Lombardia, Piemonte, Emilia-Romagna, and the Veneto
Great Hikes and Cuisine of Northern Italy
{"trip":{"TripID":10305,"Trip_Code":"GOURMET","Trip_Name":"Great Hikes and Cuisine of Northern Italy","TripYear":"2024","BrandName":"Wilderness Travel","BrandID":1,"Trip_Tag_Line":"see custom fields","Start_Location":"Milan, Italy","End_Location":"Verona, Italy","Number_Days":9,"Number_Nights":8,"DisplayOnWeb":true,"Book_On_Web":true,"Featured":false,"SpecialEvent":false,"BestSeller":false,"Short_Description":"<p>Northern Italy is perfect for a WT-style journey of walks and hikes paired with sampling the region's famed culinary bounty. We'll explore historic towns along the mountain-ringed lakes of Lombardia as well as in the gastronomic heartland of Emilia-Romagna, and finish in the Veneto, with its Valpolicella and Bardolino wines and rich heritage as part of the powerful Venetian Republic for more than 1,000 years. Wonderful walks bring us along lakeshore trails and through ancient vineyards, and we'll sample local delicacies everywhere we go, with prosciutto and cheese tastings and a cooking demonstration at a historic estate. Join us for a delicious adventure!<\/p>","Long_Description":"<p><\/p>","ActivityHighlight":"A mix of moderate walks and hikes, 2-4 hours a day, van support","TripType":"Small Group Adventure","HeaderImage":"","HeaderImageAltTag":"","ThumbnailImage":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/thumb-GOURMET-gastronomic-group-trip-northern-italy.jpg","MapImage":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/gourmet-map.jpg","MapImageAltTag":"","FloatingImage":"","VideoLink":"","GroupSize":"","tripURL":"www.wildernesstravel.com\/trip\/\/Italy\/piemonte-lombardy-veneto-culinary-hiking-tour","ThisYear_Year":"2023","ThisYear_PriceDetails":"<p>$6,095 (11-16 members)<br>$6,695 (5-10 members)<\/p>","ThisYear_PriceDetails2":"<p>Single supplement: $720<\/p>","Price":"6095","SingleSupplementPrice1":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2":"0","SingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","SingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","AirPrice":"0","AirPriceCaption":"","FeePrice1":"0","FeePrice2":"0","FeePrice3":"0","FeeName1":"","FeeName2":"","FeeName3":"","ShowNextYearsPrice":true,"NextYear_Year":"2024","NextYear_PriceDetails":"<p>$6,195 (12-16 members)<br>$6,695 (5-11 members)<\/p>","NextYear_PriceDetails2":"<p>Single supplement: $965<\/p>","PriceNextYear":"6195","SingleSupplementPrice1NextYear":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2NextYear":"0","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","NextYearAirPriceCaption":"","AirPriceNextYear":"0","NextYearFeePrice1":"0","NextYearFeePrice2":"0","NextYearFeePrice3":"0","NextYearFeeName1":"","NextYearFeeName2":"","NextYearFeeName3":"","TripSavings":false,"TripSavingsDescription":"<p><\/p>","VariablePricing":false,"PricingNoteTitle":"<p><\/p>","PricingNotes":"<p><\/p>","NewTrip":false,"MinAge":0,"TripRatingID":6,"TripRatingName":"2+","TravelFromDate":"2022-01-01","TravelToDate":"2050-12-31","BookFromDate":"2022-01-01","BookToDate":"2050-12-31","EventID":21,"EventName":"","AccountingGroup":"Europe","DepositRule":2,"DepositAmt":"600","FinalDays":90,"AutoConfirm":false,"AutoConfirmAmount":"0","PrivateAvailable":true,"OperationMonths":"","AccmRating":""},"itinerary":[{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":1,"Headline":"Orta San Giulio \/ Verbania","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We meet at the Milan Malpensa airport, then drive toward the enchanting village of Orta San Giulio, set on Lake Orta in the famed Italian Lakes District. Lake Orta is perhaps the loveliest of all the lakes in the district: small, serene, and with a tiny island monastery. Its quiet beauty has charmed writers including French novelist Honoré de Balzac, who described Lake Orta as a “grey pearl in a green jewel-box.” A short hike brings us along the lakeshore to the center of the village, and after lunch here, we enjoy a pleasant walk to the hilltop sanctuary of Sacro Monte di Orta, built in 1591, with its 20 small chapels dedicated to St. Francis. We then head to the elegant town of Verbania, set on Lake Maggiore. Our accommodation is the Grand Hotel Majestic, superbly set right on the edge of the lake and offering an ambiance of the Belle Epoque. Dinner this evening is at a lakeside restaurant just a short walk away from our hotel.\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 miles, 3 hours, 400 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Details: 2 hours\r\n","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Verbania \/ Lake Mergozza \/ Arona","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A short drive brings us to the small village of Mergozza, which takes its name from the lake of the same name. Our walk skirts the small lake, ending up on the opposite side. Heading to Arona, we enjoy a memorable lunch at the Luigi Guffanti cheese grottoes. This family-run operation has been maturing cheeses in spectacular underground caves since 1876. The artisan-made cheeses they select from the nearby mountain villages are all hand-processed and aged a minimum of two years. Today Carlo and Giovanni Guffanti-Fiori represent the fourth and fifth generations, respectively, at the helm of the Luigi Guffanti company. After lunch we head back to Verbania, with the remainder of the day free to explore on your own, take a dip in the hotel's indoor pool, or swim in the lake. Dinner is on your own this evening. Your Trip Leader is happy to make restaurant recommendations, depending on how fancy or local you want to go.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 3 hours, 500 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Details: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Monferrato \/ Polesine Parmense \/ Castello di San Pietro","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We hike across the rolling hills of Piemonte's Monferrato, one of Italy's most important wine districts, then head to the village of Polesine Parmense in the province of Parma, renowned worldwide for its prosciutto. After a picnic lunch of delectable local products, we visit the elegant Castello di San Pietro, built in 1460 by Bartolomeo Barattieri, an ambassador to the court of Pope Julius II. We overnight at the Locanda del Re Guerriero, set on the park-like grounds of this medieval castle.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 3 hours\r\nDriving Details: 3 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"Po River \/ Antica Corte Pallavicina","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After a visit to a facility producing some of the famous Grana Padano cheese, we hike along the Po River, followed by a picnic lunch in a fishing hut. In the afternoon, we visit Antica Corte Pallavicina, a venerable family farm with a flourishing business producing the finest salumi in the area. We'll visit the cellar where prosciutto is aged, enjoy a cooking lesson, and feast on the fruits of our labor at dinner! We return to Locanda del Re Guerriero for overnight.\r\nHiking Details: 2.5 miles, 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Franciacorta \/ Lake Iseo","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head to Franciacorta, in Lombardia, an area of gently rolling hills that are ideal for the cultivation of grapes and winemaking, especially the production of the fine Franciacorta sparkling wine. After lunch at a wine producer's restaurant, we'll take a pleasant walk along a reed-fringed path through Riserva Naturale Torbiere del Sebino, a wetland reserve created over ancient peat beds. Our hotel tonight is near lovely Lake Iseo, the fourth largest in Lombardia. Dinner is at the hotel's restaurant, where we can enjoy seasonal dishes and local wines.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 2.75 hours, 450 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Monte Isola \/ Iseo","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"From the town of Iseo, with its lakeside promenade, we'll ferry to Monte Isola, a small island in the middle of Lake Iseo. Once we're on Isola, a short climb of about 300 feet rewards us with a beautiful viewpoint over the lake, and we'll continue with a walk through some of the small villages on the upper part of the island. Our walk ends at he village of Sensole, with lunch in a restaurant where we can sample some of the local lake fish and enjoy a panoramic lake view. We'll return to our hotel with the afternoon free to relax in this gorgeous setting.\r\nHiking Details: 4 miles, 2 hours, 700 feet ascent\/descent\r\nFerry Time: 45 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Lake Garda \/ Sirmione","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head to the town of Lonato del Garda, from where we hike to Desenzano, a resort on the shores of Lake Garda with spectacular views of the Alps. Our hike brings us past beautiful villas, vineyards, and the Abbey of Maguzzano, then continues on a trail through woods and an olive grove. We end with a walk through the beautiful center of the port of Desenzano where we have lunch. A ferry then brings us across the lake to the Sirmione Peninsula, whose thermal springs have made it a spa destination since Roman times. Here we visit the spectacular Grotte di Catullo (Grotto of Catullus), a striking example of a Roman private edifice. Our hotel in the ancient town of Sirmione, with its intact city walls, is centrally located. Dinner is on your own tonight.\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 miles, 2 hours, 200 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Time: 1 hour; Ferry Time: 20 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Garda \/ Bardolino","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We'll catch the morning ferry to the town of Garda, with a bit of time to visit its outdoor market, then walk along Lake Garda's historic shoreline promenade to the picturesque village of Bardolino, the center of Bardolino wine country. Bardolino is lively with cafés and shops, and its Old Town is a blend of stone streets and lakefront expanses, with a marina full of colorful boats. We'll have some free time here, followed by lunch, and ferry back to Sirmione, with the late afternoon free. Tonight, we enjoy our Farewell Dinner at Sirmione's Michelin-starred La Rucola with chef Gionata Bignotti. The restaurant is known for its innovative seafood specialties. Overnight at hotel in Sirmione.