Gardens of Italy

Gardens of Italy

12 days from only £1049

New for 2012 uncover an abundance of awe-inspiring archetypal Italian gardens whilst visiting some of Italy's best known sites. From the stunning landscapes of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore to the regal backdrop of Caserta palace this comprehensive tour offers some breathtaking locations.

Holiday highlights
• Villa Carlotta, Lake Como
• Boboli Gardens, Florence
• Caserta Palace & Gardens
• Tivoli, Rome
• Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore

Optional excursions
• The Isle of Capri
• Rome by night

Holiday itinerary 
Day 1 UK to Reims - We travel from Dover to Calais and onto our overnight hotel in the Reims area of Northern France.
Day 2 Reims to Lake Como - Travelling southwards into Italy and onto the shores of beautiful Lake Como for a 2 nights stay at the 3* Hotel Villa Linda. (B,D)
Day 3 Lake Como - A relaxing day on Lake Como to enjoy a cruise on the lake, some free time in Bellagio and a visit to Villa Carlotta, which boasts a treasure trove of local art and tiered gardens with an unrivalled panoramic view over the lake. (B,D)
Day 4 Florence - We travel from Lake Como to the Renaissance capital of Florence for a visit to the intricae Boboli gardens prior to enjoying some time at leisure in the city. Tonight we stay at the 4* Hotel Grifone. (B,D)
Day 5 Rome - Onwards to Rome and Tivoli for Villa d'Este the masterpiece of Italian Gardens and a UNESCO world heritage site. We visit the landscape, art and history which includes the important ruins of ancient villas such as the Vila Adriana. In the eternal city we stay for one night at the 4* Hotel Aris Garden or similar. (B,D)
Day 6 Travel to Sorrento - We pause at Montecassion, scene of the epic battle before continuing onwards to the lively coastal town of Sorrento for a 2 night say at the centrally located 3* Hotel Tirrenia (or similar). (B,D)
Day 7 Sorrento - We enjoy a day at leisure in the lively town of Sorrento which has a wonderful location on the cliffside overlooking the bay of Naples. Alternatively join an optional excursion to the Emerald Isle of Capri. (B,D)
Day 8 Sorrento to Montecatini - Northwards to stunning Caserta Palace & Gardens. This spectacular palace has featured in  many film sets and the ornate gardens cover an immense area. This evening we stay overnight at the 4* Grand Hotel Plaza in the town of Montecatini. (B,D)
Day 9 Montecatini to Domodossola - Northwards to the town onf Lucca in the heart of Tuscany - an architectural gem surrounded by ancient ramparts. We reach the 4* Hotel Valgrande for an overnight stay. (B,D)
Day 10 Domodossola to Mulhouse  - Arguably the highlight of our tour we visit Lake Maggiore for a boat trip to discover the magnificent Borromean Islands including entrance to the palace and gardens of Isola Bella. We continue to Mulhouse for an overnight stay at the 3* Hotel Bristol. (B,D)
Day 11 Mulhouse to Northern France - A drive to Northern France for our final overnight hotel stay. (B,D)
Day 12 Northern France to UK - Calais, Dover, then home. (B)
Included Meals: B=Breakfast, D=Dinner

Whats included by coach
• 11 nights, daily breakfast, 10 dinners
• Touring itinerary as above