Itinerary Include flights Expand all Porto di Brenzone to Lecco Day 1 Start Porto di Brenzone, Lake Garda. Start Porto di Brenzone, Lake Garda. Check-in at your hotel, welcome drink and evening briefing with your leader. Day 2 Gentle walks taking in villages on the slopes of Monte Baldo to Malcesine; Scaglier Castle visit. This morning we walk a section of the Nordic Walking Park that covers some of the most charming small villages on the slopes of Monte Baldo. In the afternoon we stroll along the lakeside to reach the village of Malcesine and visit the Scaligero Castle, first built by the Longobards back between the 5th and 6th century. A symbol of Malcesine and Lake Garda with its strategic position overlooking the waterfront . For spectacular views over Lake Garda you can opt for a ride on the Malcesine cablecar, which reaches an altitude of 1760 m at the top of Monte Baldo. On a clear day you can see the whole of the lake, from Riva to Peschiera del Garda: a breathtaking panorama (entrance payable locally). (3h walking, 14km) Meals included: Breakfast Day 3 Walking tour to explore UNESCO heritage site Verona. After breakfast we take the public bus to Verona and enjoy a walking tour of the medieval city celebrated in Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. Take in views of the Roman Arena, the best preserved in Italy, and the colorful Piazza delle Erbe among the city's many historical sites. In the afternoon meet an expert on ancient prints who will explains the history of Verona through various rare prints and the engraving techniques once used to create books and prints. Return to Brenzone by public bus. (2h walking, 5km) Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 Ferry to western lakeside; walk to St Valentine's hermitage and Villa Igea. Afternoon olive farm visit and oil tasting. Transfer by ferry to the western side of the lake to Gargnano, where we walk the 'Lawrence Walk', which takes us past the Villa Igea, where D.H. Lawrence lived. We then transfer to the picturesque town of Limone, renowned for its dramatic setting and fragrant lemon groves. After lunch on our way back to Brenzone we stop to visit an olive oil producer. Walking among olive trees hundreds of years old, we get a chance to learn about the production of the oil and taste the delicate variety made along the shores of lake Garda. Our last night at lake Garda will be celebrated with a special dinner in a traditional restaurant. (2h walking, 6km) Meals included: Breakfast Dinner Day 5 Transfer to Lecco, our base on Lake Como. Visit Bellagio, the 'Pearl of Lake Como'. After breakfast we check out of our hotel and transfer to Lecco. Located on Lake Como, the town inspired Alessandro Manzoni his famous novel, "The Betrothed". We have some time to discover the city centre, before taking a ferry to Bellagio, the 'Pearl of Lake Como'. This lovely town is located at the top of the triangular peninsula that divides lower Lake Como into two parts. The afternoon is free to wander through this attractive resort town. In the evening, we head back to our hotel in Lecco by ferry. (1h walking, 3km) Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 From Ossuccio walk to baroque Sanctuary of S. Maria del Soccorso. Visit 18th century Villa del Balbianello. From Lecco we cross the lake and visit Ossuccio, with its historical centre and famous bell tower. There we walk to the Baroque Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Soccorso and enjoy a picnic lunch en route. After lunch we continue to Villa del Balbianello, built at the end of the 18th Century for the Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini. The views of the lake and surrounding hills from the villa are magnificent. (2.5h walking, 9km) Meals included: Breakfast Day 7 Enjoy a stroll on the 'Lover's Walk' from Varenna to Olivedo and visit 11th century Vezio Castle. After breakfast we head to Varenna by ferry, on lake Como. The town, gracefully perched on the mountain, is one of the most panoramic spots of the lake. Before lunch, we explore the village and walk along the lake through the 'Lover’s Walk' connecting Varenna to Olivedo. In the afternoon we walk up to the ruins of the 11th Century Vezio Castle, that dominates the town, to the source of the Fiumelatte river, said to be the shortest river in the world. An optional visit to the scenic gardens of the lakeside Villa Monastero may be posible. W return to Lecco by ferry for our farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (2.5h walking, 9km) Meals included: Breakfast Dinner Day 8 End Lecco, Lake Como. End Lecco. Meals included: Breakfast
Italy No visa required for British passport holders. Please note in Italy it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times. For further Brexit travel advice please visit https://www.abta.com/tips-and-advice/brexit-advice-for-travellers
2-star hotel on Lake Garda, 3-star hotel on Lake Como We spend 4 nights in a comfortable 2-star hotel in Porto di Brenzone, usually Hotel Sorriso. The family-run hotel is located on the lakefront near the centre of Brenzone and offers magnificent views from its terrace and is locally renown for its delicious cuisine. Our last 3 nights are spent at a 3-star hotel in Lecco, Lake Como, usually the Hotel Lungolago. The recently renovated property overlooking the lake features wifi throughout and modern décor. All rooms en suite. A limited number of single rooms are available for a supplement. Please ask our Sales team for more details.