\r\nHiking Details: 3 miles, 2-3 hours, flat, easy\r\nFerry Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Verona \/ Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A 45-minute drive brings us to the airport (or train station) at Verona for departure on homeward-bound flights. You may wish to extend your adventure in Verona, with its legends of Romeo and Juliet. Those who are continuing their travels in Italy can take a train or bus from Verona to Venice or other destinations in Italy or Europe.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Milan \/ Orta San Giulio \/ Verbania","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After exploring charming lakeside Orta San Giulio, one of the prettiest towns in Europe, we head to elegant Verbania, set on Lake Maggiore. We'll visit the medieval village of Mergozzo to walk its cobbled lanes and circle the path around its serene alpine lake. One of our lunches is at a family-run cheese grotto where we can sample artisan cheeses from nearby mountain villages.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"Piemonte \/ Monferrato \/ Emilia-Romagna","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In the green hills of Piemonte, where the Slow Food movement began, we hike through the wheat fields and vineyards of the Monferrato hills, one of Italy's renowned wine districts. Eastward in the foodie paradise of Emilia-Romagna, our paths bring us along the Po River for a lunch of catch-of-the-day fish in a fishing hut. We'll visit the historic Antica Corte Pallavicina estate on the edge of the Po River for a hands-on cooking lesson.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Franciacorta \/ Lake Iseo \/ Monte Isola","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In Lombardia's Franciacorta district, we'll sample some of Italy's best sparkling wines, then ferry across Lake Iseo to gorgeous Monte Isola for a walk through small villages, a delicious lunch, and a panoramic lake view.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"The Veneto \/ Lake Garda \/ Desenzano \/ Sirmione","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A hike along Lake Garda brings us to the small lakeside port of Desenzano, and we ferry to the castle-town of Sirmione on the Sirmione Peninsula. This area has been known for its thermal waters since Roman times and we'll explore the ruins of a vast Roman villa surrounded by olive groves. Depart on Day 9 via Verona.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2023","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-itinerary-2023.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Savor two special dinners in Michelin-starred 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Room","VendorName":"Locanda del Re Guerriero","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"locanda-del-re-guerriero","Custom_Location":"San Pietro in Cerro"}},{"VendorID":72282,"Day_Number":5,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Relais Mirabella","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"relais-mirabella","Custom_Location":"Clusane sul Lago"}},{"VendorID":72733,"Day_Number":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Grand Hotel Majestic","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"grand-hotel-majestic","Custom_Location":"Verbania"}},{"VendorID":73187,"Day_Number":7,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Hotel Casa Scaligeri","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-casa-scaligeri","Custom_Location":"Sirmione"}}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed 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Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""}],"destinations":[{"DestinationID":46,"Name":"Europe","Type":"Region"},{"DestinationID":83,"Name":"Italy","Type":"Country"}],"activities":[{"ActivityID":217,"Name":"Cultural","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":220,"Name":"Walking","Primary":0}],"guides":[{"GuideID":850612,"First_Name":"Giuseppe","Last_Name":"Aruta","BioShort":"With an extensive background in geology and deep roots in his Italian heritage, Giuseppe Aruta leads guests through medieval hill towns, the Dolomites and Italy's Lake District, paying special attention to how people travel through their sense of taste, experiencing the wondrous world of Italian cuisine. He was born in Naples, studied and worked in Florence, and is now a resident of Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, yet often explores outside of his home country. “I consider myself curious about everything—art, science, food, human relationships, dancing, painting, math,” he says. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with people from other countries, and in return, I also learn a lot from them.” ","BioLong":"With an extensive background in geology and deep roots in his Italian heritage, Giuseppe Aruta leads guests through medieval hill towns, the Dolomites and Italy's Lake District, paying special attention to how people travel through their sense of taste, experiencing the wondrous world of Italian cuisine. He was born in Naples, studied and worked in Florence, and is now a resident of Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, yet often explores outside of his home country. “I consider myself curious about everything—art, science, food, human relationships, dancing, painting, math,” he says. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with people from other countries, and in return, I also learn a lot from them.” "},{"GuideID":850678,"First_Name":"Gianluca","Last_Name":"Canalicchio","BioShort":"Gianluca Canalicchio was born and raised in Rome, where his parents moved in 1960 from Umbria, when they left their life of hard work on their farm in search of new opportunities. He has a degree in accounting, and loves dancing, singing opera, and cooking. Gianluca is a devoted follower of the Italian food channel, Gambero Rosso, and friend to many noted chefs. \"My cooking teacher is my mother, whose love for cooking always amazed me. I opened a pizza restaurant in Rome and a restaurant in San Francisco, but the problem is I prefer to be a client, not a chef!\" Gianluca also loves sports and has competed in triathlon races for many years. Another passion of his is history, which he says “is essential for our times: not understanding the past makes us see the present in a distorted way.” When guiding, Gianluca loves taking people to his favorite off-the-beaten-path places and introducing them to local people.","BioLong":"Gianluca Canalicchio was born and raised in Rome, where his parents moved in 1960 from Umbria, when they left their life of hard work on their farm in search of new opportunities. He has a degree in accounting, and loves dancing, singing opera, and cooking. Gianluca is a devoted follower of the Italian food channel, Gambero Rosso, and friend to many noted chefs. \"My cooking teacher is my mother, whose love for cooking always amazed me. I opened a pizza restaurant in Rome and a restaurant in San Francisco, but the problem is I prefer to be a client, not a chef!\" Gianluca also loves sports and has competed in triathlon races for many years. Another passion of his is history, which he says “is essential for our times: not understanding the past makes us see the present in a distorted way.” When guiding, Gianluca loves taking people to his favorite off-the-beaten-path places and introducing them to local people."},{"GuideID":851149,"First_Name":"Irene","Last_Name":"De Benedictis","BioShort":"Originally from Rome, Irene began traveling at the age of 17, and has lived in various countries including the UK, Germany, Belgium, Brazil and Finland. Her love of different cultures and languages (she knows seven!), paired with her love for pilgrimages (she walked the Camino de Santiago...twice) makes her a wonderful travel companion on the pilgrim's trail. Irene's father is a member of the Italian congregation of St. James, which is responsible for the upkeep of the pilgrim's trails from Italy into Spain and Jerusalem, and she has also worked as a \"hospitalera\" (pilgrims' albergue host) for the pilgrim's trail in Italy.","BioLong":"Originally from Rome, Irene began traveling at the age of 17, and has lived in various countries including the UK, Germany, Belgium, Brazil, and Finland. Her love of different cultures and languages (she knows seven!), paired with her love for pilgrimages (she walked the Camino de Santiago...twice) makes her a wonderful travel companion on the pilgrim's trail. Irene's father is a member of the Italian congregation of St. James, which is responsible for the upkeep of the pilgrim's trails from Italy into Spain and Jerusalem, and she has also worked as a “hospitalera” (pilgrims' albergue host) for the pilgrim's trail in Italy. Fun fact: Irene wrote a book called Spaghetti and Sauna about the cultural differences between Italy, her home country, and Finland, where she lived for four years."