Guided Tour plus Vacation Package
Campania Region: the ‘Amalfi and Cilento Coast’
6 guided days on the Cilento Coast followed by 5 days vacation package on the Amalfi Coast
Itinerary
Day 1 – ERCOLANO and MT. VESUVIUS
Airport pickup;followed by ERCOLANO and MT. VESUVIUS.
Under control of the Romans, the city was a renowned seaside resort where some of the richest Roman citizens passed their summer vacations. After the 79 AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, the town was abandoned and remained largely uninhabited for about 1000 years. The town was partially buried under hot mud and remained so for those 1000 years. The medieval town of Resina was built on the lava stream left by the eruption of Vesuvius (79 AD) that destroyed the ancient city of Herculaneum, from which the present name is derived. Ercolano is a resort and the starting point for excursions to the excavations of Herculaneum and for the ascent of Vesuvius by bus. The town also manufactures leather goods, buttons, glass, and the wine known as Lacrima Christi (Tears of Christ).
Day 2 – CASTELLABATE
You will be staying at a lovely seaside Palace or ‘Palazzo’ (below) near Castellabate where the Belmonte royal family still resides during part of the year, to live like royalty just like you deserve to be treated… smiles.
The palace grounds are privately enclosed and are located in Santa Maria di Castellabate, a happening seaside town with plenty of restaurants and things to do.
Just above Santa Maria is Castellebate. The name Castrum Abbatis in Latin or Castello dell’Abate in Italian is linked to the construction of the castle, which began in 1123, in the hillside medieval village or ‘borgo’
Castellabate is noted as one of the most beautiful ‘borgo’ resting up high with a view of the sea. In addition to the hilltop borgo which boasts a spectacular view.
Day 3 – PALINURO and VELIA
From Castellabate we will take a lovely coastal drive to PALINURO to see the grottos and enjoy the afternoon on the sea, lunching at a beachside restaurant. The name of the town is tied-up to Palinurus, the mythological helmsman of Aeneas, present in the 5th and 6th book of Aeneid. Palinurus, in Roman mythology is the helmsman of a ship of the adventurer Aeneas.
On the return from Palinuro, we will stop briefly at VELIA, an ancient Greek town (Elia) to discover how they lived in antiquity.
Its excavations are one of the treasures of National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano. The remains of this ancient town are in the territory of Ascea Marina, a very important tourist town, situated between Agropoli and Palinuro. The strategic geographic position of Velia (Elea), in the middle of the ancient commercial routes between Greece and Etruria, gave it strength and wealth.
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Day 4 – ACCIAROLI
ACCIAROLI is another ‘borgo’, but is one with a port and a lovely long beachon the Tyrrhenian Sea!
The town symbol is the blue flag, because it receives a blue flag, the highest honor, for clean water and a clean beach every year. It is a tranquil beach town of mostly locals and was one of the places where Hemingway stayed to write. If the weather permits, you may pass the day relaxing on the lido and strolling through town.
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Day 5 – CAPRI
From the nearby port at Acciaroli we will take a large boat to Capri for a full day on the Island. I will get you there and get you back and you will be free islanders all day (with a map and suggestions of course). Naturally, anyone who wants to hang out with Marena on the island is more than welcome.
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Day 6 – PAESTUM
Tansfer to the northern Amalfi coast with a stop in between at PAESTUM.
Paestum was founded around the end of the 7th century BC by colonists from the Greek city of Sybaris, and originally known as Poseidonia. From the archaeological evidence it appears that the two cultures, Greek and Oscan, were able to get along together and thrive. It later became the Roman city of Paestum in 273 BC. The main features of the site today are the standing remains of three major temples in Doric style, dating from the first half of the 6th century BC. These were dedicated to Hera and Athena.
Day 7 and 8 – RAVELLO
Your accommodation for the next 4 nights will be at a 5-star hotel (below) in Ravello overlooking the sea. Transfers to the sea and boat rides around the bay included in your stay.
RAVELLO was an important town of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi, an important trading power in the Mediterranean between 839 and around 1200. Villa Rufolo (1270), built by Nicola Rufolo, one of the richest men of Ravello, rests on a ledge and it has become a famous attraction for thousands of visitors. The villa was mentioned by Giovanni Boccaccio in his Decameron and it is the place where Richard Wagner in 1880 was inspired for the stage design of his opera Parsifal. In the northern Amalfi coast, this is Marena’s favorite.
Day 9 – POSITANO
We will organize with your hotel a day transfer to POSITANO.
POSITANO is a small town on the Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana), in Campania, Italy. The main part of the city sits in an enclave in the hills leading down to the coast. Positano was a relatively poor fishing village during the first half of the 20th century. It began to attract large numbers of tourists in the 1950s, especially after John Steinbeck published his essay about Positano in Harper’s Bazaar in May, 1953: “Positano bites deep”, Steinbeck wrote. “It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone”.
Day 10 – Relax and enjoy your last day in Ravello!
Day 11 – Depart for Naples airport. Arrivederci! (which literally means: to see each other again! Smiles.)
The itinerary is subject to change to accommodate the weather, festivals, or special needs of the guests – you.
If you have a concern or a request, please ask. Aside from not having to travel around in a herd, accommodating requests is another bonus of a private tour.
Price: euro 3075 per person based on double occupancy
Included:
• airport pick-up and drop-off in Naples in private mini-van with A/C, snacks and spirits!
• 6 nights accommodation at a palace plus 4 nights at a 5-star hotel
• daily guided tours explaining the art and history along the way
• all tickets and entrance fees
• the blue grotto in Palinuro
• boat ride to Capri
• 2 full-course meals (welcome and goodbye)
• ‘un bel divertamento’ (lots of fun!)
• special Marena treats!
• A True Italian Experience
Not included:
• airline ticket (but Marena will help you to find a good ticket)
• meals not mentioned above
• gratuities
• insurance (see website for insurance link)
When to go: May, June or July is best.
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11 days
This trip may be booked as a vacation package or as a privately-guided tour.
Another option:
You may also request that any portion of this trip be guided and do the rest on your own. For example, some guests want to be completely on their own in Florence and Le Cinque Terre, but prefer to have transportation and a private tour for the Chianti portion of the visit (5 days) with private transport back to the airport at the end of the trip. Just let us know.
