After meeting at Pisa Central Train Station at 9.15 am, we drive 45 mins to the Charterhouse of Pisa, a former 14th-century Carthusian monastery located in the village of Calci in the pretty Graziosa valley to the north of the city. After our visit we have a light lunch in a local trattoria before continuing to the delightful city of Lucca (30mins). Later in the day we stroll around the walls and visit some of Lucca’s best-loved architectural gems.  Welcome drink and dinner in a local restaurant tonight.  

A short drive takes us to the start of our walk in the Colline Lucchesi, the hills of Lucca, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. We hike through the pretty countryside, enjoying a picnic and tasting of the local wines and olive oil at the end of the hike. Return to Lucca in the afternoon. This evening, we have tickets to a concert of Puccini classics.  Puccini was born and raised in Lucca and his former home has been opened as a small museum.  Dinner tonight in a local restaurant. 

(6km/3.7miles)

Early start as we head today into the Apuan Alps.  This is a challenging and rewarding hike, steadily climbing 750m on well-graded former mule tracks and narrow mountain trails. We hike through ancient chestnut woodlands to open mountain pastures with stunning views of the Tuscan coast and the craggy peaks of the mountains which are still quarried for the precious Carrara marble. Lunch in a mountain refuge before descending via a different route to a picturesque village. Return to Lucca for dinner.  This is a more challenging hike than we usually offer on a Level 3 tour and there is no van access en route. We therefore offer an optional free day in Lucca for non-hikers to explore the churches and museums (and shops!) of this charming town. 

(12.3 km/7.6 miles)

Depart Lucca after breakfast and head southwards towards Volterra, a city with a fascinating Etruscan and Medieval history. Hike the rolling green hills of the Val di Cecina, climbing up to the town perched on a hill. We stay for two nights in a hotel on the edge of the town with stunning views of the countryside.  Later in the day there is time to explore Volterra before a local wine enthusiast, Massimo, welcomes us for a wine tasting in his Enoteca. Casual dinner in a local pizzeria.

(6 km/3.7 miles)

A spectacular hike through farm and woodland takes us from the countryside around Volterra to emerge at the famous medieval towers of San Gimignano.  We picnic en route in a scenic olive grove before the final climb into the town where we have time to enjoy a well-earned gelato in the main piazza and marvel at the extraordinary architecture of this tiny jewel. There is an opportunity to visit the beautiful Collegiate church with its outstanding 14th-century frescoes before returning to Volterra for dinner in the hotel.

(18km/11.2miles) 

Depart Volterra after breakfast. A short drive takes us towards the coast where we walk towards the pretty village of Bolgheri, now regarded as one of the most exciting wine regions in Tuscany. Enjoy a wonderful lunch at a delightful trattoria in the village, accompanied by one of the region’s most famous Super-Tuscan wines. Later in the day we drive to Piombino for the ferry to Elba where we stay in the five-star Hotel Hermitage on the bay of Biodola. Dinner in our hotel, overlooking the bay.

(6km/3.7miles)

A short drive takes us from the hotel up to the town of Marciana. Our final hike climbs up almost to the highest point of the island from where we follow a ridge with stunning views of the Tuscan Archipelago. Today your guides hike the picnic in for you as there is no van access. We descend to the coast in the afternoon and transfer back to our hotel. Dinner in a charming agriturismo in the centre of the island. 

(12 km/7.4 miles)

This is our non-walking day. We drive to the capital Portoferraio to explore its Medici fortress, port and Napoleon’s villa. There is time to explore before we return to the hotel by van in the early afternoon. Final dinner at a restaurant on the Bay of Biodola, along the beach from the hotel.

Return to Pisa train station for 12:30 pm.

We meet in Arezzo at 08:45 at the Hotel Continentale, situated on Piazza Guido Monaco, very close to the train station. We start with a guided visit to the San Francesco church to see the world-famous fresco cycle by Piero della Francesca, known as “The Legend of the True Cross”. A short drive takes us out of Arezzo to the village of Monterchi, home to another of Piero’s masterpieces, “The Madonna del Parto”. After visiting this museum, we drive to an organic farm for a leisurely lunch and olive oil tasting. In the afternoon, we check into our hotel in the historic centre of Anghiari. Later, a gentle stroll takes us through this charming town, and we explore a little of the local history. We enjoy an aperitif before dinner in a nearby restaurant.

