Italy

Italy is a veritable paradise for walkers and awaits with an amazingly contrasting setting for our holidays. From the towering limestone pillars of the Dolomites to the azure waters of the Mediterranean sea, this country has got you covered. With a well-deserved reputation for its warm hospitality, delicious food and rich history, this is the right destination for a relaxed, comfortable and yet exhilarating escape. 

We are delighted to have not just one, but two UNESCO World heritage sites featured in our programme: the Cinque Terre, a stretch of the Ligurian coast with its famous multi-coloured houses, and the distinct landscape of the Dolomites in the North of the country.

In the Dolomites, the Alta Via 1, one of Europe’s classic hut-to-hut trails, takes you from the German-speaking region of South Tyrol to the Venetian town of Belluno, across mountain passes, Alpine meadows and fragrant forests. Or take a  journey along the Cinque Terre where you can soak up the sunshine and wander leisurely from village to village. Hop on and off the train as you please, sample local delicatessen and simply enjoy the dolce vita.

The Alta Via 1 takes hikers on a grand tour of this mountain range, following its spine from North to South. Starting in South Tyrol, a former part of Austria where the majority still speak German, you will discover an area of stunning scenery and a fascinating history. Along some of the trail, the trenches and tunnels of WW1 are still evident and link to a tumultuous past. End your trip in the Venetian town of Belluno, with mountain memories a-plenty.

Scenically situated on the Italian coastline, Cinque Terre National Park is a region perfect for exploring on foot. Five fishing villages cling to this steep, rugged coastline, overlooking the blue Mediterranean waters, the houses painted in bright colours. Rather than roads, the villages of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are connected by ancient, narrow pathways cut into the hillside, winding through terraced olive groves and vineyards.

Your first stay on our Rail & Trail Tour of the Dolomites is in the town of Cortina, a busy centre of outdoor activities, but also a fantastic place to sample local restaurants or perhaps just wander the streets with an ice cream. From here take the bus to Passo Falzarego, and walk up to the stunning Cinque Torri. After Cortina, your second base is Canazei, a quieter mountain town where you can start the classic hiking circuit around the mighty Sassolungo massif.

There are few sights as stunning as the sun setting on the towering limestone peaks of the Italian Dolomites. Discover this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site on our Drive & Hike Tour. Your first stay is in the town of Cortina, from which you can visit the Cinque Torri, some of the most famous limestone towers in the Dolomites. After Cortina, it’s a short drive to Canazei, a quieter but just as well placed mountain town.