Days 1, 2, and 3 – FLORENCE
You will fly directly into the Florence airport with private transportation service from the airport to your 4-star hotel, where you will remain for 3 nights.
Sights to see in Florence:
• The Uffizzi Museum
• The Galleria (Michelangelo’s david)
• Duomo, Campanile, Battistero
• Bargello Museum – a former prison where executions took place reformed into a museum that holds, amongst other important works, the David by Donatello and Bacco (the god of wine) by Michelangelo.
• Orsanmichele – the garden of lost time, this used to be a market and was transformed into a church.
• Piazza della Signoria
• San Lorenzo church – several works by Michelangelo are housed inside
• Santa Trinity church – artwork telling the story of St. Francis of Assisi
• Ponte Vecchio
• Palazzo Pitti – this is the Medici palace in which you can view the art collection as well as the rooms of the house
• Boboli Gardens – the Medici gardens which contain an anfiteatro and other notable works.
Day 4 – LE CINQUE TERRE (with a stop in PISA or LUCA on request)
Bed & Breakfast ccommodations for 3 nights:
Days 5, 6 – LE CINQUE TERRE
Le Cinque Terre means ‘the five lands’ and is called so because they are 5 towns, all connected by walking paths (they are also connected by train and by ferry).
Paths completion times:
Riomaggiore – Manarola: 1,0 km. Completion time: 25 min.
Manarola – Corniglia: 2,8 km. Completion time: h 1,00.
Corniglia – Vernazza: 3,4 km. Completion time: h 1,45.
Vernazza – Monterosso: 3,8 km. Completion time: h 2,00.
Recommended itineraries for exploring the 5 lands:
One – go from Vernazza to Manarola on foot, starting off in the morning (wear your suit under your clothes in case you want to swim), and bring both a hat to block the sun and a jacket for your return by ferry or train. Take your time going from town to town, jump in for a swim when you get hot, shop when you’re inspired, and lunch before heading back.
Two – go from Vernazza to Monterosso and plan on staying the entire day; bring a beach towel and wear your swimsuit under your clothes. (You may also want to bring a change of clothes for the evening.)
Three – just hang out and be on vacation in Vernazza or Monterosso for the day, or, if you’re feeling more energetic, take a day trip to either Parma (30mins) or to Portovenere (60mins).
Day 7 – CHIANTI
Drive to the Chianti region, stopping at the Verazzano Castle to visit the wine cellar and do some wine tasting with a four-course gourmet lunch! (Giovanni Verazzano was a wealthy adventurer who sailed upon Brooklyn, amongst other places, and it is after him that the Verazzano Bridge is named.)
We will also stop at a private vineyard for more wine tasting along the way, before arriving at your villa accommodation.
Accommodations for 4 nights at a Villa in the countryside:
Day 8 – CASTELLINA in CHIANTI (daytrip)
With under 3,000 inhabitants, Castellina in Chianti is a quaint and absolutely lovely town nestled in the wine country of of Tuscany. With incredible views, intimate piazzas and some wonderful restaurants, boutiques and art galleries, Castellina makes a perfect base for a holiday in Tuscany and your villa is right nearby!
More so than some of the other towns in the region, Castellina seems to have more going on, in terms of night life and festivities. There are some quaint lounges and fun locals, making it an ideal place to enjoy a typical Italian “aperitivo” before the dinner hour. Some well known Tuscan artisans and artists display their work here regularly.
The town may have been inhabited before the area was dominated by the Etruscans, but most historians place its founding to as early as the 7th century BC. At Mount Calvario outside the town on the road to Florence, there is an Etruscan burial vault about 53 meters in diameter that testifies to these ancient origins. In the early 15th century, a formidable and severely architected castle or fort, La Rocca, was built along with defensive walls containing well-spaced towers.
Of interest in and near Castellina in Chianti:
• Rocca Comunale – 15th century – the town hall and museum with an impressive atrium, once the Captain’s Hall. Ascend to the top floor for a spectacular view of the town and surrounding landscape.
• Via delle Volte – an impressively arched passageway along the eastern walls. Originally open, it is now a vaulted “tunnel” formed when various structures were built above.
• Palazzo Ugolini - formerly Palazzo Squarcialupi – its wide facade, featuring three ashlar doors, bears the coat of arms of the Ugolini. Note the eight arched windows on the primo piano – the first floor above the main floor.
• Palazzo Biancardi – three stories with two tiers of sandstone framed windows. Above the entrance is the Medici coat-of-arms of Pope Leo X (Giovanni de Medici, son of Lorenzo il Magnifico and pope from 1513 to 1521) who stayed here when passing through in 1513.
• Chiesa San Salvatore – 16th century – neo Romanesque – mostly destroyed in WWII, but rebuilt. Contains a staccato fresco of the Madonna attributed to Bicci di Lorenzo and a wooden statue of San Barnabas, the town’s one-time patron saint. The present patron saint is San Faustus, and the church has a gold urn purportedly containing his remains. Other objects include works from the 15th, 16th and 17th century. The massive organ dates only to 1965.
Oh yes, and wine tasting of course!
Day 9 – SIENA (daytrip)
Siena is a small city divided into three neighborhoods and offers everything a city has to offer from art galleries and museums to churches and towers to bustling cafés, restaurants and bars – all worth seeing and doing. However, if you are to only spend one afternoon in Siena, Marena recommends seeking out what Siena does the best: arts and crafts.
During the Middle Ages creating the colors that we now take for granted required considerable expense and ingenuity. Blue was obtained by grinding down lapis lazuli, white was based on animal bone meal, and red, known as dragon’s blood, was made from the resin of a special palm tree. Siena and the surrounding area is a treasure-trove of art and traditional crafts. A wander through the city streets reveals myriad workshops that are still abuzz with creative energy: weaving, pottery, wrought iron work, leather goods, stone carving and other activities that make use of techniques handed down from one generation to the next. So after marveling at the tower that shadows over the main piazza, take every ‘viccolo’ (backstreet) you come upon and watch the artisans at work.