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Reviewed September 2017 Michael Fogg Italian Lakes: Como and Garda A very enjoyable week, in a beautiful location, with an interesting and varied itinerary, good accommodation, with excellent meals and friendly staff. Laura, our guide, was charming and efficient, ensuring that our entire visit ran smoothly, without a single hitch. Would have no hesitation in recommending this destination. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? There were several memorable moments, but having grown up in Stratford on Avon, possibly the visit to Verona, a beautiful city, which our excellent local guide said owes a lot of its fame to Shakespeare, as author of, Romeo and Juliet and Two Gentlemen of Verona. What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader, Laura, was outstanding. Always. charming calm and efficient, whilst ensuring that our entire visit ran smoothly, without a single hitch. Is there anything else you would like to add? Difficult to think of anything which would have improved our experience.
Reviewed September 2017 Pam & Boyd Taylor The Italian Lakes Como & Garda The trip is graded as leisurely and it certainly is with the walks being very easy in the main. There were a few short but steep ascents and descents but if you are not used to walking simply take your time. The main towns visited were quite busy with many tourists but when venturing into the narrow streets they were soon left behind. The range of eateries was very good with high quality food. If you like ice cream this is for you! The scenery is spectacular being surrounded by high mountain peaks, but disappointingly there was not much wildlife to be seen. The historical sights provided interesting visits. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? We particularly enjoyed the Malcesine Cable car ride to the mountain tops as the views were spectacular and we were pleasantly surprised when a visiting Italian Male Voice Choir suddenly burst into song entertaining everybody whilst waiting in the queue. Being avid fell walkers we liked the steep uphill walk to Vezio Castle on the last full day of the trip, and the views from the top were amazing. The path down was beautiful with many wild flowers. The visit to Verona was excellent as it is a wonderful old historical town with many interesting buildings and views. What did you think of your group leader? Our leader Laura was delightful and always eager to please. She made us all feel very welcome and relaxed. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take Insect Repellent as some members of our party were frequently bitten by mosquitoes. For footwear good walking sandals and/or trainers are needed for some of the walks. Is there anything else you would like to add? We decided to travel before the group and visit Milan independently for a couple of days on our own before meeting them at the airport. This was a mistake as Milan turned out to be very disappointing as the only thing really worth seeing is the cathedral and the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition so one day is enough. However if you like designer shopping then you would love it!
Reviewed September 2017 jayne fogg The Beautiful Italian Lakes Everything about this holiday was perfect The stunning landscape that surrounded us on Lake Garda and Lake Como meant that you could point your camera in any direction, and get an amazing photo! The 5 walks were all very different and thoroughly enjoyable in the good company of our fellow travellers , and allowed us to get a very thorough experience of the wide area. The excursion to Verona was extremely interesting. Travelling several times on the Lakes' boat services was a wonderful relaxed and pleasurable way to view the amazing landscape. Each village or town that we visited had its own charm, and walking the winding paths and steps in the countryside was delightful. Hotels were comfortable and welcoming. Our guide LAURA was wonderful. So friendly, caring and helpful in every way, she was also efficient, helpful, knowledgeable of area, routes and travel arrangements. She made a great holiday even more memorable. We would recommend this trip to everyone. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The stunning view far below us when we climbed up to a high-up church overlooking Lake Como, and enjoying a packed lunch there. The trips on the ferry boats on both Lakes, particularly the 90 minute one that gave us stunning views whichever way we looked. What did you think of your group leader? Our guide LAURA was wonderful. So friendly, caring and helpful in every way, she was also efficient, helpful, knowledgeable of area, routes and travel arrangements. She made a great holiday even more memorable. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? The two walks that took us to the high-up church, and to the castle were possibly a little more demanding than is reflected by the 'Category 1' grading of this trip. Having said that, we enjoyed both VERY much for the stunning views we enjoyed.
Reviewed September 2017 Sue Johnstone The Italian Lakes We have just got back from a fantastic trip to Lakes Como and Garda. It's a beautiful area to visit, made even better by our brilliant guide, Laura. She was extremely knowledgeable about the area and brought the sites to life for us. Even better than that, she gave us an insight into Italian life and culture. A highly recommended trip. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? One of many highlights was a visit to a family run olive oil producer. The oil and caper production process was explained and we saw the caper plants and olive trees. We had the opportunity to taste the olive oil, olives, olive paste and capers and the visit ended with a browse around the shop. What did you think of your group leader? Laura was an outstanding leader; knowledgeable, patient and engaging. She was greeted warmly everywhere and she made sure that we had great service at all the local restaurants and during the various tours. Nothing was too much trouble for her. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? You will need a good pair of walking shoes as some of the paths on our walks were more rugged than we expected. Is there anything else you would like to add? A highly recommended trip !