After breakfast, we drive to Sansepolcro to see another celebrated painting by Piero della Francesca. A beautiful hike follows a low ridge of the Alpi della Luna, with views across the Tiber Valley, leading to the evocative Franciscan convent and hermitage at Monte Casale where we have our picnic. Time to visit the hermitage before returning to Anghiari, where there is time to browse the shops before dinner in a local restaurant.

(6 km/3.8 miles)

Today we leave Anghiari, and a short drive takes us across the border into Umbria. We start our walk high above the town of Città di Castello and hike through open farmland and woods, passing abandoned stone houses and a dramatic fort to a small chapel where we enjoy our picnic lunch. We continue on foot to arrive at the stunning Abbazia San Faustino, a beautiful small hotel converted from a former abbey with spectacular views over the Umbrian hills. Dinner tonight is in the hotel restaurant.

(17 km/11 miles)

A leisurely walk in the remote farmland near the Abbey of San Faustino leads us to the historic cellars of a local winemaker. We visit their estate and taste their wines over a light lunch. Time to relax and enjoy the pool and the tranquil setting of Abbazia San Faustino in the afternoon.

(8 km/5 miles)

We depart San Faustino, and a short drive takes us into the foothills of the Apennines. Here we follow trails past remote farmhouses and through woods to arrive at the Basilica of San Ubaldo, perched on a hill above the lovely medieval town of Gubbio. After visiting the Basilica, we continue on foot down through the cobbled streets to arrive at our delightful four-star hotel in the heart of Gubbio, overlooking the main square. We use this as our base for the final 3 nights of the holiday. Dinner tonight is in a local restaurant.

(19.5 km/12 miles)

Today a short drive takes us to the thirteenth-century Benedictine abbey of Montelabate, formerly one of the most important abbeys in the region. We enjoy an exclusive guided tour before a light lunch including wine, cheese, and olive oil from the estate. Later in the day, there is time to explore Gubbio and visit the town’s museum displaying the precious Iguvine Tablets, which date back to the 3rd century BC. In the evening, we experience a unique medieval-style banquet prepared by a local chef in a private country house, a short drive from Gubbio.

Our final hike takes us to the Monte Cucco National Park, a short distance from Gubbio. Starting from a high alpine meadow at 1132 m, we climb up through beautiful beech woods to emerge above the tree line at just above 1400 m. We circle the summit of Monte Cucco, enjoying spectacular views across the Umbrian hills and to the coast of Le Marche. We picnic in the alpine meadow before returning, by van, to the hotel. In the early evening there is the opportunity to join the lively crowds in the Piazza Grande to experience the Festa dei Ceri Mezzani, one of Gubbio’s many medieval festivals. Our final dinner is in a fabulous local restaurant.

(6.7 km/4.2 miles)

Return to Arezzo train station for 11:00 am.

9.30 am. We meet in the charming town of Pavia, south of Milan, at the Hotel Moderno.  A private guided visit will take us to Pavia’s famous Renaissance Charterhouse.  After lunch we drive to our first hotel on Lake Como.  We stay in Brunate, a small hamlet above the lake. We will stay for three nights in a recently renovated Liberty-style villa in the centre of the hamlet and, if we have large groups, a nearby hotel with lake views. This evening, we have a welcome drink and dinner in the hotel restaurant.

We depart the hotel on foot and follow quiet shady paths through the woods with glimpses of Lake Como below. We pass through a few hamlets which seem to cling to the hillside and are only accessible by foot. Discover fascinating geological formations before descending on an old stepped path down to the village of Torno on the lake, from where we catch a boat back to Como. In the evening, we descend by funicular to dinner in a restaurant on the shores of Lake Como.

(12km/7.5 miles)

A challenging yet rewarding hike leads from the hotel and climbs up to the ridge of the “Triangolo Lariano,” which rises to 1300m between the two southern arms of the lake. Enjoy wonderful views of the lake, the Alps, and south to the plain of Milan. Lunch in a mountain refuge. In the afternoon, we continue along the ridge, making the most of the spectacular landscape, and return to the hotel by van. Dinner this evening is in the hotel restaurant once again with views of the lake below.

(18km/11 miles)

We depart Lake Como after breakfast and drive via Lake Lugano to Locarno, an elegant Swiss city on the northwest shore of Lake Maggiore. We travel by funicular and cable car high above the lake at 1250m. An easy hike on well-graded trails leads up through woods to emerge above the tree line at Cimetta. We descend to an alpine restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, a short walk takes us back to the cable car, and we descend to the lake. A pretty drive along the west side of Lake Maggiore leads to the village of Pallanza, where we stay in the luxurious Grand Hotel Majestic on the shores of the lake. Dinner in the hotel restaurant.