},{"GuideID":851071,"First_Name":"Vicky","Last_Name":"Sotriffer","BioShort":"As an adventure-seeking traveler and Trip Leader, Vicky Sotriffer thrives in new places. She has led trips on nearly every continent for more than 10 years, including sea kayaking trips. Originally from South Tyrol, Italy, Vicky now resides in Ibiza, Spain, and is fluent in a handful of languages. She spends parts of her year in Oman, where she follows her passion for hiking in the country's striking desert environment and diving in the warm waters off the coast (and trying to improve her Arabic along the way). In her free time, she enjoys tennis, rock climbing, horseback riding, and in the winter, she heads to the Dolomites to ski.","BioLong":"As an adventure-seeking traveler and Trip Leader, Vicky Sotriffer thrives in new places. She has led trips on nearly every continent for more than 10 years, including sea kayaking trips. Originally from South Tyrol, Italy, Vicky now resides in Ibiza, Spain, and is fluent in a handful of languages. She spends parts of her year in Oman, where she follows her passion for hiking in the country's striking desert environment and diving in the warm waters off the coast (and trying to improve her Arabic along the way). In her free time, she enjoys tennis, rock climbing, horseback riding, and in the winter, she heads to the Dolomites to ski."},{"GuideID":850725,"First_Name":"Daniel","Last_Name":"Windham","BioShort":"Daniel Windham, born in Georgia's foothills, discovered his passion for the mountains at an early age while backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. After moving to northern Italy, becoming a mountain guide, and running a mountain hut with his Italian wife, he returned (via a couple of years in Costa Rica) to his roots, enjoying the outdoor life with his family. Having climbed and guided on some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas and the Americas (notably Mt. Rainier), Dan continues to guide on Aconcagua (Argentina) and for Wilderness Travel in the Alps. He is also an Appalachian Trail Ambassador, which involves regularly running an 89-mile stretch of the trail, as well as community involvement. His goal is to \"give back to the wilderness a little of what it has given me.” Dan speaks English, Spanish, and Italian, and continues his interests in wilderness medicine and cooking.","BioLong":"Daniel Windham, born in Georgia's foothills, discovered his passion for the mountains at an early age while backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. After moving to northern Italy, becoming a mountain guide, and running a mountain hut with his Italian wife, he returned (via a couple of years in Costa Rica) to his roots, enjoying the outdoor life with his family. Having climbed and guided on some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas and the Americas (notably Mt. Rainier), Dan continues to guide on Aconcagua (Argentina) and for Wilderness Travel in the Alps. He is also an Appalachian Trail Ambassador, which involves regularly running an 89-mile stretch of the trail, as well as community involvement. His goal is to \"give back to the wilderness a little of what it has given me.” Dan speaks English, Spanish, and Italian, and continues his interests in wilderness medicine and cooking."},{"GuideID":856389,"First_Name":"Marzia","Last_Name":"Borghi","BioShort":"Marzia Borghi, of Tuscany, spent many years teaching in London, then worked on research projects for the University of Pisa, and later became a certified cultural, art history, and environmental guide in her home country. She has guided hiking and cultural journeys for over 15 years in diverse Italian regions, from in Sardinia to Umbria, as well as specialty trips dedicated to Etruscan civilization and wine culture.\r\n","BioLong":"Marzia Borghi, of Tuscany, spent many years teaching in London, then worked on research projects for the University of Pisa, and later became a certified cultural, art history, and environmental guide in her home country. She has guided hiking and cultural journeys for over 15 years in diverse Italian regions, from in Sardinia to Umbria, as well as specialty trips dedicated to Etruscan civilization and wine culture.\r\n"}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Bill S.","GuestLocation":"Boiling Springs, PA","GuestReview":"The trip was well run, wrinkle-free, everyone well cared for, all expectations met or exceeded... just as we have come to expect from WT."},{"GuestNames":"Carol B.","GuestLocation":"Redwood City, CA","GuestReview":"It's not possible to overstate the food and wines on this trip. I have never experienced anything like this."},{"GuestNames":"Chris R.","GuestLocation":"Denver, CO","GuestReview":"Simply an excellent trip: fun hikes, excellent food, and great chefs."},{"GuestNames":"Diane Y.","GuestLocation":"Gainesville, FL","GuestReview":"We really enjoyed the food adventures, the tours of the cheese places, cooking with the chef, and the art and historical tours. The group of people and guides were terrific as well, adding up to a memorable trip!"},{"GuestNames":"James C.","GuestLocation":"Los Gatos, CA","GuestReview":"A wonderful trip! Great food, good people, and excellent leadership and organization."},{"GuestNames":"Jeanne R.","GuestLocation":"Denver, CO","GuestReview":"Highest quality all around. Beautiful scenery, great walks, amazing food, and superb hotels. A well put together trip with a very nice balance of hiking, cultural activities, and culinary adventures."},{"GuestNames":"John T.","GuestLocation":"Park Ridge, IL","GuestReview":"The trip was great; I would recommend it to anyone. I was surprised at the quantity and quality of the food and wine. I really enjoyed the various food related excursions. It was a great group. Everyone seemed to get along fine. Being a first-time traveler with Wilderness, I was amazed at how many times the other members had traveled with your company—it certainly is a testament to the quality of your trips."},{"GuestNames":"Julie R.","GuestLocation":"Bainbridge Island, WA","GuestReview":"I have taken other 'trips of a lifetime' with WT and this one was no exception! One cannot help but live in the moment on such a wonderful journey. Very well done!"},{"GuestNames":"Karl G.","GuestLocation":"Davis, CA","GuestReview":"The variety of cultural experiences woven in was great—from historical sites to cheese making!"},{"GuestNames":"Martie T.","GuestLocation":"Salinas, CA","GuestReview":"The guides were wonderful, the food was incredible, the hotels first class and the views were beautiful. I would call this adventure ‘over the rainbow!’"},{"GuestNames":"Pam B.","GuestLocation":"Newton Center, MA","GuestReview":"The trip was thoughtfully designed and smoothly executed. We appreciated the lovely and varied hikes, the variety of cultural activities (especially the visits to Guffanti and Antica Corte Pallavicina), the fabulous dining, and the overall atmosphere created by our guides. This was our second WT trip and we are looking forward to more."},{"GuestNames":"Pat L.","GuestLocation":"Sandy Hook, CT","GuestReview":"The trip rates very high. Hikes were varied in level of difficulty, length, location. Hotels were very nice: excellent locations, vistas, food, and amenities. Activities were excellent...castles, cheese, wine, prosciutto—interesting and good choices for the overall experience. Loved meeting Mario in our vineyard tour!"},{"GuestNames":"Rud and Mary Ellen B.","GuestLocation":"Bloomfield Hills, MI","GuestReview":"This was a great trip: good food, wonderful hotels, great guides, scenic hikes. What more could you ask for?"},{"GuestNames":"Virginia H.","GuestLocation":"Frisco, TX","GuestReview":"This trip far exceeded my expectations. It was truly a trip of a lifetime."},{"GuestNames":"William T.","GuestLocation":"Los Angeles, CA","GuestReview":"A fabulous combination of hiking in gorgeous areas and out of this world gourmet food along with cheese producers, wineries, cooking lessons, and fabulous hotels and chateaus. A feast for the eye, nose, and stomach."},{"GuestNames":"Yvonne S.","GuestLocation":"West Chester, PA","GuestReview":"Great food, wine, and hotels!"}],"Extensions":[{}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10291,"Trip_Code":"AMALFI","Trip_Name":"Amalfi and Capri"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10464,"Trip_Code":"ALPEADRIA","Trip_Name":"Hiking the Alpe Adria: Salzburg to Trieste"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10444,"Trip_Code":"PREHISTO","Trip_Name":"Prehistoric Caves and Great Cuisine of France"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10411,"Trip_Code":"TUSCCINQ","Trip_Name":"Tuscany and the Cinque Terre"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73503,"ProductID":84912,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Transfer","Vendor":"Giachino","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Torino","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Transfer","Day":1,"Sequence":0,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":11,"ProductID":54,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Single Supplement","Vendor":"Wilderness Travel","Address1":"1102 Ninth Street","Address2":"","City":"Berkeley","State":"CA","Postal":"94710","Product":"Single Supplement","Day":1,"Sequence":2,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"<p><\/p>","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72733,"ProductID":82561,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Grand Hotel Majestic","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Verbania","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>Panoramic views of Lake Maggiore stretch far and wide from the historic Grand Hotel Majestic. Air-conditioned guest rooms are decorated with solid wood French furnishings, chandeliers, and colorful fabrics. Beneath its summer portico, the restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine and a buffet-style breakfast. 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This renovated 18th century residence offers spacious and modern guest rooms with views over the vast sculpture-filled grounds. 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It is a historic former family estate, exceptionally well maintained, with a warm and welcoming staff. The breakfast is amazing, the pool is inviting, and the open-air terrace is the place to be for an aperitif in a fantastic setting.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-relais-mirabella-exterior-patio-view.