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Italy: Hiking Above the Italian Lakes "One can't describe the beauty of the Italian Lakes, nor would one try if one could," wrote Henry James. Nevertheless, you'll be inspired to put pen to paper, too, after this fine adventure. The extravagant beauty of the Italian Lake District has attracted visitors since the times of the Roman Empire, inspiring poets, writers, and musicians with its idyllic landscape of tranquil lakes ringed by soaring granite mountains. This was trip leader Anna Bezzola's childhood playground, and in her stellar company you'll take exhilarating hikes - guaranteed to work off the calories! - along sylvan trails and up to mountain ridges with superb vistas of the Alps. Along the way you'll discover the picturesque charm and Mediterranean atmosphere (and delectable food and wine!) of such lakeside towns as Bellagio, Varenna, and the narrow cobbled streets and pastel-washed houses of Orta San Giulio. Che bellezza! TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
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 Itinerary: Hiking Above the Italian Lakes
Day 1 - Meet in Milan, Italy, and transfer to Orta San Giulio on Lago d'Orta, considered the most romantic of the Italian lakes. Visit the island of San Giulio and explore the town. Day 2 - Hike through birch and chestnut woods to the summit of Monte Mazzocone (4,742') with its views of the Monte Rosa chain to the west. Day 3 - Hike the panoramic trails of Parco Nazionale Val Grande, the largest wilderness area in Italy and a Partisan stronghold during World War II. Drive to Stresa. Day 4 - Spend the day on Lago Maggiore, visiting the sumptuous palace and gardens of the Borromeo Islands and walking the paths of Isola dei Pescatori. Continue to the quaint medieval town of Varenna, with its houses painted in shades of bright ochre and red. Day 5 - Hike up Monte San Primo (5,300'), with its splendid views of the dramatic, calcareous spires of the Grigne range. Explore the opulent villas and gardens of enchanting Bellagio. Day 6 - Explore Varenna, then hike on a beautiful path following the lakeshore that was used in the old days to bring goods from Milan and the plains to the north. Continue by boat down the western branch of Lago Como, with time to admire the villages, villas, and manicured gardens that dot the lake’s coastline. Arrive in Como, famous for its silks. Day 7 - Depart Como. 
Detailed Itinerary - Italy: Hiking Above the Italian LakesDetailed Itinerary - Italy: Hiking Above the Italian Lakes
For more information and reservations, please contact: Mountain Travel Sobek 1266 66th Street, Suite 4 Emeryville, CA 94608 1-510-594-6000 or Toll Free 1-888-831-7526 (USA & Canada) Additional International Toll Free Numbers Fax: 1-510-594-6001 Email: info@mtsobek.com |