(7km/4.4 miles)

A relaxing day today: we take a private boat to Isola Bella for a guided visit of the sumptuous seventeenth-century villa and gardens owned by the Borromeo family. Leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant. We return to the hotel by boat, and the rest of the day is completely at leisure. Stroll the gardens of Villa Taranto, a short walk from the hotel, or just relax and absorb the serene atmosphere of the hotel. This evening, you are free to stroll into town for an aperitif, enjoy a light dinner in a local trattoria, or unwind over a glass of wine in the gardens of the hotel overlooking the lake.

We transfer to the start of our walk on the side of Monte Mottarone. Climb up on a well-graded trail to the summit of Monte Mottarone at 1491m, from where we are rewarded with 360° views encompassing lakes Orta, Maggiore, and beyond. Enjoy a picnic on the slopes of the summit before descending on small trails past remote hamlets and farms to the village of Armeno at 550m. Continue by minibus to Lake Orta, where we stay on the lake in the luxurious four-star Hotel San Rocco. Dinner in the hotel this evening.

(16.8km/10.5 miles)

A private boat collects us from the hotel jetty and takes us to the western shores of the lake, from where we start our hike, climbing on a cobbled trail to a series of villages overlooking the water. We descend to the lake at Pella, where we have a picnic before our private boat collects us to take us to the tiny island of San Giulio with its beautiful frescoed basilica. We return to our hotel by boat. Free afternoon with the opportunity to visit the pretty chapels of Sacro Monte, dedicated to the life of St. Francis, and the lovely village of Orta. Fabulous final dinner in a local restaurant overlooking the lake.

(9km/5.5 miles)

Return to Milan Malpensa Airport for 10:30 am. There are regular train services from here to Milan city center.

Meet Rome Fiumicino Terminal 3 Arrivals at 09:30 am. We drive 1hr to Tivoli where we meet our local guide for a private tour of Villa d’Este. After the visit, we have a light lunch and continue 1h30mins to Santo Stefano in Sessanio. The hotel we stay in here, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso, is an extraordinary mix of the old and new—a ruined medieval village faithfully restored using traditional techniques into some 30 rooms for adventurous 21st-century travellers. Time to settle in before a welcome drink and dinner in the hotel restaurant this evening.

A short drive takes us to start of a lovely walk across the high plains, encircled by the peaks of the Gran Sasso National Park. We undulate between 1580m and 1780m and there is often the opportunity to see wild horses grazing. We have a picnic lunch and return to the hotel at the end of the walk by van. Dinner in a village restaurant this evening. (16.2km/10.2miles)

We walk out of the village of Santo Stefano and follow small tracks which lead us up to the imposing ruins of Rocca Calascio. We have time to explore the remains of the fort before walking down to our picnic lunch. In the afternoon we return to Santo Stefano by foot (or minibus). Later in the day we join a local chef for a cookery class of Abruzzesi specialities and dine on the fruits of our labour.

(10.5km/6.6miles)

We depart Santo Stefano after breakfast and drive towards the pretty town of Sulmona, famous across Italy for its sugared almonds, for the start of our walk. Hike along farm tracks to a small church where we have our picnic lunch before climbing to a trail following the hillside, with wonderful views of the fertile glacial basin, which leads us to the beautifully preserved village of Pescocostanzo, at an altitude of 1400m, where we stay for two nights at the hotel Archi San Rocco.

(12.5km/7.9miles)

A spectacular walk takes us off the beaten track through woods and open meadows to a remote ridgeline. Enjoy a sense of splendid isolation and emerge with lovely views to the village of Pietransieri where we have our picnic. In the afternoon there is the opportunity to continue the hike back to Pescocostanzo. Dinner in a wonderful local restaurant.

(11.2km/7miles am) + (9.2km/5.8miles pm)

We depart Pescocostanzo after breakfast and a short drive takes us to the lakeside village of Barrea where we have a coffee before setting off on our walk to the delightful village of Opi. Stroll around the village before lunch in a small trattoria. In the afternoon we climb up into high pastures populated with wild horses which brings us to the town of Pescasséroli at 1160m. We stay in the beautiful hotel Villino Quintilliani on the edge of town for the next three nights. Dinner in the hotel this evening.

(13km/8miles)

A free day in Pescasséroli to explore this lovely town. In the morning there is an optional short walk up to Mancino Castle which affords wonderful views back over Pescasséroli. Picnic lunch followed by free afternoon to relax. Dinner in a local restaurant in town this evening.

