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Flavors of Northern Italy

Embark upon a cultural and gastronomic journey to the enchanting region of Northern Italy—an area renowned for spectacular landscapes, world-class wine, and a rich heritage. This meticulously crafted itinerary offers the unique opportunity to live like a local, featuring guided tours, private artisan visits and tastings, and the ability to deeply connect with the beauty of Northern Italy's culture, cuisine and gracious hospitality.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 12/21/2024.

Program Highlights

– With your small group (maximum 20 guests), enjoy seven nights accommodations at a historic country farmhouse—a tranquil haven amidst a wine and olive oil-producing estate.

– Join a hands-on culinary experience with a skilled chef to learn the art of crafting traditional Italian recipes passed down through generations.

– Cruise around scenic Lago d'Iseo with free time to discover its various island hamlets.

– Wander through Verona's timeless streets, visit Juliet's House, and be mesmerized by the grandeur of the Verona Arena.

– In the famed Valpolicella and Trentino wine regions, visit family-owned and operated vineyards, meeting the esteemed vintners and partaking in exclusive tastings and presentations.

– Delight in a special excursion near Modena for a tasting of aged balsamic vinegar during a convivial meal with the property’s owner and his family.

What's Included

  • 7 nights accommodations
  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 7 dinners served with wine
  • All lessons, private tours and tastings, and unique small-group excursions noted in the 9-day itinerary
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director and expert local guides
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Day 2: Arrive in Verona, Italy | Province of Brescia (Selva Capuzza)

(D)

Upon arrival to Verona's Valerio Catullo Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the property.

Selva Capuzza, a charming Italian farmhouse on a historic, country wine estate, will be your home base for this week's adventures. Warm greetings await at Borgo San Donino—Selva Capuzza's appartamenti. Exuding the classic charm of Italian architecture, the property's well-preserved historic buildings feature rustic stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and inviting accommodations—a harmonious blend of elegant simplicity and the warmth of genuine Italian hospitality.

Take time to unpack and settle in before meeting fellow travel companions to stroll the vineyard path to Cascina Capuzza, Selva Capuzza's restaurant, for a welcome drink and dinner.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 3: Sulzano | Lago d'Iseo | Franciacorta

(B,L,D)

After breakfast depart for Sulzano, a small village on the east shore of Lago d'Iseo to embark upon a picturesque boat tour. A hidden gem of Northern Italy, this area is light on crowds and brimming with stunning scenery.

Arriving to the main island enjoy leisure time to explore the quaint town of Perschiera Maraglio and take advantage of endless photography opportunities. Visit the fishing net museum at the hamlet, Siviano. Learn about the generations of fishing traditions, and see the museum owners vast collection of documents, photographs and other artifacts that pay tribute to their roots.

Return to the mainland for a short drive to Italy's Franciacorta region in the heart of Lombardy. This small district is internationally acclaimed for its award-winning sparkling wine produced in the metodo classico, and is often referred to as the Champagne of Italy. It was the first sparkling wine from this area to receive the industry's highest designation of quality (DOCG) distinction.

Spend a tranquil afternoon at Al Rocol, a vineyard once managed by four share-farmer families, for a guided cellar tour, wine tasting and lunch. Learn about the varietals produced with grapes grown in terraced vineyards using the Guyot system and other methods, and sample the labels that have won silver and bronze medals in international competition.

This evening savor traditional Italian cuisine expertly crafted by the skilled chefs at Cascina Capuzza who create exquisite dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 4: Selva Capuzza

(B,L,D)

Today offers a special opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the serenity and authenticity of Selva Capuzza. After a leisurely breakfast meet with a chef from Cascina Capuzza as they share their families traditions, tips and tricks surrounding the art of preparing fresh pasta and desserts. The dishes and sweets will be paired with wine from the property for a lovely lunch.

This afternoon relax in the gardens or join a guided walking tour of the property followed by a wine presentation and tasting.

Later gather together for another delicious dinner at Cascina Capuzza.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 5: Verona | Valpolicella

(B,D)

Today explore Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a long colorful history and infinite artistic architectural landmarks. Meet with a local guide for a panoramic city tour to view the 16th-century Renaissance Gates and various Roman monuments.

