10-night Radiant Rivieras Voyage

Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours

Your chauffeur and your guide will
be waiting for you at the port. They will be at disposal for 8 hours. Your chauffeur will drive you to the city center of Barcelona.

A Walk Through Barcelona
You will start your day by an exciting 2-hour walking tour of the oldest parts of Barcelona: the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. You will follow your guide as he/she leads you into the small, narrow streets to discover the vibrant, trendy ambiance of Born and the historical atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter. You will see the Santa Maria Del Mar church, the Royal Palace and the world famous “Las Ramblas” avenue. The fun facts and stories
told by our guide will keep your children highly engaged. The children will each get a game booklet to keep them engaged and entertained. After this tour, you will enjoy a
lunch break. Your guide will be there to give recommendations depending on your taste.

Included: 

• A Walk Through Barcelona:
• Private certified guide
• 2 hour walking tour
• Game booklet for
• each child
• 2-hour experience

• Park Güell:
• Private certified guide
• Skip-the-line tickets to
• Sagrada Familia and
• Park Güell
• Transfer in a private
• mini van
• Game booklet for
• each child
• 3-hour experience

Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)

Highlights:
An architectural delight awaits you today in Barcelona, one of the most exciting cities in Europe.  Receive a warm greeting at the port by your private guide and driver and commence your full-day tour with a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia.  Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be complete until 2028! 

Next, visit Parc Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi's most colourful creations.  Continue along Passeig de Gracia, to view Gaudi's Casa Batlló and Casa Mila from the outside, with its brilliant wave-like façade.

After lunch, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the true heart of the city - the medieval Gothic Quarter.  Here you will visit the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, where some of the painter's earliest works are housed. At the end of your tour you are transferred back to the port.

• Walk the labyrinthine alleys of the medieval Gothic Quarter to find architectural gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Mar
• Admire the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, where some of the artist's earliest works are housed.

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)

Highlights:
Receive a warm greeting at the port from your private guide and driver and commence your half-day tour with a visit to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece; the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be completed until 2028!

Continue on to Parc Guell, a beautiful municipal garden with a superb panoramic view over the city; the focal point is a colourful sea-serpent-shaped central terrace. Visit the gatehouse where Gaudi lived during his later years which is now a museum dedicated to him. Transfer back to the port at the end of your tour.

• Visit the impressive, but still unfinished Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of the Catalan architect
• Wander through Parc Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage Site considered Gaudi's most colourful creation

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Ampordan Secluded Paella Cooking Class

Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at a secluded rural house. Wander through the historical and artistic complex while learning about its rich gastronomy based on rice. At home, dare to partake in the Paella cooking process and uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine collected from straight connections with the top Spanish chefs. 

Duration: 5 Hours

Authentic Barcelona by Bike

Overview: Uncover the most authentic side of Barcelona riding the world's best folding bike, a Brompton. Be led by an expert bike guide and venture into a unique and exclusive experience. Connect with your local guide by sharing and listening to trivia stories about Barcelona. Embark on a ride to explore the least touristy Eixample and Gracia districts. Glimpse the Plaça d'Espanya, the Hospital de la Santa Creu, Sant Pau, and modernist estates.

Duration: 3 Hours

Barcelona Sailing Journey

Overview: Experience the thrill of sailing the Barcelona Coastline. Glimpse the Barcelona skyline from a different perspective and spot some landmarks, including Frank Gehry Golf Fish Sculpture and the Twin Towers", Torres Venecianas. Immerse yourself in the serene deep blue while seeping your glass of wine. Weather permitting, anchor and venture in a short swim.

Duration: 4 Hours

Barcelona - Exploring Cavas' Origin

Overview: Uncover the dedication of a biodynamic winegrowers family committed to excellence in long-aged wines. Venture on a stroll around the winery's iconic vineyards to discover the distinctive features of a unique spot in the Penedès region. Sheltered by the woods, taste a base wine paired with a light snack. Elevate your experience by savoring three long-aged sparkling wines, a limited-edition white wine, and an extra-virgin olive oil.