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73187,"ProductID":83015,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Hotel Casa Scaligeri","Address1":"Via Casello, 2","Address2":"","City":"Sirmione","State":"","Postal":"25019","Product":"Standard Room","Day":7,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>The Casa Scaligeri, set in the heart of the historic center of Sermione, is a renovated 15th century building just a stone's throw from the castle. Guestrooms are simple but modern and comfortable, each with a private balcony overlooking the street. The staff here is particularly welcoming, friendly, and efficient.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-casa-scaligeri-outdoor-hotel.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"Adventure","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"","Custom_Welcome_Insurance_Intro":"","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>In order to confirm your space on this trip, we require a first deposit of $600 per person, which is fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure.<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Italy<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:11 --><p><strong>HIKING POLES:<\/strong> If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags. <\/p>","Custom_Daypack":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:04:59 --><p><strong>DAYPACK: <\/strong>To carry a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail. <\/p>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:34 --><p><strong>ARRIVING IN MILAN<\/strong><br \/>You will meet your Trip Leader in the lobby of the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel at 10:00 am on Day 1. The hotel is connected to the airport and easily reachable by train from the center of Milan.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:47 --><p><strong>DEPARTING VERONA<\/strong><br \/>On Day 9, we will check out of our hotel in Sirmione and drive into Verona for drop offs at the Verona Porta Nuova Train Station at 10:00 am and the Verona Villafranca Airport at 10:30 am.<\/p><p>It may be possible to fly out earlier, but trip members departing earlier in the morning are responsible for transferring on their own by taxi (this could cost more than €100). Your Trip Leader can assist you with arranging this.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:06:10 --><p>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our local contact (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p><p>We recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whatsapp.com\/\">WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"","Custom_Carry-On":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:04:47 --><p><strong>CARRY-ON:<\/strong> Valuable or essential items, such as well broken-in hiking boots, camera equipment, binoculars, prescription medications, and any paperwork required to enter Italy, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage.<\/p>","Custom_name_slug":"northern-italy-lombardy-lakes-culinary-hiking-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"In northern Italy, we enjoy superb hikes in Piemonte, Lombardia, and the Veneto along with wine and cheese tastings, a cooking class, and elegant meals created by some of Italy's most legendary chefs.","Custom_List_Description":"In northern Italy, we enjoy superb hikes in Piemonte, Lombardia, and the Veneto along with wine and cheese tastings, a cooking class, and elegant meals created by some of Italy's most legendary chefs.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Great Hikes & Cuisine of Northern Italy | Active Culinary Tour","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T13:01:25 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date & Time:<\/strong> Day 1, at 9:00 am or anytime prior to Day 1<br \/><br \/><strong>Meeting Place:<\/strong> You will meet your Trip Leader in the lobby of the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel at 10:00 am on Day 1. The hotel is connected to the airport and easily reachable by train from the center of Milan.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T13:03:14 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date & Time:<\/strong> Day 9, after 1:00 pm<br \/><br \/>On Day 9, we will check out of our hotel in Sirmione and drive into Verona for drop offs at the Verona Porta Nuova Train Station at 10:00 am and the Verona Villafranca Airport at 10:30 am.<br \/><br \/>It may be possible to fly out earlier, but trip members departing earlier in the morning are responsible for transferring on their own by taxi (this could cost more than €100). Your Trip Leader can assist you with arranging this taxi.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T13:06:55 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Italy.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip. <\/strong>Once tickets are purchased, please forward a copy of your email flight confirmation from the airline. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_Passport":"","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"","Custom_Money":"","Custom_Tipping":"","Custom_Food":"","Custom_Communications":"","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Reading_List":"","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"","Custom_Luggage":"","Custom_Clothing":"","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"","Custom_Optional_Items":"","Custom_Also_Reccomended":"","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Lombardia, Piemonte, Emilia-Romagna, and the Veneto","Custom_Lodging":"8 nights inns and hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 2 dinners","Custom_Activity":"","Custom_Difficulty":"A mix of moderate walks and hikes, 2-4 hours a day, van support","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>This trip is rated a <strong>Level 2+ (Moderate)<\/strong> according to our trip grading system. While we do not see major elevation gain or loss, you will need to be comfortable hiking 6 miles a day and being on your feet for up to 4 hours a day. Hiking days are varied, with some very light days on flat country paths and some more challenging days. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.<strong><br><\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Average Hiking Day<\/strong><ul><li>4 miles<\/li><li>2-3 hours<\/li><li>300 feet gain\/loss<\/li><\/ul><strong>Challenge Day<\/strong> <ul><li>Day 6: 6 miles, 3.5 hours, 700 feet gain\/loss<\/li><\/ul><\/body>","Custom_Terrain":"Our walks and hikes traverse a variety of terrains, from flat trails alongside a river to paved paths to mountain trails with occasional short, steep sections. You will need to be comfortable hiking on uneven surfaces including downhill over loose scree.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"The weather in northern Italy in May, September, and October ranges from the low-70s\u00b0F during the day to the mid-40s\u00b0F at night, with cool winds and showers possible at any time.","Custom_Accommodations":"We spend our nights in picturesque inns, full of charm and character, and comfortable hotels in exquisite settings. All accommodations are chosen for their local history and central locations. Since they are often in historic buildings, the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.","Custom_Cuisine":"Meals will be taken at the hotels where we are staying or at restaurants in nearby towns. Some of our meals will be at Michelin-starred restaurants with 8-9 courses and may take up to three hours. At those restaurants, it is often difficult to accommodate dietary restrictions other than food allergies. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.","Custom_Transportation":"Our support vehicle will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). 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If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the<\/p>","System_References":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:50:51 --><p>We'd be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us on this trip.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:51:32 --><p>At <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and special WT Expeditions that aren't listed in our catalog. You can also access a complete library of our detailed itineraries and browse the customized reading guides for each of our adventures.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-17T11:00:24 --><p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions -- even if it's just the two of you -- yet still enjoy a guided adventure.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T13:27:44 --><p><strong>COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please double-check COVID-19 entry requirements for any countries you may be traveling to or transiting through, on this website: <a href=\"apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions\">apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions<\/a><\/p>","System_Pre-Trip_Safety":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:37:06 --><p><strong>PRE-TRIP SAFETY:<\/strong> In the next weeks, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy. 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You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-13T09:24:57 --><p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. 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Overview
Northern Italy is perfect for a WT-style journey of walks and hikes paired with sampling the region's famed culinary bounty. We'll explore historic towns along the mountain-ringed lakes of Lombardia as well as in the gastronomic heartland of Emilia-Romagna, and finish in the Veneto, with its Valpolicella and Bardolino wines and rich heritage as part of the powerful Venetian Republic for more than 1,000 years. Wonderful walks bring us along lakeshore trails and through ancient vineyards, and we'll sample local delicacies everywhere we go, with prosciutto and cheese tastings and a cooking demonstration at a historic estate. Join us for a delicious adventure!