Day 10 – SAN GIMGNANO (daytrip)
San Gimignano rises on a hillside dominating the Elsa Valley with its skyline of towers. Once the seat of a small Etruscan village of the Hellenistic period (200-300 BC) it began as a 10th century village taking its name from the Holy Bishop of Modena, St. Gimignano, who is said to have saved it from the barbarian hordes. The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages thanks to the “Via Francigena” the trading and pilgrim’s route that crossed it. Such prosperity lead to the flourishing of works of art to adorn the churches and monasteries.
So why all the skyscrapers? Although dominated by the Bishop, control often changed hands with that of the Holy Roman Empire. To maintain control, the Bishop offered a tax break to the town for erecting yet a second set of walls to keep it protected from outside control. The tower-building became an intense competition, and a local ordinance had to be passed to prohibit the building of any tower higher than the 50 meter (165 ft) high city hall, known as the Rognosa. Seventy two such towers were built, of which only 14 remain standing today.
But one doesn’t visit San Gimgnano just to see the skyline; the town is one of the most well-maintained in all of Tuscany, with pristine streets, and its duomo without barely an inch of wall that’s not covered with important frescoes. It is also known for Saffron and for its Vernaccia wine.
We will also stop at a very special and entertaining vineyard and cantina for wine tasting with a yummy selection of meats and cheeses to accompany the many wines you will be offered!
Four-course farewell dinner at your villa!
Day 11 – Arrivederci! Transport to airport.
Price: varies depending on vacation package, fully guided or partially guided, and number of guests (with 6 guests: from euro 2690 to euro 3460)
Included on a fully-guided private tour:
• airport pick-up and drop-off in Florence in private mini-van with A/C, snacks and spirits!
• 10 nights accommodation 4-star
• daily guided tours explaining the art and history along the way
• all tickets and entrance fees
• wine tasting and honey tasting
• full-course welcome meal
• ‘un bel divertamento’ (lots of fun!)
• special Marena treats!
• A True Italian Experience
Included on a complete vacation package:
• airport pick-up/drop off in private vehicle (if you don’t rent)
• 10 nights accommodations 4 star
Not included:
• airline ticket (but Marena will help you to find a good ticket)
• meals not mentioned above
• gratuities
• insurance (see website for insurance link)
BIKE TOUR in wine country available! Please inquire.
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October and November are well-celebrated in Umbria! It’s a fabulous time to get to know the very heart of Italy with people who have a lot of heart! Festivals are run by town members who proudly present their culture and history with lots of fun and food, of course!
Let me know which festivals interest you and I will tell you the exact dates to include those festivals.
Or
Let me know your dates, and I will let you know which festivals are going on during that time.
Rome can be added on after your visit in Umbria. Please inquire.
Autumn Festivals in Umbria:
Before or during the festivals, you will be given guided tours of many of the towns. Below the festivals are listed by town name in the order that they are usually held. Please click on the town name to see more info and photos of each town.
TREVI – the festival
Paolio dei Terzieri – Medieval competition between the three neighborhoods
(usually held at the beginning of October)
At this festival, the three neighbors, each with their own carts, participate in an enthralling race through the town, take a key out of the right hand of a wooden bust of a Saracen figure, and use it to open the door of the tower, run up the tower stairs and ring the bells claiming victory of the town! It is delightful because the entire town is dressed in medieval clothing and the cantinas are opened so that everyone, townspeople and visitors alike, can sit together at long tables to eat and celebrate, not just the victory of the winning terziere (neighborhood), but also the history of the town itself, which is listed as one of the most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets) in Italy!
TREVI – the town
Nicknamed, the ‘little gem’ in the green heart of Umbria, Trevi’s historical center includes a combination of medieval and Renaissance buildings, assisting in its official rating as one of the official most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets) in Italy. Trevi also prides itself as being among the founders for the Slow City Association as it has a rich cultural circuit that, between its museums, churches and monuments, satisfies art lovers. Sitting in the middle of the many Umbrian hills, the town looks down on the Spoletana valley and looks beyond the hillside to the Apennine Mountains while being hugged on all sides by olive groves, the principle product of the town.
PERUGIA – the festival
Euro-Chocolate Festival
(usually held mid-October)
Attention chocolate lovers: come one, come all – you can’t say you’ve tried the best chocolate in the world until you actually sample it, all of it, yourself! For about two weeks, the entire city is filled with chocolate vendors from around the country and around the world, sharing with you their very best chocolate, both in terms of quality and taste and in terms of design and creativity. Have you never eaten a chocolate cell phone or toolbox before? In addition, and perhaps most importantly, there are opportunities to participate in tasting events with a professional chocolate connoisseur (what a job!) who will teach you how to discover a good chocolate from a mediocre one – who knew?? One Sunday during the festival there are even chocolate sculpting competitions: the chocolate artists carve away at a gigantic block of chocolate to create works of art – and the best part? They bag up the carving scraps and give them away to onlookers! yummmm… My favorite part? Simply strolling around town with a REAL cup of hot chocolate (none of that coco powder nonsense, but real melted chocolate in a cup!
PERUGIA – the town
Perugia is the capital of Umbria and the home of the Etruscan tribe, a wealthy, luxuriant people who enjoyed the finer things in life. A visit typically includes visiting the Etruscan tombs ( 2nd c. BC. Perugia is also known for the famous glass-art family that was commissioned in the late 1800s/early 1900s to remake in glass DeVinci’s Last Supper which now rests in a museum in California. A visit to the family studio is really quite special and makes seeing the stained glass in the church made by the very same family much more interesting. In the historical center of Perugia we will enter Rocca Paolina (the city under the city), and will visit the Galleria Nazionale, the Maggiore Fountain which has its own story to tell, the Roman aqueduct (now a walkway leading to the former Pagan Round Temple), the Etruscan Arch near the historical University for Foreigners, and the homemade chocolate shop! We will eat both dinner and lunch out today. There will be plenty of free time for shopping! (Note: This is a big walking day.)
