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TUSCANY
A region that typifies Italy in wine, food
and culture. Sweeping panoramas of vineyards and cypress-covered
hills make Tuscany's beauty and charm undeniable. Visit great wine
estates, learn about the art of olive oil and cheese manufacturing
and revel in the authentic flavors of Tuscan cooking in bakeries
and restaurants. Included in our itineraries are trips to smaller
towns such as Siena, San Gimignano, Montalcino and Montepulciano.
PIEMONTE
The medieval towns and rolling hills of Piemonte
are wrapped in an azure colored fog. Majestic chestnut forests are
lit into a multitude of reds and oranges by the autumn sun. This
mythical, sometimes wild land, leaves behind the stereotypical images
of the Italian countryside. Piemonte is at its best in October and
November when the colors of autumn and the crisp air invite you
to gather around the fire and taste the great reds of Italy. Barolo,
Dolcetto and Barbera are perfect accompaniments to dishes where
the noble truffle and mushroom abound.
FRIULI
Bordering Austria and the Veneto, this unexplored
part of Italy will never cease to amaze you. Miles of vineyards
produce some of the country's best whites to accompany a cuisine
that ranks among the most refined. Friuli is home to wines like
Tocai, Verduzzo, and Ribolla Gialla, produced in the 80 estates
located among the mountains and regal castles. Possible stops include
Udine, founded by Caesar and later dominated by Venice, and San
Daniele where Italy's finest prosciutto is made. Venice is only
one hour away.
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UMBRIA
One of Italy's most picturesque regions. Walled
medieval cities set amidst panoramic hills and vineyards, castles
and ancient monasteries. Sample the specialties of each region at
restaurants and trattorias. Some of your stops could be Gubbio,
Urbino, Todi, Spoleto. Possibility of a luxurious stay at Saturnia
SPA voted "1996 Jeffrey Joseph SPA of the year." This is a delightful
region for those who want to get away from the big cities to relax,
but still shop and enjoy good food and wine.
ITALIAN RIVIERA
Some of the places to visit are: Portofino,
Portovenere, Cinque and Camogli. Picturesque defines the Cinque
Terre fishing villages with breathtaking views of the ocean. Admire
the views of the turquoise sea from your hotel. Hike along the coastline,
swim in secluded inlets and coves. Taste the true Ligurian pesto
and drink some of the fine, crisp whites from grapes grown along
the steep cliffs. The Riviera overwhelms ALL the senses with its
beauty.
THE
ALPS
Secluded mountain villages encircled by majestic
snow-covered mountains. The Val Gardena area in the region of Trentino
bordering Austria is a fascinating blend of Austrian and Italian.
Unparalleled skiing, charming chalets, elegant Old World hotels
and spas wait to be discovered. In the summer and spring you can
explore the region in depth driving through magnificent forests
and bright-flowered valleys, while the winter focuses more on ski
slopes and winter sports.
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