Duration: 4 Hours

Barcelona - From Market to Home with a Top Chef

Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at her private penthouse. Head to a 19th-century local market and thoroughly select the finest ingredients for your recipe. Dare to partake in the cooking process while you uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine. Savor the combination of flavors paired with a premium selection of Spanish Wines.

Duration: 4 Hours

Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)

Overview: Step away from the bustling Barcelona and embrace Catalonia's unique landscape with La Garrotxa and Fageda d'en jordà. Venture into an exciting 7,5 miles hike through the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. Engage in a circular route through La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Ascend to the inside of Santa Margarita volcano and discover a chapel lying on its crater. Dive into Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on the lava flow of Croscat Volcano. Finalize your trail with a stop at the Croscat Volcano grederes.

Duration: 4 Hours

Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)

Overview: Ancient Wonders and hidden gems await you on the famous needles of Montserrat Mountain. Venture into an exciting and intimate hike connecting you to Montserrat's outlandish and most authentic elements. Uncover the region of Agulles and the north face of Montserrat, passing between the needles, having to take some steps climbing ropes, and ending up visiting emblematic places such as Cadireta or Foradada.

Duration: 4 Hours

Montserrat from the Skies

Overview: Marvel at Montserrat Mountain's impressive scenic views. With a bird' s-eye view, witness these massive conglomerates, which form unexpectedly imposing sculptures due to their geological evolution. They all have names related to their shapes, and we find caves, chasms, and torrents in their shelter.
Flying over the Montserrat mountain, the spiritual Center of Catalonia is undoubtedly one of the most surprising and impressive experiences.

Duration: 1 Hour

The Secrets of Michelin Dine

Overview: Enjoy an exclusive journey into the World of Michelin stars. Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, uncover the secrets of top-notch restaurants. Meet the providers of Michelin-starred restaurants such as Rocco or El Bulli. Find the most highly-rated gourmet products and a trend-setting porcelain manufacturer. Head towards your Chef's Masía, a secluded rural house to savor an authentic El Bulli meal.

Duration: 4H30

Spain: Barcelona gourmet tapas tour

Enjoy a flavorful journey through the historic heart of Barcelona, where the iconic neighborhoods of the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Barceloneta will reveal their rich traditions through taste, aroma, and atmosphere. As you walk through narrow, centuries-old alleys and lively local streets, you will be surrounded by the charm of Barcelona’s past and the vibrant energy of its culinary present. Each neighborhood will offer a distinct character—from the medieval intrigue of the Gothic Quarter to the artistic flair of El Born and the seaside charm of Barceloneta. You will visit some of the city’s most authentic and celebrated restaurants and taverns, where chefs and hosts take pride in preserving local traditions while also adding their own creative touch. At each stop, you will sample a carefully curated selection of dishes—from classic tapas bursting with flavor to innovative plates that showcase modern Catalan cuisine. As you taste, sip, and explore, your experienced guide will share the stories behind the food, the people, and the places, connecting each bite to the city’s cultural and historical roots. Whether it’s a glass of local vermouth, a perfectly grilled seafood dish, or a traditional Catalan dessert, every moment of this tour will deepen your connection to Barcelona’s culinary identity. 
Duration: 4 hours 

Inclusions: Local guide, personalized itinerary on different quarters, tapas tasting at multiple restaurants, round trip transportation

From Ibiza to Formentera Sailing Journey

Overview: Embark on a dream journey to Formentera, Ibiza's enchanting neighbor known for its captivating beaches and turquoise waters. Explore the pristine shores of S'Espalmador island, with highlights including the iconic Illetes Beach, one of the most famous in Formentera, or the picturesque Cala Saona. Dive into the crystalline waters, dig into hidden caves, and indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, all while soaking up the island's serene atmosphere.

Duration: 8 Hours

Ibiza Sailing Gastronomic Journey

Overview: Marvel into a sailing journey to the sheltered jewels of Ibiza's coastline, dwelling pristine calas accessible only by boat. Dip into the magnetic secluded coves and crystal-clear waters. Pamper your soul and relax under the Mediterranean vibe and warm feeling. Glance the wonders of the Mediterranean coastline while indulging your senses and savoring mouthwatering dishes crafted onboard.