Arrive: Milan, Italy
Depart: Verona, Italy
Highlights
- Savor two special dinners in Michelin-starred restaurants
- Enjoy cheese and prosciutto tastings, taste the finest local wines
- Discover classic lakeside towns, wine estates, and off-the-beaten path eateries
- The best hikes, walks, and expert Trip Leaders to unlock the secrets of this enchanting region
Itinerary
Download Itinerary
Expand All Days
After exploring charming lakeside Orta San Giulio, one of the prettiest towns in Europe, we head to elegant Verbania, set on Lake Maggiore. We'll visit the medieval village of Mergozzo to walk its cobbled lanes and circle the path around its serene alpine lake. One of our lunches is at a family-run cheese grotto where we can sample artisan cheeses from nearby mountain villages.
In the green hills of Piemonte, where the Slow Food movement began, we hike through the wheat fields and vineyards of the Monferrato hills, one of Italy's renowned wine districts. Eastward in the foodie paradise of Emilia-Romagna, our paths bring us along the Po River for a lunch of catch-of-the-day fish in a fishing hut. We'll visit the historic Antica Corte Pallavicina estate on the edge of the Po River for a hands-on cooking lesson.
In Lombardia's Franciacorta district, we'll sample some of Italy's best sparkling wines, then ferry across Lake Iseo to gorgeous Monte Isola for a walk through small villages, a delicious lunch, and a panoramic lake view.
A hike along Lake Garda brings us to the small lakeside port of Desenzano, and we ferry to the castle-town of Sirmione on the Sirmione Peninsula. This area has been known for its thermal waters since Roman times and we'll explore the ruins of a vast Roman villa surrounded by olive groves. Depart on Day 9 via Verona.
Dates & Pricing
Payment & Cancel Schedule
$600 due at time of reservation
90 days prior to departure: Balance
Cancellation & Transfer Schedule
Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
45 days or less: 100% of trip cost
Included
- Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
- Accommodations in inns and hotels
- All meals included except 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
- A glass of wine or beer with dinner
- All transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
- All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
Not Included
- Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
- Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
- Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
- Optional travel insurance
- Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
Accommodations
Listed below are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
Grand Hotel Majestic
Days 1-2 (2 nights)
Panoramic views of Lake Maggiore stretch far and wide from the historic Grand Hotel Majestic. Air-conditioned guest rooms are decorated with solid wood French furnishings, chandeliers, and colorful fabrics. Beneath its summer portico, the restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine and a buffet-style breakfast. Enjoy lounging in a chair by the water, taking a dip in the heated indoor pool, and having a drink at the terrace bar while savoring the views of the Borromean Islands.
Locanda del Re Guerriero
Days 3-4 (2 nights)
Set on the park-like grounds of the castle of San Pietro in Cerro in the heart of the Emilia Romagna countryside is the elegant oasis of Locanda del Re Guerriero (“Inn of the Warrior King”). This renovated 18th century residence offers spacious and modern guest rooms with views over the vast sculpture-filled grounds. The museum-quality artwork and 2,000-volume library, along with the friendly staff and impeccable service, make for a memorable stay.
Relais Mirabella
Days 5-6 (2 nights)
With absolutely breathtaking views overlooking Lake Iseo, this elegant hotel is surrounded by acres of beautiful gardens and forest. It is a historic former family estate, exceptionally well maintained, with a warm and welcoming staff. The breakfast is amazing, the pool is inviting, and the open-air terrace is the place to be for an aperitif in a fantastic setting.
Hotel Casa Scaligeri
Days 7-8 (2 nights)
The Casa Scaligeri, set in the heart of the historic center of Sermione, is a renovated 15th century building just a stone's throw from the castle. Guestrooms are simple but modern and comfortable, each with a private balcony overlooking the street. The staff here is particularly welcoming, friendly, and efficient.
1/4
Trip Leaders
Giuseppe Aruta
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Gianluca Canalicchio
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Irene De Benedictis
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Vicky Sotriffer
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Daniel Windham
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Marzia Borghi
View ProfileWhat the Trip is Like
This trip is rated a Level 2+ (Moderate) according to our trip grading system. While we do not see major elevation gain or loss, you will need to be comfortable hiking 6 miles a day and being on your feet for up to 4 hours a day. Hiking days are varied, with some very light days on flat country paths and some more challenging days. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.
Average Hiking Day
Review Trip Level Details
Average Hiking Day
- 4 miles
- 2-3 hours
- 300 feet gain/loss
- Day 6: 6 miles, 3.5 hours, 700 feet gain/loss
Our walks and hikes traverse a variety of terrains, from flat trails alongside a river to paved paths to mountain trails with occasional short, steep sections. You will need to be comfortable hiking on uneven surfaces including downhill over loose scree.
The weather in northern Italy in May, September, and October ranges from the low-70s°F during the day to the mid-40s°F at night, with cool winds and showers possible at any time.
We spend our nights in picturesque inns, full of charm and character, and comfortable hotels in exquisite settings. All accommodations are chosen for their local history and central locations. Since they are often in historic buildings, the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.
Meals will be taken at the hotels where we are staying or at restaurants in nearby towns. Some of our meals will be at Michelin-starred restaurants with 8-9 courses and may take up to three hours. At those restaurants, it is often difficult to accommodate dietary restrictions other than food allergies. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.
Our support vehicle will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transfering that day).
Client Testimonials
"The trip was well run, wrinkle-free, everyone well cared for, all expectations met or exceeded... just as we have come to expect from WT."
Bill S.
Boiling Springs, PA
"It's not possible to overstate the food and wines on this trip. I have never experienced anything like this."
Carol B.
Redwood City, CA
"Simply an excellent trip: fun hikes, excellent food, and great chefs."
Chris R.
Denver, CO
"We really enjoyed the food adventures, the tours of the cheese places, cooking with the chef, and the art and historical tours. The group of people and guides were terrific as well, adding up to a memorable trip!"
Diane Y.
Gainesville, FL
"A wonderful trip! Great food, good people, and excellent leadership and organization."
James C.
Los Gatos, CA
"Highest quality all around. Beautiful scenery, great walks, amazing food, and superb hotels. A well put together trip with a very nice balance of hiking, cultural activities, and culinary adventures."
Jeanne R.
Denver, CO
"The trip was great; I would recommend it to anyone. I was surprised at the quantity and quality of the food and wine. I really enjoyed the various food related excursions. It was a great group. Everyone seemed to get along fine. Being a first-time traveler with Wilderness, I was amazed at how many times the other members had traveled with your company—it certainly is a testament to the quality of your trips."
John T.
Park Ridge, IL
"I have taken other 'trips of a lifetime' with WT and this one was no exception! One cannot help but live in the moment on such a wonderful journey. Very well done!"
Julie R.
Bainbridge Island, WA
"The variety of cultural experiences woven in was great—from historical sites to cheese making!"
Karl G.
Davis, CA
"The guides were wonderful, the food was incredible, the hotels first class and the views were beautiful. I would call this adventure ‘over the rainbow!’"
Martie T.
Salinas, CA
"The trip was thoughtfully designed and smoothly executed. We appreciated the lovely and varied hikes, the variety of cultural activities (especially the visits to Guffanti and Antica Corte Pallavicina), the fabulous dining, and the overall atmosphere created by our guides. This was our second WT trip and we are looking forward to more."
Pam B.
Newton Center, MA
"The trip rates very high. Hikes were varied in level of difficulty, length, location. Hotels were very nice: excellent locations, vistas, food, and amenities. Activities were excellent...castles, cheese, wine, prosciutto—interesting and good choices for the overall experience. Loved meeting Mario in our vineyard tour!"
Pat L.
Sandy Hook, CT
"This was a great trip: good food, wonderful hotels, great guides, scenic hikes. What more could you ask for?"
Rud and Mary Ellen B.
Bloomfield Hills, MI
"This trip far exceeded my expectations. It was truly a trip of a lifetime."
Virginia H.
Frisco, TX
"A fabulous combination of hiking in gorgeous areas and out of this world gourmet food along with cheese producers, wineries, cooking lessons, and fabulous hotels and chateaus. A feast for the eye, nose, and stomach."