A magnificent final walk climbs 750m through beech woods to a spectacular ridge at 1800m. We follow this panoramic ridgeline along the regional border of Abruzzo and Molise before descending to mountain pastures and a small refuge where we have our picnic. In the afternoon we descend on shepherd’s tracks between ancient drystone walls which lead back to Pescasséroli. Final dinner showcasing local specialities.

(11.4km/7.2miles am) + (5.8km/3.6miles pm)

We return to Rome Fiumicino airport for 12:00 pm.

10:30 am: Meet at the Hotel Concord on Via Lagrange, close to Porta Nuova train station in Turin. We drive 1 hour to Pont St Martin, the gateway to the Aosta Valley, where we have a picnic lunch. Starting at the Roman bridge in the village, we walk the ancient route of the Roman armies, past vineyards clinging to the hillsides, to pick up the paved Roman road leading us to the town of Bard. We visit the dramatic fortress, which played a crucial role in Napoleon’s advance into Italy in 1800. There is an opportunity for a short walk before checking into the hotel, so please ensure you are in your hiking gear with boots ready. We stay in a delightful hotel with spa facilities for the next 3 nights. Welcome drink and dinner in the hotel restaurant.

(6km/3.8 miles)

Explore the remote Gressoney valley at the foot of the Monte Rosa mountain chain with its fascinating Walser heritage. We climb up to and follow a trail overlooking the valley, past tiny hamlets with characteristic stone and wood houses, to a mountain refuge where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the fairytale Castel Savoia, a favorite of Queen Margherita, before returning to Bard. (11km/6.8 miles) In the evening, we drive high into the mountains to a small restaurant for a dinner of local specialties.

A beautiful drive takes us to the Champorcher valley, carved out by glaciers millions of years ago. Our hike starts along the route used by Victor Emmanuel II, the first King of Italy, in the 19th century when escaping the court to go hunting in the mountains. We follow small trails climbing past beautiful lakes encircled by snow-covered peaks and enjoy stunning views down into the valley as we descend. Opportunity to soothe your muscles in the hotel spa before a well-deserved dinner on the hotel terrace this evening.

(11km/6.8 miles)

We leave Bard and drive to the delightful regional capital of Aosta. A private tour of the town includes many important monuments such as the Romanesque church of Sant Orso, the Roman walls, and the Roman amphitheatre. Enjoy the sights and shops before lunch in a local trattoria. In the afternoon, we continue up the valley to the stunning town of Courmayeur, which lies at the foot of Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco in Italian). We stay for three nights in a hotel in the town center. Dinner in town this evening.

Experience a remarkable cable car ride, sometimes referred to as The Eighth Wonder of the World, which takes us from Courmayeur to the Torino refuge at 3466m. From the viewing platform, you can almost touch the peak of Mont Blanc, which stands before us at 4810m. Absorb the views over lunch in a mountain restaurant. In the afternoon, join an optional hike on the Tour Mont Blanc, climbing up 600m to a height of 2000m before a long descent to Courmayeur. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Courmayeur, exploring the elegant shops and cafés before dinner in a local restaurant.

(10.5km/6.6 miles)

A magnificent full day’s hike takes us around the stunning Val Veny near Courmayeur. We follow a popular mountain trail, part of the famous Tour of Mont Blanc which circumnavigates the eponymous mountain. Pass mountain lakes and streams and see the glaciers that carved out the valley millions of years ago. Your tour guides will bring a picnic for you to enjoy amidst the glorious views. Dinner in a local restaurant.

(14.5km/9 miles)

We depart Courmayeur after breakfast and drive to Cogne, the gateway to the Grand Paradiso National Park. En route, we visit a magnificent Roman aqueduct before taking a leisurely walk along the pretty Valnontey valley to a mountain hut or Baita where we have our picnic with views of the Gran Paradiso. We stay for the next two nights in the superb Hotel Bellevue, a historic family-run hotel set among lush pastures in the heart of the village. Afternoon tea is served daily, there is a wonderful terrace with views of the Gran Paradiso, and the hotel boasts outstanding spa facilities. Dinner in a local restaurant in the village.
(6km/3.8 miles)

Start our final hike at the pretty village of Gimillan (1788m). We follow the river valley, climbing past shepherds’ huts and tiny hamlets – accessible only by foot. The peace is only disturbed by the chimes of cowbells as they savor the lush grass of the hills. Picnic by a pristine mountain lake before descending once again to Gimillan. Final dinner at the hotel’s outstanding restaurant.

(12.5km/7.7 miles)

Return to the Hotel Concord near Turin Porta Nuova train station at 11.30 am. This is the same hotel where we met on Day 1.