Stroll alongside the Adige, Italy's second longest river, crossing the 14th-century Castelvecchio Bridge—an iconic photography opportunity—toward Verona's city center. Stop at San Zeno Basilica for an inside visit to admire its Romanesque architecture, centuries-old frescoes and exceptionally detailed 12th-century bronze doors.

Continue to Piazza delle Erbe, a courtyard surrounded by quaint cafés guarded by the Statue of Dante, and meander through the cobblestone streets to capture a glimpse of Juliet’s balcony. Visit the Roman amphitheater, Verona's best preserved Roman monument. Once an arena that hosted jousting matches and carnage-filled gladiator games, the current structure—impacted by numerous earthquakes throughout the years—serves as an open-air theater for operas and other performances.

After lunch on your own rejoin the group for a drive north to the hills of the Valpolicella wine region to meet winemaker Giuseppe Lonardi, one of the best producers of Amarone in Italy. Tour the winery before sampling a few varietals, including Giuseppe's special blend, Privilegia.

Walk through the bucolic neighborhood to a tiny bistro where you'll meet Chef Vittorio to create slow-cooked, Amarone-infused risotto. As it’s stirred by hand over a wood fire, learn of other traditional seasonal and regional fare. Be seated to indulge in a freshly prepared dinner featuring the decadent Amarone risotto.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 6: Vallagarina | Malcesine

(B,L,D)

Following breakfast at the property visit the Tower of San Martino della Battaglia—a monument positioned on the site of an important historic battle. Traverse the winding staircase to reach the top for 360º views of the vast countryside stretching to the waters of Lago di Garda.

Later head north to the de Tarczal estate in the mountainous Trentino region of Northern Italy. Renowned for centuries for the quality and variety of its distinguished grapes, this prestigious family-operated vineyard specializes in classic local varietals. Tour the cellars, delight in a wine tasting and gather in “la Vineria” for lunch featuring local ingredients.

Before returning to Selva Capuzza for dinner discover the lively medieval village of Malcesine along the shores of Lago di Garda. Wander the sloping cobbled streets popping into various boutiques and artisan shops. Make the short climb up to historic Scaliger Castle to capture the majestic panoramic views of the lake and town below.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 7: Modena

(B,L,D)

Today travel to Modena where you'll meet Simone Caselli, an award-winning producer of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena. During a private tour see the old attic where the Caselli family story of creating balsamic vinegars began and still remains a part of the continuing tradition today. Settle into the tasting room to compare the characteristics of three aged balsamic vinegars, followed by lunch including an array of homemade regional dishes featuring various Aceto vinegars.

Return to the property for some time at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll around the grounds or relax in a chaise lounge by the pool. (Pool is open June-August.)

This evening gather together at Cascina Capuzza for a special dinner accompanied by live music.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 8: Roncà | Soave | Sirmione

(B,L,D)

Late morning discover the culinary treasures of the Lessinia region, known for its lush pastures, olive groves, and cherry and chestnut orchards. Visit La Casara—a family-run, artisan cheese shop in the Roncà municipality. Enjoy an up-close cheese-making demonstration and venture into the cheese cellar before adjourning to the tasting room to sample La Casara's savory creations.

Departing Roncà make a short photography stop in the walled medieval town of Soave. View its famous castle and learn about the town's important regional position and historic relationship with wine.

En route to Selva Capuzza stop for leisure time in the idyllic waterfront village of Sirmione located at the tip of a peninsula in Lago di Garda. Explore the bustling streets, sip a cold aperitivo al fresco at a café or peruse the storefronts for souvenir shopping.

Tonight join fellow travel companions on the southern shore of Lake Garda for a farewell dinner featuring gourmet Italian pizza. Embrace the convivial atmosphere and celebrate the captivating week spent exploring Northern Italy.

Overnight: Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Day 9: Verona | Depart for U.S.

(B)

After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• There is no elevator on the property. Guests with second floor rooms will have 16 steps to climb to reach the second floor. On the estate, unpaved roads and pathways separate its various structures.

• Dinner will be served at Cascina Capuzza located approximately one half mile from Borgo San Donino. The unpaved walk through Selva Capuzza's vineyard path can take up to 20 minutes. It may present challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always be possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

• Dexterity to use kitchen tools and participate in lessons is not necessary but adds to the enjoyment of this program.