Duration: 8 Hours

Toulon - Shore excursion Aix en Provence - 8 hours -

Toulon - Shore Excursion - Green Provence - 8 hours

Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a  visit of the Green Provence
 
HIGHLIGHTS 

• Enjoy a visit and wine tasting at Le Clos du Pavillon estate.
  At this 7ha estate, 4ha of which are used to produce the grapes, a great respect for nature rules the estate. A place is like no other, where the tradition has remained since the 16th century. Production is not mechanized and everything is done manually from the budding to the harvest. This respect and love for wine make fruit flavored wines with its own
• Enjoy lunch at Abbaye de la Celle. (To be paid on site)
  A charming restaurant in the heart of in the wine country, located in the shadow of a 12th century royal Abbey, which hosted the good and the great of this world...
• After lunch, enjoy a wine tasting at Chateau Margui.
  A new gem in the Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC, that has produced wine for centuries, Margüi fell into oblivion in 1970. Coming back to life in year 2000, it quickly expressed its impetuous personality: 2003, Château Margüi's first vintage, turned out to be very successful. 
• End of the tour at your ship

Toulon Shore Excursion Marseille & Private Calanques Cruise - 8 hours

Meet your private English speaking driver guide at the main exit of your ship and depart for Marseille including the MuCEM, a museum devoted to European and Mediterranean civilizations.

Highlights:

• Marseille

• Cassis & Corniche Road

• Private Calanque Cruise

Monaco & Eze - Full Day Tour - 8 hours

Monaco & Eze Shore Excursion

9:00 am: Be met at the pier of your boat.

Enjoy a walking tour of Monaco to view the Prince’s palace, the cathedral, Princess Grace's tomb, and to learn more about the history of this mythical city. Afterwards, visit the heart of Monte-Carlo with its Casino and the Hôtel de Paris. This tiny capital (nicknamed “the Rock”) is built into the mountainside and spreads down to the shores of the Riviera. There are sumptuous boutiques with the latest fashions, palatial luxury hotels, and very chic restaurants. You can visit the Prince's Palace, which was built on the site of a 13th-century Genovese fortress. Admire the splendor of the 16th-century Italian Gallery, the Louis XV lounge, and the 17th-century Palatine Chapel. Time permitting you could also visit the Oceanographic Museum that was inaugurated by Prince Albert I in 1910. Inside you will discover an amazing collection of marine life.

Drive on to the perched, medieval village of Eze that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The fortified castle’s ruins, sitting on a narrow, rocky peak, still crown this ancient village. The beach in the "baie d'Eze" is easily accessible and is shaded by pine-trees that grow down almost to the water's edge. To reach the entrance, take the small, rocky path and admire the splendid view of the gardens that surround the Château de la Chèvre d'Or. You will be seduced by the marvels of Eze: Small, narrow roads, archways and superbly restored stone houses, shady squares and refreshing ancient fountains. The numerous artisans’ boutiques are hard to resist. The two lookout towers at the entrance, the doorway and the gunboat are all listed as historic monuments.

5:00 pm: Return to your hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.

Tour can operate: Any Day

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Physical Activity Level: Moderate.

Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes

Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner

 

Monaco & Nice - Full Day Tour - 8 hours

Monaco & Nice Shore Excursion. This excursion is perfect for those who wish to discover the chic French Riviera: in Monte-Carlo, you will get a glimpse of the glamorous Riviera and get closer to the myth of the Actress-Princess: Grace Kelly! Pursue this excursion with the beautiful city of Nice on the Riviera. You will be impressed by the colors of its market and during this afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum showing an important collection of the painter.
 

Monaco: Glamorous Cote d’Azur – 8 hours

Spend a day exploring the principality of Monte Carlo and the mountains and coast that surround it. Start with a drive along the famous Corniche road to Eze, a medieval village perched dramatically on the clifftop, 1,400 feet above the Mediterranean Sea and affording splendid panoramic views along the coast. Learn more about Eze and you wander through narrow winding streets, hidden courtyards, archways and tiny boutiques.