We meet at the Holiday Inn hotel close to Cagliari airport on Viale Umberto Ticca at 09:45 am. We head northwards for a private guided visit of the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site known as Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, one of the best-preserved Bronze Age defensive complexes on the island. After lunch, we visit the local museum before continuing towards the Gennargentu mountains. We stay in Aritzo at the charming Sa Muvara hotel for four nights. After settling in, we have welcome drinks and dinner at the hotel.

We set out from the hotel on foot, following old mule trails and climbing above Aritzo with fabulous views of the wild Barbagia landscape, concealing villages lost in time. We descend on farm tracks through ancient chestnut woods for our picnic beside a fountain. After lunch, there is the chance to visit some of the fascinating small museums in Aritzo before hiking back to the hotel. Time to relax before dinner at a local restaurant.

(10km/6.2 miles)

A short drive from the hotel takes us to the start of our hike at 1000 metres. We follow a pretty trail which climbs steadily with expansive views of the Gennargentu. Above us rises Monte Funtana Cunciada, where, up until the 1920s, ice was collected and stored to be transported to Cagliari. There is the option to climb to Punta Cungiada at 1459m. Lunch today is a traditional Sardinian barbeque, prepared by the locals, at a shepherds’ hut. After lunch, a short walk brings us back to the start, and we return to the hotel (option to return by jeep). Later in the day, we visit the local ethnographic museum before a picnic in the hotel garden.

(4km/9km + 3km/2.5 or 5.7 miles + 2 miles)

After breakfast, a short drive takes us up to an abandoned refuge in the Gennargentu mountains where we start our hike. Good paths above the tree line climb up 350m to the highest point in Sardinia, Punta La Marmora, at 1834m. On a clear day, we can see to the coast and beyond to the peaks of Corsica. We return by the same path and have our picnic en route. Both guides accompany the group today and carry the picnic for you. Dinner in the hotel.

(14.2km/8.8 miles)

We depart Aritzo after breakfast and drive north to the fascinating town of Mamoiada, where we visit the Museo delle Maschere (Masks). We continue on to a local winemaker for a tasting and light lunch. The final leg of our journey takes us to Oliena, where we stay in the lovely Su Gologone hotel for three nights. Dinner is in one of the hotel’s wonderful restaurants.

From the hotel, a short drive up the Lainattu valley takes us to the start of our hike. We ascend on a well-graded rocky trail, which zigzags as it climbs steeply above the valley to reach the Nuragic village of Tiscali, hidden in a gorge at the top of the mountains, 400m above the valley floor. After time to explore, we descend to our picnic lunch at the end of the hike. In the afternoon, we drive to Cala Gonone to enjoy a private boat trip with the opportunity for a swim in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Orosei before a wonderful fish & seafood dinner overlooking the sea.

(8km/5 miles)

A spectacular 1-hour drive takes us high above Oliena. We start at just below 1000m and hike to the top of the craggy limestone peak of Monte Corrasi. At 1463m, this is the highest mountain in the Supramonte. From the summit, we enjoy a 360-degree panorama that stretches from the coastlines of the Gulf of Orosei to the Gennargentu massif. We descend by the same trail and enjoy a fabulous picnic overlooking the valley. We return to the hotel where there is time to relax in the afternoon before our final dinner.

(10.5km/6.5 miles)

We drive to Olbia Airport to arrive by 10:30 am. Here we will say goodbye to hikers leaving the Sardinia tour and welcome those joining us for our Island of Corsica tour. We continue to Santa Teresa Gallura, a pretty town on the northern tip of Sardinia, with time to explore and enjoy lunch before taking a ferry across to Corsica mid-afternoon.

11:00 am: Meet in the lobby area of the NH Parma Hotel, Viale Paolo Borsellino, 31, located just a 1-minute walk from Parma train station. After settling in, we visit the city’s marble Baptistery, followed by the Parma Cathedral and the Diocesan Museum. Enjoy lunch showcasing Parma’s renowned cuisine. Then, drive for 1 hour to Borgo Casale, our luxury hotel nestled in the Romagnola hills and encircled by the Apennines. Time to settle in before dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Today we learn how the famous parmesan cheese is produced when we meet a local producer. We then drive high into the hills to start our hike, walking along the ridge between Tuscany and Liguria before descending to a small village for our picnic. Time to relax in the afternoon before we visit the town of Borgotaro – awarded the accolade Citta Slow (Slow Food City) – to experience the Annual Porcini Mushroom fair. We then head to dinner at a delightful organic farm.  (5.4km/3.4miles)

From the Passo della Cisa (1041m), we follow the Via Francigena through beech and chestnut woods, over ancient stone bridges, and through charming villages before descending to Pontremoli. We stay in a beautiful agriturismo (with a pool) converted from a 16th-century hamlet overlooking the town. We use this as our base for 3 days while exploring the Lunigiana region.

