush vegetation. Return for dinner at the hotel. Day 4 After a lovely breakfast, enjoy a morning on your own shopping in one of the area markets. In the afternoon, tour Lake Orta with a beautiful ferry ride, and explore island San Giulio and the town of Orta San Giulio. Cap off a beauty day with a special evening, enjoying an aperitif and dinner aboard an Ortensia yacht navigating the waters of Lake Orta accompanied by music and entertainment for the entire evening, all just for you! Day 5 After breakfast and taking those final photographs, return departure. Programme details 4 nights, B&B in a 3 Hotel on Lake Maggiore 3 dinners at the hotel 1Welcome drink 1 Full-day guided tour to the 2 Borromeo Islands and Stresa 1 boat ride to Isola Bella & Isola Pescatori 1 Full-day guided tour on the Centovalli railway 1 Centovalli Railway train ticket from Domodossola to Locarno 1 Half-day guided tour on Lake Orta 1 Ferry ride to island s. Giulio and Orta San Giulio 1 Ortensia motor yacht charter for exclusive use 1 Gala 4-course dinner, drinks included and live music aboard Package price per person, 5 days from € 245 Domodossola - Geo Chavez and the first Alpine crossing flight Geo Chavez took off from Briga, with Domodossola as a halfway point and Milan as the final goal. It was 13.29 p.m., on the 23rd September 1910 - one hundred years ago. In the cockpit of his Bleriot XII, made of wood and canvas, with a barometer, a compass and a speedometer around his neck, he quickly disappeared into the sky. He flew over the Simplon Pass and the terrifying Gondo gorge in high turbulence, aiming towards Domodossola and then Milan: 150 kilometres as the crow flies. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 19 Lago Maggiore & Lago di Como World www.gadis.it/expo more info Travel Ideas What else to do at Lake Maggiore Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Lago Maggiore tour programs: Como - Between the lake and the mountains An unusual way to also enjoy the panorama that surrounds Como: your visit begins by ascending to Brunate by cable-car, to admire the view of the city, the lake and the surrounding mountains from a height. Brunate is situated at 900m, on the summit of one of the hills that surround the city of Como and enjoys a superb position from which to view the panorama. Upon your return, an hour-long crossing by boat will allow you to admire some of the famous villas that overlook the lake, surrounded by stupendous gardens. Lake Maggiore & Lake Mergozzo - A bike trip from lake to lake We will be transferred by private boat along the Borromean islands to the picturesque location of Feriolo. We will then follow the cycle path along the river Toce by mountain bike for a splendid view of Lake Maggiore. After crossing through the Fondotoce nature reserve, we will reach Lago Mergozzo, where we stop to enjoy some typical Italian gelato. Tour Example The classic of classics on Lago Maggiore The classics, when they are worth it, never get old. A holiday on one of the Italian lakes most loved by foreigners, close, comfortable and always beautiful: 4 days dedicated to relaxation in one of the most beautiful lakeside settings in Italy. Day 1 Arrival at hotel, accommodation and dinner. Day 2 The day is spent entirely on the Borromean Islands, the principle attraction of Lake Maggiore and absolutely unmissable! In the morning, a visit to Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Bella (entry not included) followed by a visit to the romantic Isola Pescatori. the Borromee Islands are true blooming treasures located on the waters of Lake Maggiore. While on Isola dei Pescatori you can still find remains of the simple fishermen life, the near Isola Bella serves to document the magnificence and the wealth of the Borromeo family. Isola Bella, harmoniously immersed into the surrounding landscape, has 20 the shape of a large boat clearly visible from the lake. In the afternoon, return and visit to Stresa. Day 3 Free day. We can organise an excursion of your choice on request. See 'Travel Ideas' section. Day 4 Departure. Program details 3 nights HB in 3 hotel on Lake Maggiore 1 full day guided tour of Lake Maggiore 1 boat trip to Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori Package price per person, 4 days from € 119 Lago Maggiore - For outdoor enthusiasts, a breath-taking trekking tour You will take the panoramic cable railway from Stresa to Alpino. From here, you will continue on foot along a path which leads to the summit of the Mottorone mountain which soars to a height of 1491 metres between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. For its outstanding beauty, the mountain is considered one of the most stunning natural balconies of the entire Piedmont region. You will then travel back down to the halfway station of Alpino. A short, pleasant walk will lead you to the unusual botanical gardens with alpine plants, called "Alpinia", from which you can also admire a breath-taking view! Novara - A gastronomic marathon in the land of rice Out of the ashes of an ancient convent, skilfully rebuilt, this holiday farm was born, whose peculiarity lies in having created a sort of ecological microcosm: raising cows and farmyard animals and growing vegetables that supply the restaurant with real, fresh products. The menu therefore varies according to the season and is available in the same place. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Domodossola and its valleys The city of Domodossola, located only 30 minutes from Lake Maggiore, rewards all who visit it with a pleasant surprise thanks to its streets and squares filled with shops and restaurants, and its beautiful historic centre, one of the most well-preserved in Italy. It is also the capital of Val D'Ossola, known for gastronomic specialities such as the famous Bettelmatt, a renowned cheese that is difficult to find, or the ham of Val Vigezzo. A day dedicated to discovering the architectural delights and gastronomic bounty of these large valleys between Italy and Switzerland. Lake Como - Isola Comacina: An aperitif on the island of a thousand legends Isola Comacina is the only island in Lake Como. Ancient legends tell how Como was founded by the old inhabitants of this island, at the end of the Roman era.You will arrive at the island by boat, accompanied as usual by our local guide. The tour, which lasts about three hours, also includes entry to archaeological excavations. Before returning, a refreshing aperitif with a little snack is provided. For large groups, it is possible to organise some pleasant musical entertainment. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Discovering Val Vigezzo Slow Info Tour Example A combination of natural beauties and flavours close to Lake Maggiore. Val Vigezzo is home to some of the best-known products of Piedmont, such as the famous ham and the highly-prized Bettelmatt cheese. Four days immersed in the village atmosphere of this valley, with a stimulating glimpse also of nearby Canton Ticino. Characteristic hotels with special emphasis on cuisine will welcome your clients and make them feel part of the family. Day 1 arrival in hotel and arrangements for 3 nights HB. Day 2 after a tasty breakfast, visit to the tiny Santa Maria Maggiore, the "capital" of Val Vigezzo (also known as the Valley of Painters); afternoon transfer to Re and visit to its Basilica, renowned for one of the most unusual miracle in the religious history of the area. The day ends with a tasting of wines and typical produce of the valley. Return and dinner in the hotel. Day 3 After breakfast, everyone will be ready to climb on board the famous Vigezzina, better known as Centovalli: a route crossing the valleys linking Italy and Switzerland with breathtaking views from cliff-top bridges and tunnels... Afternoon visit to elegant Lucerne and the smaller Ascona. Return to the hotel for a gala dinner with regional dishes deliciously prepared by the chef: an irresist- ible "arrivederci"! Day 4 Generous breakfast in the hotel and departure for return. Programme details 3 nights HB in 3 hotel in Val Vigezzo 1 Guide for full day visit to Santa Maria Maggiore, and Re 1 entrance to the Chimney Sweep Museum 1 tasting of typical local produce and wines 1 Guide for full day excursion to Centovalli and visit to Lucerne and Ascona 1 typical 5-course dinner 1 train ticket Centovalli - Locarno Package price per person, 4 days from € 155 Eastern Lake Como: Walking tour from Varenna to Villa Monastero Varenna, situated in the middle of the lake in front of the Bellagio promontory, is a leading tourist centre of the Lario Riviera to the east; the town scrambles up the Monte di Varenna like a pyramid, which is famous for the caves and marble of the same name. Our walking tour leaves the charming lake path, which links the old landing-place to the new, then enters the home of the distinctive streets with steps leading up to Piazza San Giorgio, where we visit the parish church and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, both of Roman origin. Nearby, and surrounded by a lush botanical garden, is the scenic aristocratic residence, Villa Monastero, on the shore facing in the direction of Fiumelatte, and built on the ruins of an ancient monastery dedicated to S. Maria. Lecco - The Manzoni tours Manzoni and his novel, "The Betrothed", are the keystones of Italian history and culture. You can discover all the places in Lecco that inspired the great writer and even deepen your understanding of Manzoni's novel. Visit of the museum inside Manzoni's house. We then move on from the Pescarenico district by walking along the left bank of the River Adda, which inspired the work "Farewell to the Mountains", and on through the alleys of a fishing village which still bears the marks of the French community, recorded by Manzoni in the character of Father Christopher. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 21 Lago Maggiore & Lago di Como World www.gadis.it/expo more info Tour Example What else to do at Lake Maggiore Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Lago Maggiore tour programs: Campione d'Italia and Lugano With this excursion, you will have the opportunity to discover the town of Campione d'Italia, situated on the banks of Lake Lugano, whose peculiarity is that it is Italian, yet it is entirely surrounded by Swiss land. It is famous for its elegant casino, but it also possesses highly important artistic monuments, such as the sanctuary of Santa Maria dei Ghirli with its extraordinary pictorial cycles dating back to the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, and the small oratory of Saint Peter, situated in the centre. After a short game at the casino, you might need to keep your money safe! So in the afternoon, we will move to Lugano, the town of banks! Visit to the city centre and the elegant waterfront. Lake of Lugano - Mini-cruise Camellia blossom on Lago Maggiore For those who would like to enjoy spring at the height of colour, a trip to see the camellias in bloom on Lake Maggiore is an absolute must. An impressive event of nature in its own right, with its delightful landscape and magnificent parks and gardens, the backdrop of Lake Maggiore lends a totally unique frame to the sensational view of the camellias in bloom. In recent years, more and more visitors have been attracted to this popular lake to see the camellias in bloom, with a total of around 20,000 flower lovers last year who came to enjoy these ornamental plants in their full glory. Day 1 Arrival at Lake Maggiore and arrangements in hotel for 3 nights HB. Day 2 After breakfast in the hotel, the first day cannot but be dedicated to a visit to the Borromeo Islands with the imposing Baroque palace on Isola Bella and its splendid Italian garden. In the afternoon, after having seen the finest flowers enhancing the landscapes of Lake Maggiore, you will have the chance to glean all the secrets used to grow these plants thanks to the "tricks of the trade" revealed by "master" nurseryman accompanying you on a visit to his nursery. Take notes so you can apply his precious hints and suggestions at home! Day 3 After breakfast, we will move over to the Swiss part of the Lake to visit Lucerne, where you will be able to admire other types of camellia and magnolia in the Park of Camellias. A delightful afternoon boat trip to Brissago Island for a visit to the botanical garden. Day 4 Breakfast and departure for return. N.B. The programme is subject to minor variations 22 Travel Ideas depending on the opening dates for the botanical gardens. Programme details 3 nights HB with Welcome drink in 3 Hotel on Lake Maggiore 1 Guide for full day excursion to Borromeo Islands and nursery 1 return Boat trip to Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori 1 Entrance to the Palace and gardens of Isola Bella 1 Visit to a nursery 1 Guide for full day excursion to Lucerne and visit to the Park of Camellias and the Botanical Park on Brissago Island 1 Entrance to the Park of Camellias 1 Return Boat trip to Brissago 1 Entrance to the Botanical Park on Brissago Island Package price per person, 4 days from € 179 You cannot say that you have truly seen Lugano if you do not dedicate at least an hour to sailing on the waters of the lake in order to discover the beauties of the Ticino capital and its distinctive neighbouring countryside. With this hour-long mini-cruise, you will be able to have a taste of the lake view, going from Lugano-Paradiso-Melide-Campione-Caprino-Gandria-Castagnola-Lugano, with the possibility of two stops during the voyage. Pallanza - The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto The botanical gardens of Villa Taranto in Pallanza cover an area of approximately 20 hectares. In the gardens, visitors will be greeted by magnificent, extensive patches of azaleas, maple trees, rhododendrons and camellias: a myriad of images in a never-ending colourful array of rare beauty. Macugnaga - The "Casa Walser" museum and the old gold mine At the foot of Monte Rosa lies the charming village of Macugnaga, where time seems to have stood still. Here you will get a realistic taste of the history of the Walser, an early Germanic tribe, who settled here. Together with the "Casa Walser" museum, the old gold mine of Macugnaga - the only gold mine in Europe open to tourists - is well worth a visit! tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Como - The silk museum The manufacturing of silk has always been one of the most important industrial sectors in the area of Como. The museum displays all the historic devices and equipment used for weaving silk: Handlooms, production control instruments, the chemistry laboratory, machinery for the final refinement of the textiles and the printing house. Lake Maggiore - Born of the passion of one man, a museum dedicated to engines Mr Alfio Gottardo, a mechanics and technology enthusiast, has spent his whole life searching for vehicles, equipment and engines from all eras and all countries of the world. A trip that allows you to discover the history of transport: from military fighters to armoured cars and steam engines. Upon entering the park, you will immediately find out what it means to "have a passion" and the pleasure in having others take part in it. Milan - A stroll with Leonardo da Vinci Leonardo da Vinci, a man, a genius. A mysterious legendary character, an artist looking into the future between symbolism, technique and philosophy. The novel "The Da Vinci Code" provides an example of all the interest and debate turning around this myth. Milan houses with jealous care the works of Leonardo who spent 25 years in this city. In addition to the Ultima Cena, one of the greatest artistic masterpieces ever created we have chosen for you the Museum of Science and Technology, the horse monument in San Siro, the largest horse statue all over the world and the Castello Sforzesco. lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Lake Como under the magnifying glass Slow Info Tour Example Very often, due attention is not given to all the beauties of Lake Como; it is well-known for the villas of famous people, from Hollywood actors to powerful magnates, but there are many things to do and see. First of all, the less famous - but by no means any less beautiful - Lecco branch of the lake is virtually unknown to mass tourism, that ignores the beauty of the towns and views to be found hereabouts. So let's use a magnifying glass to highlight every cultural and landscape point of view of Lake Como. Day 1 Arrival and hotel arrangements in the Pescate area for 4 nights HB. Day 2 Full day guided visit to Como; we take the cable car up to Brunate and the unique view over the lake and mountains surrounding and embracing it. In the afternoon, we visit the Silk Museum, an undisputed speciality of local industry. Day 3 The central part of the lake is undoubtedly the best known: the morning is dedicated to a visit to Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, followed by the stunning spectacle of the lakeside villas seen from a private boat. The afternoon sees a visit to Bellagio, the "pearl" of Lake Como, returning by way of Varenna, a small and characteristic town on the eastern shore. This area is home to the villas most sought after by the international jet set. Day 4 Lecco is one of the richest and most important cities in Lombardy; it lies at the feet of the valleys leading to Valtellina and this is why it enjoys a particularly pleasant climate all year round. The fame of the city and nearby towns is bound with Alessandro Manzoni, considered to be one of the finest novelists of all time, who set here the most widely read novel in Italian: The Betrothed. Lunch in a typical restaurant and free afternoon. Day 5 After breakfast and the last group photo, departure and return. Programme details 4 nights HB in a 3 Hotel near Pescate 1 Welcome Drink 1 typical dinner in the Hotel, included in half board 1 Guide for full-day excursion to Como, Brunate and visit to the Silk Museum 1 cable car trip Como-Brunate, Return 1 entrance to the Silk Museum 1 Guide full day for Villa Carlotta, Bellagio and Varenna 1 entrance to Villa Carlotta 1 Private boat trip Tremezzo-Bellagio-Varenna 1 Guide for half day excursion to Lecco with Manzoni-related itineraries 1 Lunch in a typical restaurant or farm holiday centre Package price per person, 5 days from € 259 Dolomites - Trekking for the daredevils We are reaching Piancavallo by bus. It is here where we start our climb up the Monte Zeda over the border of the national park Val Grande. After cresting the peaks of Monte Marona and Pizzo Pernice we reach the reverse slope where from one has a spectacular view over the southern part of the Lago Maggiore and , if the weather is good, over the whole lowlands till Milano. Afterwards we come full circle over the Folungo-pass. (duration about 7 hours) tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 23 Lago di Garda & Trentino Tour Example Easy Lake Garda - a true evergreen A classic tour of Lake Garda to which we have nevertheless added a visit to places that are symbolic of the region. It is worth lingering a little longer in Bardolino to taste the prized olive oil, or to take a walk in the Heller gardens at Gardone; and what can we say about the eccentricity of Vittoriale degli Italiani, the former residence of the poet Gabriele D'Annunzio? We could not miss taking a trip a short distance from Lake Garda, where the Giardino Sigurtà park can be found, a perfect mix of park and garden. Considered by international botanists as one of the five most spectacular gardens in the world, we suggest that you take a tour of around 35 minutes by electric train. Then enjoy a beautiful walk to Valeggio sul Mincio and Borghetto and relish the particular beauty of these two little towns! Day 1 Arrival at hotel and accommodation for 4 nights HB. Day 2 Breakfast in hotel. Today, the itinerary is centred around the lake. First stop, Garda, then moving on to the little town of Bardolino. This holiday location is situated on the lower half of the Olive Riviera, at the widest point of Lake Garda. Bardolino, originally a village of lake-dwellings, lies at the foot of the moranic hills and has numerous vineyards and olive groves. Here, you can visit the Museum of Oil and taste this speciality. Then, in the afternoon, you will arrive at Sirmione, an odd peninsula of Lake Garda, whose beauty has attracted the most famous artists in history. Day 3 After breakfast, departure for the Giardino Sigurtà Park. The tour is planned to take place by electric train, which will take you on "the trip of enchantments" for 35 minutes, that is to say, to see the very best of the park-garden. We then continue to Valeggio sul Mincio and Borghetto. Valeggio sul Mincio is a village which lies between two regions, Lombardy and Veneto. Together with the magnificent medieval town of Borghetto, thanks to 24 its artistic patrimony, which has earned it the recog- describe the eccentricity of this spot. It is therefore a nition of a city of art, is renowned for its medieval for- definite must-see! tifications and the beauty of its landscape, but also Day 5 After breakfast, departure back home. its good food. The "Tortellini di Valeggio" are Programme details such a delicious culinary speciality that Valeggio has 4 nights HB in 3 hotel in the area north of Lake become a genuine gourmet industry, with its stores Garda selling fresh pasta and restaurants. Return to hotel 1 full day guided tour to Garda, Bardolino and for dinner. Sirmione Day 4 After a good breakfast, our attention returns 1 visit and tasting at the Olive Oil Museum at Cisato the splendid Lake Garda and in particular, the no di Bardolino Gardone Riviera, on the western shore of the lake. 1 full day guided tour to visit the Giardino Sigurtà As well as the sights of the little town, we will also Park and Borghetto visit the André Heller Botanical Gardens. The 1 entrance to the Giardino Sigurtà Park garden was created in 1901 by the Austrian dentist 1 electric train for a tour of the park Arturo Hruska, who collected many types of plants on 1 full day guided tour to visit Gardone, Heller Garthe land around his villa. Since 1988 this has belonged dens and the Vittoriale to the artist André Heller. It is now home to sculptures 1 entrance to Heller Gardens by Keith Hearing and Roy Lichtenstein, amongst others, which stand amidst over 500 plant varieties such 1 entrance to the Vittoriale including D'Annunzio as cacti, edelweiss, osmunda regalis, magnolias, orMuseum chids, water lilies and trees. Package price per person, 5 days Still in Gardone, we find one of the most curious Italian monuments, the Vittoriale. No words can from € 229 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Travel Ideas What else to do at Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example Garda Lake... for everyone's taste!. For those who like travelling to the Garda Lake on a more active or unusual holiday. Here is a tour of the Lake from North to South with either boat or bus transfers, but mainly by foot. Nothing really Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your hard, but comfortable shoes are recommended. It's a more energetic way to enjoy the Lake and its Garda lake tour programs: beauties, at everyone's reach. You will still have the chance to admire less known places, which are usually unreachable by classic bus-tours. A nice mix of experiences for a different perspective view of Rovereto - Castel Noarna - A typical me- travelling around the lake. A tour dedicated to those who like walking outdoor, enjoying the nature, dieval dinner What is the best thing in a typical picturesque villages and their history and simple wine & food tradition. So... really for everyone's autumnal dinner, Trentino style? Barley soup, mixed taste! Garda Lake meats with side dishes of sauerkraut and potatoes, apple tart that is still warm and Törggele, in other words, roasted chestnuts with Torbolino wine. All of this unfolds in a room of the castle, lit by candles and the fire in the great fireplace. Falzes - visit to a mountain pine oil distillery and herb garden On a farm just a few miles outside Falzes, essential oils and other natural remedies for the treatment of illnesses are produced: Lavender oil against itching, arnica against contractures and muscular pains and many other little miracle cures! The distillery uses raw materials for the production of these treatments from wild plants taken from the high Alps. Ancient methods handed down through the generations are used to produce essential oils of the finest quality. You can see how essential oils are produced from May to October. A stroll from Appiano: the three Castles Not far from Caldaro lies Appiano (15 minutes by car), the area with the highest number of castles in all Europe. More than 200 castles, ruins and fortresses bear witness to an eventful history, full of significant moments for the province. This trip lasts about two hours and the departure point is the parking area in Missiano, from where we follow the path to Castel Corba, Castello d'Appiano, Kreideturm and finally the ruins of Castel Boymont. It is possible to have a break and refreshments at each of the three castles/fortresses. Isola del Garda - the enchanting float- Day 1 Arrival at hotel. Welcome aperitif and dinner. Day 2 Immediately after breakfast, we leave for the Riva del Garda pier to board the ferry. From the ferry, you will be able to see Lake Garda from a different and unusual viewpoint, and receive all the necessary information from your guide. After about 3 hours on the water, we reach Sirmione, the pearl of Lake Garda. After a stroll with the guide, you can enjoy a bit of free time to discover even the most hidden corners of the town by yourselves. Return late afternoon to the hotel by bus. Dinner in hotel. Day 3 Today, we advise you to wear a good pair of comfortable shoes. Indeed, we leave Riva del Garda on foot to arrive at Torbole (about 50 minutes walk), where we plan to take a break. From Torbole, you will then arrive at Malcesine by ferry (the journey lasts about 1 hour), where you can take a stroll with the guide. Early in the afternoon, a charming walk from Malcesina to Brenzone (about 1 hour and a half), a small place where we will take the final break. From Brenzone, return to the hotel by bus. Dinner in hotel. Day 4 Today, Verona! No exercise today, but a pleasant excursion to the city of Romeo and Juliet and the Arena. In Verona, the guide will be waiting to take you on a tour of two hours to discover the treasures of the city; free time will be available after this for visits and shopping. Return to hotel by bus in late afternoon and dinner in hotel. Day 5 After breakfast, you will arrive at Punta S. Vigilio by bus, for a walk and some free time. Late morning, a walk of about 1 hour and a half along the shore of Lake Garda to Lazise where a stop is planned to explore the characteristic lakeside area. Late afternoon, departure by bus for the hotel. Dinner in hotel. Day 6 After a lovely breakfast, we reach Riva del Garda where we leave on foot for a visit to the Varone Waterfalls (about 1 hour's walk). You will then go by bus to Arco di Trento to admire the castle, the arboretum and the historic centre. Another hour's walk is planned for the early afternoon, from Arco to Linfano, to visit a cellar for wine-tasting and a snack. Return to hotel by bus for dinner. Day 7 After breakfast, departure for return journey. Programme details 6 nights HB in a 3 Hotel, North Garda Lake area 1 Welcome drink 2 lunch packets 1 full day escorted tour from Riva to Sirmione 1 boat excursion from Riva to Sirmione 1 full day escorted tour Torbole, Malcesine, Brenzone 1 boat excursion from Torbole to Malcesine 1 guided tour of Verona (2 hours) 1 full day escorted tour Punta S. Vigilio, Garda, Lazise 1 full day escorted tour to Cascata del Varone and Arco 1 Admission ticket to Cascata del Varone 1 visit to a winery with wine tasting and snack 1 bottle of wine, as gift Package price per person, 7 days from € 314 ing garden The trip from Gardone to the only island in Lake Garda takes just ten minutes by motor boat. The one kilometer long island, belonging to Count Cavazza, provides an impressive micro-cosmos. Our two-hour walk leads us through untouched vegetation, English gardens and Italian style parks, as well as some of the halls of the magnificent neo-Gothic, Venetian style villa, and includes the boat trip, visit to the island and aperitif. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 25 Lago di Garda & Trentino Tour Example Garda from above Walking on Baldo through nature and ancient traditions "You haven't really been somewhere unless you've been there on foot", Goethe once said. We travel on foot through the heights behind Lake Garda to discover a very special mountain world known only by a few. Walking is the only way to reach the famous Malghe Baldensi, buildings that are very typical of the area and are thought to have been built for storing milk. In this way, we can observe all the geology, fauna and flora of the region up close, as well as enjoying a breathtaking view. But it's not just mountains: popping in to see Bardolino and Sermione is an absolute must! Day 1 Arrival at hotel in San Zeno di Montagna, a pleasant little town in the hills, with a panoramic view over Lake Garda, where ancient pathways invite you to take a walk between lake and mountain. Accommodation for 4 nights HB. Day 2 After a hearty breakfast, departure from the hotel by bus to arrive in Prada, from where the walk up Mount Baldo begins. With this excursion, you will be able to discover the Baldo "malghe", which are typical of the mountains around Garda. These are stone buildings with rounded sides and windows made of slits in the stone to allow ventilation into the building, where milk was kept. Built in the 1500s, restored in the 1700s, used and inhabited until 50 years ago, milk was processed in each 'malga'. Walking along the Prà Zilon pathways, we reach the little church of San Eustachio and the Monteselli Malga. We then continue towards the La Prà Malga and the Malga dei Santi. The trip lasts around 6 hours, including a stop in a malga for lunch and a tour to learn how milk is produced. Characteristics: medium difficulty in the first part un- 26 til Malga Zilon, easy for the second part. Day 3 The excursion planned for today will take place by bus and on foot. Indeed, we leave the hotel by bus and arrive at Caprino Veronese and then Spiazzi, where the first stop is scheduled. From there, we continue on foot, climbing up to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. It was built in a narrow natural clearing, and part of it projects from and part is carved into a wall of rock. It is one of the most characteristic buildings of the area. We must then continue from here by bus for 9km to Ferrara di Monte Baldo, a place famous for iron extraction. On foot, you will reach the Gabon malga by walking through a beech wood. During this journey, you will also be able to admire a glacier, dating from the Mesolithic period, and for those who are most interested, we can also visit the Botanical Gardens of Baldo, where more than 1,000 flower species are displayed. Return to hotel by bus. The excursion lasts 5 hours, including breaks. Characteristics: easy. Packed lunch provided by hotel. Day 4 Departure from hotel by bus for Bardolino, one of the gems of Lake Garda, which deserves to be visited as much for the natural delights of the lake as for the beautiful countryside and hills that act as a backdrop. This area produces the famous Bardolino wine. Continuing by bus, we arrive at Sirmione, the tourist centre and internationally famed spa, esteemed even by the ancient Romans. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 5 After breakfast and a final photograph of the view of Lake Garda, departure for return trip. Programme details 4 nights HB in a 3 hotel in San Zeno di Montagna 1 barbecue dinner in hotel 2 full day guided walking tours 1 snack in a mountain hut 1 lunch packet 1 full day guided tour of Bardolino and Sirmione Package price per person, 5 days from € 189 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Riva del Garda - Lake Garda by sailing boat! Sailing is one of the most beloved sports at Lake Garda. What about trying it? How nice to finish your practice day with a real regata? All that is really possible, always followed by a skipper and a qualified team that will accompany you during the whole excursion. And by the way, don't forget that by boat you will have the chance to admire the Lake beauties, such as its islands, waterfalls and hidden bays. Nothing to worry about: an activity suitable to everyone (younger and older visitors), absolutely not hard, at which specific skills are not required. And fun is guaranteed! You can't really miss it! Lake Garda - Lake Garda by scooter For travellers loving adventure, who loves "spicy" holidays... a lovely tour by scooter along the southern shore of the Garda lake. Crossing Desenzano, Sirmione, Bardolino and Lazise hunting for the most picturesque and hidden spots of the lake. We take care of everything: scooters, elmets, road books and all what you may need to set off with your scooter and have a great day! Cisano - Bardolino, 'Piccolo Doge' Restaurant A very beautiful restaurant between Cisano and Bardolino. In summer, you can also pick a spot on the large terrace that looks out directly over Lake Garda. A very refined atmosphere that is shown as much by the special features of the building, a reminder of the aristocratic palazzos of the Venetian republic, as by the furnishings. The restaurant is famous for knowing how to interpret special dishes of both meat and fish, so as to heighten their clean flavours by pairing them with a selection of red and white wines. For an unforgettable dinner, immerse yourself in the evocative view of Lake Garda. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Trentino South Tyrol in tour. Slow Info Tour Example Hills, valleys, lakes and a great river that softens the countryside further south to leave space for the cultivation of fruit that is famous throughout the world. We are talking about the Trentino Alto Adige region. With a short tour, we will aim to show you the peculiarities of this splendid area: from the Val di Non to the Valle dei Laghi, to the symbolic cities of Suedtirol, Merano and Bolzano. Of course you will not miss: the visit to the exceedingly famous fruit farm in Val di Non; the gardens of Castello di Trauttmansdorff and an unforgettable stop with a tasting of the highly prized Vin Santo on the terrace of Castello del Toblino. Day 1 Arrival and check-in for 5 nights HB. Day 2 Breakfast at the hotel. Today's programme offers a guided full immersion into the "apple fruit world" in Val di Non and then a visit to a farm for the selection of apples and consequent packaging process. Visit of the "Melinda" consortium formed by 5200 farmers, with tasting of apples and applemade specialities. Day 3 After breakfast, full day guided visit of Trento, Arco and the Lakes Valley. A beautiful narrow valley connects Trento to the Lake Garda, called the Valle dei Laghi (the lakes valley) because of the many small lakes in the area. This is where a delicious wine called "Vino Santo Trentino" is produced, a sweet wine which is perfect if combined with cakes and tarts. After a short stop at the lake Toblino, where we can try this wine while sitting on a terrace with a panoramic view over the lake, we then continue direction Arco. Return via Rovereto and the Adige valley. Day 4 Full day guided visit of Merano and the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff. After breakfast, transfer to Merano where our guide waits for us for a city tour. Not far from Merano we visit the Trauttmansdorff Castle with its fabulous gardens, that worth a visit! The whole World in a single garden: in eleven Pavilions, different artists make natural landscapes alive again, "green spaces" to be lived in peace, different garden styles from all over Europe show the historic relationship between men and nature. Day 5 Full day guided visit of Bolzano, Castelrotto and St. Ulrich. After breakfast, departure from the hotel and meeting with your tour leader in Bolzano. Visit of the city and stop in 3 different bars, where we taste different wines together with regional products. The visit lasts about 2,5 hours.Free time in Bolzano for lunch. In the early afternoon we go to Castelrotto for a break in the nice village of St. Ulrich. Late afternoon, return to the hotel. Day 6 After breakfast, journey back home. Programme details 5 nights HB in a 3 Hotel in Trentino / S. Tyrol area 1 full day guided tour for the "Melinda world" 1 visit to the "Melinda" consortium and tasting of Melinda-products 1 Full day guided tour of Trento and Valle dei Laghi 1 tasting of "Vin Santo Trentino" at Castel Toblino 1 full day guided tour of Merano und Trauttmansdorff gardens 1 Admission ticket Trauttmansdorff gardens including guided tour of the gardens 1 full day guided tour of Bolzano, Castelrotto und S. Ulrich 1 wine tasting with small regional products snack in 3 wine bars in Bolzano Package price per person, 6 days from € 423 Valeggio sul Mincio - Parco Giardino Sigurtà: beyond the visits The Sigurtà park and gardens, located within a short distance from the Lake Garda, is one of the most well-known parks worldwide. After a nice walk or a tour by a small train, why don't we stop longer and enjoy a good cappuccino surrounded by such a beautiful scenery? Close to the Roses Lane, the most panoramic corner of the park, we can get the necessary set-up ready for your break with coffee, tea, cappuccino, soft drinks, cakes or tartes... It seldom happens to have a coffee in the most famous garden-park of the region! It is also possible to organize aperitifs and gala dinners. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 27 Veneto Tour Example & Friuli Venezia Giulia The Veneto in all its splendour From Venice to Vicenza, passing through Treviso and Padua: the classic tour of the most beautiful cities of Veneto. We will guarantee the good result of this programme, since some of our visitors have already experimented it. You will discover the artistic features of each city you are going to visit, together with the natural beauties they are nestled in. You won't certainly miss the well-known Prosecco wine route, where you will also have the opportunity to taste this appreciated wine. We recommend a 3 Hotel in Lido di Jesolo. Day 1 Arrival and check in at hotel in Lido di Jesolo. Day 2 Excursion to Murano, Burano and Venice. From Punta Sabbioni, you will take a private boat to the islands of Murano and Burano. In Murano, you'll also visit a glass-blowing shop. After the excursion, your boat will take you to Venice: free time to discover the peculiarities of this city on the Lagoon. At the conclusion, the boat will take you to back to Punta Sabbioni to return to the hotel. Day 3 Today, Treviso. Treviso may be considered one of Italy's most beautiful painted cities. The frescoes and decoration that adorn archways, churches, and palaces bring the city's history to life. Running through Treviso is the Sile River, which, together with a labyrinth of canals, gives the city an idyllic atmosphere. In Treviso, a guided walking tour so that you can see the city (excludes all entrance fees). After a 28 bit of time on your own in the afternoon, you'll reach Italy's oldest wine route, where you'll visit a Prosecco wine cellar and finally get a chance to try Prosecco wine. Afterwards, return trip to the hotel. Day 4 Morning travel by motor coach to the university city of Padua, where you'll take a two-hour guided tour. A city with ancient origins - it was a pre-Roman settlement - Padua still retains numerous, intact signs of its important past. The vibrant old city with its lively squares, arcades, and beautiful palaces boasts artistic and architectural treasures of incomparable beauty. After a bit of time on your own, you'll travel with the motor coach on to Vicenza, the City of Palladio, where a touristic guide will help you to discover this elegant city. Late in the afternoon, r return trip to the hotel. Day 5 Departure. Programme details 4 nights HB in a good 3 hotel in Lido di Jesolo. 1 half day escorted tour Murano and Burano islands 1 private boat Punta Sabbioni- Islands - San Marco - Punta Sabbioni 1 full day escorted tour of Treviso and the Prosecco Wine Route 1 Visit to a winery with tasting of Prosecco wine and snack 1 half day guided city tour of Padua 1 half day guided city tour of Vicenza Package price per person, 5 days from € 206 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Discovering Veneto Travel Ideas What else to do in Veneto Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Venice & Friuli tour programs: Verona - Risotto cookery class! The "Ferron" rice mill is an institution in the Verona valley which has made a major contribution to the local rice growing trade. In addition to visiting the production site, you can also take part in a "risotto cooking class", in which a cook puts his long experience at your disposal to teach you how to prepare a true risotto. Round off this experience with a gourmet meal. Each participant will receive a printout of the recipes learnt. Negrar - The Gardens of Pojega and the wines of Valpolicella Today, Pojega is a village that includes Villa Rizzardi and its gardens. The garden, commissioned in 1783 by Antonio Rizzardi, represents one of the finest examples of Italian gardening style, famous for its grassy theatre and spectacular views. It is around 54,000 m² in size, where a temple, theatre, walls, galleries and a look-out point were built by transforming and bending trees, hedges and water into a phantasmagorical setting for shows. Verona - Ristorante Maffei Dinner in a restaurant located in the most famous palazzo of the ancient Veronese aristocracy. It offers a splendid platform from which to view the Piazza delle Erbe and one of the most well-stocked cellars in Italy for wine tasting, hidden amongst the ancient ruins of the Roman Capitol. The restaurant has every comfort and offers typical Mediterranean cuisine of meat and fish with a twist, guaranteeing high quality service for a lunch and/or dinner with attention to detail in an elegant setting. Padua - "Be king of the castle for a day" in the Bevilacqua castle The castle was built in 1336 on an ancient Roman Castrum by Count Bevilacqua. Over the centuries it has resisted well against the signs of time. Today it offers that magical decoration which will allow you live like the king of the castle for a day. The day begins with a guided tour of the castle, followed by various specially organized activities: a lesson in gothic handwriting and an archery session. To round off the day you will be offered three types of wine and a light meal. On request, magnificent gala dinners can be arranged inside the castle. Slow Info Tour Example Cosy little villages, Venetian villas, important cities and great wines... A 6-day tour that will take you on an exploration of the symbolic places of the region. First up, Padua, with its hills, the beautiful scenery and very famous wines that are produced in the area. Then we have dedicated a full day to take a trip by boat along river Brenta, including a visit to two of the most well-known Venetian villas. A day in Verona, with a stop in Valpolicella is recommended, as well as Vicenza, Bassano del Grappa and Marostica. Thus, in a few days we see all the beauties of the region and more… Day 1 Arrival at hotel in the Monselice area. This is a very good 3 hotel with well-furnished, spacious rooms, good service and very welcoming staff. They offer an excellent, hearty buffet breakfast, which is very important for starting your day in the best possible way! Day 2 Today's excursion takes you firstly to Padua, which is situated a few kilometres away from Monselice. Here, you will meet the guide who will take you on a tour of the beautiful city for more than two hours. In the afternoon, however, we depart to explore the formerly volcanic Euganean Hills, which rise up to the south-west of the city of Padua. A visit to Arquà Petrarca, a little medieval village nestled into Mount Velone, is not to be missed. Francesco Petrarch, a 14th century Italian writer and poet, came to live here in 1370. Praglia is also a spot that deserves a short stop, to see its Benedictine abbey. The Euganean Hills are also well-known for wines: we will taste them in a winery with a little snack. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 3 Monselice is a good base from which to visit the whole Brenta area and its villas, especially with a boat trip down the Brenta. We arrive at Stra by bus, from where we set off by boat, following the same route as the ancient Venetian barges of the 18th century. We then continue our voyage to Malcontenta, where we will be able to visit Villa Foscari, nicknamed La Malcontenta. From here, we return to the hotel by bus for dinner. Day 4 Today, Verona! You will leave immediately after breakfast to join your guide who will be waiting for you in the city to take you on a guided tour for about two hours. Then, a bit of free time for lunch and a spot of shopping. In the afternoon, we stop at Valpolicella, an area that is very famous for producing great wines, such as Amarone. Here, we will visit a cellar, with wine tasting and a little snack. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 5 After breakfast, we travel to Vicenza by bus for a guided city tour. Situated at the foot of the Berici hills, Vicenza is blessed with a natural backdrop of unparalleled beauty, which becomes a truly unique setting thanks to the numerous villas in the typical style of the Veneto region. No visitor can fail to be carried away by the impressive world of the great architect Andrea Palladio. Then we leave for Bassano del Grappa, a typical little town at the foot of Mount Grappa. The historic centre is very beautiful with numerous shops, which bear witness to the region's ancient artisan and commercial tradition. We will also visit the Grappa Museum in the very centre of Bassano, and taste the famous Bassano grappa. We continue on to Marostica, famous for its chequered piazza, where in 1454, two suitors played a game of chess for the hand of the regional governor's daughter. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 6 After breakfast, departure for return journey. Programme details 5 nights HB in a good 3 hotel, Monselice area 1 full day guided tour of Padua and Euganean Hills 1 wine tasting with snack 1 full day guided tour Brenta, Stra, Malcontenta 1 boat trip from Stra to Malcontenta 1 lunch at a typical Brenta restaurant, incl. drinks 1 admission ticket to Villa Widmann 1 admission ticket to Villa Malcontenta 1 full day guided tour of Verona and Valpolicella 1 tasting with snack in Valpolicella 1 full day guided tour of Vicenza, Bassano and Marostica 1 visit to Grappa Museum with grappa tasting Package price per person, 6 days from € 386 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 29 Veneto & Friuli Venezia Giulia Travel Ideas What else to do in Veneto Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Veneto & Friuli tour programs: Padua - Visit Padua… along its canals! Sailing through the canals of Padua allows us to get to know a new aspect of the city; a different way of discovering the ancient walls, banks and streets that once characterised the nature of the city. We start right in the heart of the city, a stone's throw from the Scrovegni Chapel, arriving in Bassanello, an ancient fishing village. Po Ebene - Mini nature cruise through the Po Delta For those nature-lovers who wish to know all the characteristics and species in the particular environment of the delta of the River Po. The best solution is to take a boat trip with an environmental nature guide to explore this little world that stretches out to the sea, via a series of countless tiny channels. Tour The mouth of the Po is also quite interesting from a Example scenic point of view, with lagoons and reedbeds that Friuli is one of the most famous regions for producing great wines in Italy. Here is a little tour for take on a reddish hue at sunset. Wine tour in Friuli aficionados that aims to deepen their knowledge of the typicality of the different Friuli production areas. The two day trips will take you to the Collio and Colli Orientali del Friuli (COF) areas, the main Venice - Make your own Venetian hubs where the great Friuli white wines are produced. You will have the chance to visit two wineries mask! The masks of the Venice Carnival are famous on each day and to taste their products. They are prestigious cellars, renowned for the quality of their throughout the world. A specialist from Venice will products. In addition to all this, we have also thought about the more 'cultural' aspect of the tour, with a visit to some spots nearby. All that remains, therefore, is to drink a toast to a successful trip! Cheers! reveal all the tricks for making a real Venetian mask Day 1 Arrival and accommodation for 3 nights HB in hotel in the Udine area. Day 2 A guided tour of the city of Udine, capital of the Collio province, is planned for today. This is then followed by the visit to the first winery established at the end of the 1800s. It is not only valued for its wine production, and recognised by countless international awards, but also for the beauty of the countryside in which it is situated. A short distance from here, we arrive at the Castle of Spessa, famous for its wines and splendid location - the castle is also suitable for hosting special events. After the visit to the cellars, there is a wine tasting. Return to hotel in late afternoon for dinner. Day 3 Today we depart for Cividale del Friuli, where an introductory guided tour to the Colli Orientali del Friuli area is planned. Afterwards, around lunchtime, we will visit a very famous winery in the area. Here, we can offer you a light lunch with a tasting menu: a short menu with several courses, each of which has been paired with a wine from the cellar. Warning: only products that are typical of the 30 region will be tasted! In the afternoon however, you will visit the Abbey of Rosazzo, which is equipped with a cellar to store wines from a notable Friulian wine-producing business. Wine tasting with snack. Return to hotel in late afternoon for dinner. Day 4 After a final group photo, departure for return journey. Goodbye, Friuli! Programme details 3 nights HB in a good 3 hotel in the Udine area 1 full day guided tour of Udine and trip to two Collio cellars 1 winery visit and tasting with snack 1 winery visit and wine tasting 1 full day guided tour of Cividale and two cellars in Colli Orientali del Friuli (COF) 1 winery visit and tasting menu with matching wines 1 winery visit with tasting and snack Package price per person, 4 days and then he will show you how to create a personalised one in papier-mâché. Venice - Rowing in Venice… like the Venetians Right on Venice lagoon, a particular rowing technique was born that is part of the most ancient traditions of the city. This is "voga veneta" ("Venetian rowing"), used today in competitions during the Regata Storica (Historic Regatta). With a minicourse of about two hours, you have the chance to try out and learn this technique, firmly linked to the population of this lagoon city. Venezia - Ristorante Poste Vecie This is the oldest restaurant in Venice. Founded in the year 1500 as a "trattoria" for the mail dispatchers, the fireplaces are still original. It was the first place to cook with the spices which the oriental merchants introduced to Venice. The Poste Vecie is located right in the center of the famous fish market of Rialto. For this reason, all the fish dishes are excellent. from € 235 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Venice - Exclusive! Towering over the Lagoon Venice is one of the international capitals of modern and contemporary art, until the Vecchia Dogana del Mar, the symbolic building of the city, reopened to the public, thus joining Palazzo Grassi as the hub of the Centre for Modern and Contemporary Art of the Francois Pinault Foundation. It is known today as the "Punta della Dogana", an extraordinary building facing on to the Giudecca canal, that offers one of the most charming views over Venice. We can organise an exclusive visit to the current exhibition (even after public opening hours) and, why not, an aperitif on the terrace of the Hotel Belvedere! With a UNIQUE view of St Mark's Square and the Isola della Giudecca, this is an unforgettable and highly exclusive experience, ideal for your most exacting clients! Literary atmospheres in Trieste Trieste has always been a melting pot of races, including three different peoples that have come together there: Italians, Germans and Slavs. The environment in Trieste allows for a close bond with Central European culture, which, during the 19th and 20th centuries, was one of the most vibrant in the field of literature, as well as in philosophical thought, science, music and the figurative arts. An itinerary that winds through literary history, with anecdotes of the lives led in the city of some of the most distinguished representatives of modern literature; key places for a real, symbolic journey through the imagination to become acquainted with Italo Svevo, James Joyce and Umberto Saba, but also Fulvio Tomizza, Veit Heinichen and Claudio Magris. Venice - The Galeone Veneziano This ship was created thanks to the passion of Andrea Longo for his home town, Venice, and his sea, the Lagoon. A genuine Venetian Galleon was planned on the basis of the original 18th century drawings. The Galeone, however, does not transport any spices, fabrics and sailors from the colonies back to their country of origin, but offers thrilling excursions through the calm waters of the Venetian Lagoon. Guests enjoy a trip to the most well known islands such as Murano, Burano and Torcello, or the lesser known yet beautiful islands of Sant'Erasmo, San Francesco del Deserto, San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni. Yet the most wonderful adventure of all happens in the evening, as the Galeone glides slowly along the canals of the Lagoon to reach Saint Mark's square. As it cruises along, experienced personnel provide music and entertainment whilst guests savour an opulent buffet or dinner served at the table, with an enchanting view over Saint Mark's square. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Classic Friuli Slow Info Tour Example Grado, Trieste, Udine, Gorizia… these are only some of the cities in Friuli that deserve a visit. Friuli is a region steeped in history and folklore. It has always been a crossroads for different cultures and peoples thanks to its geographical position, and diversity really is its greatest resource. A classic tour to discover all that Friuli can offer, both scenically, with gentle hills, the lagoon, the sea and golden beaches, and culturally, with splendid cities of art and a wine & food tradition that has few equals. Day 1 Arrival and accommodation in hotel for 5 nights HB. Day 2 Today we leave for Trieste and Miramare Castle. In the morning, we take a guided walk through Trieste, where you can inhale a special type of air: it is a Central European city where great writers, such as James Joyce, Italo Svevo and Umberto Saba, have been inspired. It is a city of great passions, such as that felt for the sea that embraces Piazza d'Unità, or for coffee, which definitely has to be tried in one of the historic cafés in the city. Miramare Castle is situated a short distance from Trieste. Its location right above the sea offers a splendid view of the Gulf of Trieste. After visiting the sumptuous original interior, enjoy a little relaxation time in the beautiful park. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 3 First of all on today's trip, you will visit Aquileia, in the past a Roman colony and a major crossroads for the Danube and Balkan countries. The region is well known for its archaeological excavations. The archaeological museum and the basilica with its floor mosaics are particularly worth a visit. We will then move on to a wine-producing business to visit the cellar and taste some of the wines that they produce. We finish the day with a guided tour of Grado. Return to hotel in late afternoon and dinner. Day 4 Immediately after breakfast, departure for Udine, the capital of Friuli, with charming Venetian piazzas and ancient palazzos. The guided tour will help you to understand its history and appreciate its delights. In the afternoon, we arrive at San Daniele del Friuli, perched on a hill with a breathtaking panoramic view! It is known throughout the world for producing the esteemed San Daniele prosciutto. Therefore, we cannot miss visiting a prosciutto producing plant for a tasting, before returning to the hotel. Day 5 Today we move on to Gorizia. Considered to be the "Nice of the Adriatic" for its mild climate, it was also the favourite destination of the Hapsburg bourgeoisie. The medieval castle with its enchanting village is a real gem: from here, the view sweeps over ranges of gentle hills and over the whole city, where medieval, Baroque and nineteenth century architecture live together in harmony. Here, you can also soak up the typical atmosphere of a border town: in Piazza Transalpina, which was physically divided by a wall until 2004, you can walk with one foot in Italy and one in Slovenia. Free afternoon and dinner in hotel. Day 6 After breakfast, departure for return journey. Programme details 5 nights HB in a 3 hotel in the Grado area 1 full day guided tour of Trieste and Miramare Castle 1 entry to Castle Miramare 1 full day guided tour of Aquileia and Grado 1 visit to a winery including wine tasting with snack, in the Aquileia area 1 full day guided tour of Udine and San Daniele 1 visit to prosciutto producing plant and tasting of "San Daniele" prosciutto 1 half day guided tour of Gorizia Package price per person, 6 days from € 287 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 31 Emi lia Romagna Travel Ideas What else to do in Emilia Romagna Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Emilia tour programs: Tour Example Gourmet tour of Emilia Romagna The trip is perfect for exploring the beauty and delicacies of Emilia Romagna, a region famous for its beautiful towns surrounded by hills where some of Italy's most world-famous traditional products are tucked away: Reggiano Parmigiano, Parma Ham, balsamic vinegar and Lambrusco wine. This trip will give you a chance to experience all the region's most traditional offerings. The ultimate expression of this will be the rich, traditional Romagna dinner and wine tasting in the Modena hillside at wellknown farm that has been run by the same family for over 5 generations; the experience will begin with a tour of the wine cellars guided by the winemaker. Day 1 Check in, dinner at hotel and overnight. Day 2 Breakfast and departure for the Bologna arcades with guide. Half-day guided tour of Bologna and a light lunch of typical Bologna fare. Free afternoon in the city. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 3 Breakfast and departure for Modena with guide. Guided tour of Modena in the morning. After the city tour, visit one of the most famous balsamic vinegar producers in Modena, with a light lunch and tasting. Dinner at a farm in the Modena area. Day 4 Breakfast and departure to explore the Modena wine trail and its most important wine: Lambrusco. Guided tour of Sorbara, Carpi and Castelvetro where the following are produced: Lambrusco di Sorbara, Lambrusco Salamino and Lambrusco Grasparossa. Return to hotel in the afternoon. Special four-course traditional Romagna dinner at hotel and overnight. Day 5 Breakfast and departure. Programme details 4 overnights with enlarged breakfast in a good 3 hotel in Reggio Emilia 2 dinners at hotel (three-course menu) 1 special, 4-course traditional Romagna dinner 1 full-day escorted tour to Bologna 1 guided city tour of Bologna 1 light lunch with a platter of typical assorted cured meats and Bologna-style fried gnocchi 1 full day escorted tour to Modena and surroundings 1 guided city tour of Modena 1 guided tour of one of the most important vinegar producers in Modena 1 light lunch with traditional balsamic vinegar tasting at the vinegar producer's 1 wine cellar tour led by the winemaker, Modena area 1 traditional seven-course dinner with drinks at a Modena area wine cellar 1 full day escorted tour along the Modena wine trail (Sorbara, Carpi, Castelvetro) Package price per person, 5 days Modena - Hombre Organic Farm in Cittanova From stickers to cows, "always pushing the envelope" is the leitmotif of the Panini family. After creating a company based on 800 million kinds of stickers, Umberto decided to turn his hand at farming and started up a model farm. The company name is a nickname dating back to when Umberto Panini emigrated to Venezuela in the fifties as a worker for an oil company and everyone used to call him "Hombre". In his model farm, Hombre produces Parmigiano Reggiano as it was done centuries ago, but respecting the most stringent modern production standards. The company guarantees a cheese that has been produces exclusively through "closed-cycle" organic farming, certified by the CSQA under the new "Organically Farmed " standard. Parma - La Perla Sausage Makers : "the flavours of the olden days" Visit the curing company and have the opportunity to assist in the preparation of Prosciutto di Parma and purchase precious traditional local products directly. Guests will be offered a tasting of choice cured meats and other traditional local products. Bologna - Pasta-making class at a farm in Altedo Take a basic cookery class at a traditional organic farm to learn some of the secrets of tagliatelle and tortellini making alongside the dextrous and knowledgeable so-called master pasta makers. During the break (while the "dough rests") students will be offered a tasting of Lambrusco and Parmigiano Reggiano with traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena. Maximum group size of 15 people. Bologna - Grisham Tour A man running along the streets of Bologna is the cover of John Grisham's thriller, "The Broker", set entirely in this city. It is possible to trace the protagonist's steps through a themed itinerary: Piazza Maggiore, the two leaning towers, the university district from Via Zamboni a Via Fondazza with the church of San Giacomo Maggiore and the oratory of Santa Cecilia. Lunch and/or dinner can be arranged at any number of Grisham's favourite restaurants. from € 208 32 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Bologna - The fortified Castle of Dozza Guided tour of the marvellous and impressive medieval fortress with the small village of Dozza extending out around its base: at the end of the tour, there is the opportunity for a wine tasting with traditional hors d'oeuvres led by a professional sommelier at the Emilia Romagna regional wine shop located in the Sforza Castle . Bologna - Renaissance The Popes, the Baroque city: tours of the places where art and history intertwine, through palazzos and churches, to find out about the city life and events over the centuries. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Active Events Sea and culture of the Adriatic coast Slow Info Tour Example The Adriatic coast has some of the most interesting sites for art and culture in all of Emilia Romagna. All this, together with that special kind of relaxation you can only find at the sea. And to top off a beautiful evening, you can enjoy a fine glass of wine along the shores of the Adriatic! Day 1 Arrival in Bellaria-Igea Marina and check in to a hotel for 3 nights, half board. Day 2 Breakfast and departure for Ravenna with escort. After a guided tour of Ravenna with a local guide, continue on to the Po River Delta where a boat ride immersed in nature awaits you (approx. 2 hours). Return to the hotel and dinner. Day 3 Breakfast and departure for San Marino with escort. After a guided tour with a local guide Bologna - The University (approx. 1 hour), continue on to Urbino for a stroll From its sixteenth-century origin through the through the centre. Return to the hotel for a tradipresent day: a tour which includes stops at the old tional 3-course Romagnola dinner. student haunts, the prestigious Archiginnasio, and Day 4 Breakfast and departure for return trip home. the current university district on the old Via Zamboni. Music Programme details 3 nights B&B with enlarged breakfast in a good 3 at Igea Marina/Bellaria area 2 dinners w/ 3-course menu at the Hotel three-course traditional Romagna dinner at hotel 1 full day tour escort Ravenna 1 half day guided visit Ravenna 1 boat trip on the Po delta 1 full day tour escort San Marino and Urbino 1 guided visit San Marino Package price per person, 4 days from € 124 Bologna - Treasure Hunt! For those who want to get a taste of the city while having fun, we propose a treasure hunt among the different city monuments, with or without a camera, with a prize at the end. Bologna - Aposa river An 800-metre journey into underground Bologna; this is not just a walk but truly a journey through time, from the Roman Bologna of the 1st century BC to the Bologna of the Second World War, all told via stories and legends which engage the visitor in a fantastic trip. Weather permitting and proper attire required. Rimini - Cheese from the Rocks in Talamello Take a guided tour of the rocky cavities (No.2) where the exclusive "Talamello- the cheese from the rocks of Montefeltro" is aged. The explanation and illustrations of all phases of the process are assisted by photos and audiovisuals. On-site tasting of cheese with bread and wine. Emilia Romagna - Trekking in Emilia Romagna Treks of a few hours or several days duration can be arranged with different degrees of difficulty to suit varying needs. Possible landscapes to explore include the mountains, hills, seaside, and marshes. It is also possible to stay overnight in a tent, a wilderness cabin, or a farm guesthouse fitted out with all the creature comforts. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 33 Toscana Travel Ideas What else to do in Tuscany Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Tuscany tour programs: Carrara - Off-road excursions in a 4x4 vehicle through the marble quarries Those who visit the marble quarries in Carrara, remain fascinated by the tortuous, steep roads which climb up the craggy peaks. Watching the trucks routinely challenged to their limits from afar, brings up the urge to experience the same thrill and the same excitement. After all, it is the perfect trail for an off-road vehicle! A short break in Colonnata to taste the ancient food, unique in the world, "lardo di Colonnata; then, continue to Carrara, crossing through the ancient tunnels of the Marmifera Railway. (Upon request) Tour Example Timeless Tuscany without parking issues! A classic trip through Tuscany which includes the most important towns as well as some innovative little ideas that really make a difference; above all, you don't have to worry about the parking!!! A package which finally makes life easy for agencies planning group tours through Tuscany. You make the reservation and we take care of everything else: from the hotel to the tastings, excursions, and bus permits! Day 1 Arrive, check in to hotel in the Montecatini area; settle into rooms, dinner, and overnight. Day 2 Pisa and Certosa di Calci. After breakfast, depart with an escort, arriving in Pisa. Meet up with a local guide and tour one of the most famous and surprising piazzas in the world: Piazza dei Miracoli with its "proud" tower. Continue on to Lari, for a brief tour of an artisanal pasta factory; then, on to Calci to visit the awe-inspiring Calci Charterhouse. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 3 Florence. After breakfast, depart with an escort and arrive in the south-western section of Florence where you will take a tram into the heart of the city. Appointment with a local guide to tour Florence and its monuments. Taking the tram back to the bus, continue on to Montelbano for a bountiful dinner with local products and wine tasting. Return to the hotel and overnight. Day 4 Siena and San Gimignano. After breakfast, head out with escort, arrive in Siena. Meet up with the local guide for a tour of the city, famous for its Piazza del Campo where the renowned palio is held, but there is a lot more for visitors to see. Continue on to San Gimignano, the city of towers. After taking a walk up to the Piazza della Cisterna, continue on to a farm for a generous tasting of wine and many 34 kinds of "saffron-based" treats, remarkable products which have been made in San Gimignano since ancient times. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 5 Departure. Programme details 4 nights B&B in a superior 3 hotel in Montecatini Terme area 3 dinners at the hotel 1 full day escorted tour Pisa and Carthusian Monastery in Calci 1 guided city tour of Pisa 1 visit of an artisanal pasta factory 1 entry to the Carthusian Monastery in Calci 1 full day escorted tour Firenze 1 guided city tour of Firenze 1 tram ticket Firenze 1 dinner at a farm restaurant with wine tasting 1 full day escorted tour Siena and San Gimignano 1 guided city tour of Siena 1 variety-filled tasting of "saffron" based fare parking and permits included Package price per person, 5 days from € 197 Pisa and surroundings - Gelato break at the mobile gelato stand A nice surprise for your clients: a lively and colourful mobile gelato stand, customised with the logo of the customer where they can sample delicious Italian gelato! You can never turn down a good gelato: a delicious treat for young and old alike! Pisa - Piaggio Museum in Pontedera The Piaggio Museum is a place that tells an important story; it is one of more than a century of excellence in creativity, technological competence, and it is a celebration of entrepreneurial prowess. The museum hosts a permanent collection of Piaggio, Vespa, and Gilera vehicles. These are one of a kind pieces, original, fascinating, and at times odd, which have made transportation history in Italy and around the world. The collection ranges from the most beautiful and rare Vespas which have inspired great artists like Salvador Dalì, to those that have been streamlined to beat speed and consistency records back in the fifties. The collection also includes Piaggio's extraordinary stainless steel trains, a technological expression of the thirties before the invention of the Vespa, as well as the mythical Ciao and Ape in their more creative versions. Lucca - The Camellia Exhibition in Colle di Compito The itinerary includes: the Scientific Exhibition of Camellias with countless nineteenth-century Lucca and Tuscany varieties, and the "path of Camellias" which tells the story of the Camellias. There is also the possibility of visiting the Compito tea plantation with tea initiatives from around the world. (March) tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Pisa - Truffle hunting with dogs and tasting in Chianni A truffle specialist will initiate the group into the secrets of truffles, especially in how to find out where the delicious truffles can usually be found. Take a short walk (approx. 2 hours) with truffle dogs. At the end of the walk, a tasting of any truffles found is planned, paired with organic, locally made products such as bruschetta with extra-virgin olive oil and organic tomatoes, cheese, cold cuts, and wine. Pisa - Visit a family owned pasta factory In artisanal pasta factory, you will be able to see the creation of the food which most represents the Italian tradition: spaghetti! The dough is made with the best durum wheat semolina, extruded through bronze dies to impart a rough surface texture (to better hold the sauce), and dried at the "low traditional temperature" (33-36 °C.); these are the basics for a superior artisanal product. Pisa - Retone (Fishing Jetties) at the mouth of the Arno Enjoy the enchanting landscape from an extreme perspective: a traditional retone (wood jetty) set on artificial reefs and surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Apuan Alps. This simple fishing "collective" awaits you, with spaces and equipment for grilling fish. A compelling, fun, and exciting day! Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Fresh Air in Tuscany Slow Info Tour Example The Etruscan coast is an excellent alternative to the worldly Versilia; it's less crowded, but just as charming. From here it is also easy to reach numerous destinations, well known or off the beatentrack, for trekking and guided tours. For a bit of "fresh air": this itinerary is designed to show you something new, and it definitely won't disappoint; these are excursions outside the "classic" itinerary with accommodations in a recently renovated hotel, very close to the sea. Day 1 Arrival and check in to hotel south of Livorno; settle into rooms, dinner, and overnight. Day 2 Isola del Giglio. Breakfast, and depart with trekking guide for Porto Santo Stefano where you take a boat to Isola del Giglio, one of the small fishing islands along the Tuscan archipelago. You take a light trek through natural surroundings to reach Giglio Castello, one of the three towns on the island. From here you can enjoy incredible views. In the afternoon, after some free time in Giglio Porto, take a boat back to the mainland and return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 3 Maremma Regional Park. Breakfast and departure with an ecologist guide for a unique outing through the beautiful Maremma Regional Park: rugged and wild hills slope down towards the sea, ending in sand and pebble beaches. In the afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 4 Massa Marittima and Grosseto. Breakfast and departure for a guided tour of Massa Marittima, a city of art nestled between the Colline Metallifere which is surrounded by the maremma countryside rich with historical, architectural, and natural beauty, and heir to a colourful past. Continue on to Grosseto located in the heart of Maremma; it is a city surrounded by walls with the only interruption being the Medici Fortress including defensive bastions from the 16th century. The central piazza opens up near the Porta Vecchia; this is the site of the cathedral dedicated to San Lorenzo. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 5 After breakfast, depart for return trip home. Programme details 4 Nights with breakfast in a good 3 hotel 4 three-course dinners at the hotel 1 Guided excursion to Isola del Giglio (light trekking) 1 Ferry transfer to Isola del Giglio, Return 1 Full-day guided excursion through the Maremma Regional Park 1 Admission ticket to the Maremma Regional Park 1 Guided excursion to Massa Marittima and Grosseto Package price per person, 5 days from € 166 Pescia (Pistoia) - Citrus grove tour and tasting This is an international-calibre, one of a kind garden with 200 different citrus plants from all over the world and from all ages; for, example there are plants from the Medici family collection that date back to the 16th century. The garden extends over 2000 m2 and wows visitors with its pathways, tunnels of plants, fountains, and large statues, which take their inspiration from the Pinocchio fairytale. After the visit, a tasting of the prices citrus jam is not to be missed. Pistoia - Visit a farm guesthouse with tasting and carriage ride Visit a farm where they cultivate vegetables, fruits, and raise cows. There is also, an olive oil mill where high quality extra-virgin olive oil is produced. Transport from the bus parking lot to the company is via a fun ride on a wagon pulled by a tractor! Truly a full immersion experience in the olive groves! tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 35 Toscana Travel Ideas What else to do in Tuscany Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Tuscany tour programs: Tour Example Toscana, Montalbano - Pizza or Pasta course with tasting Today you can learn several important secrets about making pizza or pasta: divided into several work stations equipped with all the essentials, the practicing cooks will learn about how to make various types of pizza or pasta and will then be able to taste them all together over lunch at the end of the course. Tuscany in small bites To get to know Tuscany also means to "sample it" slowly, by savouring it in the shade of an olive tree, a wine cellar, or some historic sight. It means discovering its monuments, its views, and its destinations which may be less well known but are certainly no less beautiful. The group accommodations are in Versilia, on the north coast of Tuscany, in a good 3 hotel with excellent half-board services. Versilia is an excellent base for many classic excursions through Tuscany; it is also well-suited for day trips in bordering Liguria (Cinque Terre) or Emilia Romagna. Spring is the best time to go, with March and October having the best quality/price ratio. There is also an engaging pizza course and a very nice gelato break with a mobile gelato stand which can be customised with your agency's logo! Day 1 Versilia. Arrive, check in to hotel for 5 nights; dinner and overnight. Day 2 Pietrasanta, Carrara. After breakfast, depart for Pietrasanta, the city of artists; visit the centre. Then, continue on to Carrara. Visit the larderia (lardo curing shop) in Colonnata and sample the famous Lardo di Colonnata paired with a nice glass of wine. After the tour, return to the hotel for dinner. Day 3 Vinci, Montalbano. After breakfast, depart for Vinci, birthplace of Leonardo; visit the village with the option of visiting the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Continue on to San Baronto for a walk among the olive groves and a tasting of olive oil with bread. Then, we will take a fun pizza course, followed by a dinner of pizza, bruschetta, and wine! Return to the hotel and overnight. Day 4 Pisa and Lucca. After a lovely breakfast, head out with an escort for Pisa and take a walk through the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli. A sweet gelato break is planned via a mobile gelato stand personalised with your company logo! Continue on to Lucca, the beautiful Tuscan city surrounded by ancient walls. Enjoy an afternoon snack in an old Lucca cafe, with cappuccino and a piece of Buccellato (circular cake and a Lucca speciality). Free time to explore the centre. Dinner in a charming tavern with a traditional menu. Day 5 San Gimignano and Volterra. After a good breakfast, head out with escort for San Gimignano, the splendid town with "medieval skyscrapers". Then, continue on for a tour of Volterra. Enjoy some 36 free time in the beautiful Piazza dei Priori and dinner at a Volterra inn with an abundant "Etruscan" menu, drinks included. Day 6 After breakfast, departure. Programme details 5 nights with buffet breakfast in a good 3 hotel in Versilia 2 Three-course dinners at the hotel with an abundant salad and starters buffet 1 Full-day with escort to Pietrasanta and Carrara - 1 Small tasting of Lardo di Colonnata with wine 1 Full-day with escort to Chianti, Montalbano, and Vinci 1 Walk among the olive groves and vineyards with a tasting of olive oil, with bread and wine 1 "Pizza" course with a dinner of pizza, bruschetta and wine 1 Full-day with escort to Pisa and Lucca - 1 "Buccellato" and cappuccino break at an old cafe 1 "Surprise" gelato break with a mobile gelato stand personalised with your logo 1 Traditional Lucca dinner with soup and pan-fried greens 1 Full-day escort to San Gimignano and Volterra 1 Etruscan dinner in an inn in Volterra with drinks included Package price per person, 6 days from € 225 Florence - Visit the Central Market You can discover a splendid cross-section of Florence life by visiting the colourful covered market in Florence. Stalls which almost seem like boutiques will awaken all your senses from smell to taste. Butchers display their products from the typical Florentinestyle steak to the "lampredotto" (veal stomach) and there are multi-coloured stalls filled with fruit, cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, and wine. Siena - Tasting of the pastry products from the Nannini family The family of the famous singer Gianna Nannini boasts a more than a century-long tradition of pastry making: you can sample panforti (fruit cake), cantucci (almond biscuits), ricciarelli (almond paste cookies) and other typical Tuscan sweets at the family pastry shop in Siena, including an excellent espresso which started everything off back in 1911 with Siena's very first espresso machine. Grosseto - Visit Saturnia thermal Falls The falls "Cascate del Mulino" are a must see for those who want to experience the true beauty of the Maremma! The water is approx. 37.5° C. a very relaxing temperature. Added to this is the flow of the water which creates a natural Jacuzzi effect. The evening is an unforgettable sight: a sky full of stars combined with the steam creates an unusual and evocative atmosphere. Pienza - Visit and tasting at the Pianporcino Farm The renowned Pianporcino Farm received the 2007 award for the best pecorino in Italy. After visiting the farm and hearing an explanation about all the different production techniques involved with this delicacy while decked out in a hygienic cap and gown, you will proceed to the tasting of over 7 different types of pecorino paired with two kinds Val D'Orcia DOC wine, also their production. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Elba, dream island Portoferraio (Elba) Ottone Botanical Gardens The Ottone Botanical Gardens is an important and historic botanical complex of great beauty. The garden is approximately 400 metres from the sea and covers an area of about 2 hectares. It includes a series of well-marked paths with a structure from the early twentieth century as the focal point. The garden hosts examples of palms and other exotic plants from all over the world, and is a charming and suggestive place. Tuscany - Olive harvest with tasting (from November to February) A day out in the open air to uncover the secrets of producing this yellow liquid gold beloved around the world, from olive harvest to the final product: olive oil. Following the harvesting there is an explanation of the different processes involved. Then you proceed to a tasting with bruschetta (grilled Tuscan bread) with the socalled new olive oil. Tuscany - Grape harvest and picnic An interesting day dedicated to uncovering the secrets of wine production: from harvesting the grape to the various production processes which result in such delicious "grape juice". At the end of the day of harvesting, it is tradition to enjoy a delicious picnic together during which you can sample the so-called new wine paired with other traditional products. (September) Slow Info Tour Example Elba is the largest island in the Tuscan archipelago and the third largest island in Italy following Sicily and Sardinia. Elba offers a mild climate and a wide variety of landscapes: from romantic fishing villages, rock-perching towns, ancient castles, to green valleys alternating with enchanting bays lined with splendid sand and pebble beaches. This brief trip will enable you to visit the entire island and get to know even its most hidden corners, admire its depths, and explore its small markets. A trip for those who want to leave behind the stress of daily life and enjoy a relaxing and peaceful seaside holiday. Day 1 Elba, Marina di Campo. Arrive at Porto di Piombino, unload the bus and passengers and transfer to Elba. Disembark at Portoferraio, proceed to hotel for check in, dinner, and overnight. Day 2 Marina di Campo, Porto Azzurro. After breakfast, depart for a guided excursion to the southeastern part of the island. Breathtaking views, the bluest possible seas, and breathtaking natural beauty will accompany you on your tour through the splendid sights of Marina di Campo and Porto Azzurro. Stops at scenic points and sight tours. Short stop to sample a traditional Elba dessert, "schiaccia 'briaca" (drunken tart) and wine. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 3 Portoferraio, Marciana. After breakfast, head out for a guided excursion to the north-western part of the Island. Visit the old city of Marciana with its splendid waterfront. Continue on to Portoferraio with a walk along the streets of downtown and through the port. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 4 Glass-bottom boat ride and market. After breakfast, depart for a tour of a typical local market. Continue on to Marciana and embark on the Nautilus, an experience which will enable you to admire the view of the Elba coast as well as discover the marina flora and fauna along its pristine depths through the 80 m2 of glass lining the bottom of the boat (duration approx. 2 hours). In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Day 5 After breakfast, depart for Portoferraio, embark for return trip home. Programme details 4 Nights HB with enlarged breakfast in a good 3 hotel in Marina di Campo Ferry from Porto di Piombino to Portoferraio for bus and passengers, Return 1 Guided excursion to the south-eastern part of the island 1 Guided excursion to the north-western part of the island 1 "schiaccia 'briaca" (drunken tart) tasting with wine 1 Full-day escort for the boat and market tour 1 ride in the glass-bottom boat Package price per person, 5 days from € 192 Toscana - Vespa Tour A Vespa tour through the Tuscan hills with an escort and planned route: who isn't familiar with our good friend the Vespa? The Vespa will be your companion on a tour to explore the sights and take in breathtaking views: like Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn in "Roman Holiday"...basically, it's everything you have always dreamed of with the only difference being this time it won't be imaginary! (1 Vespa per 2 People) Collodi - the Pinocchio Park Here you can learn about the adventures of the famous wooden puppet. Plastique reproductions and bronze statues recall the most popular adventures of Pinocchio Vinci - Leonardo da Vinci museum The village where the Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci was borne was built around the castle of counts Guidi in a setting of olive trees in Monte Albano. Not so far from the centre lies the modest house of Leonardo da Vinci. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 37 Umbria Tour Example Umbria: a warmest welcome! A good 3 hotel with excellent cuisine: try it in order to believe it! The region of Umbria has much to offer: unspoiled nature, the numerous ancient villages and towns, the excellent, traditional cuisine and finally, the boundless hospitality of the people! It is both worthwhile as well as exciting to open yourself up to an Umbrian adventure and get to know the many aspects of the region! Day 1 Corciano: Arrival in Umbria. This region lies in the centre of the Italian peninsula, surrounded by Latium, Tuscany and Marches. It has always been a crossing point for people, ideas and cultures. Accommodation for 4 nights, half pension, in Corciano. Day 2 Lake Trasimeno, Corciano: After breakfast, departure for a boat trip from Passignano sul Trasimeno. Lake Trasimeno is Italy's fourth largest lake. Return trip to Castiglione del Lago, where a pleasant Cappuccino break is planned. The medieval town of Corciano will be visited in the afternoon. Dinner at the hotel. Day 3 Orvieto, Magione: After breakfast, excursion to Orvieto. The old Etruscan town lies on a volcanic rock. Tour through the city with its cathedral, Palazzo del Popolo, Palazzo Soliano, the San Patrizio well. Continue on to Magione for an enjoyable wine tasting with a small snack. Dinner at the hotel. Day 4 Todi, Montefalco, Torgiano: After breakfast, excursion to Todi. Tour through the beautiful old town with its narrow lanes, churches and magnificent palaces. The cathedral is of particular interest. Continue on to Montefalco with its late medieval 38 wall. Your next destination is Trevi, which is dominated by two imposing monastery buildings. Dinner at the hotel. Day 5 After breakfast, start of the return trip home. Programme details 4 nights HB with an enlarged breakfast buffet in a good 3 hotel in Corciano All dinners include regional specialities 1 farewell dinner with a 4 course menu 1 welcome cocktail 1 full day guided tour to Lake Trasimeno and Corciano 1 full day guided tour to Todi, Montefalco and Torgiano 1 boat trip on Lake Trasimeno 1 half day guided tour to Orvieto 1 cappuccino break in Castiglione del Lago 1 wine tasting with snack in Magione Package price per person, 5 days from € 205 Travel Ideas What else to do in Umbria Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Umbria tour programs: Lake Trasimeno - Boat trip Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth largest lake, is located in Umbria, in the province of Perugia. Surrounded by a hilly landscape, it is adorned with 3 small islands (Isola Maggiore, Isola Minore and Isola Polvese). During the excursion, you will visit the largest island, Isola Maggiore, where a refreshing aperitif is planned. Corciano - Tour on foot with a treasure hunt! Corciano is a magnificent medieval village at the top of a hill about 13 km from Perugia. It is one of the "most beautiful villages in Italy". A high city wall encloses the ancient medieval castle, which is filled with historical monuments and works of art. With its alleys, stairs, palaces, towers, gardens, churches and bell towers, it exudes a very special spiritual quality, perfectly lending itself to a fun treasure hunt which ends with an olive oil and bruschetta tasting. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Foligno - Pasta Festival "I primi d'Italia" September I Primi d'Italia is a national festival based on the first course; it is a successful food event held in Foligno every year at the end of September. A whole universe of tasting, food culture and fun, to rediscover your taste buds. Among the more unusual offerings, you will find the best quality pasta, rice, soup, and polenta. Haven't we whetted your appetite yet? Assisi - Plant nursery il Lavandeto A small nursery specialized in the cultivation and sale (also online) of over 50 varieties of lavender officinalis, rosemary, thyme, sage, santolina, helichrysum, mint, and many others. If you bring a photo of your garden and leave it with the Lavandeto, you will receive a small complimentary design proposal for your garden which you can complete by purchasing their products (also available online)! Perugia tours, the Perugia you didn't expect 1. Perugia - The Templar church of San Bevignate The church of San Bevignate is of extraordinary interest: It is the only church in Italy that still contains a complete cycle of frescoes from these famous warrior-monks of the crusade. During the recent renovation, which made these unique frescoes finally accessible to the public, archaeological remains from Roman times were discovered under its floors. It is also possible to organise tastings in the former convent. lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Marche and Umbria tour A trip back in time! Slow Info Tour Example These two regions located between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian Sea, which mark the divide between North and South, boast a history that goes back over three millennia. Culture and landscape have contributed to creating a unique and extraordinary region that deserves to be discovered. Day 1 Ancona, Macerata area. Arrival in the Marche. This is a region characterised by horizontal cliffs towering over the sea, open plains and pristine nature, magnificent castles, abbeys, churches and palaces. 2-night HB accommodation in the AnconaMacerata area. Day 2 Loreto, Recanati, Macerata. After breakfast, excursion to Loreto, the largest pilgrimage site in honour of the Virgin Mary in Italy, visited by millions of pilgrims from all over the world. Recanati, the "Borgo" immortalised in the poems of Giacomo Leopardi, one of the most famous Italian writers, is not too far. We head on towards Macerata, founded on a hill, which boasts many Renaissance and Baroque works of art and is renowned for its summer opera season. Evening meal in the hotel. Day 3 Frasassi, Gubbio Breakfast, followed by a visit to the famous Frasassi caves. We take a 1.5 Kmlong walk to admire a natural fairytale landscape. In the afternoon we leave for Umbria and visit Gubbio, a very old, thriving city that was founded at a height of 500m in the Apennine Mountains. We drive to the hotel in the Lake Trasimeno-Perugia area and check-in for a 3-night HB stay. Day 4 Assisi. After breakfast we take a guided tour of Assisi, the city of Saint Francis. We visit the Basilica, the Temple of Minerva, etc. The beauty of Assisi consists not only in its buildings, but also in the atmosphere of these places, that have been uniquely shaped by history and the faith of a Saint. Day 5 Perugia. After breakfast, we head towards Perugia, the capital city of Umbria: visit to the historical city centre and the underground city, brimming with works of art, with a local guide. In the afternoon we have organised a tasting of regional products. Day 6 After breakfast, departure. Programme details 5 nights HB with extended breakfast buffet in 3hotels 1 full-day guided tour Loreto, Recanati and Macerata 1 half-day guided tours Gubbio 1 half-day guided tours Assisi 1half-day guided tours Perugia 1 snack with regional products 1 Entry ticket to the Frasassi caves Package price per person, 6 days from € 235 2. Perugia - Collegio del Cambio - the seat of the exchange guild The Collegio del Cambio lies in the heart of the city of Perugia and is perfect for the completion of the city tour. The cycle of frescoes painted by Perugino in the building is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, and has made this building the "most beautiful bank in the world". It is assumed that the young Raffaello was involved in these works, as he still attended his master's workshop. 3. Perugia - Palazzo Sorbello A marvellous 16th century palace from the Perugian aristocracy, which contains still valuable objects of art, books and manuscripts. The private chambers, which are full of centuries old remembrances, hide valuable ornaments of immeasurable value. The breathtaking frescoes and the luxurious fabrics provide a vague idea about the original glamour and former grandiosity. The palace still belongs to the Ranieri Sorbello family and is opened to visitors upon request. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 39 Umbria Tour Example Umbria and Abruzzo combo tour A tour for curious minds, because both regions have a lot to offer! Discover one of the twelve most powerful Etruscan cities, Perugia, and its wealth of cultural treasures, and let yourself be seduced by Assisi, the birthplace of Saint Francis. This trip lets you discover the secrets of the Roman-Etruscan history of these cities and offers you theme-centred itineraries that are both varied and thrilling! Day 1 Arrival in Umbria, 3-night HB stay in a hotel in the Perugia - Corciano area. Day 2 After breakfast, leave for a guided tour of Assisi . Assisi, built on the slope of Mount Subasio, is the city of Saint Francis. The visit to the Medieval centre is a "must"; Giotto's frescoes in the Basilica and the Basilica of Santa Chiara are milestones of Italy's history of art. Leave for Gubbio. The city draws in the visitor with its characteristic streets and piazzas, towers and Gothic churches. Day 3 Breakfast in the hotel, followed by a guided tour of Perugia, an important historic city with two of the most renowned universities in Italy. Strolling through the Roman-Etruscan town centre you will see: the Rocca Palieri, Corso Vannucci, the Palazzo dei Priori, the Fontana Maggiore, the Duomo and the Belvedere. Later, visit Spello, a lovely medieval town in Umbria. Sights: Porta Consolare, Porta Venere, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, Pinturicchio's frescoes. After a cappuccino break, free time to have lunch and stroll around the streets. Day 4 After breakfast we drive along the Calanchi Nature Reserve to Atri, on the coast, one of the most important towns of the Abruzzi Renaissance. It boasts numerous works of art, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with the most beautiful cycle of Renaissance paintings in the region, Palazzo Acquaviva, the Teatro Comunale, St. Augustine Church and a marvellous panorama from which the eye can wander from the sea to the summit of Gran Sasso. 2-night HB stay in a hotel in the Pescara area. 40 Day 5 After breakfast in the hotel, travel to Sulmona, a city brimming with fantastic works, birthplace of the poet Ovid and famous for its candied almonds. Drive to Anversa degli Abruzzi on a road that cuts through the impressive "Gole del Sagittario" (Sagittarius Gorge), where, on a local farm, you will learn everything that there is to know about cheese making. Snack with local specialities included. In the afternoon, tour of Scanno, famous for its handicrafts (lace pillows, filigree work, wrought iron work, etc.) and for the ancient customs of its inhabitants. After visiting a workshop, return to the hotel and dinner. Day 6 After breakfast, departure. Programme details 3 nights HB in a good 3 hotel in the Perugia Corciano area 2 nights HB in a good 3 hotel in the Pescara area 1 full-day guided tour of Assisi and Gubbio 1 full-day guided tour of Perugia and Spello 1 full-day guided tour of Sulmona, Anversa degli Abruzzi and Scanno 1 half-day guided tour of Atri 1 cappuccino break 1 visit to a candied almond workshop 1 snack with local specialities Package price per person, 6 days from € 230 Travel Ideas What else to do in Umbria Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Umbria tour programs: Assisi - the Bosco di San Francesco is now open for visitors Visiting the Bosco di San Francesco di Assisi - a splendid example of a rural Italian landscape - is much more than a simple excursion into nature. With 64 hectares and more than 800 years of history, it is really an internal journey to discover the message of perfect harmony between Man and Nature which Saint Francis taught the world, starting right here in this place. Starting from the Basilica di San Francesco you cross wooded areas and cultivated fields, clearings and olive groves. When you reach the valley bottom, you will come across the remains of small dwelling which was inhabited from the 13th to the 14th centuries by Benedictine nuns. Gubbio - the Festival of the Candles (May) The Race of the Candles, held every year on 15 May, takes place over more than 4 kilometres through the narrow streets of Gubbio, adorned with banners and tapestries of the colours of three candles: Saint Ubaldo, Saint George, and Saint Anthony.During the race, the Candles sway back and forth in a terrifying manner, often grazing walls and windows. It is a test of great strength and ability to be able to run with the Candle held as upright as possible, and avoiding a "fall". Avoiding the candle falling is the real goal, not coming in first place, since there is no passing allowed and the Candles must arrive at the top of the mountain in the same order that they started. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Perugia - Hotel Giò Wine Area and its rooms "wine cellar" rooms The Wine Cellar room is a unique and exciting hotel room; it recalls the atmosphere of wine cellars of times past, but it is also an exhibition space for telling stories about wineries and their styles, the flavours of the great Italian Wines, and the beauty of vineyard regions. Orvieto - Winter Jazz Festival. End of December and beginning January With five days of music and more than one hundred events, all in the magical atmosphere of Orvieto - the Umbrian town famous for its artistic beauty, good drink and excellent food - Umbrian Jazz Winter confirms itself as the much anticipated and beloved event by all jazz fans and enthusiasts, and others. Perugia Summer Jazz Festival (July) During the Umbria Jazz festival the historic centre of Perugia looks like a global village, breathing music every hour of the day and night with events that follow one after the other and overlap. In one square kilometre of extraordinary beauty and charm, there are novel interactions between the medieval history which emanates from Perugia's palaces piazzas and the contemporary sounds. Spello - Infiorata del Corpus Domini (Corpus Christi Flower Art) Spello is famous for the Infiorata del Corpus Domini, wonderful floral decorations created by actual artists who plan and prepare for months and only use plant and flower materials. These multicoloured ornamental "carpets" are found throughout the streets and the small piazzas, giving off their perfume and providing a joyful show of colours. lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Umbria and Lazio Slow Info Tour Example From the green heart of Italy to the picturesque Upper Lazio Journey through the centre of Italy to discover the picturesque medieval cities overflowing with history and art. Discover the natural beauty and culture of the area which begins around Orvieto in Umbria, and proceeds towards Upper Lazio, passing by Lake Bolsena. The trip can be extended with a tour of Rome, the eternal city. Day 1 Arrive in Umbria and check in to the hotel near Orvieto for 2 nights, half board. Day 2 After breakfast, depart for an excursion to the Città della Pieve and Orvieto. On a rise of 508 m, Città della Pieve is one of the most historically important centres in Umbria. Its cultural riches and medieval character mean this city is definitely worth a closer look. Arrive in Orvieto around lunchtime, where a wine tasting and sampling of local products is planned among the picturesque underground caves. Afterwards, take a guided tour of the old Etruscan city of Orvieto, built on tufa and full of towers and medeival palazzos. The Cathedral, Palazzo del Popolo, Palazzo Soliano and the Pozzo di San Patrizio are all definitely worth visiting. Day 3 After breakfast, depart for Lazio to Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe; the road along its edge offers beautiful views. Proceed on to Civita di Bagnoregio, "the dying town"; it is a city carved into the top of a hillside which is slowly crumbling away. Only the town core remains, and it is only reachable by footbridge! The last stop is Montefiascone which presides majestically over the surrounding countryside; its historical centre covers the steep hillside, with the grand dome of the cathedral at the top. After the visit, we will taste the famous white wine Est! Est!! Est!! Then, check in to the hotel near Viterbo for 2 nights, half board. Day 4 After breakfast, depart for an excursion to Caprarola, perched atop an outcropping of tufa. While immersed in the ancient Etruscan region, Caprarola has its roots in the 11th century. Sights include the Palazzo Farnese, one of the most important examples of mannerist-renaissance architecture. You continue on to Viterbo, hugging the edge of Lake Vico, a nature lovers dream. Day 5 After breakfast, depart for return trip home. Programme details 2 nights HB in a 3 Hotel in Orvieto area 2 nights HB in a 3 Hotel in Viterbo area 1 full day guided tour Città della Pieve and Orvieto 1 full day guided tour Lake Bolsena, Civita di Bagnoregio, Montefiascone 1 full day guided tour Caprarola und Viterbo 1 wine tasting with typical products snack in Orvieto 1 wine tasting of Est! Est!! Est!!! wine Package price per person, 5 days from € 215 Perugia - Eurochocolate (October) Eurochocolate is a fascinating chocolate fair held in the heart of Perugia's old town; throughout the event, the city adopts its colours, atmosphere, and flavours, with all the roads and piazzas animated with chocolate sculptures, art and cultural events, guided tastings, themed events, and much more. A real kermesse… all there for the tasting! Norcia - Tour of a Norcineria High-quality cured meats Working with pork in Umbria and in particular Norcia is an ancient tradition that dates back to Roman times. There are many quality products to sample today, from Umbrian Prosciutto to Capocollo, to Lombetto, paired with typical cheeses: complimentary tasting. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 41 Lazio Travel Ideas What else to do in Lazio Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Lazio tour programs: Ave Caesar... At the Gladiator School in Rome When you watch the famous films set in Ancient Rome, do you find yourself identifying with the protagonists? Have you always wanted to wear the clothes of a gladiator, legionary or senator? Why not put yourself to the test with this art, guided by experts, who will introduce you to the techniques of attack and defence in gladiatorial combat (using a 'rudis', or wooden sword)? You too will become a citizen of Rome: following a two-hour course (including a visit to the educational-historic museum of the Roman Legion), you will receive a certificate of citizenship! Rome - 4 Hotel central and welcoming Elisabetta and the rest of the staff bid you a warm welcome! The hotel is situated in a peaceful oasis, but a stone's throw from Piazza Bologna and the metro station; from here, you can reach the centre of Rome on foot. The building is carefully laid out to every particular, offering a warm atmosphere, welcoming surroundings and excellent service. Try the hotel's restaurant and, if you love tranquillity, allow yourself a moment to relax in the carefully planned garden. Tour Example Rome - Weekend Special! Take advantage of the weekend, when flights are cheaper and hotels introduce special weekend rates, to visit the capital of Italy, the Eternal City... as Rome has always been described. We are offering you a stay of 3 nights in a 4 hotel in the Eur area, connected to the centre by the underground, which offers a punctual service. A half-day guided tour is also planned in the package, as well as an aperitif in one of the most famous areas in Rome, in front of the Pantheon or on the beautiful Piazza Navona, from where you can enjoy an unrivalled view of Rome... A package not to be missed from your planning! Day 1 Arrival at airport and bus transfer to the hotel and overnight stay. Day 2 After breakfast, bus transfer from the hotel to the centre for a guided tour of Rome in the morning (Colosseum , Roman Forum, Pantheon); an aperitif in the centre follows. After enjoying the afternoon free for shopping or independent visits, return to the hotel on your own, whenever you like. Overnight stay. Day 3 Free day. There is the opportunity to organise guided tours on request, to visit the Vatican, with Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, or an 42 activity in the city (see the "Travel Ideas" section). Day 4 Breakfast and departure for return journey. Programme details 3 nights B&B, with buffet breakfast in a 4 Hotel Bus Transfer from/to airport 1 Bus transfer from the Hotel to the centre on 2nd day 1 half day guided tour Roma 1 Aperitiv in the centre Package price per person, 4 days from € 199 Rome - Brand new 4 hotel mid-central to Rome at unbeatable prices. A brand new 4 hotel in contemporary style, boasting light, airy rooms. An excellent new restaurant was also opened there recently, offering dishes of traditional food with a twist. Located close to the Gran Raccordo Anulare and therefore easily accessible by car or coach, it also has good public transport links to the city centre (direct bus route to the Rebibbia underground stop). There is some coach parking not far from the hotel. Discovering the Rome of "Angels and Demons" Discover the topography of Rome, guided by the suggestions in the book by Dan Brown and the film of the same name. Our guides will lead you to the film's locations, explaining the peculiarities of the monuments that acted as a film set for this gripping story: the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Saint Peter's Basilica, Castel Sant'Angelo, the Vatican Museums, the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, the Church of Santa Maria Della Vittoria, Piazza della Minerva. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Rome - Cinecittà-Studios: stuff of dreams Cross the threshold of Cinecittà and you will recognise the sets of films that have recorded the history of Italian cinema, with reconstructions of dream locations and stories that are always moving! Let your imagination run wild as you walk through the studios and experience first-hand what it's like backstage during production of films, television programmes, advertisements and music videos. With this guided tour of about 2 hours, of the structures, permanent sets and the show "Behind the Scenes of Cinecittà", the myth won't have any more secrets! Rome - Opera, orchestral concerts and dance at the Baths of Caracalla Experience the glamour of the Baths of Caracalla through its spectacular illumination at night, during the programme of the Teatro dell'Opera, Rome's Opera House, which transfers to this splendid setting in the summer months for operas, orchestral concerts and dance performances. A show not to be missed, that can be combined with your stay in the city. Rome by night Rome and its monuments by starlight. Accompanied by our guides, you will be able to lose yourself in the streets of the capital to experience the evocative atmosphere of night-time, when the city is alive with new life. A word of advice: don't forget your camera to record the emotions of your Roman night forever! The mysteries of the Alban Hills Let yourself be drawn in by the secrets of the Alban Hills. On the shores of the volcanic lake of Nemi, sacred to Diana, you can discover the majesty of the imperial ships built by Caligula in the Nemi Museum of Ships, cross his "otia" or celebrate the rites and festivals in honour of Diana. Enjoy a rest in a bar on a sunny terrace, accompanied by a generous bowl of the famous Nemi strawberries and cream. Discover the peculiarities of the Greek-Byzantine Catholic cult in one of the rare monasteries of this type in Italy at Grottaferrata, with a visit to the Abbey of San Nilo and the adjoining "Ad Decimum" catacombs. Or perhaps an excursion to the ancient Etruscan city of Tusculum, that was founded, as legend has it, by Telegono, son of Ulysses... Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events The magic land of the Etruscans Slow Info Tour Example The culture and origins of the Etruscan people are still one of the mysteries of the Italian peninsula. Arriving by sea, perhaps from Asia Minor, the Etruscans settled in what is now known as Tuscany and the upper part of Lazio. While they also spread to parts of Northern Italy, their true base was Tuscany, also known as Etruria. Our holiday offering is a splendid opportunity to combine history, archaeology, nature, and regional cuisine. The backdrop is the magical and evocative Tarquinia in southern Tuscany (and the northern part of Lazio). Lodging is at a Tarquinia Agriturismo (farm guesthouse) with excellent cuisine. We provide guided tours to places like Tuscania, Cerveteri, Viterbo and Tarquinia. The latter was the birthplace of 7 Roman kings and, together with Cerveteri, has the greatest concentration of Etruscan necropolises, archaeological sites to which we are especially indebted for preserving the memory of this people. Day 1 Arrival and settling into rooms. Dinner at the Agriturismo (farm guesthouse) and overnight. Day 2 After breakfast, depart for guided tour of Tarquinia and Cerveteri with a tour of the Necropolises of Monterozzi and Banditaccia. Typical dinner at the Agriturismo (farm guesthouse) and overnight. Day 3 After breakfast, depart for ancient city of Viterbo. Tour the old city, perhaps visiting the National Etruscan Museum. Continue on to the ancient city of Sutri and tour the archaeological park. Dinner and overnight at the Agriturismo (farm guesthouse). Day 4 Breakfast and transfer to Tuscania to explore important Etruscan sites like the Tomb of the Queen. Tour the old city and the churches of San Pietro and Santa Maria Maggiore. In the afternoon, visit a goldsmith shop to learn about Etruscan jewellery techniques. In the late afternoon, transfer to a 4hotel in the centre of Rome. Evening and dinner on your own at one of the city's many restaurants. Day 5 After a hearty breakfast, enjoy an extended stay in Rome at one of our hotels, or departure. Programme details 3 Nights half-board in an Agriturismo (farm guesthouse) in Tarquinia - Viterbo area Breakfast includes traditional bread, cold cuts, cheese, jam and homemade cakes 4-course dinner (house starter, first course, main course with side vegetables and dessert) Dinner drinks (1/4 litre wine, 1/2 litre water, house digestive liqueur and coffee) 1 Full-day guided tour of Tarquinia and Cerveteri the Necropolises 1 Full-day guided tour of Viterbo and the ancient city of Sutri 1 Full-day guided tour of Tuscania with goldsmith shop 1 Night with breakfast buffet in a good 4hotel in the centre of Rome Package price per person, 5 days from € 295 Photorallye in Rome Have you got clients who love to discover things? Clients who want to be active? In this case we have the perfect tour through Rome for you! Action and fun included! The rallye takes you to the most famous places and sites in Rome. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 43 Lazio Tour Example Ciociaria - A land between two Travel Ideas ancient worlds What else to do It is not easy to explain Ciociaria. It is the land of the Cyclops and it is the land of two great patrician families who managed to fill this narrow stretch between two very important ancient worlds - Rome and Naples - with art and history. It is a land full of history and pre-Roman Cyclopean walls, medieval towns and exuberant cities, and one which for years supplied the papacy with its bounty; this is why today Ciociaria is synonymous with authentic, quality products. We will explore this area together to discover the best it has to offer. We depart from Fiuggi, Ciociaria's hot springs famous throughout Europe and a mere 80 km from Rome. The hot springs not only have healing powers but are also in a beautiful setting, making Fiuggi a very popular tourist destination. Upon request, the tour can be extended to include a trip to Rome, the eternal city. Day 1 Arrival in Fiuggi; check in to hotel for 4 nights. Dinner and overnight. Day 2 After breakfast, we'll start off for a half-day sightseeing trip to Anagni. With its well preserved medieval historic town centre, it was once famous as a papal city. We will visit the cathedral, the Pope's palace of Boniface VIII and the town hall. We will then continue to Ferentino, for a visit to the town hall, archaeological excavations and the birth house of Pope Innocent III. After a wine-tasting session and light snack in Fumone, we will visit the abbey of Trisulti, a huge Benedictine monastery which conceals the first pharmacy of Italy within its walls, dating back to the year 1200. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 3 After breakfast, a fantastic full-day excursion awaits us. We will visit the abbey of Casamari, a gem of Sistine-gothic architecture in the Ciociaria region. In the afternoon we will travel to Liri Island, which is enclosed by two river arms. At BoncompagniViscogliosi castle, the river divides to form the Calcatoio waterfall on one side and the larger, 28-metre high waterfall on the other, at the very heart of the location! Dinner will be served in the Taverna del Castello, in the medieval town centre of Fiuggi. Day 4 After breakfast, we'll travel to Norma and 44 Sermoneta, for a visit to the abbey of Valvisciolo, the abbey of Fossanova and the magnificent Botanic garden of Ninfa, a splendid English garden which extends across 8 hectares and includes the remains of the medieval town of Ninfa. The town ruins are integrated within the garden itself, with some of its buildings restored during the creation of the garden. Return journey to Fiuggi and farewell dinner at the hotel, with a 4-course menu. Day 5 after breakfast, trip back home. Programme details 4 nights' accommodation with a generous breakfast buffet in a 3 hotel in Fiuggi 2 dinners in the hotel (3-course menu) 1 dinner in typical restaurant in the historic town centre of Fiuggi 1 farewell dinner in the hotel (4-course menu) 1 half-day guided tour to Anagni 1 full-day guided tour to the abbey of Casamari and Liri Island 1 full-day guided tour to Norma and Sermoneta 1 wine-tasting session in Fumone castle Package price per person, 5 days in Lazio Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Lazio tour programs: Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying city In upper Latium between Lake Bolsena and Viterbo there is a village that seems to come straight out of a fairy-tale: it is the dying city, Civita di Bagnoregio. With a distant Etruscan origin, this village is built on a spur of tufa rock that is threatening to disappear due to erosion. Numerous landslides and earthquakes have almost depopulated the town, which is now connected to the rest of the world by only one narrow bridge. Anyone who wanders through the narrow streets surrounded by imposing medieval and Renaissance palaces dipped in surreal silence, unable to resist the magical charm of this place. It's worth a visit before it dies for good. Est!! Est!! Est!! The Legend… It is said that while travelling to Rome, a bishop with a passion for wine sent his servant to scout ahead for the best wines. Whenever he found a good wine, he was to write, "est" or "c'è" near the door of the inn, and, if the wine were really good, he was to write, "est est". Once the servant reached Montefiascone and tasted the local wine, finding no other way to communicate its excellent quality, he decided to repeat the signal three times, reinforcing the message with six exclamation points: Est!! Est!! Est!! from € 199 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Lake Bolsena, in the heart of central Italy Slow Info Tour Example Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe, is ideally located between three regions of great historical/cultural interest: Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. A tour of Lake Bolsena will give you a full overview of all aspects of this area: the most beautiful and exciting art, culture, archaeology, hot springs, religious sites, and amazing natural surroundings. Day 1 Arrival at Lake Bolsena, accommodation for 7 nights HB. Day 2 Visit to the Via Francigena and Bisentina Island Lake Bolsena and the small town of Bolsena are also located along the Via Francigena, or 'Frankish route', which leads from Canterbury to Rome. After a sightseeing tour of the town, including a visit to the Basilica of Saint Christina, the scene of the Corpus Christi miracle and the magnificent Rocca Monaldeschi della Cervara, you will set off for the Bisentina Island, the spa of the Farnese Popes, with a magnificent garden. The Bisentina Island is considered to be historically and architecturally unique. Day 3 The dying city and the dreamlike garden. The day starts with a small sightseeing trip to Viterbo, a former papal residential city and the heart of Tuscia. The so-called "dying city" Civita di Bagnoregio, just 300 metres away across a pedestrian bridge, is also worth a visit. This is followed by a visit to Bagnaia in the afternoon. Villa Lante is one of the finest and most significant villas of the 16th century, with a magnificent garden: with mumbling water and shade, the green of the trees and stone sculptures, everything is blended together making a visit to the garden a marvellous experience at any time of the year. Day 4 The garden world with a difference. Today you will travel to the noble residence of Vignanello, with a visit to the papal palace of Ruspoli, where the Ruspoli family still lives, and see the prime example of a formal Baroque garden. The dominating element lies in the geometrical pattern. Hedges, rows of trees, ponds and tree-lined paths have a formal arrangement. The subsequent trip will take you to Bomarzo and the unique Parco dei Mostri, an unusual, bizarre fantasy garden. It was commissioned by Vicino Orsini, who intentionally had it arranged in a labyrinth pattern. A visit to the park is also a visit to another world, where one first has to adjust the mind to its particular laws of nature. Day 5 The overwhelming works of Orvieto. The name Orvieto comes from the Latin Urbs vieto (old city) and it is presumed that this was the site of the Etruscan city Velzna, and was one of the twelve main cities of the Etruscan kingdom. This city, built out of tuff, can be seen from a long distance and is simply overwhelming from the city itself. You will visit the cathedral with the famous fresco cycles by Luca Signorelli. This is followed, in the afternoon, by a visit to the underground city and hike around the tuff rock which will take you to the Etruscan necropolis Crocefisso del Tufo. Day 6 Human art and natural. This morning, you will travel to Vico Lake for a short stopover and then further on to Caprarola, to see the most significant late Renaissance building, Farnese Palace, a work of art by Vignola. The return journey will include a stopover in Montefiascone. Learn more about the history behind "Est!Est!Est!" wine as you sip a glass for yourself Day 7 Etruscan legacies. Today you will enjoy a trip to Pitigliano, one of the most picturesque small towns in southern Tuscany. Then you will continue to Sovana for a visit to the town, which is dominated by the Rocca Aldobrandeschi fortress. Around the 7th century B.C., the Etruscans founded the first settlements in this area. This led to the alliance between the towns of Sovana, Sorano, Pitigliano, Roselle and Vetulonia, whose advanced culture can be admired to this today. Now you can take advantage of the spa baths in Saturnia and relax after these eventful days. Day 8 After breakfast, trip back home. Programme details 7 nights HB with enlarged breakfast in a good 3 hotel at Lake Bolsena 1 Welcome cocktail 1 Farewell dinner in the hotel with a 4-course menu, including ¼ l. wine and ½ l. mineral water. 