TREVI – the festival
Sagra di Sedano Nero / Black Celery Festival
(usually held in mid-October)
The specialty ‘dish’ of Trevi is ‘sedano nero’, which is literally translated as ‘black celery’, but not to worry, it isn’t black at all…the celery of Trevi is darker in color than your typical celery as well as much more tasty! What’s more, the townspeople have specialized in preparing dishes with celery for centuries and they have created some really unique and spectacular dishes. One of my favorites is a puree of celery soup with a thin duck-stuffed crepe sitting in the middle of it. It was almost too beautiful to eat, but it was too delicious not to! In any case, it is a great excuse to visit Trevi, whose city symbol is a piano with celery sticks for the long keys and olives for the short ones. The town is also known for its wall piano from the 1500s housed in the church at the top of town.
TREVI – the town
Nicknamed, the ‘little gem’ in the green heart of Umbria, Trevi’s historical center includes a combination of medieval and Renaissance buildings, assisting in its official rating as one of the official most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets) in Italy. Trevi also prides itself as being among the founders for the Slow City Association as it has a rich cultural circuit that, between its museums, churches and monuments, satisfies art lovers. Sitting in the middle of the many Umbrian hills, the town looks down on the Spoletana valley and looks beyond the hillside to the Apennine Mountains while being hugged on all sides by olive groves, the principle product of the town.
CITTA DELLA PIEVE – the festival
Festa di Zafferano / Saffron Festival
(usually held toward the end of October)
Since ancient times, Zafferano (Saffron) has been the main export from this darling medieval town, and so naturally, the townspeople celebrate their harvest yearly! The festival includes the opportunity to participate in the harvesting of the plant while taking a guided walk in the countryside, an art exhibition with works made from infused saffron, and, the best part of course, eating fabulously creative dishes that please both the taste bud and the eye! There is also an open market set up in town with wandering musicians and artists. (a cooking course on how to use saffron in the kitchen can be arranged upon request)
CITTA DELLA PIEVE – the town
The birthplace of the famous, high Renaissance artist known as ‘Perugino’ (Pietro Vanucci), Citta della Pieve is a city of art, housing not only several works by Perugino and other important artists, but also ‘housing’ an entire artistic town – one might even go as far to say that the town needs no art gallery, it is an art gallery – of everything from architecture to alleyways, all with its own unique expression. In addition to Citta della Pieve, Perugino’s art work can be found in the Louvre in Paris, the National Gallery in Washinton DC, the Uffizzi Museum in Florence, several places in Perugia, the Hermitage in St. Petersbury, the Galleria Borghese in Rome, and in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. But instead of trekking through the big cities to view his art, you can hang out here, in this darling town, indulge in the local Umbrian cuisine, soak up the view at the border of Tuscany, and delight in the local life!
CASCIA – the festival
Festa di Zafferano / Saffron Festival
(usually held toward the end of October)
The medieval period understand well the many uses and benefits of saffron, and since that time there is a record of its abundant uses by the people of Cascia who use saffron in the kitchen as often as one typically cooks with salt and pepper! And this tiny mountain town is surrounded by it! Good thing, too, because one gram of saffron requires about 200 flowers. The don’t just use it for color or flavor, but also for its nutritional values and they are quite knowledgeable about its many benefits to the body. A walk to harvest saffron is possible in the morning as harvesting must be done before the flowers open. The festival also includes traditional folk performances, flag performances, and an open market.
CASCIA – the town
With just over 3,000 inhabitants, the mountain community of Cascia lies in the Valnerina valley. Yeah, so the Byzantines were here, the Longobardi were here, Federico II was here…but why do people come to this little mountain town? Some say people make the pilgrimage to Cascia for Santa Rita (Cascia houses the monastery of Santa Rita, the matron saint of the town known for impossible or lost causes). But others say that the real ‘miracle’ to be found in Cascia is the ‘good’ it will do you to ‘cambia aria’ (change air), quite literally as breathing the mountain air does has its effects, and to enjoy the local hospitality as the townspeople of Cascia are extremely warm and welcoming.
GUBBIO – the festival
Festa di Tartufo Bianco / White Truffle Festival
(usually held the last weekend in October, the first weekend in November)
This festival is one of great importance in exhibiting the rare and precious white truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico), locally found. In addition to a number of stands and opportunities to taste and acquire white truffles, vendors of other particular products (such as fresh and aged cheeses, dried meats, olive oil, honey, and sweets) offer tastings as well. Invites to vendors are always exclusive and so you will only find the very best quality products. It is also an opportunity for local arts and crafts (such as ceramics, wrought iron, embroidery, wooden products, leather, and more)! And the fact that the festival takes place in the beautiful historical center of Gubbio make it all the more delightful!
GUBBIO – the town
With historical origins from the Bronze Age, Gubbio was an important pre-Roman, Umbrian town made famous for the discovery of Eugubine Tables, ancient bronze tablets that together constitute the largest surviving text in ancient Umbrian. The historical center of town is most certainly medieval and is also quite austere because of the dark grey stone, narrow streets, and Gothic architecture. In addition to seeing the bronze tablets housed in an early 14th century palace, one can visit the Roman Theatre (1st c.) and Mausoleum, the Duomo and museums, or simply stroll about town browsing the many arts and crafts shops as well as noting the peculiar doorways of the 14th and 15th century houses.
MONTONE – the festival
Festa del Bosco / Forest Festival
(usually held the last weekend in October, the first weekend in November)
Yes, here in Umbria we even celebrate the forest in general! Why not?! You can start off with a morning walk in the forest to pick mushrooms and then bring your basketful into town to see which ones are edible and which are not (if you were successful, we can bring your mushrooms back to our villa and have our chef cook them up for you!) Otherwise, beginning late morning the town starts bustling with activity including a folkloristic chorus dressed the part and well as a famous wandering jazz band specially invited each year. In addition to hot roasted chestnuts, local wine at 1euro a cup, and a winding path of vendors all over town, the cantinas open their doors for family style eating at long tables all together!
MONTONE – the town
With about 1,600 inhabitants, Montone is a well-maintained medieval village surrounded by the beautiful countryside. Historically, Montone is remembered for Braccio Fortebraccio (1368-1424), the Italian condottiero who defeated the cruel Baglione family of Perugia in 1416 after a rather complicated history between the two families. Standing in the middle of this incredibly beautifully and peaceful village, it’s hard to believe that it was the origin great dominance and power. In fact, today what dominates the most is the ‘picture perfect’ village feel where you might find neighbors chatting from their windows, lots of smiles, and the smell and beauty of the surrounding nature. And emulating the town itself (which is officially listed amongst Italy’s most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets), there is also a small museum/gallery filled with astoundingly beautiful art.