Afterwards, drop back down to sea level and the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to walk around the beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, set in stunning private gardens. Béatrice de Rothschild commissioned the villa and filled it with a breath-taking collection of porcelain, artwork and furniture during her life. After your tour you will be privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Take in panoramic views of the Riviera from the medieval clifftop village of Eze
• Admire the breath-taking private gardens and porcelain collection at the beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes
   

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Livorno: Cycling Lucca's Medieval Walls - 5 hours

• Walking tour through the streets of Lucca, a beautifully preserved Tuscan town
• Cycle along the city walls, admiring the incredible views 

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Lucca (3 hours)
• Bicycle rental
• All taxes

Day in Florence - 8 hours

• Introduction of basic history of Florence and visit of the David
• See the famous Ponte Vecchio.
• Leisure time for shopping at the famous leather and jewelry stores.

• Private deluxe sedan or van 
• Private English speaking guide 
• Admission to view the David
• Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port 

• Meals
• Gratuities

Pisa and Lucca - 8 hours

• Private deluxe sedan or van and private English speaking guide in Lucca
• Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port

Livorno - Pisa & Florence - 9 hours

Meet your private English-speaking driver at the pier side of Livorno port.

Enjoy a pleasant drive (30 minute) on board of our new luxury Mercedes van to your first stop in the university town of Pisa.
Here you will have time to visit the famous Piazza dei Miracoli with its famous Leaning Tower, the Baptistery and the Cathedral.

You may also decide to upgrade your tour by adding a guide for a 2-hour tour, which allows you to climb the famous Tower without waiting and queuing.

Please note that children must be 8 years old to access the Tower.

As you approach Florence after a relaxing drive (1 hour) through the Tuscan countryside and up the Viale dei Colli stop at the stunning terrace of Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy the most impressive views of the city before continuing down into its heart.

After a lunch at leisure you will be met by your private English-speaking guide to begin a wonderful walking tour through Piazza Santa Croce, the impressive Piazza del Duomo (S. Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Baptistery and Giotto's Bell tower), Piazza della Signoria (Palazzo Vecchio), Piazza della Repubblica and the elegant Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge).
You may also decide to upgrade your tour by adding a no-line reservation to visit either the Accademia or the Uffizi.

Please note that on Mondays, the Accademia and the Uffizi are closed.

We will ensure your timely return transfer to the Livorno Port.

Highlights:

• Pisa - Piazza dei Miracoli, Leaning Tower, Baptistery and the Cathedral (Optional and upon a fee: 2 hour guide at disposal and no-line reservation to climb the Leaning Tower)

• Florence - Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza della Repubblica and Ponte Vecchio (Optional and upon a fee: no-line reservation to visit Accademia or the Uffizi)

Tour Duration: 9 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning  

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:

• Luxury Mercedes minivan at disposal for the entire day
• English-speaking driver at disposal for the entire day
• 4 hour English-speaking guide in Florence
• No-line reservation for the Leaning Tower of Pisa (optional)
• No-line reservation for Accademia or Uffizi (optional)

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Livorno: Chianti Countryside & Wine Tasting - 8 hours

Meet your guide and driver at the pier side of Livorno for a full day of discovery in the Chianti region of Tuscany.  Hill-towns gaze across the countryside from on high, many encircled by Etruscan walls and slender cypress trees. As you travel along the winding roads, soak up the rich panorama comprising beautiful rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. Admire the charming hamlets and farmhouses as well as fortified villas and castles that symbolise colourful history of the region during the Middle Ages. Travel through San Casciano, Badia a Passignano, Montefioralle, Greve and Castellina on your way to the Casanova Winery.  Here you will be met by your guide for a tour of the vineyards and, of course, tastings of their fine red wines.
After lunch at your leisure, continue to the picturesque medieval town of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its surviving towers where you may wish to see the Collegiata containing 15th-century frescoes, the Palazzo del Popolo containing Renaissance paintings or simply wander the narrow cobbled streets. 

Highlights:

Casanova Winery
San Gimignano

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:

• Luxury car or minivan at disposal during the tour
• An English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees to the Casanova winery

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Livorno: Best of Florence & Pisa - 8 hours

Your English-speaking driver will meet your at Livorno pier today for the journey through Tuscany to Florence where your expert local guide will be waiting for you. As you stroll through the narrow streets, take in the lovely piazzas, churches and palaces before visiting Florence’s most famous landmark; the splendid Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore).