William T.
Los Angeles, CA
"Great food, wine, and hotels!"
Yvonne S.
West Chester, PA
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Book your trip today
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
Itinerary
Submit the form below to download itinerary
Trip Levels
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.
Level 1 – Easiest
Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.
Level 2 – Easy to Moderate
Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.
Level 3 – Moderate
Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.
- Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
- Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
- Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
- Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin, are Trip Level 3.
Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.
Level 5 – Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.
Level 6 – Very Strenuous
Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.
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Dinner this evening is at a lakeside restaurant just a short walk away from our hotel.\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 miles, 3 hours, 400 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Details: 2 hours\r\n","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Verbania \/ Lake Mergozza \/ Arona","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A short drive brings us to the small village of Mergozza, which takes its name from the lake of the same name. Our walk skirts the small lake, ending up on the opposite side. Heading to Arona, we enjoy a memorable lunch at the Luigi Guffanti cheese grottoes. This family-run operation has been maturing cheeses in spectacular underground caves since 1876. The artisan-made cheeses they select from the nearby mountain villages are all hand-processed and aged a minimum of two years. Today Carlo and Giovanni Guffanti-Fiori represent the fourth and fifth generations, respectively, at the helm of the Luigi Guffanti company. After lunch we head back to Verbania, with the remainder of the day free to explore on your own, take a dip in the hotel's indoor pool, or swim in the lake. Dinner is on your own this evening. Your Trip Leader is happy to make restaurant recommendations, depending on how fancy or local you want to go.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 3 hours, 500 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Details: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Monferrato \/ Polesine Parmense \/ Castello di San Pietro","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We hike across the rolling hills of Piemonte's Monferrato, one of Italy's most important wine districts, then head to the village of Polesine Parmense in the province of Parma, renowned worldwide for its prosciutto. After a picnic lunch of delectable local products, we visit the elegant Castello di San Pietro, built in 1460 by Bartolomeo Barattieri, an ambassador to the court of Pope Julius II. We overnight at the Locanda del Re Guerriero, set on the park-like grounds of this medieval castle.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 3 hours\r\nDriving Details: 3 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"Po River \/ Antica Corte Pallavicina","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After a visit to a facility producing some of the famous Grana Padano cheese, we hike along the Po River, followed by a picnic lunch in a fishing hut. In the afternoon, we visit Antica Corte Pallavicina, a venerable family farm with a flourishing business producing the finest salumi in the area. We'll visit the cellar where prosciutto is aged, enjoy a cooking lesson, and feast on the fruits of our labor at dinner! We return to Locanda del Re Guerriero for overnight.\r\nHiking Details: 2.5 miles, 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Franciacorta \/ Lake Iseo","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head to Franciacorta, in Lombardia, an area of gently rolling hills that are ideal for the cultivation of grapes and winemaking, especially the production of the fine Franciacorta sparkling wine. After lunch at a wine producer's restaurant, we'll take a pleasant walk along a reed-fringed path through Riserva Naturale Torbiere del Sebino, a wetland reserve created over ancient peat beds. Our hotel tonight is near lovely Lake Iseo, the fourth largest in Lombardia. Dinner is at the hotel's restaurant, where we can enjoy seasonal dishes and local wines.\r\nHiking Details: 5 miles, 2.75 hours, 450 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Monte Isola \/ Iseo","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"From the town of Iseo, with its lakeside promenade, we'll ferry to Monte Isola, a small island in the middle of Lake Iseo. Once we're on Isola, a short climb of about 300 feet rewards us with a beautiful viewpoint over the lake, and we'll continue with a walk through some of the small villages on the upper part of the island. Our walk ends at he village of Sensole, with lunch in a restaurant where we can sample some of the local lake fish and enjoy a panoramic lake view. We'll return to our hotel with the afternoon free to relax in this gorgeous setting.\r\nHiking Details: 4 miles, 2 hours, 700 feet ascent\/descent\r\nFerry Time: 45 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Lake Garda \/ Sirmione","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head to the town of Lonato del Garda, from where we hike to Desenzano, a resort on the shores of Lake Garda with spectacular views of the Alps. Our hike brings us past beautiful villas, vineyards, and the Abbey of Maguzzano, then continues on a trail through woods and an olive grove. We end with a walk through the beautiful center of the port of Desenzano where we have lunch. A ferry then brings us across the lake to the Sirmione Peninsula, whose thermal springs have made it a spa destination since Roman times. Here we visit the spectacular Grotte di Catullo (Grotto of Catullus), a striking example of a Roman private edifice. Our hotel in the ancient town of Sirmione, with its intact city walls, is centrally located. Dinner is on your own tonight.\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 miles, 2 hours, 200 feet ascent\/descent\r\nDriving Time: 1 hour; Ferry Time: 20 minutes","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Garda \/ Bardolino","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We'll catch the morning ferry to the town of Garda, with a bit of time to visit its outdoor market, then walk along Lake Garda's historic shoreline promenade to the picturesque village of Bardolino, the center of Bardolino wine country. Bardolino is lively with cafés and shops, and its Old Town is a blend of stone streets and lakefront expanses, with a marina full of colorful boats. We'll have some free time here, followed by lunch, and ferry back to Sirmione, with the late afternoon free. Tonight, we enjoy our Farewell Dinner at Sirmione's Michelin-starred La Rucola with chef Gionata Bignotti. The restaurant is known for its innovative seafood specialties. Overnight at hotel in Sirmione.\r\nHiking Details: 3 miles, 2-3 hours, flat, easy\r\nFerry Time: 1.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Verona \/ Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A 45-minute drive brings us to the airport (or train station) at Verona for departure on homeward-bound flights. You may wish to extend your adventure in Verona, with its legends of Romeo and Juliet. Those who are continuing their travels in Italy can take a train or bus from Verona to Venice or other destinations in Italy or Europe.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Milan \/ Orta San Giulio \/ Verbania","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After exploring charming lakeside Orta San Giulio, one of the prettiest towns in Europe, we head to elegant Verbania, set on Lake Maggiore. We'll visit the medieval village of Mergozzo to walk its cobbled lanes and circle the path around its serene alpine lake. One of our lunches is at a family-run cheese grotto where we can sample artisan cheeses from nearby mountain villages.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"Piemonte \/ Monferrato \/ Emilia-Romagna","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In the green hills of Piemonte, where the Slow Food movement began, we hike through the wheat fields and vineyards of the Monferrato hills, one of Italy's renowned wine districts. Eastward in the foodie paradise of Emilia-Romagna, our paths bring us along the Po River for a lunch of catch-of-the-day fish in a fishing hut. We'll visit the historic Antica Corte Pallavicina estate on the edge of the Po River for a hands-on cooking lesson.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Franciacorta \/ Lake Iseo \/ Monte Isola","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In Lombardia's Franciacorta district, we'll sample some of Italy's best sparkling wines, then ferry across Lake Iseo to gorgeous Monte Isola for a walk through small villages, a delicious lunch, and a panoramic lake view.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"The Veneto \/ Lake Garda \/ Desenzano \/ Sirmione","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A hike along Lake Garda brings us to the small lakeside port of Desenzano, and we ferry to the castle-town of Sirmione on the Sirmione Peninsula. This area has been known for its thermal waters since Roman times and we'll explore the ruins of a vast Roman villa surrounded by olive groves. Depart on Day 9 via Verona.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2023","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-itinerary-2023.