CITTA DI CASTELLO – the festival
Festa di Tartuffo Bianco / White Truffle Festival
(usually held the first week in November)
This town celebrates the precious white truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico) priding itself on the acute perfume, the largeness, and the roundness of the truffles, said to be amongst the most particular. Along with white truffles, you can find black truffles along with other forest products such as chestnuts, mushrooms, honey, and marmalade made from wild berries. Festival activities include: tastings, tastings with theatre, tastings with musical concerts, a live cooking show with truffles, a flag twirling performance in medieval dress, and an open street market.
CITTA DI CASTELLO – the town
Surrounded by soft rolling hills and 16th century walls, this little town at the center of the Tiber River Valley has a variety of things to offer: from its artwork (Raffaello, Luca Signorelli, and even its own contemporary artist Maestro Alberto Burri) to its peculiar collections such as having the largest variety of fruit (some 400 different species), its amazingly real-like miniatures of tradesman, and over 150 train sets. But if art and ‘things’ don’t interest you – just wander around Citta di Castello and try to stay grounded in the present while recognizing the various periods, from antiquity and the middle ages to neoclassicism and gothic-style, and not to miss – the magnificent Renaissance decoration designed by Giorgio Vasari.
The festival: Frantoio Aperte / Open Olive Oil Mills
Held every weekend for the entire month of November – depending on which week you come, we will participate in the festival at one of the following towns (listed below). All festivals include the possibility to participate in the harvest, to take a walk through the olive groves or to ride horses in the chestnut fields, to watch the oil pressing process at an olive oil mill, lots of tastings, including learning how to properly taste and judge olive oil, street music, an open market, and other events!
TREVI
Nicknamed, the ‘little gem’ in the green heart of Umbria, Trevi’s historical center includes a combination of medieval and Renaissance buildings, assisting in its official rating as one of the official most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets) in Italy. Trevi also prides itself as being among the founders for the Slow City Association as it has a rich cultural circuit that, between its museums, churches and monuments, satisfies art lovers. Sitting in the middle of the many Umbrian hills, the town looks down on the Spoletana valley and looks beyond the hillside to the Apennine Mountains while being hugged on all sides by olive groves, the principle product of the town.
SPOLETO
Once an important town to the original Umbri tribes, Spoleto (under the Lombards) became the capital of an independent duchy in 570, ruling a considerable part of central Italy until becoming a part of the Holy Roman Empire in 774. What’s amazing about this history in Spoleto is that you can actually see it! A visit starts outside the walls of the historical city center in the Church of San Pietro to see its famous façade which depicts both story and myth in vivid detail; the church is also notable because it was built over a necropolis (ancient burial ground) for bishops in 419, and remains, still today, an actively sacred place. Nearby the church we will be able to walk over the Ponte delle Torri, a striking 13th-century aqueduct on Roman foundations which finishes in the historical town center at the six-towered Rocca Albornoziana, built in 1359–1370, housing the museum. Strolling always downhill from this point (it’s great beginning at the top…smiles), we will pass the Roman theatre and stop at a Roman House, which is a marvel to see! We will lunch at an Osteria (fixed menu each day) but that will always serve Marena and her guests the amazing fried ricotta balls made by the owners mother – yes , its’ true and it’s delicious! After lunch you will have plenty of free time to shop around, visit the modern museum of art, also quite notable, or to hang out at a caffè and people watch. (Note: this is a big walking day.)
SPELLO
Flanking the south of Mount Subasio, Spello is officially listed as ‘one of Italy’s most beautiful ‘borghi’ (hamlets)’. And no wonder it’s so lovely, the townspeople hold various contests throughout the year for who has the most beautiful street, putting neighborhoods in competition to keep blooming flowers and lovely decorations around every doorway. Spello has antique origins and maintains three Roman gates, while the rest of the town is predominately medieval and completely stone. Although tiny, this densely populated town has about 2 dozen mostly medieval churches, the most important of which house notable artwork, including work by Perugino, Pinturicchio, San Bernardino da Siena, and Nicolò Alunno.
GUALDO CATTANEO
Named after its founder in 975, Gualdo Cattaneo is a small village that is as charming as a knight on a white horse and as lovely as the princess he rescues with a kiss. Why all the fairytale descriptions? How many tiny towns have you seen with not one, not two, but three castles…? Yes, there’s artwork in the churches and one can visit the castles, but the most lovely thing about the town is the town itself. That, and well, the fact that it also happens to be in the middle of the Road of Sagrantino Wine as well as that of the Olive Oil Mills. Smiles.
Let me know your dates and/or the festivals that interest you, and I will send you an appropriate itinerary.
The itinerary is subject to change to accommodate the weather, festivals, or special needs of the guests – you.
If you have a concern or a request, please ask. Aside from not having to travel around in a herd, accommodating requests is another bonus of a private tour.
Price: euro 2600 per person/double occupancy; euro 300 supplement singles
Included:
• airport transfers in a private climate-controlled van (with water, spirits, and snacks)
• 9 nights accommodation at a villa (4 star)
• guided tours explaining the art and history along the way
• welcome lunch
• goodbye meal
• all entry tickets
• various tastings
• ‘un bel divertamento’ (lots of fun!)
• special Marena treats!
• A True Italian Experience
Not included:
• airline ticket (but we will help you to find a good ticket)
• meals not mentioned above
• gratuities
• insurance (see website for insurance link)
send a note
This trip is 6 days of a guided tour in Friuli Giulia Venezia followed by 4 days of either:
a vacation package in Venice
OR
a Wine Tasting tour/holiday in Dolegna del Collio wine country!
With mostly flat land and cycling paths, this trip can be an excellent BIKE TOUR!
Itinerary
Day 1: GRADO ISLAND
Airport pick-up and transport to accommodation in the historical town center of Grado, an Island resort town with a lovely port, white sandy beaches, and thermal bath spas. While your bags are being arranged in your rooms, we will briefly tour the island and finish with a complimentary welcome lunch. In the evening you will be free to rest up, to explore and to dine on your own.