Your Guide(s)

Orbridge Travel Director

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Every departure is accompanied by one of our premier Travel Directors, all of whom have extensive knowledge and experience as guides.

Enriched by their accompaniment and enthusiasm, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.

Accommodations

Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

Within arm’s reach of the culture-rich Veneto and Emilia Romagna regions lies Borgo San Donino, a charming farmhouse on the Selva Capuzza wine estate—also the 1859 battle site of Italy’s fight toward its independence.

The farmhouse apartments, winery and nearby restaurant are the result of many years of dedicated work and provide award-winning wines, delightful accommodations and generous hospitality for all who visit.

Stroll the grounds and you might see grape vines being carefully tended by hand or olives ripening for the estate’s own olive oil, just steps away from tables where the harvest is reincarnated in signature wines and local dishes. The Selva Capuzza winery produces a wonderful selection of varietals—red, white and rosé, all under the careful expertise of the property’s skilled vintners.

Visit the nearby San Martino Tower to admire its majesty from the inside and out. Then follow the tree-lined road to the Chapel of San Martino, which guards those who died in battle.

After a day’s adventures restore your senses amidst the comfortable atmosphere of your apartment—inspired by the beauty of Northern Italy’s landscapes.

Apartment Categories
Classic: A comfortable apartment with a living area, kitchenette, and en suite bathroom overlooking the garden and surrounding countryside.

Superior: A spacious apartment with a living area, kitchenette, and en suite bathroom. Each room is unique with either vaulted ceilings or a large patio, and views of the vineyard or surrounding countryside.

Studio: A cozy studio room with an en suite bathroom overlooking the garden. Recommended for single occupancy. Limited availability.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi, safe, slippers, bathroom sundries (shampoo, shower gel, lotion, toothbrush kit, shaving kit, sewing kit, and shower cap), and a hair dryer. (Hair conditioner is not provided.)

NOTE: This property does not have an elevator.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Cinque Terre


Explore the Italian Riviera, an area teeming with meaningful traditions surrounding family, culture, and cuisine. Cinque Terre is also a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing visitors to its coastal scenery and sunset panoramas.

Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Day +1: En Route from U.S.

Day +2: Arrive in Milan, Italy | Sestri Levante

After arriving in Milan, enjoy the scenic drive to the Italian Riviera. The afternoon is at leisure to relax and explore the fishing hamlet, Sestri Levante.

Overnight: Vis à Vis

Day +3: Sestri Levante | Cinque Terre | Sestri Levante

(B,L)

Following breakfast, board a local train to travel the coastline, arriving at Cinque Terre—a fairy-tale-esque area of hamlets brimming with pastel-hued homes—which exude unparalleled charm.

Explore the lively towns and experience a culinary specialty at each stop. Start in Monterosso al Mare and sample freshly baked focaccia or farinata—an amazing local chickpea pie. In Manarola, enjoy the area’s popular dessert white wine, Sciacchetrà. Cap off the delightful day with the best lemon granita and a creamy gelato in Vernazza. There will be some flexibility in the towns visited and local specialties tasted depending on weather conditions and the number of guests on the tour.

Overnight: Vis à Vis

Day +4: Sestri Levante | Portofino | San Fruttuoso | Santa Margherita Ligure | Sestri Levante

(B)

Transfer to stunning Portofino, a picturesque fishing village along the Italian Riviera. Sail by private gozzo (a traditional wooden boat with a large sundeck) to the abbey of San Fruttuoso, and discover the sacred building dating back to the 16th century. Then stroll lively Santa Margherita Ligure with its tiny alleys and colorful shops and enjoy lunch at leisure before returning to Sestri Levante.