(23 km/14.3 miles)

Enjoy a more leisurely hike into the hills above our agriturismo to a remote hamlet with lovely views over the Magra Valley. Relax in the afternoon with the option to explore Pontremoli, an important stop on the Via Francigena with its 14th-century castle housing a fascinating museum of menhirs found in Lunigiana.

(5.5 km/3.4 miles)

We start above Pontremoli and climb through beautiful open woods and wild moorland to reach a high pass (1363m) with spectacular mountain views on the Emilia Romagna border, where we have our picnic. In the afternoon, we descend leisurely through beech woods, crossing mountain streams to finish our hike in a characteristic village.

(15.5 km/9.6 miles)

We walk to Fosdinovo for sweeping coastal views and a visit to the imposing Malaspina Castle. After visiting a small wine producer in the village, we descend through vineyards and olive groves to the fortified town of Sarzana. We continue to the coastal town of Lerici, where we stay for two nights in a stunning beachside hotel with breathtaking sea views.

(16 km/10 miles)

Free day to explore. Options include a boat cruise (weather permitting) across the Gulf of Poets to Portovenere, or further to the famous Cinque Terre villages. Enjoy swimming or exploring Portovenere and the small island of Palmaria, or discover the delights of Lerici.

Return to Pisa Airport for 10:30 am.

We meet at Pisa Centrale Train Station at 10am. Our first stop is in the village of Passignano with its medieval abbey nestled amongst the vines. After a tour of the abbey we enjoy a delicious lunch in a local Osteria. In the afternoon we continue our drive through Chianti to our beautiful hotel just outside the town of Panzano, where we stay for 4 nights. Time to settle in and perhaps have a dip in the pool before enjoying a welcome drink in the garden and dinner in the hotel.

We walk into Panzano and experience its small weekly market and delightful shops, including the now famous Chianti Butcher – Dario Cecchini. From the village we follow quiet country lanes and farm trails with panoramic views of northern Chianti. We picnic in the countryside by a remote chapel. In the afternoon a short walk brings us back to the hotel. Later in the day we drive to the lively town of Greve-in-Chianti. There is time to visit the renowned wine cellars and browse the shops before dinner in a local restaurant.

(8km/5miles)

We head out from the hotel on foot. Firstly we enjoy expansive views over stunning scenery before following a quiet trail through the woods, climbing gently to a small hamlet. We visit a boutique wine producer for a private tasting before a leisurely lunch at the renowned Ristorante Lamole, high in the Chianti hills. We return to the hotel by minibus and there is time to relax in the gardens. In the evening we stroll to a charming church nearby with magnificent views over the vineyards bathed in the evening sunshine. After our long, lazy lunch we enjoy a light evening picnic as the sun is setting.

(8.5km/5.2 miles)

We head out on foot from the hotel. Our trail leads across rolling hills from castle to castle, passing through vineyards and olive groves with far-reaching views towards Florence and the Apennine mountains. We picnic near a fortified village overlooking the countryside before continuing along an ancient trail through the woods to arrive at the imposing castle of Verrazzano. We visit the gardens and wine cellars and enjoy a glass of wine before returning to our hotel. Dinner in the hotel restaurant.

(14 km/9 miles)

We depart Villa Le Barone after breakfast and drive to Siena. We explore this World Heritage city with a tour of some of the lesser-known artistic gems and enjoy a delicious lunch at a lively trattoria. Free time in the afternoon to shop and visit the sights before we head to Colle Val d’Elsa. We check in to the four-star Palazzo San Lorenzo in the old part of town where we stay for 3 nights. Dinner in a local restaurant this evening in Colle.

A beautiful walk through pretty farmland takes us past some lovely villas and farmhouses with fabulous views to San Gimignano and beyond. We picnic in the gardens of a private villa before returning to the hotel. Later in the day we drive to a charming country villa to enjoy a fabulous hands-on cooking class with a local chef. We taste some local wines from the Chianti Colli Senesi and dine on the fruits of our labour.