At the Galleria dell' Accademia, the world’s most celebrated statue awaits you. Marvel at Michelangelo's exquisite David; a colossal 17-foot nude inspired by the biblical hero renowned for heroically killing the giant Goliath. Wander along the enchanting medieval streets until you emerge out onto the open Piazza della Signoria; the centre of political life in Florence since the 14th-century.

After lunch at leisure, return to Livorno stopping briefly in Pisa to admire the famous Leaning Tower.

Highlights:

• Florence's Duomo
• Galleria dell'Accademia
• Piazza della Signoria
• Leaning Tower of Pisa

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Florence (3 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Galleria dell'Accademia

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Livorno - Pisa & Lucca - 8 hours

Meet your private English-speaking driver at the pier side of Livorno port.

Virtually every guide book to Italy will show you a picture of the leaning tower of Pisa, but the great surprise when you get there is that it is merely the belfry for the most magnificent cathedral complex, with a stunning baptistery and walled cemetery. Though the sea has now receded, in medieval times, Pisa was a great maritime republic, rivalling Genoa and Venice and this superb ensemble, known as the ‘field of miracles’ was a religious hub worthy of its status. The cathedral has a beautiful pulpit, sculpted by Giovanni Pisano and a mosaic, Christ in Majesty, completed by Cimabue in 1302. After years of work to stop the tower from falling down, you can once again ascend to the top and will be very aware of the ‘lean’, as you wind your way up.

Please note that children must be 8 years old to access the Tower.

After lunch (not included), make your way to Lucca, the most perfect completely walled city and birthplace of the composer, Puccini. It is known as the town of 99 churches and you will visit the S.Martino Cathedral and the beautiful San Michele. The Piazza Anfiteatro follows the exact lines of the Roman amphitheatre, indeed, you can still see some of the arches and columns. The surrounding countryside is full of olive groves and Lucca is known for producing some very fine olive oils.

We will ensure your timely return transfer to the Livorno Port.

Highlights:

• Pisa - Piazza dei Miracoli, Leaning Tower, Baptistery and the Cathedral (Optional and upon a fee: 2 hour guide at disposal and no-line reservation to climb the Leaning Tower)

• Lucca - the walls, Duomo, Roman Amphitheater, Guinigi Tower (Optional and upon a fee: 2-hour guide at disposal)

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning  

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:

• Luxury Mercedes minivan at disposal for the entire day
• English-speaking driver at disposal for the entire day
• No-line reservation for the Leaning Tower of Pisa (optional)

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Gastronomic and historical tour in Pisa countryside - 8 hours

Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours

• Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
• Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
• Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours

• Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history
• Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours

• Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies 
• Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Food and wine tastings

Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours

• Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world
• Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese
• All taxes

Rome and the Vatican City: 8-9 hours

• Great way to see major sites of Rome in a day
• Major sites covered such as the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and the Vatican city
• Reservations for the Vatican museum - no waiting

• Deluxe car or van and private English speaking guide for the day
• Entrance tickets
• Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port

• Meals not included
• Gratuities
• Items of personal nature

Cardinals’ Villas and Parks - 8 Hours

The area around Viterbo, north of Rome, became a retreat for popes and cardinals during troubled times in Rome. Happily for us, they have left a legacy of beautiful villas and gardens, designed in one of Italy’s finest periods, the Renaissance and consequently models for the rest of Europe to copy. One of the finest villas is the Palazzo Farnese at Caprarola, a huge edifice, standing at the top of the town’s steep main street. Surrounding the palace are two magnificent gardens, a south-facing summer terrace and an east-facing winter terrace, each with appropriate plants and design. After lunch in a traditional local restaurant (not included), you will visit the Villa Lante in Bagnaia, another splendid Renaissance palace and built by Vignola, the architect of the Palazzo Farnese and considered to be his finest creation. Here though, it is the gardens that take pride of place and epitomise the Mannerist period of the Renaissance. The final visit of the day will be to the Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo, the sacred Bomarzo wood, otherwise known as the monster Park; it consists of the most amazing and often bizarre sculptures, many carved from the local rock, scattered through the woods.

Pricing: Please Inquire

Duration: 8 hours