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/great-hikes-and-cuisine-of-northern-italy-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Savor two special dinners in Michelin-starred 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Room","VendorName":"Locanda del Re Guerriero","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"locanda-del-re-guerriero","Custom_Location":"San Pietro in Cerro"}},{"VendorID":72282,"Day_Number":5,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Relais Mirabella","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"relais-mirabella","Custom_Location":"Clusane sul Lago"}},{"VendorID":72733,"Day_Number":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Grand Hotel Majestic","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"grand-hotel-majestic","Custom_Location":"Verbania"}},{"VendorID":73187,"Day_Number":7,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Hotel Casa Scaligeri","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-casa-scaligeri","Custom_Location":"Sirmione"}}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"E","Description":"Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional travel insurance","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"E","Description":"Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"I","Description":"Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"I","Description":"Accommodations in inns and hotels","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"I","Description":"All meals included except 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"I","Description":"A glass of wine or beer with dinner","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"I","Description":"All transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":6,"Type":"I","Description":"All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""}],"destinations":[{"DestinationID":46,"Name":"Europe","Type":"Region"},{"DestinationID":83,"Name":"Italy","Type":"Country"}],"activities":[{"ActivityID":217,"Name":"Cultural","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":220,"Name":"Walking","Primary":0}],"guides":[{"GuideID":850612,"First_Name":"Giuseppe","Last_Name":"Aruta","BioShort":"With an extensive background in geology and deep roots in his Italian heritage, Giuseppe Aruta leads guests through medieval hill towns, the Dolomites and Italy's Lake District, paying special attention to how people travel through their sense of taste, experiencing the wondrous world of Italian cuisine. He was born in Naples, studied and worked in Florence, and is now a resident of Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, yet often explores outside of his home country. “I consider myself curious about everything—art, science, food, human relationships, dancing, painting, math,” he says. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with people from other countries, and in return, I also learn a lot from them.” ","BioLong":"With an extensive background in geology and deep roots in his Italian heritage, Giuseppe Aruta leads guests through medieval hill towns, the Dolomites and Italy's Lake District, paying special attention to how people travel through their sense of taste, experiencing the wondrous world of Italian cuisine. He was born in Naples, studied and worked in Florence, and is now a resident of Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, yet often explores outside of his home country. “I consider myself curious about everything—art, science, food, human relationships, dancing, painting, math,” he says. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge with people from other countries, and in return, I also learn a lot from them.” "},{"GuideID":850678,"First_Name":"Gianluca","Last_Name":"Canalicchio","BioShort":"Gianluca Canalicchio was born and raised in Rome, where his parents moved in 1960 from Umbria, when they left their life of hard work on their farm in search of new opportunities. He has a degree in accounting, and loves dancing, singing opera, and cooking. Gianluca is a devoted follower of the Italian food channel, Gambero Rosso, and friend to many noted chefs. \"My cooking teacher is my mother, whose love for cooking always amazed me. I opened a pizza restaurant in Rome and a restaurant in San Francisco, but the problem is I prefer to be a client, not a chef!\" Gianluca also loves sports and has competed in triathlon races for many years. Another passion of his is history, which he says “is essential for our times: not understanding the past makes us see the present in a distorted way.” When guiding, Gianluca loves taking people to his favorite off-the-beaten-path places and introducing them to local people.","BioLong":"Gianluca Canalicchio was born and raised in Rome, where his parents moved in 1960 from Umbria, when they left their life of hard work on their farm in search of new opportunities. He has a degree in accounting, and loves dancing, singing opera, and cooking. Gianluca is a devoted follower of the Italian food channel, Gambero Rosso, and friend to many noted chefs. \"My cooking teacher is my mother, whose love for cooking always amazed me. I opened a pizza restaurant in Rome and a restaurant in San Francisco, but the problem is I prefer to be a client, not a chef!\" Gianluca also loves sports and has competed in triathlon races for many years. Another passion of his is history, which he says “is essential for our times: not understanding the past makes us see the present in a distorted way.” When guiding, Gianluca loves taking people to his favorite off-the-beaten-path places and introducing them to local people."},{"GuideID":851149,"First_Name":"Irene","Last_Name":"De Benedictis","BioShort":"Originally from Rome, Irene began traveling at the age of 17, and has lived in various countries including the UK, Germany, Belgium, Brazil and Finland. Her love of different cultures and languages (she knows seven!), paired with her love for pilgrimages (she walked the Camino de Santiago...twice) makes her a wonderful travel companion on the pilgrim's trail. Irene's father is a member of the Italian congregation of St. James, which is responsible for the upkeep of the pilgrim's trails from Italy into Spain and Jerusalem, and she has also worked as a \"hospitalera\" (pilgrims' albergue host) for the pilgrim's trail in Italy.","BioLong":"Originally from Rome, Irene began traveling at the age of 17, and has lived in various countries including the UK, Germany, Belgium, Brazil, and Finland. Her love of different cultures and languages (she knows seven!), paired with her love for pilgrimages (she walked the Camino de Santiago...twice) makes her a wonderful travel companion on the pilgrim's trail. Irene's father is a member of the Italian congregation of St. James, which is responsible for the upkeep of the pilgrim's trails from Italy into Spain and Jerusalem, and she has also worked as a “hospitalera” (pilgrims' albergue host) for the pilgrim's trail in Italy. Fun fact: Irene wrote a book called Spaghetti and Sauna about the cultural differences between Italy, her home country, and Finland, where she lived for four years."},{"GuideID":851071,"First_Name":"Vicky","Last_Name":"Sotriffer","BioShort":"As an adventure-seeking traveler and Trip Leader, Vicky Sotriffer thrives in new places. She has led trips on nearly every continent for more than 10 years, including sea kayaking trips. Originally from South Tyrol, Italy, Vicky now resides in Ibiza, Spain, and is fluent in a handful of languages. She spends parts of her year in Oman, where she follows her passion for hiking in the country's striking desert environment and diving in the warm waters off the coast (and trying to improve her Arabic along the way). In her free time, she enjoys tennis, rock climbing, horseback riding, and in the winter, she heads to the Dolomites to ski.","BioLong":"As an adventure-seeking traveler and Trip Leader, Vicky Sotriffer thrives in new places. She has led trips on nearly every continent for more than 10 years, including sea kayaking trips. Originally from South Tyrol, Italy, Vicky now resides in Ibiza, Spain, and is fluent in a handful of languages. She spends parts of her year in Oman, where she follows her passion for hiking in the country's striking desert environment and diving in the warm waters off the coast (and trying to improve her Arabic along the way). In her free time, she enjoys tennis, rock climbing, horseback riding, and in the winter, she heads to the Dolomites to ski."},{"GuideID":850725,"First_Name":"Daniel","Last_Name":"Windham","BioShort":"Daniel Windham, born in Georgia's foothills, discovered his passion for the mountains at an early age while backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. After moving to northern Italy, becoming a mountain guide, and running a mountain hut with his Italian wife, he returned (via a couple of years in Costa Rica) to his roots, enjoying the outdoor life with his family. Having climbed and guided on some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas and the Americas (notably Mt. Rainier), Dan continues to guide on Aconcagua (Argentina) and for Wilderness Travel in the Alps. He is also an Appalachian Trail Ambassador, which involves regularly running an 89-mile stretch of the trail, as well as community involvement. His goal is to \"give back to the wilderness a little of what it has given me.” Dan speaks English, Spanish, and Italian, and continues his interests in wilderness medicine and cooking.","BioLong":"Daniel Windham, born in Georgia's foothills, discovered his passion for the mountains at an early age while backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. After moving to northern Italy, becoming a mountain guide, and running a mountain hut with his Italian wife, he returned (via a couple of years in Costa Rica) to his roots, enjoying the outdoor life with his family. Having climbed and guided on some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas and the Americas (notably Mt. Rainier), Dan continues to guide on Aconcagua (Argentina) and for Wilderness Travel in the Alps. He is also an Appalachian Trail Ambassador, which involves regularly running an 89-mile stretch of the trail, as well as community involvement. His goal is to \"give back to the wilderness a little of what it has given me.” Dan speaks English, Spanish, and Italian, and continues his interests in wilderness medicine and cooking."},{"GuideID":856389,"First_Name":"Marzia","Last_Name":"Borghi","BioShort":"Marzia Borghi, of Tuscany, spent many years teaching in London, then worked on research projects for the University of Pisa, and later became a certified cultural, art history, and environmental guide in her home country. She has guided hiking and cultural journeys for over 15 years in diverse Italian regions, from in Sardinia to Umbria, as well as specialty trips dedicated to Etruscan civilization and wine culture.