(10km/6.2miles)

Our final hike follows a section of the famous medieval pilgrim route the Via Francigena. We hike from the fortified village of Monteriggioni towards Colle Val d’Elsa, passing vestiges of castles and abbeys as we travel through history on foot. Picnic in the countryside before heading to a local gelateria for the best ice cream in the region and maybe a coffee too! In the afternoon there is time to explore the beautiful medieval town of Colle Val d’Elsa with its craft shops and glass workshops. Our final dinner is at the magnificent Arnolfo Ristorante, one of very few restaurants in Italy with two Michelin Stars.

(10km/6.2miles)

We return to Pisa Centrale Train Station for 11 am.

09:30 am: Meet at the Starhotels Terminus, Piazza Garibaldi 91, close to the train station in Naples. We head south, making a stop in Campania at a mozzarella farm for a visit and tasting of genuine Mozzarella di Bufala DOP. After lunch, we continue to Maratea, a picturesque town clinging to a hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian coast, beneath a dramatic statue of Christ the Redeemer. We stay for three nights in a charming hotel in the old town. Welcome drink followed by dinner in a local restaurant.

Hike from the vibrant mountain village of Trecchina, following an important pilgrim trail up to Madonna del Soccorso. After a picnic lunch, we continue across open country on shepherds’ trails, descending through remote pastures to join a mule track clinging to the mountainside with wonderful coastal views as we approach Maratea. Dinner in a local restaurant.

(12km/7.4 miles)

Morning hike follows an old medieval trail through chestnut and oak woods, passing remote grazing areas. Picnic at a low mountain pass with views to the coast. In the afternoon, the trail continues on an old mule track, descending to the coastal hamlet of Aquafredda. Dinner in a local restaurant.

(8km + 8km/4.9 + 4.9 miles)

Depart Maratea and drive along the coast into Calabria, then inland to the village of Papasidero. We start our hike through the village, crossing the river on a lovely stone bridge before joining a trail above the river gorge. After a lunch of local antipasti, we visit a Paleolithic cave first excavated in 1961. Continue by road to arrive at our hotel in Rotonda, nestled in the Pollino National Park. Base for the next three nights. Enjoy Lucanian cuisine in local restaurants each night.

(10.5 km/6.5 miles)

15-minute drive to start our hike from a small hamlet, climbing through beech forests on a woodland track. Picnic lunch with a view before continuing our ascent and descending through the Unesco-listed landscape on a ravine track, ending back at the hamlet.

(15.5 km/9.6 miles)

30-minute drive to Colle di Impiso to start our walk. This spectacular hike takes us to the Piani del Pollino, the gem of Pollino National Park, and the magical Loricato Pine forests. As there’s no van access at lunch, your guides will hike the picnic in for you before returning to Rotonda for our final dinner there.

(16.5 km/10.2 miles)

Leave our hotel and stop to view a collection of prehistoric remains in the local Rotonda museum. After a cappuccino, continue by road to the Ionian coast to visit the ancient Greek site at Policoro. Enjoy a leisurely lunch of local seafood before continuing to the Unesco World Heritage city of Matera. Check into your cave accommodation at the Albergo Diffuso, Le Grotte della Civita. Join a local guide for a tour of the Sassi (cave-dwellings) of the old town before drinks and local specialities at a wine bar.

Walk starts from outside the city, returning on foot past rock churches and abandoned houses with lovely viewpoints to the hotel for a light lunch. The afternoon is free to explore Matera’s amazing sights and museums. Final dinner in one of the best restaurants in Matera.

(8km/4.9 miles)

Return to Naples for 12:30 pm, with drop-off at the airport, train station, and the Starhotels Terminus hotel. For guests wishing to explore Puglia or cross the Adriatic to Croatia after the tour, transfers to Bari can be organized for approximately €150.

The tour starts in the beautiful city of Bergamo, the 2023 European Capital of Culture. We meet at the Best Western Hotel Cappello d’Oro, in the lower town, at 9:15 am. We take the funicular to the Città Alta where we enjoy a tour with a local guide to see many of the main sights, including the Piazza Vecchia, Colleoni Chapel, and the Civic Tower. After a light lunch of local specialties, we drive to the Franciacorta region where we stay in a modern hotel in a small village in the heart of the vineyards. Time to settle in before we enjoy a glass of the prestigious sparkling wine before dinner in a local restaurant.