1 full day guided tour Via Francigena and Bisentina island 1 full day guided tour Civita di Bagnoregio and Bagnaia, Villa Lante 1 full day guided tour Vignanello and Bomarzo 1 full day guided tour Orvieto including the underground city 1 full day guided tour Vico See and Montefiascone 1 full day guided tour Sovana, Soranto und Pitigliano Package price per person, 8 days from € 365 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 45 Marche & Abruzzo Travel Ideas What else to do in Marche & Abruzzo Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Marche and Abruzzo tour programs: Montefeltro - Albergo Diffuso Casa Oliva: an entire village just for you, 35 km from Urbino. Those who know the Chianti region will love the Montefeltro region as well; it is an ancient area filled with history, tradition, and culture, with breath taking views which hold their own against the famous Tuscan hillsides. Exploring this charming landscape combines well with a stay in this authentic medieval village; the perimeter walls have been restored and the entire village has been turned into an "albergo diffuso" giving you that part home, part hotel feeling... Urbino - The garden of lost roses At the home of painter Rosetta Borchia set on a hill close to the ideal city, we find an authentic museum Tour to the open sky. The artist has always cultivated her Example great passion for antique roses. She has 300 varieties of antique roses which have been found and recovDiscover the secrets of Marche: experience its art, walk among its fortresses, castles, and villages, ered from the four corners of Italy. It is an authentic and sample its typical products. Immerse yourself in the unique natural landscape which has even cultural and floral heritage which is worth a visit, especially in May when the colours of thousands of touched American actor Dustin Hoffman, now a worldwide spokesperson for the Marche region. Day 1 Group arrives at hotel in Pesaro for 2 nights, Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Jesi, a very old flowers fill the air. half-board. city with a beautiful historic centre. Continue on to Day 2 Breakfast and transfer to Urbino, one of the Serra San Quirico, also known as the stone city; Ancona - Visciolata tasting, an aphromore important cities of the Italian Renaissance. Pro- have a snack in an old tavern here. The day condisiac! "Visciolata" (fortified cherry wine) is procludes with Off agna, one of the most beautiful ceed on to Mondavio for a tour of this Renaissance duced by a company in the hinterlands of Ancona villages in Italy and a splendid example of military town, famous for its Rocca Roveresca (a Renaisprovince according to an ancient recipe: DOC red wine sance-era fortress). Then a brief stop in Fratterosa, architecture with its medieval Rocca (fortress). from Pergola is aged in a bottle with visciole (morea small village famous for its earthenware, where Day 5 Breakfast at the hotel and return home. llo), a particular variety of cherry. Religious people you will visit an artisan workshop. Afterwards, a Programme details visit to a wine cellar to sample the locally made 2 nights HB with breakfast buffet in a good 3 call it the "wine of the angels" while the farmers have nicknamed it "witches blood", attributing aphrodisiac sweet wine and biscuits called "favette of FratHotel in Pesaro properties to it. terosa" (Fratterosa's little beans). 2 nights HB with breakfast buffet in a good 3 Day 3 Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Cagli, Hotel in Ancona area a town filled with historical palaces and known for Welcome drink at both hotels Ancona - the earthenware of Fratteits splendid Torrione (tower). Proceed on to Ac3 full day guided excursions as per program rosa This small village between Urbino and Ancona qualagna for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, 1 simulated truffle hunt with truffle dog is famous for its earthenware whose distinctive quala walk through the woods to look for precious 1 brunch at a tavern in Serra San Quirico ity comes from the clay used, the wood-fired furnace, Marche truffle. On the way back, a brief stop in 1 sampling of Pergola "Visciolata"(fortified cherry and the colours produced directly by the artisans. Valle del Metauro, the Gola del Furlo, and a walk All of which give the earthenware its unmistakeable wine) with biscuits along the ancient Flaminian way. Transfer to a hobluish-black colour. For those who have the time, a tel in the Senigallia-Ancona area for 2 nights, halfPackage price, 5 days mini-course to create your own personal terracotta board. can be arranged. Day 4 Jesi, Serra San Quirico, and Offagna one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Tour Urbino and Pesaro: the art and nature of Marche region from € 269 46 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Ascoli - Ascoli olives, a carefully crafted Marche delicacy The gastronomic pride of Ascoli Piceno. Green olives in pickling brine stuffed with a tender meat filling, they are one of the central Italy's signature dishes. They are often paired with other rustic dishes such as cooked greens and pan-fried meat, or crema fritta (fried cream): an unusual way to appreciate the savouriness of the olive with the sweetness of the cream. Small complimentary tasting. Jesi - Wine & chocolate of the Vallesina We are in the land of Verdicchio, one of the legends of Italian wine making, where you can try an unusual pairing: white wine and chocolate infused with the flavours of Marche. This is not just any chocolate: it comes from a famous master chocolatier who will join you in sampling this delectable treat. Maiolo - Meet the locals and tour the ancient ovens Maiolo - a small village between San Marino, Marche, and Tuscany, is the custodian of a strong farming culture heritage: the ancient ritual of Maiolo bread which is baked in a wood fired oven. The secret of this extraordinary bread is the local flour, made with a particular grain, the mother yeast, and the fanatical care and love exercised by the Maiolo bakers. We accompany you for a sampling of bread, flatbread, mixed cured meats, local cheeses, and frittatas: traditional foods and sweets from the area paired with excellent local wine. San Leo - Tour the fortress Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Abruzzo... a little known but very fascinating region Slow Info Tour Example Abruzzo is not just the most beautiful natural landscape of the Apennines. This untouched region also has towns of great historical and artistic interest and fascinating folkloristic festivals and customs: impregnable castles, cities full of art, tiny old towns, abbeys full of history and beauty linked to rites from distant eras. This tour allows you to visit the Abruzzo region at any time of the year. Day 1 Arrival, welcome drink, and check-in for 5 nights HB. Day 2 Sulmona, Scanno. Breakfast at the hotel and then it's off to visit Sulmona, rich in outstanding works of art, city of the poet Ovid. The town is known for its sweets, the famous "confetti", so don't miss out on a tasting at a confectionery. Continue to Anversa degli Abruzzi on a road that crosses the impressive "Gole del Sagittario" (the archer's ravine). Arrival in Scanno, known for its crafts and the ancient customs of its inhabitants. Day 3 Lanciano, Costa dei Trabocchi. Breakfast at the hotel and tour of Lanciano, one of the most beautiful art cities of the region, famous for its markets, which draw traders from all over the Mediterranean. Light meal on a trabocco (an ald fishing machine). In the afternoon, tour of the abbey San Giovanni in Venere, which stands on the foundations of a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess of love. Return towards the southern coast of the Abruzzo region along a unique section of the coast called Costa dei Trabocchi. Day 4 Campo Imperatore, Aquila. Breakfast at the hotel and drive to the Gran Sasso National Park. Drive over the Campo Imperatore, a broad plateau famous for its appearance in Westerns by Sergio Leone and the many films made here with Bud Spencer and Terence Hill. Picnic in Campo Imperatore at the old Western saloon with "arrosticini." Drive to L'Aquila and tour of the city, which for a long time was the capital of the Abruzzo region and the site of important historical events. Day 5 Civitella del Tronto, Atri. After breakfast, drive and tour of Civitella del Tronto, overshadowed by one of the largest fortresses in Europe in a unique location with a beautiful view. In the afternoon, continue along the nature reserve of the Calanchi to Atri, one of the most important towns of the Abruzzo Renaissance on the coast. Day 6 Breakfast at the hotel and departure for home. Programme details 5 nights accommodation HB and buffet breakfast in a 3 hotel in Montesilvano 4 days escorted tour during the overall trip Visit to a confectionery in Sulmona with tasting Light meal on a trabocco with local specialities Picnic Package price per person, 6 days from € 250 Not far from San Marino and Urbino, at an elevation of 600 metres, there is on an enormous rock ledge which can only be reached by a single road cut into the rock. This is how you scale the impregnable stronghold, which in the past was also the prison of the mysterious figure, Count Cagliostro. Beyond its cells, the fortress has also "housed" figures like Dante and St. Francis of Assisi. The view from San Leo is one the most stunning in all of Italy. Fano - The oldest carnival in Italy Only a few people know that the carnival in Fano is the oldest in Italy. The first document that records these carnival celebrations in the city comes from the year 1347. Over the ages, the carnival slowly evolved in a special way until it was decided in 1872 that a committee should be formed to organise the event. Even hundreds of years later today, the carnival draws and inspires thousands of locals and tourists. Without a doubt, the "throw" (getto) is the highlight of Fano's carnival. Every year, hundreds of kilos of sweets and small chocolates are thrown off the wagons driving through the streets, to the pleasure of all. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 47 Campania Travel Ideas What else to do in Campania Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Campania tour programs: Tour Example Discovering Sorrento and the Amalfi coast via delicacies, history and archaeology Naples - Pasta from Gragnano: The Art of "making pasta the old-fashioned way" The Gragnano Pasta Cooperative that we will visit is the cooperative of authentic, high-quality artisan Gragnano pasta. Heirs to a centuries old tradition, the "tricks of the pasta-maker's trade" are handed down from generation to generation. For a gastronomic memory of the Sorrento peninsula, or as a gift for your friends, try one of the many authentic Gragnano pasta shapes! Naples - The mysteries of subterrane- an world Naples is the only large European city that has grown up with an urban stratification made over centuries by people from different cultures, so that at first glance, it shows only the most obvious aspects its thousand other faces are then revealed to the most attentive visitors. Forty metres below the noisy streets typical of Naples' historic centre lies a world apart, still largely unexplored. Isolated in its silence for millennia, this world is still closely tied to the city and visiting it means carrying out a journey through tasty, local extra-virgin oil d.o.p., a typical regional time, stretching back over two thousand and four snack. Return to the hotel in the afternoon and din- hundred years. ner. Naples - Lunch to taste the most faDay 4 Breakfast and departure for an excursion to mous pizza in the world The pizza has an uncerPaestum, where the morning will be spent visiting a cheese factory to observe the production process tain and complex history. However, it seems that the of buffalo mozzarella, followed by a picnic with first true union between dough and tomato occurred cheese products, water and wine. In the afternoon, a in the middle of the eighteenth century, in the Kingvisit to the archaeological area, with its majestic Doric dom of Naples. The pizza was extremely popular both temples, amphitheatre and Greek housing. Return to with the poorest Neapolitans and with the nobility, including the Bourbon royalty. The success of the hotel for dinner. pizza also conquered the Royal House of Savoy, so Day 5 Breakfast and departure. much so that the pizza-maker Raffaele Esposito dediProgramme details cated the "pizza Margherita" to Queen Margherita of 4 nights HB in 3 hotel on the outskirts of SorSavoy in 1889, representing the new tricolour flag: rento the white of the mozzarella, the red of the tomato 2 half-day guided tours (Sorrento and Paestum) and the green of the basil. 1 full day guided tour (Amalfi coast) 1 Mini-course at the paper museum in Amalfi Campania - Neapolitan Bingo, perhaps 1 limoncello tasting in Ravello not everyone knows that... Neapolitan Bingo 1 oil tasting with snack in Massalubrense was born in 1734 when, during the Christmas period 1 visit to a dairy factory with picnic in Paestum when lottery games were banned for religious reasons, the Neapolitans busied themselves creating a Package price per person, 5 days similar household game with 90 numbers. A highly original and clever Neapolitan way of using the magic Staying on the Sorrento peninsula, we will become acquainted with some famous spots, such as Amalfi, one of the four Maritime Republics of the 10th century. A large Paper Museum is situated here, where you can see how artisan paper is produced. Then we will explore Ravello, overlooking the sea from a height of over 300m, where a maze of little houses cling to the rocks, a riot of colours accented by bougainvillea and the blue of the sea. We will also unlock the secret behind the famous "limoncello" liqueur... A calmer day will be dedicated to beautiful Sorrento and a visit to a farm for a tasting of bruschetta flavoured with tasty d.o.p. oil. The final excursion will take you to Paestum, to visit a cheese factory followed by a picnic based on buffalo mozzarella and other cheese products. We will then move to the archaeological area to jump over into Ancient Greece. Day 1 Arrival on the Sorrento peninsula, accommodation and dinner in the hotel for 4 nights halfboard. Day 2 After breakfast, departure for the Amalfi coast. First stop in Amalfi where an expert guide will introduce you to this splendid city, the Duomo, including the ancient basilica, the bell tower and the Chiostro del Paradiso. At the paper museum, you will be able to make a sheet of artisan paper with your own hands, and receive a certificate! We will then proceed to Ravello, the garden village, which has inspired such great artists as Boccaccio and Wagner. A stop in a distillery is planned to taste the famous limoncello, the liqueur that symbolises the Amalfi coast. Return to hotel for dinner. Day 3 After breakfast, a morning visit to Sorrento, an extremely charming town whose kindness and hospitality attracts visitors from all over the world. Looking out to the horizon, you can make out Ischia and Procida, whose outlines can be seen quite clearly. In the historic centre, that retains the mark of its Roman origins, lie the Duomo with its Neo-Gothic facade and the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, with a remarkable thirteenth-century cloister. Next up, a gastronomic stop at a farm to try bruschetta with 48 from € 189 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example extraction of numbers to relate stories and anecdotes in such a way that involves the participants in the most authentic atmosphere of the alleyways of Na- It does not matter what is the destination or the purpose of your travel... there is always something new and gorgeous to discover! This time the destination is Campania region, with its major cities ples' Spanish Quarter. Discover Campania! Napoli and Caserta. The travel purpose: visiting two of the most unique jewels: Napoli with its many fascinating aspects and the splendid Royal Palace of Caserta. Among the new things and corners to Sorrento - Seas and Slopes, a wine & discover, an ancient silk factory which among others has also produced silk flags for Buckingham Palace and a rare corals and cameos collection, the largest private one in the world. Starting point will food tour of the Sorrento hills by train A tour- be the Hotel Marad which, thanks to a professional service and a good restaurant, will make you feel ist trip on board a small train, leaving from Sant'Agata like... coming back again soon! sui due Golfi and passing through some coastal villages nestled in the lush vegetation of the Mediterranean maquis. As well as churches and monasteries, you will also visit renowned farms where you will taste "fior di latte" mozzarella, bruschetta with extra-virgin olive oil, limoncello, jams and preserves, wine and so many other delicacies. The tour will finish in Sant'Agata sui due Golfi, from where you can admire the splendid scenery of Capri...It can be personalised with your logo! If you are staying in Massalubrense or Sant'Agata, the train will pick up your guests directly from the hotel. Sorrento - The secret of the famous "Limoncello" A visit to a distillery where you can see the production of limoncello, the golden liqueur made from untreated lemons that is typical of the Sorrento region. This is followed by a tasting of various products as well as limoncello, such as jams made from oranges and lemons, limoncello babà (sponge cake) and, in good weather, lemon ice cream. The visit lasts about 2 hours. Day 1 Arrival at the Hotel, dinner and overnight. Day 2 Departure for a full day guided city tour of Napoli to discover all historic and traditional aspects: the splendid Capodimonte museum' and Royal Palace historic memories; the Spaccanapoli street in the old city center and the religious devotion to San Gennato. In the late afternoon, we visit the fascinating Coral Museum in Torre del Greco, which is showing the largest private corals and cameos collection in the world. Day 3 Departure for a full day guided tour of Caserta. The Royal Palace of Caserta was constructed for the Bourbon kings of Naples by the famous architect Vanvitelli The largest palace and one of the largest buildings erected in Europe during the 18th century, It is now one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With total 1200 rooms, the Palace is one of the most famous and loved architectural masterpieces in the world. Only a visit to the place can give merit to its splendour of the Palace and the munificence of the Bourbons. In the afternoon, visit to the S. Leucio village and its silk factory, which used to produce silk products for all Europe. Still today, its fine textile products can be found at the Vatican, at the Quirinal Palace in Rome or in the Oval office at the White House. The silk flags for the White House and for Buckingham Palace are still coming from San Leucio! Farewell dinner at the hotel. Day 4 After breakfast, journey back home. Programme details 3 nights BB with buffet breakfast in a 4 Hotel in Torre del Greco area Welcome drink Fruit basket in the room upon arrival 2 dinners at the hotel with high quality menues 1 farewell dinner at the hotel 1 full day guided tour of Napoli and Torre del Greco 1 full day guided tour of Caserta and Borgo S. Leucio 1 Admission ticket to the Coral Museum 1 Admission ticket to the Royal Palace of Caserta including tour of the park by minibus 1 Admission ticket to the silk factory of Borgo S. Leucio Package price per person, 4 days from € 185 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 49 Campania Tour Example Rome and the Gulf of Naples - most popular! The ideal tour for getting to know Rome and the Bay of Naples, two marvellous spots only 260 km away from one another. This combination will suit any clientele: the Eternal City with its incomparable monuments, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum to the Vatican Museums; the Bay of Naples with its highly striking scenery, from Vesuvius to the Sorrento Peninsula. In Rome, we have made bookings for B&B only, to leave you with the opportunity of trying typical Roman cuisine, in the Trastevere district for example, after having visited the length and breadth of the city. In Sorrento, however, the stay is all about relaxation, with dinner in the hotel every night. Some excursions will show you the most interesting aspects of this area of Campania, and you will fall in love when you visit Naples! Day 1 Arrival in Rome and accommodation in hotel for 2 nights B&B. Day 2 After breakfast, a half-day guided tour of Ancient Rome. The tour starts in Piazza Venezia, in order to view the Campidoglio. Immersed in the atmosphere of Ancient Rome, we will admire the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city; the Colosseum, known for the gladiatorial matches; and the Pantheon, built as a temple dedicated to the gods of Mount Olympus and later transformed into a Christian basilica. The afternoon is free, so that you may go shopping or visit places on your own. Return to hotel for overnight stay. Day 3 Breakfast, then a half-day guided tour of Christian Rome. Tour of the Vatican Museums with pieces of art like the Laocoön, the Belvedere Torso, and the Sistine Chapel. Don't miss St. Peter's, 50 the largest and most impressive church for Christianity, with works by Michelangelo and Bernini. Early afternoon, departure for the Sorrento Peninsula and accommodation in hotel for 3 nights HB. Day 4 After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to a guided tour of Naples. Naples wins over every visitor with its countless testimonies to almost three thousand years of history; its old town filled with constantly changing moods, sound and music, colours and smells; its narrow streets and multi-story houses; and its lively, friendly, lovable people. We finish the visit with an aperitif in an historic café in the centre. Free afternoon. Return to hotel for dinner. Day 5 Breakfast, then departure for a full day trip to the ruins of Pompeii and the park of Vesuvius. Pompeii, the city buried by the great eruption of Vesuvius, is an impressive and revealing insight into life in antiquity. When you visit Pompeii, don't miss the chance to go up Vesuvius as well. From Vesuvius you will have a wonderful view over the Gulf of Naples. Return to hotel for dinner. Day 6 After breakfast, departure for return journey. Programme details 2 nights B&B in 4 hotel in Rome (semi-central area) 3 nights HB in 4 hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula 2 half-day guided tours of Rome 1 half-day guided tour of Naples 1 full day guided tour of Pompeii and Vesuvius 1 aperitif in historic café in Naples Package price per person, 6 days from € 310 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Travel Ideas What else to do in Campania Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Campania tour programs: Naples - The legend of Marinella Marinella is so much a part of the fabric of Naples that it is commonly used as reference point for directions between the Piazza Vittoria and the Villa Comunale. For almost 100 years Marinella has been "the" place to buy ties, scarves, bow-ties, knitwear, hats and all the accessories a gentleman should wear. Marinella was more than just a clothes shop, though; it was a place to meet, see and be seen, and to catch up on the latest happenings. Prince Umberto of Savoy bought his ties there and his uncle Filiberto Duke of Aosta, would spend entire afternoons here browsing the latest arrivals. Throughout almost a century of history, Marinella has continued to be associated with good taste, not just in Naples, but wherever quality and elegance are appreciated. Scala - La Margherita Restaurant The restaurant "La Margherita" awaits you in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, in the picturesque little town of Scala. Due to its peaceful and panoramic position on a hillsfsds, far from noise and traffic, it is ideal for those who wish to savour an excellent menu while enjoying a truly unique view. Ischia - the largest island of Naples Thanks to its volcanic origins and its multitude of hot mineral springs the island is among the world's most important thermal resorts. Approaching the island from mainland, visitors will feel like as if they were dreaming: the island looks like a great dressed ship with green decks and masts. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Tour Campania and Apulia from Sorrento to Alberobello Slow Info Tour Example An unusual combination to get to know two of the most beautiful regions of Southern Italy. After visiting the famous ruins of Pompeii and the charming island of Capri, passing through plantations of lemon trees, olive groves and vineyards, we arrive in Puglia, a territory rich in traditions, colours and flavours. On the way, you can visit Trani and see its typical Norman herringbone patterns. From the Castellana Caves to the Trulli of Alberobello, for a typical lunch with local specialities. To round off the journey, we will visit the Castel del Monte, considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in the world. Day 1 Sorrento area. Arrival on the Sorrento Peninsula, accommodation in hotel for 3 nights HB. Day 2 Capri. After breakfast, a trip to the island of Capri is planned. Capri offers not only stunning natural beauty, but a wealth of things to see, such as the grandiose Villa Jovis of the Villa S. Michele from the first years of the 20th century. Experience this pearl of the sea on a wonderful excursion. Return to hotel in late afternoon for dinner. Day 3 Pompeii. After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to a guided tour of Pompeii. Pompeii, the city buried by the great eruption of Vesuvius, is an impressive and revealing insight into life in antiquity. You will visit the Antiquarium, which contains documents about the city's history and articles of daily use as well as models of mills. Free afternoon and return to hotel for dinner. Day 4 Trani - Monopoli area. Breakfast and departure for Puglia. Along the way, a stop in Trani. The architectural jewel of the city of Trani is its beautiful cathedral, also called the "queen of Apulian cathedrals." It is the highest expression of the Romanesque style in Apulia and stands before the square Swabian Castle, one of the most impressive structures built by Friedrich II. Arrival at hotel in Monopoli area, for 3 nights HB. Day 5 Castellana Caves / Alberobello. Breakfast and departure for full day trip to Castellana and Alberobello. The long underground caves offer visitors a unique natural spectacle. You will penetrate about 1 kilometre into the caves on a one-hour tour. We continue on to Alberobello, where a typical lunch is booked in a friendly restaurant in a real "Trullo". After lunch, we visit the town, capital of the round stone houses called trulli. There are more than one thousand trulli in the centre, which has been named a World Heritage Site. Return to hotel in late afternoon for dinner. Day 6 Castel del Monte. After breakfast, departure for Castel del Monte where a local guide awaits you for the visit. The Castel del Monte is an exquisite masterpiece of Swabian architecture, built by Friedrich III on one of the highest spots in the Murge. Here, Apulian masonry, the new court lifestyle, and classical inheritance come together. Afternoon free and return to the hotel for dinner. Free afternoon and return to hotel for dinner. Day 7 After breakfast and a final photo, departure for return journey. Programme details 3 nights HB in 3 hotel in Sorrento area 3 nights HB in 3 hotel in Monopoli area 1 full-day guided trip to Capri including speedboat to/from Sorrento, minibus on the island 1 full-day guided tour Castellana Grotte and Alberobello 1 half-day guided tour of Pompeii 1 half-day guided tour of Castel del Monte 1 light lunch including drinks in a Trullo Package price per person, 7 days from € 399 Castelcivita - The Caves The Castelcivita Caves are subterranean natural caves located in the Cilento National Park. The caves stretch for around 5 km and feature deposits such as stalagmites, stalactites and columns. A 1700 m path takes us to the caves, whose visit will prove a fascinating experience. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 51 Puglia & Calabria Tour Example The wonders of Puglia For anyone arriving by air to Bari or Brindisi, which are also linked to all of Europe by low-cost airlines, here is a tour based from Torre Canne / Savelletri (in the Brindisi area) that will allow you to discover a region that is special not only in terms of its art and landscape, but particularly its food. Puglia can offer, like no other region, culinary delicacies in surroundings of incomparable beauty. Taste traditional dishes in a 'trullo' (a distinctive building typical of the region), visit the caves at Castellana and succumb to the sin of greed in Polignano a Mare, jutting out over the sea. Splendid Bari and lunch in a farmhouse to try mozzarella that is still warm. The Mediterranean Maquis alternating with olive trees, Matera, Cisternino and meat cooked in a wood-fired oven... Give in to temptation and leave with us to discover the wonders of Puglia! Day 1 Arrival in Puglia, welcome by one of our onsite staff and transfer to a hotel in the Torre Canne or Savelletri area for 4 nights half-board. Day 2 After breakfast, departure by bus for an excursion to Alberobello, on whose summit the 'trulli' form a line, in an urban agglomeration unique throughout the world. This has become a national monument and has been recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A buffet lunch with local specialities will be prepared in a trullo, which is now used as a restaurant. In the afternoon, a visit to the caves at Castellana, a complex of underground caverns that extend for about 3 kilometres, reaching a depth of 72 metres. Before returning to the hotel, we stop in beautiful Polignano a Mare to taste the region's most famous ice cream. Dinner at the hotel. Day 3 After breakfast, departure by bus for a guided tour of the city of Bari. Facing the Adriatic, open to its Eastern neighbours but protected by Castello Svevo, old Bari offers up some uniquely evocative images. Today's lunch will be in a typical farmhouse where a dairyman will also show you how mozzarella is produced, which you can taste while it's still warm. Return to the hotel in the afternoon for dinner. Day 4 After breakfast, departure for an excursion to Basilicata to visit Matera, the "City of Stones", that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We then continue towards Martina Franca, whose 52 distinctive historic centre is considered to be a splendid example of Baroque art, with its clean alleys, elegant palazzos and majestic churches. Dinner is planned in a typical Cisternino butcher's shop, famous for some of the best meat in the whole South of Italy! Return to the hotel in the evening. Day 5 After breakfast, transfer to airport for return flights. Programme details 4 nights B&B in 4 hotel in the Torre Canne-Savelletri area 3 dinners at the hotel Bus transfers to and from airport guided assistance from airport 1 full day excursion with guide and local bus Alberobello, Castellana, Polignano 1 full day excursion with guide and local bus Matera, Martina Franca 1 half-day excursion with guide and local bus Bari 1 lunch at a typical "trullo" restaurant in Alberobello 1 lunch at a farmhouse in the Bari area 1 special dinner at a butcher's shop in Cisternino Package price per person, 5 days from € 325 Travel Ideas What else to do in Puglia Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Apulia and Calabria tour programs: Alberobello - Typical lunch in a trullo! In the enchanting atmosphere of the trulli lies the restaurant "Il Pinnacolo." The owner has been inspired by this name to only offer his guests typical local dishes. You'll sit down in one of the restaurant's trulli and have the opportunity to choose from among the many dishes prepared only with fresh ingredients bought from the marketplace. Fasano - The "Orecchiette" of Masseria Priore Lunch break at a Masseria, a typical estate among ancient olive trees near the village of Pezze di Greco by Fasano. Here, the group will watch as fresh "orecchiette" (the best-known type of pasta from Apulia) are made. Then you can look forward to an Apulian lunch with regional specialities and local wine. We recommend a short walk through the old flower garden and the orangery and a visit to a small church with frescoes from the XVIII century. Afterwards, you'll have the opportunity to buy Apulian products like olive oil, wine, dried figs, etc. Bari - Take part in the festival of San Nicola (May) For the residents of Bari, San Nicola is much more than just a patron saint. The festival takes place during the first ten days in May: 3 days of feasts, shows and liturgical celebrations to commemorate the 9th May 1087, when the relics of the saint arrived in Bari. A moment not to be missed is the historic procession, when more than 500 dancers in period costume, together with street artists and people waving flags, parade through the streets of the historic centre and the beautiful seafront of the Puglian capital. Matera and its Sassi A very ancient settlement with dwellings entirely dug out of calcareous rock, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 (the first site in Southern Italy). In particular, the "Sasso Caveoso" is the oldest and most fascinating part of the settlement and has remained largely unchanged over the course of time. It was here that Mel Gibson's film, The Passion of the Christ, was shot. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Puglia - The pizzica folk dance The Pizzica is a very ancient folk dance with a mystic origin which, together with the related tarantella, has always fascinated scholars and enthusiasts of folk traditions. Called pizzica pizzica in its most traditional version, it is a ritual dance that preserves its function as treatment against the bite of the tarantula spider. Music is the most important part of the treatment; indeed, tarantatas (people bitten by the tarantula) lying on the ground or on a bed, upon hearing the music begin to move their heads and legs, slithering on their backs, seemingly unable to stand up and therefore remaining on the floor, identifying with the tarantula. Later they stamp their feet in time to the music as if to crush the spider and after countless turns and acrobatic movements, exhausted by their efforts, collapse on the ground. Each year in August in the Salento area, where this dance is still practiced, the "festa della taranta" is held. Campomaggiore Vecchio - The ghost city Campomaggiore Vecchio, in the Potenza province, abandoned at the end of the 9th century due to a great landslide, is now a ghost city...that maintains an aura of fascination and mystery. If you are not frightened by the idea of noticing invisible presences or hearing some creaking without knowing the source...the ghost city of the South awaits you! Diamante - Chilli Festival (September) This original demonstration starts from gastronomy to make a 360 degree tour of the "spicy universe". From chillis of all varieties to highly traditional dishes. From the theatre to the cinema, from medicine to folklore, with all the events that have made the Festival famous: the chilli-eating contest, the gathering of 'living statues', the international exhibition of street theatre, the gastronomic workshops, the spicy Film Festival and the "Chilli of the World", which is the largest "capsicum" show with over 500 varieties. By booking in advance, we can sign you up to the Chillieating Contest! lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events A journey of discovery to Calabria Slow Info Tour Example In southern Italy, there is a little-known region that can nevertheless provoke unforgettable emotions in the traveller. 800Km of fine sandy shores and rocky coastline, some of the most beautiful in Italy, border a sea of vivid turquoise. Staying in the Tropea area, you can visit places of great artistic and geographical interest, that will make you fall in love with this land. Day 1 Arrival in Parghelia-Tropea area and accommodation in hotel for 5 nights half-board. Day 2 After breakfast, departure for a full day trip to Reggio Calabria and a visit to the Magna Grecia Museum, which houses the precious Riace Bronzes. This is followed by a visit to Scilla with the castle of Ruffo di Calabria and the distinctive coastal village. Before returning to the hotel for dinner, we finish the trip with a visit to the hamlet of Sant'Elia, the location of a Greek Orthodox monastery. Day 3 After breakfast, a visit to Tropea, an ancient city that rises up from tufa rock, famous for its medieval appearance and the panoramic view that can be enjoyed from its balconies. In the afternoon, we continue to Capo Vaticano. Historically, the Capo was a sacred site known throughout Ancient Greece, as priests and soothsayers looked into the future from here. Return to hotel for dinner. Day 4 After breakfast, departure to Locri, one of the first Greek colonies, dating from 673 BC. After lunch, a visit to Gerace, a beautiful and intact medieval town. Walking through its alleyways, between the palazzos of the historic centre, you can still breathe in the atmosphere of the medieval suburbs. Visit to the Cathedral, supported by columns from the temples of Locri Epizefiri. Return to hotel for dinner. Day 5 Free day. Or, an optional excursion to the Eolian Islands: departure in the morning by motorboat to the island of Vulcan. Arrival at around 10.15 a.m., stopping for a dip in the sea and the sulphurous spots. Departure immediately afterwards for Lipari, the main island in the Eolian group. Visit to the Eolian Museum and the charming town, with its little white houses and the main square where you can taste the typical Sicilian granita. Departure immediately afterwards for Stromboli, and a boat ride around the island to see the famous "sciara di fuoco". Return departure immediately afterwards. Expected arrival in the evening. Farewell dinner in the hotel, with typical Calabrian specialities. Day 6 After breakfast, final snapshots of Calabria and departure for return journey. Programme details 5 nights HB in a 4 hotel in the Tropea area 1 Welcome cocktail 1 farewell dinner at the hotel 3 full day excursions 1 dinner in the Gerace area Package price per person, 6 days from € 249 Matera - Restaurant between its famous "Sassi" The Restaurant Alle Fornaci offers a very friendly atmosphere just a few kilometres from the town of Matera, and has a garden equipped with tables for eating outside during the summer. The cuisine is regional, specialising in fish dishes, accompanied by an excellent choice of carefully selected wines. Try one of the numerous grappas or sample a rum from the many offered by the restaurant: there is a truly wide selection... you will be spoilt for choice! Stromboli tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 53 Sicilia Tour Example Sicily Tour - Discover the land of the sun A complete tour of the island's most important places, a place filled with priceless artistic beauty and unique landscapes. Close your eyes: do you smell the Zagara flowers? If so, then you are already in Sicily… and you are ready to begin our tour! We start out on the western part of the island with a stop in Palermo to visit the aristocratic city and Monreale. We take an excursion to Erice, famous for its delicious marzipan cakes; in the afternoon, we visit the ancient Greek city of Selinunte. Then the tour stops in Agrigento, with its impressive Valle dei Templi, before proceeding eastward to Giardini Naxos. From here, we will visit the lively Catania and Syracuse with its Archaeological Park. A full day is dedicated to Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, as well as a tour of Taormina with its unusual terrace-like shape and breathtaking views... Day 1 Arrive in Palermo, check in to the hotel for 2 nights half-board Day 2 After breakfast, we visit Palermo, a history and art-packed city with its Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Normanni in which the precious Cappella Palatina is found... We continue on to Monreale with its impressive Arab-Norman cathedral and splendid cloister. You spend the afternoon on your own and return to the hotel for dinner. Day 3 Breakfast and departure to explore the province of Trapani. Erice, a charming location with beautiful views, has a medieval core which has been preserved intact; the town blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings. We will sample its famous marzipan in a local pastry shop. In the afternoon, you visit the exceptional Selinunte archaeological park, unique for the volume and value of its findings. You continue to Agrigento with dinner and overnight at a hotel. Day 4 After breakfast, a guided tour of Agrigento's Valle dei Templi, an archaeological site which is one of the best examples of classic Greek civilization; it has been named a "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The trip resumes towards the eastern part of the island, reaching Giardini Naxos in the afternoon. Check in at the hotel for 3 nights half-board. Day 5 Breakfast and departure for Catania. The old town is one of eastern Sicily's baroque jewels with the splendid Piazza Duomo and the Via dei Crociferi with its churches and convents. A visit to the fish market held every morning (except Sundays) is a must-see. You continue on to Syracuse to admire its splendid Greek theatre and the old town on the island of 54 Ortigia. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 6 After a hearty breakfast, you head out for Mount Etna. Along the 2000 metre journey you can admire a contrast-filled landscape with lava flows, brooms, chestnut trees, and vineyards. In Zafferana Etnea a delicious sampling of products based on honey and orange blossom infused honey is planned. Spend the rest of the day in posh Taormina whose old town enjoys amazingly scenic views, especially from the ancient Theatre. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 7 After breakfast, we bid farewell to magical Sicily with a, "See you soon"! Programme details 2 nights HB and enlarged breakfast in a 3Hotel in Palermo area 1 night HB and enlarged breakfast in a 3 Hotel in Agrigento area 3 nights HB and enlarged breakfast in a 3 Hotel in the area Giardini Naxos-Letojanni 1 half day guided tour of Palermo and Monreale 1 half day guided tour of Selinunt 1 half day guided tour of Agrigent 1 half day guided tour of Catania 1 half day guided tour of Syrakus 1 full day guided tour to Etna and Taormina Marzipan tasting in Erice Honey tasting Package price per person, 7 days from € 268 Travel Ideas What else to do in Sicily Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Sicily tour programs: Palermo - The perfect snack! Road food always holds a certain fascination in any situation: to indulge a little, as a quick meal, or for trying something new out of curiosity. Amidst your picturesque wandering through the alleys of Palermo's old town (Ballarò, Capo, la Vucciria) I suggest trying the "pane e panelle" (chickpea fritters) an Arab-inspired dish which has become a symbol of the city's street food culture. Made with chickpea flour, water, and salt, then fried, the "fritters" are served on a sesame seed roll. It is a must try! Catania - What a feast! The flavour of horse meat is considered a real delicacy by the people of Catania, and it is something to sample while taking a walk through the centre. Dressed in oil, vinegar, and oregano, it is cooked by the road side on large barbecues, giving off an appetizing aroma which attracts customers from hundred of metres away. Beyond the grilled specialities, you can also try various traditional Sicilian appetizers for a true gastronomic experience… at prices that won't break the bank! tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Palermo - Santa Rosalia Festival (July) The Santa Rosalia Festival, the "U fistìnu" in dialect, is a picturesque event celebrating the city's patron saint which attracts tourists by the tens of thousands. After the traditional parade (part folklore, part religious) through the city streets and the Carro Trionfale procession (a richly decorated cart), the festival culminates with a traditional fireworks display. Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example Catania - City to be experienced Already known as the city of the elephant while under Arab domination, the pachyderm is Catania's symbol to this day. In fact, legend has it that an elephant freed the territory of ferocious beasts and made the settling of the city possible. Repeatedly destroyed by powerful earthquakes and eruptions from Mount Etna, the city has always been rebuilt with its splendour and vigour intact. Beyond the most important ancient sites, you will also visit the fish market which animates the city every morning (except Sundays); afterwards you can enjoy a delicious almond or espresso granita. In the evening Palermo - The Sicilian cart you explore Taormina (on your own), famous for its Greek theatre and where you should try the excelThe cart is definitely the most well-known Sicilian lent gelato. A daytime excursion will be dedicated to visiting Syracuse's archaeological area as well as folk art icon. A multi-coloured vestige of the art of the baroque city of Noto. a by-gone era, these folkloristic "masterpieces" are an explosion of colour dominated by the yellow of the Sicilian sun, the red of the lava that flows from Mount Etna, and the turquoise of the sea. To this day, you can still watch artisans making miniature Sicilian carts which you can purchase as a souvenir so you can take a piece of Sicily home with you… Catania - The Fish market The fish market is one of the more colourful places in everyday Catania; it is always overflowing with colours, voices, and smells. Open every morning expect Sundays, it is the island's most famous and most important market. Visiting it is to immerse yourself in the true life of the island; it has a very warm atmosphere, is almost overwhelming, and is definitely hard to forget. Day 1 Arrive in Catania, check in to the hotel for 3 nights half-board Day 2 In the morning, after breakfast, a guided tour of downtown Catania; especially the Fontana dell'Elefante and the Cathedral in Piazza Duomo; and, finishing off with the fish market where you will find a series of ancient lava-rock steps supporting countertops laden with fresh fish. You can try the famous Sicilian granita in a historic city cafe. The afternoon is free for touring on your own. After dinner at the hotel, there is a trip to Taormina is planned where you can sample artisanal gelato. Day 3 After breakfast, departure for an excursion to Syracuse; the seaside city is full of history and monuments, from extraordinarily artefacts like the ancient Greek theatre to the baroque beauty of the island of Ortigia. You continue on to Noto, exploring the town by walking along the monumental Corso Umberto with its reconstructed Cathedral, Theatre, and Palazzo Nicolaci. Return for dinner at the hotel. Day 4 Breakfast and return departure. Programme details 3 nights half-board in a 4 hotel in Catania 1 half-day guided tour of Catania 1 full-day guided tour of Syracuse and Noto 1 gelato break in Taormina 1 granita tasting Package price per person, 4 days from € 185 Catania - Sicilian Granita Despite many attempts to copy it, true Sicilian "granita" is still today inimitable. The classic lemon and coffee flavours are inventively joined by almonds, Bronte pistachio nuts, etc. Catania - Short train ride to the base of Mount Etna Since 1895, the Circumetnea railway has scrambled up the slopes of Mount Etna; it travels from Catania to Riposto, providing a view into a fascinating landscape among the lava trenches and blossoming citrus groves. We suggest the CataniaRandazzo route, taking a break to visit the beautiful medieval centre. From here you can continue by bus towards Castiglione di Sicilia. You can also visit the botanical garden of Gole dell'Alcantara (paid entry). Trapani - Organic lunch at the Arcudaci Farm Inn Between Castellamare del Golfo and Erice, the Arcudaci Farm Inn offers typical Sicilian cuisine using exclusively local, organically-produced ingredients. The traditional aromas and flavours are paired with house wine. Among the various products to try are: a very fruity Merlot, the extra virgin olive oil, the cheese, assorted cured meats, and seasonal vegetables. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 55 Sicilia Tour Example Travel Ideas Trapani - a piece of Africa in Italy What else to do in On the westernmost tip of Sicily, where the wind has shaped the contours of the beaches and rocks and covered everything with a thin veil of fine sand from the Sahara, lies the most African corner of the Island of Sicily. Trapani was the place where cultures and peoples clashed; they came from across the sea leaving clear traces behind them. After visiting Trapani, you will get to know Erice and its famous Marzipan, as well as the isle of Mozia, the most important in the Stagnone lagoon. You will also visit the picturesque salt ponds of Marsala where salt is still collected using traditional methods. The last day is a free day for relaxing and shopping. We will conclude with a dinner at a typical trattoria near San Vito lo Capo to try the famous fish couscous prepared according to an ancient Arab recipe and admire the spectacular sunset over the sea… Sicily Day 1 Arrive in Trapani-Marsala; check in to hotel for 4 nights. Welcome drink and dinner. Day 2 After breakfast, depart for a tour of the medieval town of Erice. From Erice there is a breath taking view over Trapani, the Egades islands and the surrounding landscape. Our tour will include a visit to the Venus Castle which surrounds parts of the ancient temple of Venus Ericina. In Erice you will also have the chance to taste the delicious marzipan! In the afternoon we will visit Trapani; more than just a port for reaching the Egadi Islands, the city is also famous for the Pepoli Museum with its masterful coral work. The historic centre is filled with Baroque palaces and churches and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 3 Breakfast and departure for an excursion to Mozia, the small island founded by the Phoenicians in the middle of the "Stagnone" Lagoon. We will arrive by boat and visit the Whitaker Museum with its stupendous marble statue of the Youth of Mozia (450-440 BC). After a pleasant walk around the archaeological area, you return to Marsala to tour the historic centre as well as the archaeological museum which houses the famous remains of a Punic ship. Then, a stop at a wine cellar for a tasting of the famous Marsala, Passito and Moscato wines: an experience not to be missed. Return to the hotel for 56 Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Sicily tour programs: Agrigento - Festival of the Flowerin Almond Tree (February) When the snow-white almond tree blossoms announce the spring, Agrigento becomes an embodiment of harmony and culture. The joyful event, repeated for more than half a cendinner. Day 4 Breakfast in the hotel and free day. You can tury, includes various sporting and traditional activireturn to explore some hidden corner of the beautiful ties ranging from a Sicilian cart parade to internaisland or devote yourself to finding the perfect sou- tional folklore group performances. venir to bring home. Dinner at a traditional trattoria in San Vito Lo Capo where you can sample the traSan Vito lo Capo - International Kite ditional fish couscous dish and enjoy a marvellous Festival (May) Excitement up in the sky! The event sunset out over the sea. Return to the hotel in the attracts hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts and late evening. Day 5 After breakfast, depart for return trip home. tourists from all over the world to admire the kites. It is a creative and imaginative event for Sicily which Programme details includes Italian and international kite flyers, kite 4 nights' accommodation with enlarged breakfast workshops, a wind fair, and many musical performin a good 3 hotel in the Trapani area ances. Welcome cocktail 3 dinners at the hotel 1 full-day guided tour of Trapani and Erice Modica - The oldest chocolate factory 1 full-day guided tour to the island of Mozia and in Sicily The long history of Bonajuto chocolate even Marsala today ties the county of Modica to Spain and to the 1 sweet-tasting session in Erice Aztecs. The ancient recipe gives the chocolate its 1 Return boat trip to the island of Mozia unique consistency and flavour. Complimentary tast1 wine-tasting session with a light snack in Marsala ing of many flavours is offered: cinnamon, orange, white pepper, lemon, chilli pepper... Try also the unu1 typical couscous dinner at a pleasant trattoria sual chocolate and ground meat biscuits called 'mpaPackage price per person, 5 days natigghi! from € 250 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Piazza Armerina - Traditional products at the Farm Inn The Gigliotto Farm Inn is the perfect stopping point when travelling from one part of Sicily to another, or as an ideal lunch break after visiting the splendid Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina. Snacks include fresh ricotta and other cheeses, olives, grilled vegetables, bread, and local wine. Snack break. San Vito lo Capo - Cous Cous Fest (last weekend of September) Cous cous, a grain rich in history, has always united different cultures. Its Festival, set in the splendid seaside town San Vito lo Capo, is an important event involving all Euro-Mediterranean countries. Apart from various musical performances, the main attraction is the cous-cous themed food contest with the participation of chefs from all over the world. Piazza Armerina - Traditional fresh products at the Farm Inn The Gigliotto Farm Inn is the perfect stopping point when travelling from one part of Sicily to another, or as an ideal lunch break after visiting the splendid Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina. Snacks include fresh ricotta and other cheeses, olives, grilled vegetables, bread, and local wine. Snack break. Lipari, one of the Mediterranean pearls! The 4 Hotel Aktea is situated in the centre of Lipari - the largest island on the Aeolian Archipelago - near the port and the old town: a perfect departure point to explore the island! Surrounded by an immense tree-lined garden, it looks out over a large pool with a Jacuzzi area and a solarium. Lipari - visit the caper factory The caper, used in thousands of recipes due to its intense and aromatic flavour, is a typical Mediterranean shrub that grows in rock fissures. Harvesting is done exclusively by hand, picking each precious bud one by one. On our complimentary tour, the factory will reveal all the caper-secrets! Marzamemi - Boat excursion Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Sicilian wine and chocolate, a winning pair Slow Info Tour Example Setting off from an excellent 4 hotel in the Ragusa area, we explore the South East of Sicily, from Noto to Caltagirone. As well as experiencing its artistic beauty, from Greek/Roman archaeological finds to the more current Baroque style, we try two of the products that best represent the passion of the Sicilian people: chocolate and wine. It is possible to prolong the trip by visiting the famous Villa del Casale di Piazza Armerina or even to combine it with a stay on Malta. Day 1 Arrival at hotel for 4 nights in half board accommodation. Day 2 Full-day excursion to Noto, including winetasting session. The old Valley of Noto was inhabited by many different peoples: Sicilians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Spanish, and Byzantines etc., all of whom have left traces of their permanence. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, the City of Noto was fully rebuilt, and even attracted the attention of the UNESCO. Noto is a rich heritage of mankind thanks to its sights, churches and palaces dating back to the 18th century. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to taste the renowned Nero D'Avola (red wine), together with a light snack in a wine growing estate in the area of Noto / Ispica. Late afternoon, return to hotel. Day 3 Full-day excursion to Ragusa and Modica, including a chocolate tasting session. The origins of the City of Ragusa date back to ancient times and are witnessed by the numerous findings in the area, some of which are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum. There are traces of the Sicilian, Greek and Roman civilizations, such as the necropolises from the era of Ancient Greece and the 'Grotta delle Trabacche' from the Byzantine era. After the visit, we will proceed to Modica, one of the most important Cities from the Baroque period. The most interesting places of worship and at the same time the best examples of Sicilian Baroque art in Modica are: the San Giorgio church, the San Pietro cathedral, the church of Carmine, the church of San Nicolò Inferiore, built in a cave, the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the church of San Giovanni, with its adjacent belfry, the highest point in the city. Visitors may also admire palaces and paintings of outstanding beauty. The visit to Modica includes a taste of its delicious chocolate in the oldest chocolate factory of the entire region. Late afternoon, return to hotel. Day 4 Full-day excursion to Caltagirone, wine-tasting session and visit to Donnafugata castle. Caltagirone is Sicily's 'Ceramic Centre'; ceramic can be found everywhere, alongside the omnipresent Ba- roque art. From the shops and workrooms of craftsmen to the fully tiled outdoor staircase, ceramic is to be seen in abundance in this city. In the earthquake of 1693, the city was almost completely destroyed, but subsequently rebuilt as a genuine 'Baroque Dream'. After a wine-tasting session at 'Tenuta del Nanfro', we will proceed to Donnafugata castle. Donnafugata Castle is a sumptuous aristocratic residence dating from the late 1800s, which used to tower above the property of an ancient family. The Castle covers an area of around 2,500 m², with 122 rooms spread over three floors. Its broad façade is adorned with a very beautiful loggia with eight balconies in the Gothic-Venetian style. When visiting the rooms that still contain the original furnishings of the era, it almost seems as though you have jumped back in time. Each room is furnished to a different taste, according to its function: the Music Room, the Room of Arms, the Salon of Mirrors and the unmissable Bishop's Apartments. The residence is surrounded by a park of eight hectares with a special "stone maze". Due to its beauty, Donnafugata Castle is often used as a film set. Late afternoon, return to hotel. Farewell dinner and overnight accommodation in the hotel. Day 5 Trip back home. Programme details 4 nights in half-board with breakfast buffet, in the 4 Hotel El Homs in Comiso incl. farewell buffet-style dinner in the hotel 1 full-day guided tour to Noto 1 full-day guided tour to Ragusa and Modica1 1 full-day guided tour to Caltagirone and Donnafugata castle 1 admission to Donnafugata castle 2 wine-tasting sessions with a light snack 1 chocolate tasting session Package price per person, 5 days from € 295 A glass-bottom boat takes you to the Colonne archaeological site, thought to be from the Greco-Roman era (about 6 metres below water). You then visit the small fishing village of Marzamemi and participate in a workshop showing the ancient methods, still in use nowadays, of processing tuna, roe and anchovies. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 57 Sardegna & Corsica Tour Example Corsica and Sardinia, united by a strip of sea The most beautiful places, cities, ports and the traditions of two of the most noble islands in the Mediterranean, all in one grand tour that will allow you to discover their similarities and their differences. They are both characterised by primitive, wild natural landscapes, while their culture, customs and usages form a fascinating contrast. We have included the most evocative excursions that best represent Corsica and Sardinia in this tour. With regards to hotels, we guarantee a good 3 in Corsica and a good 4 in Sardinia. Day 1 Arrival in the Versilia/Livorno region for an overnight stay and dinner at the hotel. Day 2 Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the harbour for the Livorno - Bastia day-time ferry. Departure at about 8:15, arrival in Bastia at about 12:15, and transfer to a hotel in Porto Ajaccio for the night and for dinner. Day 3 After breakfast, full-day excursion to Porto - Les Calanques. A day to discover the amazing rocky granite landscape of Les Calanques, whose sculptures take on orange or red nuances depending on the time of day. We end the day with a tour of the bathing resort town "Porto," whose bay is listed among UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. Porto is still guarded by an old Genovese tower that crowns the evening sunsets over the pink sea. Return to hotel and dinner. Day 4 After breakfast, full-day excursion to Ajaccio Bonifacio. The town of Ajaccio is located in the heart of one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Near the old harbour, you'll find lively markets and narrow old town streets lined with aristocratic residences. Everywhere in Ajaccio, street names and monuments commemorate Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born in a house in Rue Saint Charles on 15 August 1769. We continue to Bonifacio, one of the most visited towns in Corsica, picturesquely situated on imposing wave-beaten chalk cliffs. 58 The visit to the "Ville Haute" with a view of the 12 m distant coast of Sardinia is an unforgettable experience. After the visit, we take the ferry from Bonifacio to Santa Teresa (Sardinia), transfer to a hotel in Santa Teresa-Baja Sardinia-Olbia, and dinner. Day 5 After breakfast, a full-day excursion to Castelsardo, Alghero. Past Sassari you reach Alghero, the "L'Alguer" of the Catalans, where traces of Catalan rule still live on in the language and traditions. The surrounding countryside has interesting archaeological remains of the most ancient history of Sardinia. Castelsardo lies on the northern coast. A stroll through the narrow, steep alleys of this once-fortified village rewards visitors with ever more spectacular views. A few kilometres from Castelsardo, a bizarre rock formation arises from the landscape: the well-known elephant. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 6 After breakfast, full-day excursion to Maddalena Costa Smeralda. The trip gives visitors a chance to experience the sophisticated atmosphere of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, the refined jet-set capitals of the coast, but also to discover untouched parts of the rough coastal cliffs. In the afternoon, ferry to the island La Maddalena, the only inhabited island of the archipelago. Our path leads from the lovely coastal promenade to the alleys and squares of the old town. In the evening, night ferry Ol- bia - Livorno with accommodation in double room cabins. Day 7 After breakfast on board, arrival in Livorno and journey home. Programme details 1 night HB in 3 hotel in the Versilia area, Livorno 1 day crossing Livorno-Bastia, on the comfortable ferries of Moby Lines or Corsica Ferries Fees in Corsica 2 nights HB in 3 hotel in the Porto-Ajaccio area 1 full day trip to Porto les Calanquess 1 full day trip to Ajaccio Bonifacio 1 sea crossing by bus Bonifacio-Santa Teresa 2 nights HB in 4 hotel in the Santa Teresa, Baja Sardinia, Olbia area 1 full day trip to Castelsardo, Alghero 1 full day trip to Maddalena Costa Smeralda 1 sea crossing by bus Palau-Maddalena-Palau 1 night on ferry Olbia-Livorno with accommodation in double cabin on the ferries of Moby Lines or Corsica Ferries 1 breakfast on board (dinner not included) Package price per person, 7 days from € 450 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Travel Ideas What else to do in Corsica & Sardinia Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Corsica or Sardinia tour programs: Corsica - Bonifacio, the city on the white chalk cliffs Join us for one of the most picturesque excursions of the Mediterranean Sea! We take the ferry from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio that lies in a beautiful fjord. The medieval old town gloriously stands on imposing chalk cliffs from where you enjoy dramatic views over Sardinia. A boat tour to the sea caves is a true experience! Alghero - Tasting the Focaccia A required stop when walking the streets of Alghero is the Milese focacceria to try the famous Sardinian filled focaccia and breathe in the Italian-ness of the ingredients. Not to be missed! Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Super Sardinia Low Cost! Slow Info Tour Example Thanks to Sardinia's mild climate, the season begins earlier and ends later than other seaside destinations. Take advantage of cheap flights and ferries and stay in a great hotel in Sardinia for a 5 days tour. Travelling months: March, April, May, and October 2013 (except holidays) Day 1 Airport reception and transfer to the hotel with our guide. Dinner and overnight. Day 2 Full-day guided tour of the Costa Smeralda, the VIP coast! The trip gives you the possibility to feel the chic breeze of Porto Rotondo and Portocervo, the stylish Jet-Set-capitals of the coast. Dinner in hotel and overnight. Day 3 Full-day guided tour of Nuoro and Orgosolo, in the Barbagia region which is considered the heart of Sardinia. Today Barbagia is still rich in old traditions, while its landscape, building, hospitality and cuisine have maintained their unique characteristics. Dinner in hotel and overnight. Day 4 Full-day guided tour of Alghero, the “L’Alguer” of the Catalanes, in which the tracks of the Catalan power are still alive in language and tradition. After Sassari, Alghero is the most important city in the north. Back to the hotel, dinner and overnight. Day 5 Airport transfer for return flight with our local guide. Programme details 4 nights HB with breakfast buffet at a 4 hotel, Budoni-Orosei area Assistance from airport to hotel and back to the airport Bus rental from 1st till 5th day 3 full day guided tours Package price per person, 5 days from € 325 Orgosolo - A lunch with the shepherds Several "lunches with the shepherds of Orgosolo" are offered, but for something truly unique and traditional, try our picnic in the woods: lunch with Mario and Pasquale Piredda. Sardegna - Pariglia Trust, speed, balance, power and friendship: key words that describe the formidable alchemy between man and horse, the origin of this famous equestrian event where the most courageous Sardinian riders demonstrate their acrobatic skill, performing astride galloping horses. The Pariglia can be specially arranged for your group! Sardegna - The ladies of Alghero Two ladies in traditional dress take us back in time, recalling the past with traditional Sardinian music and song. Surprise your group by planning a beautiful picnic in a picturesque spot in Alghero and having these 2 ladis appear unannounced: a truly unforgettable afternoon! Sardegna - Green Train A splendid trip aboard the historic "green train": a fascinating journey that takes you over bridges and past train stations and rail inspector houses in the hinterlands of Sardinia. Travelling by boat is another great way to see the wonders of the landscape. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 59 Sardegna & Corsica Tour Example Sardinia, almost a continent... ... So goes the title of a famous work by Sardinian writer Marcello Serra. Sardinia's incredibly rich environment and culture have everything you are looking for: amazing views, traditions, smells and colours! On this 8 days tour, you will get to know the island inside out...whether arriving by plane or bus! Day 1 Embark in Livorno, overnight crossing with interior double cabin accommodations. Day 2 Breakfast and disembark at Golfo Aranci, fullday excursion to Gallura. The excursion takes you through the impressive landscape of the north eastern part of the island, in which very bizarre granite formations of thick cork oak forests and willows tower can be found. Dinner and overnight at 4hotel in Stintino. Day 3 Full-day excursion to Alghero. On the expressway Olbia-Sassari we cross the northern part of the island, which still shows the ancient history of Sardinia, from the nuraghi to the Roman churches. We then reach Alghero, the “L’Alguer” of the Catalanes, in which the tracks of the Catalan power are still alive in language and traditions. Dinner at the hotel and overnight. Day 4 Full-day excursion to Bosa and West Coast. One of the most fascinating tours on Sardinia, along the Coral Coast on the way to Bosa, a medieval town located at the confluence of the Temo River. A walk in the old town along the characteristic streets leading to the Malaspina castle or a visit the Cathedral of Immacolata, with its characteristic little domes abd a big bell tower. Beautiful the fluvial landscape along the Temo river and the coastal area, rich in promontories and inlets. Dinner at the hotel and overnight at 4 hotel in Quartu Sant'Elena. Day 5 Full-day excursion to Cagliari and the South Coast. Administration capital of Sardinia and main harbour of the island, Cagliari has been inhabited since prehistory, as you can see from the tracks of sea cultures, which were found in the adjacent lagoons. It was the main destination of all foreign rules, of which it keeps signs from each epoch and culture. After this excursion along the West Coast, Dinner at the hotel and overnight. 60 Day 6 Full-day excursion to Nuoro Orgosolo. In Nuoro, the capital of Barbagia region, you can visit the ethnographic museum where costumes, daily objects and jewellery are on display, confirming the ancient culture of this people. We explore Barbagia’s interior region peppered with olive groves and wine yards and discover Orgosolo, where old traditions have been preserved at best. Dinner and overnight at 4 hotel in Costa Smeralda. Day 7 Excursion to Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena. The excursion gives you the possibility to feel the chic breeze of Porto Rotondo and Portocervo, the stylish Jet-Set-capitals of the coast, but also to discover untouched parts of the row rock coast. From Palau we take a ferry to the Maddalena island, the only inhabited island of the archipelago. The picturesque town is perched on the hill of Guardia Vecchia in the southern part of the island. Back to Palau, we say good-bye to Sardinia. Late evening embark to Livorno. Day 8 Breakfast on board, arrival in Livorno. Programme details 2 overnight ferry rides from Livorno-Golfo Aranci and back to Livorno (interior double cabin) 2 On-board breakfasts 2 Nights half-board at 4 Hotel in Stintino 2 Nights half-board at 4hotel in Quartu Sant'Elena 1 Night half-board at 4 hotel in Costa Smeralda 6 Full-day guides 1 Roundtrip ferry Palau-La Maddalena (bus and passengers) Package price per person, 8 days from € 480 Travel Ideas What else to do in Corsica & Sardinia Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your Corsica or Sardinia tour programs: The Festival of Saint Efisio and the Cavalcata Sarda in Cagliari The Festival of Saint Efisio in Cagliari and the Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari are Sardinia's most famous festivals; they provide the opportunity to see the island's traditional costumes all at once. Why not organise a trip to Sardinia during one of these two festivals? This way, your customers can experience the real traditions of the island! The Festival of Saint Efisio lasts an entire month. However, the highpoint is the May 1st parade when a procession of chariots, horses, devotees and pilgrims escort the saint from Cagliari to Nora. An extraordinary number of people participate in the event which is a blend of faith, devotion, folklore and tradition. Grandstand seating is available. The Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari Its non-religious character distinguishes the Cavalcata Sarda from other celebrations: the focus is on costumes, dance, songs, and riding skill, traditions that live on in all their variety and richness. The morning is completely dedicated to the parade of traditional costumes; in the afternoon, riders perform acrobatic stunts in a truly breathtaking spectacle. In the evening in the Piazza d'Italia - considered the "public living room" by the people of Sassari - the costume wearers from the morning's parade return to perform traditional folkloristic dances. (2012 schedule: 20 May). tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Sardinia Trekking Slow Info Tour Example Sardinia, the land of many contrasts, is the perfect destination for trekking enthusiasts! Rocky outcroppings, ancient juniper trees, white sand beaches and dunes, and emerald and turquoise coloured San Pantaleo Market waters. Explore the most beautiful hiking the island has to offer with an 8-day tour accompanied by On Thursdays you can retrace the steps of daily an expert trekking guide. Lodging in 2 good 4 hotels best suited to facilitate our itinerary. Excellent life in a typical Sardinian market. And that's not half-board at the hotels with a hearty breakfast buffet before heading out for the day of trekking and all: the San Pantaleo market is not just a market, a robust dinner to cap off each beautiful day. Bus and guide rental for arrival and departure. but really a kind of artisan Tower of Babel where ceramicists, metalworkers, marquetry, glass Day 1 Airport arrival and assistance for transfer to one Sardinia's meccas for trekking enthusiasts. If you are lucky, you will be able to see the beautiful caves of makers, antique dealers and painters alternate 4hotel in Orosei. Dinner and overnight. Day 2 Walking excursion in the Biderosa Natural Bonifacio in the distance. Dinner and overnight. in and out of view! To be combined with an excursion to the Costa Park, a peaceful oasis of sea and nature with woods, Day 7 Trekking around Isola Rossa. You start out ponds, and 5 pristine beaches. Dinner at the hotel and from the large Aragon tower in the small fishing vilSmeralda. Aggius Museum The biggest Ethnographic museum in Sardinia: this is where you can experience the homes, ancient crafts, accessories, folklore and culture of the past. To be combined with an excursion to Gallura! Sardegna - Cooking Class - How to make the true "gnocchetti sardi" Sticking to original Sardinian taste, we will discover how grand-mothers from Sardinia have been delighting us for ages with their traditional dishes. We will discover how to make the "gnocchetti sardi" (a kind of homemade pasta) and their traditional sauces: a true delicacy from the explanation to the final tasting! The gold of the region Gallura: Cork Calangianus is one of the sidevillages around the mainvillage Gallura, Tempio Pausania. This village is known all over the world because it is the centre of the corkcultivation. The factory Arte Sughero in Calagianus is in business for more than 40 years and today it is the last company that still works with manual technics. In this firm one can monitor the steps of using cork: the cooking and the production of stoppers as well as pieces of art... and all this with traditional methods. After visiting the facotry the guests get a little surprise. overnight. Day 3 Free day or the option of a guided trekking tour to the highest peaks of Supramonte. Your Jeeps await you near Oliena and take you to Padru (1225 m). From here the trail leads up to the summit of Monte Corrasi, one of the highest peaks on the island. Up here you can enjoy a 360° view of the beautiful Barbagia landscape, the heart of Sardinia: dinner and overnight. Day 4 Trekking along the Emerald Coast's chic beaches. Passing from one creek to another, the turquoise sea, golden beaches, and the aromatic scrub brush will delight you.Dinner and overnight at 4hotel in Santa Teresa di Gallura. Day 5 Trekking in Caprera, in the footsteps of Garibaldi. You reach La Maddalena Islands and from there proceed to the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park on the Island of Caprera; here there is spectacular trekking, with a breathtaking parade of sea and mountain views which are sure to move you. On the way back, why not stop for a cappuccino in Piazza Garibaldi?Dinner at hotel and overnight Day 6 Walking excursion Capo Testa, Luna Valley and Santa Teresa. Its breathtaking landscape makes it lage in the north of Sardinia; proceed along the trail leading to Punta li Canneddi, one of the island's most beautiful beaches; along the way you will be amazed by the contrast between the crystalline waters and reddish rocks. Dinner and overnight. Day 8 Transfer and assistance to the airport for return flight. Programme details Bus Transfer and guide assistance airport-hotelairport Bus rental for the excursion programme as described 3 nights HB with enlarged breakfast at a 4 hotel in the Orosei area 4 nights HB with enlarged breakfast at a 4hotel in the Santa Teresa di Gallura area Walking guide for the 5-day programme Ferry Palau-Maddalena-Palau for Bus and passengers Package price per person, 8 days from € 545 Sea grottoes and spectacular beaches in an inflatable craft A few minutes by boat from Cala Gonone are the spectacular "monk seal" grottoes and numberless small bays lovely pebble beaches, a true paradise for sea and nature lovers! We do not take massive boats full with tourists heading to the most popular beaches. A tour on modern comfortable inflatable crafts takes us to the most secret spots of this wonderful strip of coast accompanied by expert nature guides. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 61 Tour Italia Tour Example The most beautiful coastlines of Italy's Tyrrhenian Sea This is your chance... A tour from the world-renowned Amalfi Coast, along the coast of Calabria, to the breathtaking beaches of Sicily. Enjoy wonderful views and discover the sea with all its shades of blue. If all this were not enough, we will take you on a journey into the past to the ruins of the temple in Paestum and the Greek theatre in Taormina. What are you waiting for? Day 1 Arrival in the Sorrento area, lodging for two nights, HB. Day 2 Following breakfast, the day will be dedicated to visiting the costiera amalfitana. The Amalfi Coast begins in Positano, passes through Amalfi, Ravello, and Maiori, and ends in Vietri sul Mare. The entire coastline, which descends dramatically to the sea, is divided into short terraces with thick hedging and deep valley basins enclosing small, delightful beaches. Return to the hotel and dinner. Day 3 Following breakfast, we'll depart for Paestum. At the quiet, lightly populated mouth of the Sele River near the Tyrrhenian Sea, we'll visit the temple ruins of Paestum, including the acropolis 62 and other famous ancient buildings on the former Greek peninsula: the most impressive Greek structures in all of Europe. We'll continue on to Calabria, with lodging near Tropea for three nights, HB. Day 4 Breakfast. In the morning, we'll visit Tropea. The history of Tropea seems to emerge from the darkness of past centuries, the undisputed gem of Calabria's coastal tourism, which is deservedly striving to continue to build up its international importance. The old city is replete with ancient palaces, residential doorways with inlaid family coats of arms, and sumptuously decorated courtyards that bear witness to the wealth of the former nobility. In the afternoon, we'll discover the impressive foothills of Capo Vaticano, which offer a spectacular view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Return to the hotel and dinner. Day 5 Following breakfast, we'll depart for a tour of Locri and Gerace. Locri is an archaeological site with relics from the ancient colony of the Locrians. The ruins consist of countless remnants from walls and military structures, which are scattered about a large area. They bear witness to the great significance of Locri during the time of ancient Greece. Gerace offers phenomenal panoramas. Particularly noteworthy is the Gothic Church of Saint Francis with the partially destroyed grave of Ruffo, a spectacular Baroque banister, and surrounding remnants of a monastery. Return to the hotel and dinner. Day 6 Breakfast. In the morning, we'll visit Reggio Calabria, the ancient Chalcis colony and Calabria's largest city. You'll be able to view remnants from an- cient times: the Aragonese Castle, the Church of the Optimates, the cathedral, and the National Archaeological Museum. Then, we'll continue on to Messina, in Sicily. Transfer to the hotel in the Giardini Naxos area. Lodging for two nights, HB. Day 7 Following breakfast, we'll visit Taormina, with its countless points of interest. You'll wander through the charming narrow alleys and enjoy the outstanding view of the coastline. Afternoon on your own. Dinner at the hotel. Day 8 Breakfast. If you'd like to return by ship, there are several ferries that connect Sicily with the Italian mainland, such as from Palermo to Genoa or Civitavecchia or from Messina to Salerno. Alternatively, you can return by land, making a stopover near Sorrento, as was the case on the outbound trip. Programme details 7 nights, half-board, with enlarged breakfast in good 3hotels 1 full day guided tour Amalfi Coast 1 half day guided tour Paestum 1 full day guided tour Tropea und Capo Vaticano 1 full day guided tour Locri und Gerace 1 half day guided tour Reggio Calabria 1 half day guided tour Taormina Package price per person, 8 days from € 365 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Italy tour: a mix of landscape, history, and gastronomic specialities Slow Info Tour Example This tour starts with an interim overnight in the South Tyrol/Lake Garda area and then continues on to Umbria, pausing for a delicious wine tasting in Montepulciano. A two-night stay, including a nice break for a cappuccino at Lake Trasimeno, from where it's planned to depart for a visit to Perugia. On the day of departure for Rome, we'll visit Orvieto, followed by a light lunch in a unique atmosphere. Then, it's on to Rome for a stay of three nights, where a tour of historical sites is on the programme. The return trip takes us along the Adriatic coast, making the tour even more diverse. Before reaching the area, guests will be treated to a nice snack with a variety of piadinas and Lambrusco wine. Day 1 Arrival at the hotel in the South Tyrol/northern Lake Garda area. Day 2 Breakfast: Before reaching Umbria, we will stop in the beautiful town of Montepulciano, world famous for its fine wine. Enjoy a wine tasting with a select sampling of local products before continuing on to the Perugia/Lake Trasimeno area: dinner at the hotel (2 nights half board). Day 3 After breakfast, departure to visit Perugia. The historic centre consists of a Roman-Etruscan core and a medieval quarter. Today, Perugia is home to two universities and is a cultural centre of considerable importance. You'll visit: Rocca Palieri, Corso Vannucci, Palazzo dei Priori, Fontana Maggiore, the Basilica, Belvedere. In the afternoon, we continue on to Lake Trasimeno. The lake's hilly surroundings reach heights of up to 600 metres. Lake Trasimeno boasts three small islands (Isola Maggiore, Isola Minore, and Isola Polvese). The lake is ringed by charming villages with sight-seeing opportunities, like the fortress in Castiglione del Lago. Here is where we'll also be pausing for a typical Italian cappuccino and a slice of cake. Return to the hotel for a traditional dinner featuring regional specialities. Day 4 After breakfast, trip to Orvieto. The old Etrus- can city of Orvieto is situated on a butte of volcanic tuff. Tour of the city with its Cathedral, Palazzo del Popolo, Palazzo Soliano, San Patrizio fountain. Unique lunch in the underground Pasticceria Adriano. There once was a little pastry shop where a little baker decided to enlarge his cellar… After he had taken down the walls, he discovered a virtually endless labyrinth of passageways, rooms, and stairs, which he gradually unearthed, year after year, through tireless work. The trip then goes on toward Lazio. Lodging in the Castelli Romani area for three nights; dinner at the hotel. Day 5 Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Rome, where a guide will accompany you in discovering ancient Rome. The visit starts at the Piazza Venezia and heads toward the Capitoline Hill. The nearby Roman Forum was the centre of the ancient city, on which the imperial forums were later built. The Colosseum, the Flavian Amphitheatre, is where gladiator battles were held. Free afternoon. Return to the hotel for dinner. Day 6 Breakfast at the hotel. The morning is dedicated to a tour of Rome's most important churches. During this tour, you'll see the Vatican's three main churches: Santa Maria Maggiore, which dates back to the 5th century, with beautiful mosaics. St. John Lateran's Archbasilica, official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope. Alongside the church is the Lateran Palace, the papal residence. A small structure contains the Scala Santa and, alongside it, the Sancta Sanctorum, the private papal chapel. Then we'll visit Rome's second largest church, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Free afternoon and dinner in Rome. Return to the hotel in the evening. Day 7 Breakfast: the trip continues northward to Emilia-Romagna for a sampling of traditional "Piadina" paired with a good glass of "Lambrusco" red wine. Check in to the hotel in Rimini - Milano Marittima: dinner and overnight. Day 8 After breakfast, depart for return trip home. Programme details 1 night HB at a 3 hotel in the South Tyrol/Lake Garda area 1 wine tasting with snack 2 nights HB at a 3 hotel in the Perugia-Lake Trasimeno-Corciano area 1 dinner at the hotel featuring regional specialities 1 day-long tour of Perugia and Lake Trasimeno 1 break with cappuccino and cake 1 half-day tour of Orvieto 1 lunch, including beverages, in Orvieto 3 nights HB with hearty breakfast at a 3 hotel in the Alban Hills 2 dinners at the hotel in the Alban Hills 2 half-day tours of Rome (ancient Rome and the churches of Rome) 1 snack (piadina and a glass of Lambrusco) 1 night HB at a 3 hotel in the Rimini-Milano Marittima area. Package price per person, 8 days from € 339 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 63 Tour Italia i ? Let Are you travelling bby air? us know your inbound & outbound airports and we will organise all bus transfers for you! Tour Example In the footprints of Saints a journey through faith and culture It is a trip to discover Italy through a pilgrimage to several important sites of Christianity and its Saints. Italy is filled with sanctuaries and religious sites, some of them splendid and largely unvisited, others quite famous and receiving millions of pilgrims each year. The stops planned for the tour are: Loreto in Marche, world famous for the Sacred House of Nazareth conserved within its basilica; San Giovanni Rotondo in Puglia, for the sanctuary of Padre Pio; Cassino in Lazio, for the Abbey of Monte Cassino; and in Rome, several of the eternal city's most important churches. You head back up to Umbria to visit the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, then to Cascia and Gubbio, closing with La Verna in Tuscany. Day 1 Arrival in Italy and lodging in the Lake Garda/South Tyrol area. Dinner and overnight. Day 2 Following breakfast, departure for the Adriatic coast. In Loreto, we'll visit the splendid Gothic basilica containing the "Santa Casa", a shrine of extraordinary artistic and religious value. We continue on southward, stopping for the night at a good hotel near Pescara. Dinner and overnight. Day 3 Following breakfast, we'll depart for Puglia, stopping in San Giovanni Rotondo, where saint Padre Pio spent the better part of his life. We'll visit the stations of his life, as well as his grave. Then, we'll depart for Rome. We'll stop off in Cassino to visit the famed monastery of Monte Cassino, which sits powerfully atop a solitary mountain. It is the most important Benedictine monastery, founded in 529 by Saint Benedict of Nursia, and has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. Lodging at a good hotel in Fiuggi. Dinner and overnight. Day 4 Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Rome. Guided all-day tour of the Eternal City, with the most beautiful and important churches of the capital. Departure for Umbria. Lodging at a good hotel near Assisi. Dinner and overnight. Day 5 Following breakfast, we'll visit one of Chris- 64 tianity's most important locations: the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a bastion of deep Christian faith, as well as the Basilica of Saint Clare in Santa Maria degli Angeli, just outside of Assisi. Then it's on to Cascia to the world-renowned sanctuary of Saint Rita. Here, we'll visit the cathedral and the cloister. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight. Day 6 Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Gubbio, one of the most impressive locations of the Franciscan reform movement. Then, we'll continue on northward. Lodging at a good hotel in the Arezzo area. Dinner and overnight. Day 7 Following breakfast, visit to La Verna, and homeward departure. Programme details 6 nights HB at good mid-class hotels, as per the programme 1 full day guided tour of Rome 1 full day guided tour of Assisi and Cascia 1 half-day guided tour of Gubbio Package price per person, 7 days from € 275 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Excursion Gourmet lo w S Hotel Cities Music Active Events Slow Info Tour Example Tour of Adriatic Italy Prosecco, as bubbly as life itself. Chocolate, as sweet as love. Montepulciano wine, as red as a heart. You will become acquainted with these three products which epitomise their region in a tour through Adriatic Italy. It begins with a stop in Treviso, and then proceeds along the Marche and Abruzzo coast. The return trip passes through Tuscany with a night at the spa resort Chianciano Terme, after sampling an excellent Tuscan Pecorino with a nice glass of Nobile di Montepulciano. Day 1 Arrive in Treviso area; check in to hotel for 2 nights HB. Day 2 After breakfast, visit Treviso. The frescoes and decorations which adorn their archways, churches and palaces bring the history of the town back to life. The river Sile flows through Treviso, which also has a maze of canals which lend this town an idyllic atmosphere. Not far from Treviso is the panoramic Prosecco route, which meanders through the landscape for a total of 47 km. With its infinite number of hills, the Prosecco route is dotted with all the most characteristic places and most important wine producing centres in the Prosecco region. After a visit to a cellar for a wine-tasting session, you will return to the hotel. Day 3 After breakfast, depart for Ravenna. In this town, amidst monasteries and bell towers, you will follow traces of yesterday from the Renaissance to the Baroque in an unforgettable atmosphere. It is above all the mosaics of Ravenna, however, which make this city a unique centre of art. In the afternoon, we continue on to Marche; check in to a hotel in the Pesaro area for 1 night HB. Day 4 Breakfast and departure for Urbino for a guided tour. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Urbino is Marche's most "art city". It reached its peak during the reign of the Montefeltro fam- ily. Through the efforts of Federico da Montefeltro, ciano and proceed on to Chianciano Terme spa Urbino became one of Renaissance Italy' leading cen- resort to check in to the hotel for 1 night HB. tres of culture and art, reaching its full expression in Day 7 After breakfast, depart for return trip home. the Ducal Palace. In the afternoon, a chocolate Programme details tasting, then you proceed on to Abruzzo where 2 nights HB in a good 3hotel in Treviso (Veneto) you check in to a hotel in Montesilvano for 2 nights 1 full-day guided tour of Treviso and the Prosecco HB. Wine Route Day 5 Breakfast at the hotel and departure to visit 1 Prosecco tasting Teramo. Teramo is surrounded by a distinctively im1 half-day guided tour of Ravenna pressive landscape. It is an ideal location for all nature 1 night HB in a good 3hotel in Pesaro (Marche) enthusiasts, but also art lovers, who would like to visit 1 half-day guided tour of Urbino monuments of rare beauty. In the afternoon, you will 1 chocolate tasting in Urbino visit Civitella del Tronto which towers above one 2 nights HB in a good 3hotel in Montesilvano of the largest fortresses in Europe, in a unique posi(Abruzzo) tion with a magnificent panorama, commissioned by Charles V. In Civitella, a wine tasting is planned 1 full-day guided tour of Teramo Civitella with a sampling of traditional Abruzzo prod1 wine tasting and snack in Montepulciano ucts, before returning to the hotel. 1 night HB in a good 3hotel in Chianciano (TusDay 6 After breakfast, depart for Tuscany. Before cany) arriving at the hotel, we stop to taste the famous Package price per person, 7 days Nobile di Montepulciano wine paired with several typical products such as the exquisite Tuscan Pecorino. Free time to visit the centre of Montepul- from € 320 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 65 Good to know is taking care Who for your group otherwise Unless specified The Chef [email protected] Toscana, Umbria & Emilia Romagna Claudio +39 0183 548 204 [email protected] Monica +39 0183 548 313 Piemonte & Valle d´Aosta Liguria, Costa Azzurra Roswhita +39 0183 548 312 [email protected] Marta +39 0183 548 202 • The prices indicated in the catalogue are based on groups of minimum 25 participants, rooms with shower/WC and a stay of min. 3 nights. Prices for students refer to accommodation in 3-4 beds rooms. Sardegna & Corsica [email protected] Patrizia +39 0183 548 208 • Travel arrangements include one place free every 25 participants in double room (incl. driver and tour guide). Any other „free place provisions“ applying will be set out in details in the specific offer. • During excursions only those costs are included, which are explicitly mentioned in the list at the end of every excursion programme. All entrance fees are not included and must be paid on the spot, when not stated differently. Veronica +39 0183 548 316 Tour, Lazio,Abruzzo, Campania Puglia,Calabria & Sicilia [email protected] [email protected] Fabiola +39 0183 548 201 Jolanda +39 0183 548 205 Graziano +39 06 871 950 64 Lombardia, Lago Maggiore & Lago di Como Rita +39 0183 548 310 Sales [email protected] Vittoria +39 0183 548 206 Accounting [email protected] Piera +39 0183 548 210 [email protected] Irene +39 0183 548 225 Lucia +39 0183 548 413 Alice +39 0183 548 228 Noemi +39 0183 548 412 Daniela +39 0183 548 224 Trentino Alto Adige, Lago di Garda, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia Graphics & Software support [email protected] • In most of the hotels set out in the catalogue a full breakfast or breakfast buffet is available at a supplement. We stay at your full disposal for any queries you might have on this respect. [email protected] • This catalogue is valid until 31.12.2015 and complies with Italian and European law. If the law referred to is amended after 01.03.2015, Gadis reserves the right to these amendments. • All our offers and confirmations are subject to alterations in case of our suppliers altering their accords taken with us. • All prices included in the catalogue are based upon 10% VAT hotel fares and 22% VAT for other services. If the above fares are increased, we reserve the right to adjust prices accordingly. • Surcharges apply in the following periods: Easter • Labor Day • Assumption Day • Pentecost • Corpus Domini • Day of german unity • Surcharges apply as well as for local exhibitions or events such as the Carnival in Venice, the Cinema Festival in Cannes, Formula 1 races etc. Maria +39 0183 548 510 Manuela +39 0183 548 207 Claudia +39 0183 548 511 Michel +39 0183 548 248 66 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Info A trip to Italy... IItalian national holidays: 01.01 New Year‘s Day 06.01 Epiphany 25.04 Liberation Day 02.06 Republic‘s Day 15.08 Assumption 01.11 All Saints‘ Day 08.12 Immaculate Conception 25+26.12 Christmas Important! NATIONAL HOLIDAYS On holidays most museums and archaeological sites close, although this may be less absolute in big citBUS-TRANSPORTATION RULES ies. We will gladly ask local information centres for In the last years new rules have been introduced by you. city administrations in the field of bus service (for instance Milan, Florence, Montecatini, Pisa, Bologna, Rome, Monaco). TIPPING AND EXTRAS These rules may vary from municipality to munici- Service is usually included in the bill. Sometimes respality. Please call us for further information! taurants will have „Pane e Coperto“ (bread and cover charge) on the bill, deck chairs and beach umbrella, telephone, drinks. ROOMS Still, in Italy it is customary to leave a coin behind in Single rooms are limited and are often available at cafes and bars (about 10% of the price). supplements. Hotels offer double rooms where third or fourth beds can be added easily, for example for a family with a baby‘s cot. BANKS Banks in Italy are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 1:20 pm and from 2:30 pm to 3.30 pm. BREAKFAST Dedicated exchange facilities are not to be found When in Rome do as Romans do! quite often, therefore we suggest that you change Hotels in Italy serve traditional breakfast consistmoney or cheques in banks. VisaCard are accepted ing of cappuccino, espresso, tea, milk, croissants or almost everywhere. bread with jam. Anyway in many hotels items such cheese, eggs and different cuts are available as small supplement. SHOPS Shops are usually open from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, although times vary from SWIMMING POOL region to region, for instance in southern Italy shops Swimming pools are usually open from the end of stay open from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm. In tourist areas May until midst September but this may vary from in summer shops can open in the evening. season to season. Water is heated, deck chairs and beach umbrella are at guests‘ disposal. CLOTHING Although Italy has a mild climate, it is recommended LIVE AND LET LIVE... to wear warm clothes in the low season. Churches If you choose a central hotel please consider that in Italy are first of all sacred places and not monuthere may be lot of noise and traffic congestion in ments, therefore casual wear is expected. It is not the city centre. permitted to visit churches in miniskirts, shorts or in Italians are lively people who like going out in the uncovered shoulders. Men must wear a shirt and are open air. In summer time they spend the evening in not permitted to wear short pants. the squares or take a stroll along the promenade.. HOTEL FACILITIES HEATING Hotel facilities in Italy may vary considerably from TOURIST TAX Law currently in force in Italy govern the use of heat- region to region. Since 2011 ever more municipalities have introduced ing which may vary from region to region and subNew tourist resorts offer more modern facilities tourist taxes. At the moment there is no official list ject to weather conditions. Heating is normally only of municipalities that have introduces such a tax; we needed from the end of October to the end of April. than traditional resorts, however the hotel star rating does not always mirror actual standards and are committed to inform our clients above all about there may be significant differences between hotels those areas that are most relative to group tourism. in the same category, for example some 2 star hotels The tax has to be paid directly in the hotel. Normally ELECTRIC CURRENT it is quite a small sum, around 1-5€ per person per The voltage is 220V. Travellers expecting 110V are may offer excellent services. We are at your disposal for to-the-point advice! day. You can visit www.gadis.it/CityTax.php to check advised to bring adapters. our knowledge of tourist taxes in Italy. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 67 Terms of Service 1. Contract The contract consists of the general terms and conditions, the tour confirmation and the travel arrangements set out in the brochure or flyers. Any changes requested by the Client, any alterations in the travel arrangements featured in the brochure and any special request must be made in writing and outlined in the contract. If travel arrangements as set out in the tour confirmation are found to be different from the Client‘s request, the tour confirmation itself represents a new proposal from Gadis Tourist Service, to which Gadis Tourist Service shall be bound for 14 days, and which the Client may accept by returning the same within the above term of 14 days. 2. Terms of Payment 80% of the price stated in the tour confirmation form is payable 4 weeks prior to the departure date. The remaining 20% is due 2 weeks prior to the departure date upon delivery of travel documents. If the Client makes the booking 2 weeks prior to the departure date the full balance of the price must be paid immediately after delivery of travel documents. Any amendment to article 2 must be agreed upon in writing by the parties. Anyway, the request for transfer is to be sent to Gadis Tourist Service by registered mail, or by telegram or fax if it is urgent, no later than 4 days prior to the departure together with the full details of the transferee (surname and family name, sex, birth date, nationality). A fee equal to € 29,00 will be charged by Gadis Tourist Service to cover the costs incurred. tions, in particular: • the Warsaw Convention, 12 October 1929; • the Berne Convention, 25 February 1961; • the Brussels Convention, 20 April 1970. Gadis Tourist Service shall not be liable for any damages caused by the Client‘s or services rendered by Third Party Suppliers and not included in the travel arrangements. 6. Cancellation 6.1. If the Client chooses to cancel their participation, cancellation charges are outlined as follows: • up to 28 days prior to the departure date 5 % of the price paid • up to 21 days prior to the departure date 15 % of the price paid • up to 14 days prior to the departure date 35 % of the price paid • up to 7 days prior to the departure date 50 % of the price paid • within less than 7 days prior to the departure date 100 % of the price paid 6.2. Notwithstanding with the terms and conditions stated in other documents, the terms and conditions of this contract will remain in full force and effect. 6.3. The parties can withdraw from the contract without any refund in the event of unforeseen circumstances (events of force majeure, war, riots, epidemics, acts of restrictions of governments, acts of God, breakdowns, destruction of lodgings, strikes beyond the parties‘ control and similar events. 11. Complaints Any disappointment or complaint which the Client may have concerning their travel arrangements must be reported immediately to Gadis Tourist Service so that Gadis Tourist Service or its representative may deal with it. Any complaint in respect of Gadis Tourist Service should be made in writing and sent by registered mail or fax within 14 days of the end of the tour set out in the contract. Claims reported after the 14days period will be considered only if the Client was prevented from meeting the deadline for reasons beyond its control. Anyway any complaint becomes ineffective 6 months after the end of the tour as stated in the contract. 3. Price alteration A price change may be necessary the contract has been signed subject to significant changes in transportation costs, cost of fuel, taxes and fares such as landing taxes or embarkation fees levied by ports and airports, and the exchange rate. Price alteration shall be proportional to the above mentioned costs and the cost details shall be pro7. Abandonment vided to the Client. If for any reason whatsoever the Client is unable to No price change is possible in the 20 days prior to proceed with a tour, Gadis Tourist Service will refund the departure date. the Client subject to Gadis Tourist service being refunded by Third Party Suppliers. 4. Alterations to travel arrangements Changes or alterations to the arrangements featured 8. Minimum number of participants in the contract are allowed, provided that they are If a tour is subject to a minimum number of parnecessary, not significant and do not affect the ma- ticipants as outlined in the travel arrangements jor features of the tour(see art. 6.2). and that minimum number is not met, Gadis Tourist Any changes, either requested by Gadis Tourist Service may have to cancel the tour 2 weeks in adService or the Client, must be made in writing. For vance of the commencement. any alterations requested by the Client Gadis Tour9. Cooperation of the Client ist Service reserves the right to levy a fee of € 29,00 The Client undertakes to avoid or reduce any damto cover the costs incurred; Gadis Tourist Service is ages. entitled to a price increase as a result of changes requested by the Client. 10. Liability Gadis Tourist Service shall not be liable to the Client 5. Booking transfer The Client may choose to change their booking by for any damage to the Client or his belongings that transferring it to another subject, provided that the are caused by force majeure, unforeseen events or transferee meets all conditions of the original book- third parties. Anyway, Gadis Tourist Service‘s liability is limited in accordance with international convening. 68 12. Refund The client agrees and guarantees that: • they are a travel agent / tour operator duly authorised to conduct their business in compliance with any rules and regulations, orders and decrees by the relevant authorities; • They conduct their business in compliance with any rules and regulations, orders and decrees by the relevant authorities; • It has stipulated insurance policies in compliance with any rules and regulations, orders and decrees by the relevant authorities and anyway consistently with its business activity. The Client shall indemnify Gadis Tourist Service against any statement of claim brought by tour participants, which shall be compensated directly by the Client(without prejudice to any claims of the Client against Gadis Tourist Service should a liability of Gadis Tourist Service occur in accordance with the terms of the contract). Furthermore, the Client shall indemnify Gadis Tourist Service against any claims from third party suppliers in respect of any cancellations made in relation to services booked. 13. Information on passport, visa and health provisions Gadis Tourist Service shall, within its possibilities, inform the Client about any material variation in the general instruction contained in the description of the trip. In no event Gadis Tourist Service shall be responsible tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Info with respect to the concession and delivery of any necessary visas from foreign authorities. The Client is the sole responsible of the compliance with all the instructions necessary to carry out the trip. Any inconvenience which arises from the non compliance with the instructions above shall be on the risk of the Client. Gadis Tourist Service shall provide the Client with the information referred to passports, visas and sanitary standards in accordance with Italian laws, with no liability for any change made by the competent authorities (of which he is not aware notwithstanding its common diligence). Should the Client has not complied with rules applicable to the entrance of the traveller or should a visa has not been obtained due to negligence of the Client and as a consequence thereof the traveller can not proceed on the trip, Gadis Tourist Service can request payments of any expenses incurred 14. Miscellaneous A . Unless otherwise stated the number of free passengers granted to separate groups for a minimum number of payers of 25 passengers is calculated on placement in double rooms. B. The total number of single rooms is subject to the number of double and triple rooms, whereby a single room (including single room for the driver) is available every 4 double or triple room. C. The prices stated in the contract are based on groups with a minimum of 25 participants (including the driver). For smaller groups a price increase will be set on a case by case basis. The Client may withdraw from the contract no later than 2 weeks prior to the departure date if the price increase exceeds 20% of the increase stated in the contract. D. The names and addresses of the service suppliers will be communicated upon receiving the definite rooming-list, no later then 10 days before the beginning of the services, unless otherwise agreed between Gadis Tourist Service and the Client. E. E Any objection against Gadis Tourist Service invoices (price, number of passengers, etc.) shall be taken into account only if they are communicated to Gadis Tourist Service within 35 days from invoice date. After this date the invoice shall be collected for the full amount. 15. Insurance Gadis Tourist Service has taken out the following insurance policy: ASSICURAZIONI ASSITALIA - polizza n. 042/00469265 16. Law and arbitration The contract shall be subject to Italian law. The seat of arbitration for any controversy arising out of, or in connection with, this contract is Imperia. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 69 Italy 70 tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it February tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 8 Su 9 Mo 10 Tu 11 We 12 Th 13 Fr 14 Sa 15 Su 16 Mo 17 Tu 18 We 19 Th 20 Fr 21 Sa 22 Su 23 Mo 24 Tu 25 We 26 Th 27 Fr 28 Sa 8 Th 9 Fr 10 Sa 11 Su 12 Mo 13 Tu 14 We 15 Th 16 Fr 17 Sa 18 Su 19 Mo 20 Tu 21 We 22 Th 23 Fr 24 Sa 25 Su 26 Mo 27 Tu 28 We 28 Sa 27 Fr 26 Th 25 We 24 Tu 23 Mo 22 Su 21 Sa 20 Fr 19 Th 18 We 17 Tu 16 Mo 15 Su 14 Sa 13 Fr 12 Th 11 We 10 Tu 9 Mo 8 Su 7 Sa 31 Tu 7 Sa 7 We 6 Fr 5 Th 31 Sa 6 Fr 6 Tu 30 Mo 5 Th 5 Mo 4 We 3 Tu 29 Su 4 We 4 Su 2 Mo 30 Fr 3 Tu 3 Sa March 1 Su 29 Th 2 Mo 1 Su 2 Fr New Year’s Day January 1 Th 30 Th 29 We 28 Tu 27 Mo 26 Su 25 Sa 24 Fr 23 Th 22 We 21 Tu 20 Mo 19 Su 18 Sa 17 Fr 16 Th 15 We 14 Tu 13 Mo 12 Su 11 Sa 10 Fr 9 Th 8 We 7 Tu 6 Mo 5 Su 4 Sa 3 Fr 2 Th Easter Monday Good Friday April 1 We 31 Su 30 Sa 29 Fr 28 Th 27 We 26 Tu 25 Mo 24 Su 23 Sa 22 Fr 21 Th 20 We 19 Tu 18 Mo 17 Su 16 Sa 15 Fr 14 Th 13 We 12 Tu 11 Mo 10 Su 9 Sa 8 Fr 7 Th 6 We 5 Tu 4 Mo 3 Su 2 Sa 1 Fr Pentecost Monday Ascension of Christ May 30 Tu 29 Mo 28 Su 27 Sa 26 Fr 25 Th 24 We 23 Tu 22 Mo 21 Su 20 Sa 19 Fr 18 Th 17 We 16 Tu 15 Mo 14 Su 13 Sa 12 Fr 11 Th 10 We 9 Tu 8 Mo 7 Su 6 Sa 5 Fr 4 Th 3 We 2 Tu 1 Mo Corpus Christi Republic Day June 31 Fr 30 Th 29 We 28 Tu 27 Mo 26 Su 25 Sa 24 Fr 23 Th 22 We 21 Tu 20 Mo 19 Su 18 Sa 17 Fr 16 Th 15 We 14 Tu 13 Mo 12 Su 11 Sa 10 Fr 9 Th 8 We 7 Tu 6 Mo 5 Su 4 Sa 3 Fr 2 Th 1 We July 31 Assumptio n August Mo Bank Hol. 30 Su 29 Sa 28 Fr 27 Th 26 We 25 Tu 24 Mo 23 Su 22 Sa 21 Fr 20 Th 19 We 18 Tu 17 Mo 16 Su 15 Sa 14 Fr 13 Th 12 We 11 Tu 10 Mo 9 Su 8 Sa 7 Fr 6 Th 5 We 4 Tu 3 Mo 2 Su 1 Sa August 30 We 29 Tu 28 Mo 27 Su 26 Sa 25 Fr 24 Th 23 We 22 Tu 21 Mo 20 Su 19 Sa 18 Fr 17 Th 16 We 15 Tu 14 Mo 13 Su 12 Sa 11 Fr 10 Th 9 We 8 Tu 7 Mo 6 Su 5 Sa 4 Fr 3 Th 2 We 1 Tu September Calendar 2015 31 Sa 30 Fr 29 Th 28 We 27 Tu 26 Mo 25 Su 24 Sa 23 Fr 22 Th 21 We 20 Tu 19 Mo 18 Su 17 Sa 16 Fr 15 Th 14 We 13 Tu 12 Mo 11 Su 10 Sa 9 Fr 8 Th 7 We 6 Tu 5 Mo 4 Su 3 Sa 2 Fr German Unity October 1 Th 30 Mo 29 Su 28 Sa 27 Fr 26 Th 25 We 24 Tu 23 Mo 22 Su 21 Sa 20 Fr 19 Th 18 We 17 Tu 16 Mo 15 Su 14 Sa 13 Fr 12 Th 11 We 10 Tu 9 Mo 8 Su 7 Sa 6 Fr 5 Th 4 We 3 Tu 2 Mo 1 Su All Saint’s Day 31 Th 30 We 29 Tu 28 Mo 27 Su 26 Sa 25 Fr 24 Th 23 We 22 Tu 21 Mo 20 Su 19 Sa 18 Fr 17 Th 16 We 15 Tu 14 Mo 13 Su 12 Sa 11 Fr 10 Th 9 We 8 Tu 7 Mo 6 Su 5 Sa 4 Fr 3 Th 2 We 1 Tu Christmas Day Boxing Day November December Info 71 A unique incoming partner for Italy. 5 offices, 20 employees, over 2.000 groups per year and the most comprehensive and refreshing product offer on the market! We are right on the spot! More information and all other offers are always freely available on our website LIGURIA TOSCANA Località Bra 1 18021 Borgomaro (IM) T. +39 0183 548 1 F. +39 0183 548 222 [email protected] Via A. Modigliani 19/C 56016 Vicopisano (PI) T. +39 0183 548 310 F. +39 0183 548 322 [email protected] LAGO MAGGIORE VERONA ROMA Via Stazione 15 28831 Baveno (VB) T. +39 0183 548 410 F. +39 0183 548 422 [email protected] Via Fontanelle 6 37047 S.Bonifacio (VR) T. +39 0183 548 510 F. +39 0183 548 522 [email protected] Via Monte Massico 53 00139 Roma (RM) T. +39 06 871 950 64 F. +39 0183 548 222 [email protected] www.gadis.it Tour operator for groups – member of TCC Network Lombardia Lombardia World www.gadis.it/expo more info Tour Example 360 degrees tour of Lombardy Discover the lakes and large cities of Italy's richest region A complete trip, for those who want to explore all the treasures the region has to offer; a region which has become one of the world's top tourist destinations thanks to the charm of its cities, its lakes, and the sheer bounty of high quality products. The tour is based out of a good 4 hotel with superior service, just a few minutes from Lake Como. This is a very strategic location for visiting the region without having to change hotels. Day 1 Arrival and check in to the hotel for 6 nights, half-board. Enjoy a welcome, before-dinner drink with all participants. Day 2 The tour could not begin with a more important city: Milan and its Cathedral, Castello Sforzesco, and La Scala. In addition to the more fashionable centre, Leonardo da Vinci's the Last Supper deserves a visit. Day 3 With its villas and romantic views, in recent 74 years Lake Como has become even more famous thanks to its being frequented by members of the international jet-set. We will visit the city of Como, famous for the great tradition of its silk industry. In the afternoon, you visit Villa Carlotta and take a pleasant boat ride to discover the pearl of the lake: Bellagio. Day 4 Just a few steps from the border, you find another of Europe's' most beautiful lakes, Lake Lugano. We will explore the lake to the south of Ticino, as well as the small and charming town of Morcote. Once a famous lake port, today Morcote is known for its charming lanes and the gates to the old aristocratic mansions - valuable architectural monuments with lush vegetation. Day 5 Another day dedicated to Bergamo with its beautiful historical centre; as well as to Franciacorta, famous for its fantastic wines and traditional cuisine to be sampled with a tasting/lunch at a farm inn; and Lake Iseo, to visit the largest lake island in Europe: Montisola. Day 6 The tour concludes with one last excursion to two small, elegant cities in southern Lombardy: Pavia, with its renowned Certosa - a large monastery at the city gates - and Vigevano, with its Piazza Du- cale - which, beyond being a true Renaissance jewel, it is also the largest piazza in Italy. Day 7 travel home Programme Details 6 nights, half-board in a 4 hotel near Lecco 1 Welcome drink 1 Half-day guided tour of Milan 1 Entry to the Cenacolo Vinciano 1 Full-day guided excursion on Lake Como 1 Entry to Villa Carlotta 1 ferry Tremezzo/Bellagio, Return 1 Full-day guided tour of Lugano & Morcote 1 ferry to Morcote, Return 1 Full-day guided tour of Bergamo, Lake Iseo, and Franciacorta 1 Wine tasting and lunch in a traditional farm inn in Franciacorta 1 ferry to Montisola, Return Package price per person, 7 days from € 469 * Expo - Period excluded tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Tour Travel Ideas What else to do in lo w S Excursion Gourmet Hotel Cities Music Active Events Weekend in Milan Slow Info Tour Example in the shadow of the Madonnina Lombardy From above the spires of the Cathedral, the Madonnina watches over and protects the city of Milan. She is standing atop the highest spire at 108.5 and looking down over more than 135 other spires and Here is a list of Ideas you can insert in your 3,400 sculptures. She is the undisputed symbol of Milan; in fact, "in the shadow of the Madonnina" Lombardy tour programs: really refers to the city of Milan. We are dedicating a weekend to exploring a city which has always modernity and tradition and which is preparing for the 2015 World Expo. Milan is truly a cos Lombardia - New Year celebration in united mopolitan Italian city; it is filled with monuments, historical palaces, as well as local glamour and the train! exciting shopping streets! Prices are valid for a weekend from Friday to Sunday, except during fairs Enjoy dinner in the dining car of this historic train dat- and conferences. * Expo - Period excluded ing back to the year 1930, with music in background. The route will take you from Milan (Monza) to Mantua, one of the most beautiful cities in northern Italy, with a taste of Italian specialities. The programme also includes a show and breakfast on the return trip. A unique opportunity to relive the emotions of a trip back in time! Cremona - A perfect hotel in the centre of Cremona A small boutique hotel near the city centre which has been completely renovated: the place is skilfully run by Marcella and her family who are always ready to pamper their customers at any moment of the day. This is an ideal location not only to visit Cremona - the city of music - but also as a stepping off point for any Lombardy excursion. You will receive a small keepsake to bring home with you, as a souvenir of your stay. Day 1 Arrival and check in to 4 hotel in Milan for 2 night nights, breakfast-board Day 2 After breakfast, meet your guide and take a cultural tour of the city including the Castello Sforzesco, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Piazza della Scala, and the Milan Cathedral. Included is the climb up to the Cathedral spires to enjoy a fantastic view of Milan and have a close encounter with the Madonnina. In the afternoon, a guided tour among the most famous boutiques in the "Fashion district". At the end of the day, enjoy an aperitif and ample buffet in one of the city's trendiest bars. Day 3 After breakfast at the hotel, return departure. Programme details 2 nights B&B at a 4 hotel in Milan 1 full-day guided tour of Classic Milan and the Fashion district 1 aperitif-dinner at a trendy bar 1 entry to the "Cathedral Terraces" (elevator access included) Package price per person, 3 days from € 119 * Expo - Period excluded Cremona - The Torrone Festival Every year, during the third weekend of November, Cremona becomes the "sweetest" city in Italy for the Festa del Torrone (Festival of Torrone Nougat), a real speciality sweet that is typical of the Lombardy city. More than 50 different cultural, gastronomic and musical enterprises enliven the city streets. A unique occasion to discover Cremona and taste its culinary bounty. Mantua, a 4 hotel practically in the centre of the city With its history tied to the powerful families of the Visconti and Gonzaga, Mantua is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Italy. It has experienced periods of great artistic and cultural flowering as demonstrated by its unique monuments, in particular the Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo Te. Our hotel is the only one that could be described as being a short distance from the centre; it is also a convenient departure point for other interesting destinations like Verona, Lake Garda, Cremona, and Sabbioneta. tel +39 0183 5481 • fax +39 0183 54 82 22 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it 75