Grado is a town in the north-eastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, located on a peninsula of the Adriatic Sea between Venice and Trieste. Commonly known as L’isola del Sole (“The Sunny Island”) this town, once a fishing center and now a popular tourist destination, is famous not only for its spas, but also because it is located in the center of a lagoon of uncontaminated nature.
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.Day 2: CASTELLO del MIRAMARE and TRIESTE
The day will begin with a visit to the Castle of Miramare where Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg (later to become Emperor of Mexico) lived in the mid- to late- 1800s. The castle was designed by the Archduke himself to ‘feel’ like a ship; and the fact that it sits right on the Adriatic sea helps it to achieve its goal in all its splendor. The interior furniture and decorations are genuine period pieces. The extensive park is located on the seashore and was also designed by the Archduke. (a 2 hr ferry ride is also available from Grado Island to the Trieste port)
From the castle you can see Trieste where we will stop next (just minutes away).
Trieste is a port town featuring an immense piazza (town square) which looks out onto the sea and is the main attraction of the town. Why go to Trieste? For its Roman theatre? Because it was popular with the famous writers Italo Svevo, Vladamir Bartol, and James Joyce? No, silly. One goes to Trieste for the coffee, of course. Even if you don’t like coffee, it is to try and delight in here in Trieste where the coffee itself can serve as your dessert!
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Bikers: Grado to Trieste port – 2 hrs in ferry, then from port to Trieste – 15 mins
Trieste to Miramare Castle – 8.5kms / 35 mins
Day 3: AQUILEIA
The small and quiet but well known village of Aquileia lies in the plain of Friuli not far from the lagoon of Grado. It is surrounded by the greenery of the countryside which is reflected in the clear waters of the river Natissa. On its western bank, in 2nd century AD, the Romans built the town-fortress that became one of the most famous towns of the Empire, not only for its military, prowess and its economic wealth, but also for its cultural and spiritual magnificence. The archaeological remains easily found every where, bear witness of its illustrious past. The Roman forum was the lively centre of city life with its offices, temples, shops, porches and monuments. In the heart of the town the medieval Basilica, with its severe Romanesque – Gothic lines, next to a more modern steeple, in which the oldest and most illustrious memoirs of the Christian religion are preserved. Inside the medieval church you can admire the medieval mosaic floor which replicates exactly that of the Romans who had their church in the same place centuries before (the original Roman floor can be seen underneath the medieval church)! The town also has a pasticeria (pastry shop) which is out of this world – a stop for coffee and sweets is a must! Aquileia is also accessible by a bicycle path.
Bikers: Grado to Aquileia – 12 kms / 49 mins
Day 4: PALMANOVA (day of choice: biking or shopping or sipping wine with the locals)
This star-shaped town was constructed by Napolean during the war and served as a hideaway for his military camp (still today, some military bases remain in the outskirts of the town); it was a hideaway because the town can not be seen from outside of its walls as it sits low with much greenery all the way around. For this reason a walk or a bike ride around the town is quite pleasant for s/he who would like to take the 35-minute spin around. However the town is perhaps most famous for the locals (mostly elderly) who sip wine at the many wine bars all around the town and for its grand piazza in the center of the star which always remains empty because everyone is at the surrounding bars – they are happy if you join them! Just outside the town are the Italian outlet shops that we can stop at as well (I will poll the group to see who’s interested). We will finish with a lovely dinner also just outside of town where you can try the famous Friulian Frico (Frico is a mashed-potato pan cake surrounded by an outer layer of crisp, pan-fried Montasio cheese)…mmmmmmm…. And where you can drink the wine of the restaurant’s very own winery! (You can order wine tastings with your dinner as well!)
Bikers: Grado to Palmanova – 28 kms / 2 hrs – Beginners and holiday goers may opt for the private transport to Palmanova and you can pick up your bike rental in Palmanova and take a spin around the ’star’!
Day 5: GRADO – Isola di Barbana
The Isola di Barbana is the small island with a church on it that you will doubtless have seen across the lagoon. The church – a Sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna – is a popular pilgrimage destination. Once a year, on the first Sunday in July, there is a religous festival on the lagoon when a procession of decorated boats heads across to the Isola di Barbana for a mass to celebrate Grado’s relief from a thirteenth-century outbreak of plague. The event is called the Perdon de Barbana.
In the morning we will take a boat ride to a sanctuary and then I will leave you on your own to enjoy your last day in this island town – Grado is just too lovely to not spend a full day either on the lido (beach) or strolling around town. Your beach chairs are included in your accommodation so you can relax Italian style! We will meet in the evening for your complimentary farewell dinner!
Days 6 – 10:
Option – Venice
Option – Dolegna del Collio – wine tasting (bike tour available)
OPTION VENICE
Day 6: VENICE transport to the ferry taxi
After a leisurely breakfast we will depart for Venice at around 10:30am. We will put you on your ferry that will take you directly to the canal entrance of your hotel in Venice where you will be greeted and well cared for at a 4-star canal-side hotel with Venetian glass chandeliers and a huge breakfast buffet right on the canal.
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Day 7: MURANO (glass island) – recommended
I will arrange with your hotel to take you to MURANO in the morning. Please let me know on day 6 if you plan to go. Murano is the Venetian island of the famous Murano-blown glass. A private boat will take you to visit one of the most famous of the glassmakers for a tour to see how the glass is made and for shopping, naturally. This factory can make whatever you’d like. For example you may like one style of a chandelier or wine glass, but the color of another – tutto bene (all is ok) because you can order exactly what you’d like and they will ship it to you.
Day 8: BURANO (lace island of colored houses) – recommended
I will arrange with your hotel to take you to BURANO in the morning. Please let me know on day 6 if you plan to go. Burano is the Venetian island famous for both its handmade, intricately designed lace and for its darling candy-colored houses. Bring your cameras and stay for lunch.