We start the day walking through the hills of Franciacorta, with expansive views over the vineyards. We visit the cellars of a local producer and taste the different styles of this famous sparkling wine before our picnic lunch. Later in the day we take a private boat cruise on Lake Iseo. Time to stroll around the charming town of Iseo with its boutique stores and stylish bars, before dinner in an elegant restaurant in the town

(7 km / 4.3 miles)

We drive up into the hills above Lake Iseo. Our hike takes us into the mountains, climbing steadily on well-graded paths, first through woods and then on open mountain trails to reach the highest peak in the area, at an altitude of almost 2000 meters.(850m climb) Although only a short distance from the Franciacorta vineyards, we experience quite different scenery and are rewarded with spectacular views. Lunch in a mountain refuge before descending back to the start and returning to the hotel. Dinner at the restaurant of an organic farm, the proud recipient of a Green Michelin Star.

(15 km / 9.3 miles)

We leave our hotel and a short drive takes us to the town of Trescore Balneario, where we have a tour of a private chapel with a stunning 16th-century fresco cycle. We continue by road to a small village above Lake Iseo from where we hike along quiet tarmac roads and small trails with stunning views down to the lake. We climb up to a remote church with a breathtaking panoramic view, where we have our picnic. (There is no vehicle access at lunch – the picnic is hiked in for you.)  After lunch, we descend through the woods to arrive at the hamlet of Castro, where we stay for two nights.  Dinner in the hotel tonight.

(12 km / 7.5 miles)

A short drive takes us up into the mountains to the west of Lake Iseo, known as the Bergamasque or Orobic Alps. We start our walk at 1300 meters, from where we enjoy a stunning circular hike, climbing above the tree line to enjoy open views across alpine meadows overshadowed by some impressive mountain peaks. There is no road access today, so we enjoy a picnic which is hiked in by both of your guides. Later in the day visit Lovere – one of most beautiful villages in Italy. Time to browse the shops and enjoy an aperitif before dinner in a cosy restaurant.

(11.5 km / 7.2 miles)

We leave our hotel after breakfast and drive north along the Val Camonica, a UNESCO World Heritage site which has over 250,000 preserved rock engravings. A short walk with a local guide through one of the pretty villages leads us to a beautiful Romanesque church and one of the most important prehistoric sites in the valley. After lunch in a tiny alpine parish, we continue our journey to the Valtellina. Before reaching our destination, we visit the astonishing Besta Palace, formerly a noble residence and a lavish example of Renaissance architecture. We arrive in Tirano late afternoon and check into our beautiful hotel in the center of the old town. A short stroll takes us to a local winery where we visit their cellars before a wine tasting and light supper.

A short drive takes us to the attractive, historic village of Teglio at 860 meters. From here we follow quiet trails which pass through terraced vineyards and beautiful hamlets with stone houses suspended over the river valley. We enjoy our picnic in a small village en route. We are rewarded with increasingly beautiful views as we gradually descend, passing a remote church clinging to the rocks before we arrive back in Tirano.  Dinner in a local restaurant.

(15 km / 9.3 miles)

Our final hike starts with a short train journey up the Poschiavo valley, part of the same route taken by the Bernina Express which travels from Tirano to St. Moritz. We experience the amazing corkscrew turns of the train line before we disembark at an alpine lake. We climb up through woods and past remote settlements to reach the historic Path of the Smugglers – used for contraband up until the 1970s. We stop at a mountain restaurant for lunch before descending steeply through chestnut woods and tiny hamlets to arrive at the medieval gate of Tirano. Final dinner in a local restaurant.

(18 km / 11.2 miles)

We depart Tirano after breakfast and head back to Bergamo. En route, we learn about the fascinating local cheese known as Storico Ribelle. These cheeses, awarded a Slow Food presidia, are made from cow and goat milks following ancient traditions of summer alpine grazing. We enjoy a private visit and a tasting. We arrive back in Bergamo train station at 2 pm and Bergamo airport at 2:30 pm.

On the final day, guests who don’t wish to return to Bergamo will have other options:

1. Say farewell to the group in Tirano and take the spell-binding Bernina Express directly from Tirano into Switzerland. This is truly one of Europe’s most spectacular train journeys, as the track snakes its way past alpine gorges, glaciers, and crosses over monumental viaducts. The journey to St. Moritz takes approximately 2.5 hours, or it is possible to continue on to Chur, or connect to other Swiss cities. It is easy to do the return to St. Moritz as a day trip. It is also possible to exit the Bernina Express at one of its alpine stops along the route and book to stay for a spectacular night or two in this panoramic scenery. Contact Marco Pelucchi  at infopoint@treninorosso.it for itineraries and bookings.
2. Join the visit to Storico Ribelle and then take a train from Morbegno back to Tirano and make the journey on the Bernina Express the following day. Morbegno is on the Milan-Tirano train line.