Reviewed June 2017 Sue Cameron one of the most enjoyable trips I have ever experienced I had never visited this area of Italy before and I finally understood why so many people come to the Lakes over and over again; both Garda and Como were stunningly beautiful. However, many things lifted the trip - an amazing group leader (Laura), one of the most enjoyable groups I've ever travelled with, and excellent accommodation, food and wine. I could not have experienced a better introduction to the area. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing the sun rise and set over Lake Garda Swimming in Lake Garda Having wine at a terrace by the river in Verona Prosecco at a lakeside bar in Lecco after dinner with the group Al fresco dining with the group by Lake Garda, Lake Como and in Lecco The views of the lakes on our walks Visit to olive oil factory in Gargano What did you think of your group leader? Laura was an outstanding group leader - organised, steeped in local knowledge and culture, attentive to the needs of both the group and individuals and always fun and interesting to talk to. I would welcome the chance to go on any other trip that Laura leads because I know it will have her special attention to detail and suggestions for interesting activities - learning to make Aperol Spritz, final dinner at a local boating club in Lecco, lunch at a fancy restaurant overlooking Lake Como. Laura's special touches were always appreciated by the group and we all thought she was wonderful! Do you have any advice for potential travellers? it's a busy itinerary so be prepared for it seeming less leisurely than it might appear due to that. Also bring a sunhat - when the sun is out, it's very strong - and be prepared for that to make the walks feel more strenuous than their length appears. Also be prepared for the meals not to be included (aside from breakfast) - this occasionally surprises some Exodus travellers as other trips often do include nearly all meals. Is there anything else you would like to add? the only thing the group agreed about in regard to the trip that needed to be looked at was that we packed so many things in that the days often didn't have any downtime - but as it was a new trip, we thought this would get worked out and we all LOVED all the activities. Otherwise - I really can't recommend this trip enough if you want a mix of leisurely walking, great food and wine, gorgeous scenery and interesting history and nature.
Reviewed September 2016 Lynette Carr Lake Garda & Como Thoroughly enjoyed the holiday and the guide Laura went above and beyond to make the trip a success, especially when faced with challenges from the weather and transport. Her whole management of the trip was exceptional - caring, engaging and entertaining. What a lovely girl - Exodus is fortunate to have her working with them. There was a good balance of planned activities, however, over-use of public transport did impact somewhat on enjoyment - it's great to experience local transport, however, it really took up too much time on planned trips and cut down on the amount of time we could spend at venues. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Mainly the friendships struck up in the group and coming to appreciate the warm welcome offered by the Italian hosts. A fantastic get-together on our last night on Lake Garda with local entertainment giving us a lasting memory of these lovely hotel owners. What did you think of your group leader? Absolutely faultless. A wonderful girl with a lovely sense of humour who dedicated every waking hour to looking after us and making sure we got the most from our trip in spite of the rain. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Go for it! Learn even a tiny bit of Italian, it does help! Is there anything else you would like to add? Please look again at the transport - I will certainly look at travelling with Exodus again but will look more carefully at the itinerary next time
Reviewed July 2016 Kathleen Macey Italian Lakes A good split of 4 nights on Lake Garda at the comfortable and friendly Hotel Sorriso, just a few yards from the lake promenade and 3 nights at the Lungalago Hotel on Lake Como, a busier more cosmopolitan town resort. The part of Lake Garda where we stayed appeared more serene and gentle with pretty lakeside paths, family campsites, swimming areas and easy access by local buses and ferries to other parts. Hospitable pizzerias, bars and of course, gelato, gelato and more gelato. Enjoyable walks to Malcesine and cultural visit to Verona. Lecco, on Lake Como is seemed far removed from the major honey pots of Bellagio and Como so trains or buses are required to reach these areas which can be problematic when strikes prevail. The town itself was busy as schools had finished for the summer, lots of cafes and designer shops to tempt. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? I wouldn't say inspirational but fun.......making pizza at The Sorriso. Pizza Hut - watch out! What did you think of your group leader? Laura - a true professional, caring, considerate, a lovely demeanour and fun to be with. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Whilst the programme is leisurely there are a couple of walks up to small chapels and castles high above the lakes but take your time the views are worth it. As Laura reminds us: P for patience - the Italians don't hurry! Prepare to put on weight.
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