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Day 9: VENICE – enjoy your last day roaming around Venice. If you didn’t already see them on your first three days, sites to explore include: the Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canal, the Basilica of San Marco and Roge’s Palace in San Marco’s Square, the Peggy Guggenheim gallery for modern art and the Accademia gallery for 14c to18c Venetian art. But the best part about Venice is simply wandering around and letting yourself get lost strolling over the many little bridges and canal ways – don’t worry about getting lost (it’s part of the fun) because there is a ferry stop right next to your hotel, so when you are ready to go back just hop on ferry it will take you right ‘home’.
Day 10: Departure. Your hotel will have your boat taxi ready to take you to the Venice airport. Arrivederci!
OR
OPTION DOLEGNA DEL COLLIO – WINE TASTING
(with BIKE TOUR on request)
For the next few days, your home base will be at a villa in Dolegna del Collio, with daily excursions from here. On our way from Grado, we will stop at Udine before settling in Collio (bikers will stay overnight in Collio before settling in Collio).
Day 6: UDINE
Udine is the historical capital of Friuli and it is where the Far East Film Festival takes place every April. It also has a university and so it is quite active with lots to see and do. In the principal square (Piazza della Libertà) stands the town hall (Loggia del Lionello) built in 1448-1457 in the Venetian-Gothic style opposite a clock tower (Torre dell’Orologio) resembling that of the Piazza San Marco at Venice. And like St. Mark’s Square in Venice, it is a fun place to just hang out and people watch while enjoying something to drink. The center of Udine is dominated by the Castle, built by the Venetians from 1517 over a Lombard fortification that had been ruined by an earthquake in 1511. The castle houses one of the most ancient Parliament Halls of Europe, and it hosts different events throughout the year.
Bikers: from Grado to Udine – 48kms / 3.5 hrs – Beginners and holiday goers are recommended to arrive in our private van and rent a new bike when we arrive in wine country this same day. Serious bikers will stay overnight in Udine and take off for Collio in the morning! (24kms / 1.4 hrs)
Day 7: DOLEGNA DEL COLLIO (wine country)
Collio is the wine country of Friuli Giulia Venezia and it wins hands down for the most aromatic wines in all of Italy. It is most famous for the white wine called Friuliano (formerly called Tocai), but it also has some of my very favorite reds such as Refosco and Schioppettino, literally bursting with flavors that truly delight the palate! If the wines don’t interest you, intoxicate yourself instead with the views of the beautiful countryside and rolling hills of vineyards with the Alps in the background – it’s really a lovely drive!
Day 8: CIVIDALE DEL FRIULI
This little town is bursting with splendor, antiquity, history, and charm. A visit may include: an 18th century palace, a 12th century castle, a underground Roman prison, and the mysterious Devil’s bridge.
Bikers: from Collio – 8.5kms / 37 mins
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Day 9 GORIZIA
On your last day, walk, bike, or have private transport around the wine country with wine tasting in a few select vineyards.
In the afternoon we will take the private transport to Gorizia where we will enjoy a brief visit and a special farewell meal and wine tasting right in the castle!
Bikers: from Collio – 22kms / 1.35 hrs – Beginners and holiday goers will arrive in our pirvate transport. Serious bikers will stay overnight in Gorzia and depart for the airport from here.
Day 10: Private transport to the airport. Arrivederci! which means: to see you again! Smiles.
Prices
- with Venice: euro 2920 per person based on double occupancy
- with Wine Country (guided): euro 2920 per person based on double occupancy
Included:
• airport pick-up and drop-off in Venice airport (or Milan) in private mini-van with A/C, snacks and spirits!
• 9 nights accommodation
• daily guided tours explaining the art and history along the way
• all tickets and entrance fees
• boat ride in Grado
• boat ride to Capri
• 2 full-course meals (welcome and goodbye)
• ‘un bel divertamento’ (lots of fun!)
• special Marena treats!
• A True Italian Experience
Not included:
• airline ticket (but Marena will help you to find a good ticket)
• meals not mentioned above
• gratuities
• insurance (see website for insurance link)
send a note
Private Guided Tour Region: Umbria
Itinerary
Day 1 – PIEDILUCO and CASCATE DELLE MARMORE (day of relax in nature)
From the Rome airport, we will stop in PIEDILUCO and CASCATE DELLE MARMORE on our way to our Umbrian villa. About half-way from the Rome airport to the villa we will stop at Cascate delle Marmore, man-made waterfalls in three levels – made by the Romans and still functioning today. We will take the easy stroll down passing the waterfalls to get your blood moving again after the flight. Just above the waterfall is the 2nd largest lake in the penisola of Italy (after Lake Trasimeno) where we will take in the scenery and have a splendid ‘pranzo di benvenuto’ (welcome lunch) with a lake view.
Arrival at our country villa in the vineyards of Montefalco and dinner on your own at your leisure.
Le foto di villa montefalco
Day 2 – MONTEFALCO (day of gastronomical tastings)
MONTEFALCO (WINE COUNTRY): You will get to know the Umbria wines immediately so that you know what to choose in the restaurants in the following days! Umbria is known for Vino Rosso di Montefalco and for the exquisite Sagrantino wine. We will make 2 to 3 stops at cantinas, from a smaller mom and pop vineyard to the best rated winery in Umbria! We will also tour a frantoio (where olive oil is made). The frantoio is run by two sisters, and we will not only see the production system, but we will also taste their olive oil at a modest luncheon in their home restaurant just next to the frantoio: the sister who speaks better English will show us the frantoio while the sister who is the better cook prepares our lunch. We will also be visiting the small town of Montefalco this day and eating the most fabulous thin crust pizza (the lasagna is also great!) at Marena’s very favorite pizzeria!
Day 3 – SPOLETO (day of history and art)
SPOLETO: visit to the church of San Pietro outside the town center of Spoleto to see its famous facade; the church was built over a necropolis (ancient burial ground) for bishops in 419. Nearby the church we will be able to walk over the Ponte delle Torri, a striking 13th-century aqueduct on Roman foundations which finishes in the historical town center at the six-towered Rocca Albornoziana, built in 1359–1370 which houses the museum. Strolling always downhill from this point (it’s great beginning at the top…smiles), we will pass the Roman theatre and stop at a Roman House, which is a marvel to see! We will lunch at an Osteria (fixed menu each day) but that will always serve Marena and her guests the amazing fried ricotta balls made by the owners mother – yes , its’ true and it’s delicious! After lunch you will have plenty of free time to shop around, visit the modern museum of art which is quite notable, or to hang out at a caffè and people watch. (Note: This is a big walking day.)