Overnight: Vis à Vis

Day +5: Sestri Levante | Verona | Main Program Begins

(B)

Enjoy a final morning at leisure in Sestri Levante, then transfer by private vehicle to Verona.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

Accommodations

Vis à Vis

A unique hotel perched on a high promontory, family-run Vis à Vis provides spectacular views over two bays—Baia del Silenzio and Baia delle Favole. Tastefully furnished, welcoming rooms offer comfort and relaxation. Unwind in the outdoor heated swimming pool set amid olive trees, savor a delicious meal at the various on-site dining options or indulge in a spa treatment at the Giunone Wellness area (additional fees apply)

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, partial sea view, balcony with seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, writing desk, LCD TV, phone, safe, mini bar, slippers, and en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 3 nights at Vis à Vis (or similar)
  • 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Cinque Terre card for all train transportation within the Cinque Terre
  • Guided touring (by English-speaking guides) and tastings through Cinque Terre's villages
  • Transportation (with unlimited bottled water) for included touring
  • Boat excursion to San Fruttuoso
  • Entrance fee to San Fruttuoso Abbey
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to hotel staff, local guide, drivers for included activities and excursions, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times

Optional Post-Tour

Venice


Experience the allure of Venice as you immerse yourself in the romantic charms of the Floating City. During guided exploration, uncover timeless cultural gems, encounter artisans and witness their craftsmanship and savor traditional cuisine that defines the essence of this remarkable place.

Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Day 9: Depart Verona | Arrive Venice

Arriving in Venice Santa Lucia transfer to your hotel by private boat. In the afternoon enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Venice from the water. Cross the Grand Canal, the city’s main “street,” lined on either side by palaces, churches, hotels and other public buildings in various architectural styles. Connecting waterways bustle with transport as automobiles are banned throughout much of the city. See iconic landmarks, including St. Mark's Square, Giudecca and San Giorgio Maggiore. The rest of the afternoon and the evening are at leisure.

Overnight: All’Angelo Art Hotel

Day 10: Venice

(B)

This morning visit a squero, or boatyard, to learn the fascinating secrets of the art and science of traditional gondola construction. See these symbols of Venice under construction, and hear about the techniques used by artisans to build and repair gondolas for generations. Discover how proud craftsmen use multiple kinds of wood to build their vessels.

Later meet an artisan who creates amazing masks and learn about the history of the Venetian Carnival. The tradition of mask making dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in the city's vibrant Carnival celebrations. Masks were initially worn during the annual festivities, which began in the Middle Ages as a period of revelry and indulgence before the solemn observance of Lent.

Venetian mask making evolved into a highly skilled craft, with artisans known as "maschereri" crafting exquisite masks using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The masks are considered works of art, depicting styles ranging from elegant and ornate to whimsical and theatrical.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: All’Angelo Art Hotel

Day 11: Venice | Mazzorbo | Burano | Venice

(B,L)

After a leisurely breakfast board private motorboats to reach the island of Mazzorbo. Rich in agricultural tradition, here one finds hundreds of artichoke fields, vineyards and fruit trees. Visit a local vineyard and discover how wine producers have overcome the challenges of the area's high tides to create celebrated Venetian wines. Savor a lunch pairing a menu with various wines produced by the property. Traditional dishes, such as locally caught fish and shellfish with fresh vegetables and wild herbs cultivated on the grounds, are highlights of this delightful, relaxed osteria—traditionally a wine bar recognized for its welcoming and informal atmosphere. 

Cross a pedestrian bridge and explore colorful Burano at your own pace. Perhaps in Galuppi Square engage with locals to admire the lacework, Burano's main craft product. Lacemaking dates back to the 1500s, and the island has precious works from the Burano Lace School's collection exhibited in a museum. Then return to the hotel by private motorboat.

Overnight: All’Angelo Art Hotel

Day 12: Venice | Depart for U.S.

(B)

After breakfast transfer to the airport for flights home.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

Accommodations

All’Angelo Art Hotel

This historic property is ideally situated in the heart of Venice, steps from Saint Mark's Square and Doge's Palace. Enjoy the well-appointed rooms and welcoming hospitality.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, satellite TV, phone, safe, minibar, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • Transfer by train (in business class) from Desenzano del Garda to Venice accompanied by your Orbridge Travel Director
  • 3 nights at All'Angelo Art Hotel (or similar)
  • 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Guided touring accompanied by an art historian
  • Private visit to an artisan-mask workshop
  • Private gondola boatyard visit
  • Guided vineyard tour and wine pairing with lunch 
  • Private water taxi transportation for canal and lagoon tours
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to hotel staff, local guide, drivers for included activities and excursions, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfer for guests departing during the suggested time on departure day

Terms and Conditions