Back Roads Touring Italian Indulgence

• 11 nights in boutique accommodation
• Experienced Back-Roads Driver & Tour Leader
• Premium mini-coach transportation
• 11 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners

• Cook up an Italian feast in a traditional Tuscan villa
• Join a truffle hunt in Piedmont
• Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting near Asti

Day 1: Rome – Assisi – Perugia

They say all roads lead to Rome – but after we meet today, our route will whisk us away to awe-inspiring Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis. After getting to know the famous hilltop town a little better on a walking tour, we’ll move on to Perugia – where we’ll start things as we mean to go on (with a delicious included dinner).

Day 2: Perugia – Siena – Tuscany

Introducing Siena: a gorgeous Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. After exploring the Historic Centre, we’ll venture to our villa in the world-renowned Chianti region.

Day 3: Tuscany

Our host will let us in on a few Italian culinary secrets today as we have a go at preparing a classic Tuscan lunch. Later, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore as you wish.

Day 4: Tuscany – Florence – Lucca

Today we turn our attention to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to the world’s most treasured masterpieces. A local guide will bring the city alive as we stroll through the streets on a walking tour. As the afternoon turns to dusk, we’ll continue on to Lucca.

Day 5: Lucca – Pisa – Lucca

We’ll get up close to an Italian icon today with a visit to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Later, the afternoon will see us back in Lucca, where you’ll have the rest of the day and night to explore at your own pace.

Day 6: Lucca – Camogli – San Fruttuoso – Portofino – Santa Margherita Ligure

It’s time to experience the glitz and glamour of the Italian Riviera! Today we’ll make stops at romantic Camogli, picture-perfect San Fruttuoso and glittering Portofino before settling in Santa Margherita Ligure. This evening, why not take some time to wander along the beautiful beachfront, taking in the pastel-coloured houses, elegant hotels and sparkling waters?

Day 7: Santa Margherita Ligure – Barolo – Asti – Cherasco

Away from the coast and onwards to Barolo, in Piedmont: a region of rich red wines and luxurious cuisine. This afternoon there’s a treat is in store for the sweet-toothed among us – we’ll be visiting a distillery near Asti to taste some regional liquors and handmade nougat. Finally, we’ll move on to Cherasco – where a group dinner awaits.

Day 8: Cherasco – Alba – Lake Orta – Lake Maggiore

Rise and shine – this morning we’ll be heading out into the hills of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog. After a risotto tasting lunch we’ll hit the road to the captivating Lake Orta, a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. Then: from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be the final stop on today’s scenic journey.

Day 9: Lake Maggiore

Today we’ll leave dry land behind and set sail for the Borromean Islands. We’ll have plenty of time to wander the terraces of the ornate baroque garden on Isola Bella and discover the pretty harbour of Isola dei Pescatori. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore.

Day 10: Lake Maggiore – Lecco – Tirano

After bidding farewell to Lake Maggiore, we’ll discover the sights of Lecco. After an indulgent afternoon of wine tasting on the way to Tirano, we’ll return to our hotel and meet for dinner at a local restaurant to continue our culinary adventure.

Day 11: Tirano – Lake Molveno – Trento

This morning we’ll turn our attention to the majestic Lake Molveno, which lies at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites. We’ll continue to Trento for a walking tour and meet in the evening for a farewell dinner.

Day 12: Trento – Verona – Venice

Fair Verona beckons today, with its impressive Roman ruins and romantic hotspots. Then, it’s onwards to the show-stopping finale, the floating city of Venice, where we’ll bid farewell to the group.

Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don’t include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment’s notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.