Day 4 NORCIA and CASTELLUCCIO DI NORCIA (day in the mountains and small mountain towns)
NORCIA is the capital of Valnerina surrounded by the Sibilini mountains, a subrange of the Appenine. At the height of the medieval period, the Norcians became quite specialized in the butchering of meat; they, in fact, were considered experts of anatomy so much so that a Surgical School to perfect the art of this technique began in 1215. In Italian a butcher shop is called a ‘macelleria’; however, in Norcia they are called ‘norcelleria’ which indicates that they are the best at their trade. Here you can try the best salumi (dried meats) and cheeses in all of Italy.
CASTELLUCCIO DI NORCIA is situated nearby Norcia in the National Park of Monti Sibillini and is the most elevated part of the Appennine Umbro-Marchigiano mountains, boasting a spectacular view of the flowering valley in the Spring. The town itself has few inhabitants and dates back to 1300. The main crop is lentils. In Italy a dish of lentils is traditionally served on New Year’s Eve for good luck for the following year. If your lentils are from Castelluccio then you are even more fortunate. Other notable dishes from this area are: tartufo (truffles) and meat infused with tartufo. Strategically placed trees create the formation of Italy on the hillside upon which the town sits. Horseback riding in the plain below or hiking in the hills above this town provides a wonderous view all around (don’t worry, you can just hang out to enjoy it as well!)
Day 5 – ASSISI (spiritual day)
Today we will follow the footsteps of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy. We will start our day in the valley below Assisi which was once a great forest and is now a town called SANTA MARIA DEGLI ANGELI which has a church of the same name; this Church was built around the Porziuncula (St. Francis’ original church that he restored when he abbandoned his family, Assisi and materialism and founded his own order in 1209). Next we will drive up and around Assisi on MOUNT SUBASIO to visit St. Francis’ hermitage and for lunch in a humble little restaurant in the mountains. Finally, we will enter ASSISI to visit the town center and to see the famous Giotto paintings (that tell the life story of St. Francis) in the Basilica of San Francesco that sits upon the hill of Paradise where he is now buried. You will also have plenty of free time to shop and walk around. (Note: This is a big walking day.)
Because Assisi is the half-way point, we will transfer from our country villa in the vineyards to our 5-star, medieval CASTLE ACCOMMODATION from the year 1300!
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Day 6 – CORTONA (day of relax/spa and shopping)
You can pass the morning getting to know the castle grounds, visiting the castle itself (which houses artifacts from the 1300s), using the spa, taking in the sun poolside (weather pending), ‘come vuoi’ (as you wish). In the afternoon we will go to CORTONA (Tuscany), which was the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun, where you will delight in shopping at darling boutiques with products typical of the region. If you want a leather bag, this is the place to get it! Tuscan dinner out.
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Day 7 (day of festival!) – One day is always reserved for something special and typical of the season, which can vary with each trip: Umbria is noted for its many festivals and here we celebrate everything from strawberries to wild boar with lots of medieval festivals and games in between! Once your dates are tentatively selected, Marena will let you know what’s going on Day 7.
Day 8 – PERUGIA(day of antiquity and cioccolata!)
PERUGIA: We will start our day far back in history, visiting the Etruscan tombs ( 2nd c. BC); the Etruscans were an eleborate and luxurious tribespeople from this area before the Romans came along. Next we’re off to the famous art glass art studio (late 1800s/early 1900s) run even today by the family that was commissioned to remake in glass DeVinci’s Last Supper which now rests in a museum in California. We will enter the historical town center of Perugia through Rocca Paolina (the city under the city), and will visit the Galleria Nazionale, the Maggiore Fountain with scenes from daily life each month, the Roman acquaduct (now a walkway leading to the former Paegan Round Temple), the Etruscan Arch near the historical University for Foreigners, and the homemade chocolate shop! We will eat both dinner and lunch out today. There will be plenty of free time for shopping! (Note: This is a big walking day.)
Day 9 – LAGO TRASIMENO (party boat day!)
Private boat ride in LAGO TRASIMENO (the 4th largest lake in all of Italy and the largest on the peninsula). We will begin with ‘aperativi’ (drinks and appetizers) onboard and will cruise leisurely around the lake making two island stops: the first will be at ISOLA POLVESE for a walk and a swim (weather permitting) and the second will be at ISOLA MAGGIORE for a stroll (here you will see elderly ladies crocheting lace, which you can buy for a price…).
We will disembark our boat for good at a lovely town called CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO to visit la Rocca (the fort) and the castle, learning about its history as we gaze at the breathtaking view. Strolling through the town itself, the shop owners will offer you salami and cheese to taste along the one main streetway of the town until we shortly reach the end where we will enjoy our farewell meal.
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Day 10 – day of ‘Arrivederci’, which literally means: to see each other again! Smiles.
The itinerary is subject to change to accommodate the weather, festivals, or special needs of the guests – you.
If you have a concern or a request, please ask. Aside from not having to travel around in a herd, accommodating requests is another bonus of a private tour.
Price: euro 2770 per person/double occupancy; euro 300 supplement singles
Included:
• airport transfers in a private A/C van (with water, spirits, and snacks)
• 9 nights accommodation at a villa and a castle (4 and 5 star)
• daily guided tours explaining the art and history along the way
• welcome lunch
• goodbye meal
• lunch at olive oil frantoio
• drinks and appetizers on the boat
• private full-day boat excursion
• all entry tickets
• wine tastings
• ‘un bel divertamento’ (lots of fun!)
• special Marena treats!
• A True Italian Experience
Not included:
• airline ticket (but Marena will help you to find a good ticket)
• meals not mentioned above
• gratuities
• insurance (see website for insurance link)
send a note
Older Entries
Airport pickup;followed by ERCOLANO and MT. VESUVIUS.
From the nearby port at Acciaroli we will take a large boat to Capri for a full day on the Island. I will get you there and get you back and you will be free islanders all day (with a map and suggestions of course). Naturally, anyone who wants to hang out with Marena on the island is more than welcome.