\r\n","BioLong":"Marzia Borghi, of Tuscany, spent many years teaching in London, then worked on research projects for the University of Pisa, and later became a certified cultural, art history, and environmental guide in her home country. She has guided hiking and cultural journeys for over 15 years in diverse Italian regions, from in Sardinia to Umbria, as well as specialty trips dedicated to Etruscan civilization and wine culture.\r\n"}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Bill S.","GuestLocation":"Boiling Springs, PA","GuestReview":"The trip was well run, wrinkle-free, everyone well cared for, all expectations met or exceeded... just as we have come to expect from WT."},{"GuestNames":"Carol B.","GuestLocation":"Redwood City, CA","GuestReview":"It's not possible to overstate the food and wines on this trip. I have never experienced anything like this."},{"GuestNames":"Chris R.","GuestLocation":"Denver, CO","GuestReview":"Simply an excellent trip: fun hikes, excellent food, and great chefs."},{"GuestNames":"Diane Y.","GuestLocation":"Gainesville, FL","GuestReview":"We really enjoyed the food adventures, the tours of the cheese places, cooking with the chef, and the art and historical tours. The group of people and guides were terrific as well, adding up to a memorable trip!"},{"GuestNames":"James C.","GuestLocation":"Los Gatos, CA","GuestReview":"A wonderful trip! Great food, good people, and excellent leadership and organization."},{"GuestNames":"Jeanne R.","GuestLocation":"Denver, CO","GuestReview":"Highest quality all around. Beautiful scenery, great walks, amazing food, and superb hotels. A well put together trip with a very nice balance of hiking, cultural activities, and culinary adventures."},{"GuestNames":"John T.","GuestLocation":"Park Ridge, IL","GuestReview":"The trip was great; I would recommend it to anyone. I was surprised at the quantity and quality of the food and wine. I really enjoyed the various food related excursions. It was a great group. Everyone seemed to get along fine. Being a first-time traveler with Wilderness, I was amazed at how many times the other members had traveled with your company—it certainly is a testament to the quality of your trips."},{"GuestNames":"Julie R.","GuestLocation":"Bainbridge Island, WA","GuestReview":"I have taken other 'trips of a lifetime' with WT and this one was no exception! One cannot help but live in the moment on such a wonderful journey. Very well done!"},{"GuestNames":"Karl G.","GuestLocation":"Davis, CA","GuestReview":"The variety of cultural experiences woven in was great—from historical sites to cheese making!"},{"GuestNames":"Martie T.","GuestLocation":"Salinas, CA","GuestReview":"The guides were wonderful, the food was incredible, the hotels first class and the views were beautiful. I would call this adventure ‘over the rainbow!’"},{"GuestNames":"Pam B.","GuestLocation":"Newton Center, MA","GuestReview":"The trip was thoughtfully designed and smoothly executed. We appreciated the lovely and varied hikes, the variety of cultural activities (especially the visits to Guffanti and Antica Corte Pallavicina), the fabulous dining, and the overall atmosphere created by our guides. This was our second WT trip and we are looking forward to more."},{"GuestNames":"Pat L.","GuestLocation":"Sandy Hook, CT","GuestReview":"The trip rates very high. Hikes were varied in level of difficulty, length, location. Hotels were very nice: excellent locations, vistas, food, and amenities. Activities were excellent...castles, cheese, wine, prosciutto—interesting and good choices for the overall experience. Loved meeting Mario in our vineyard tour!"},{"GuestNames":"Rud and Mary Ellen B.","GuestLocation":"Bloomfield Hills, MI","GuestReview":"This was a great trip: good food, wonderful hotels, great guides, scenic hikes. What more could you ask for?"},{"GuestNames":"Virginia H.","GuestLocation":"Frisco, TX","GuestReview":"This trip far exceeded my expectations. It was truly a trip of a lifetime."},{"GuestNames":"William T.","GuestLocation":"Los Angeles, CA","GuestReview":"A fabulous combination of hiking in gorgeous areas and out of this world gourmet food along with cheese producers, wineries, cooking lessons, and fabulous hotels and chateaus. A feast for the eye, nose, and stomach."},{"GuestNames":"Yvonne S.","GuestLocation":"West Chester, PA","GuestReview":"Great food, wine, and hotels!"}],"Extensions":[{}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10291,"Trip_Code":"AMALFI","Trip_Name":"Amalfi and Capri"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10464,"Trip_Code":"ALPEADRIA","Trip_Name":"Hiking the Alpe Adria: Salzburg to Trieste"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10444,"Trip_Code":"PREHISTO","Trip_Name":"Prehistoric Caves and Great Cuisine of France"},{"TripID":10305,"SimilarTripID":10411,"Trip_Code":"TUSCCINQ","Trip_Name":"Tuscany and the Cinque Terre"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73503,"ProductID":84912,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Transfer","Vendor":"Giachino","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Torino","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Transfer","Day":1,"Sequence":0,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":11,"ProductID":54,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Single Supplement","Vendor":"Wilderness Travel","Address1":"1102 Ninth Street","Address2":"","City":"Berkeley","State":"CA","Postal":"94710","Product":"Single Supplement","Day":1,"Sequence":2,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"<p><\/p>","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72733,"ProductID":82561,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Grand Hotel Majestic","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Verbania","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":1,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>Panoramic views of Lake Maggiore stretch far and wide from the historic Grand Hotel Majestic. 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It is a historic former family estate, exceptionally well maintained, with a warm and welcoming staff. The breakfast is amazing, the pool is inviting, and the open-air terrace is the place to be for an aperitif in a fantastic setting.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-relais-mirabella-exterior-patio-view.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73187,"ProductID":83015,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Hotel Casa Scaligeri","Address1":"Via Casello, 2","Address2":"","City":"Sirmione","State":"","Postal":"25019","Product":"Standard Room","Day":7,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>The Casa Scaligeri, set in the heart of the historic center of Sermione, is a renovated 15th century building just a stone's throw from the castle. Guestrooms are simple but modern and comfortable, each with a private balcony overlooking the street. The staff here is particularly welcoming, friendly, and efficient.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/1-casa-scaligeri-outdoor-hotel.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"Adventure","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"","Custom_Welcome_Insurance_Intro":"","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>In order to confirm your space on this trip, we require a first deposit of $600 per person, which is fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure.<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Italy<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:11 --><p><strong>HIKING POLES:<\/strong> If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags. <\/p>","Custom_Daypack":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:04:59 --><p><strong>DAYPACK: <\/strong>To carry a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail. <\/p>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:34 --><p><strong>ARRIVING IN MILAN<\/strong><br \/>You will meet your Trip Leader in the lobby of the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel at 10:00 am on Day 1. The hotel is connected to the airport and easily reachable by train from the center of Milan.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:05:47 --><p><strong>DEPARTING VERONA<\/strong><br \/>On Day 9, we will check out of our hotel in Sirmione and drive into Verona for drop offs at the Verona Porta Nuova Train Station at 10:00 am and the Verona Villafranca Airport at 10:30 am.<\/p><p>It may be possible to fly out earlier, but trip members departing earlier in the morning are responsible for transferring on their own by taxi (this could cost more than €100). Your Trip Leader can assist you with arranging this.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:06:10 --><p>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our local contact (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p><p>We recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whatsapp.com\/\">WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"","Custom_Carry-On":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T18:04:47 --><p><strong>CARRY-ON:<\/strong> Valuable or essential items, such as well broken-in hiking boots, camera equipment, binoculars, prescription medications, and any paperwork required to enter Italy, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage.<\/p>","Custom_name_slug":"northern-italy-lombardy-lakes-culinary-hiking-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"In northern Italy, we enjoy superb hikes in Piemonte, Lombardia, and the Veneto along with wine and cheese tastings, a cooking class, and elegant meals created by some of Italy's most legendary chefs.","Custom_List_Description":"In northern Italy, we enjoy superb hikes in Piemonte, Lombardia, and the Veneto along with wine and cheese tastings, a cooking class, and elegant meals created by some of Italy's most legendary chefs.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Great Hikes & Cuisine of Northern Italy | Active Culinary Tour","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T13:01:25 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date & Time:<\/strong> Day 1, at 9:00 am or anytime prior to Day 1<br \/><br \/><strong>Meeting Place:<\/strong> You will meet your Trip Leader in the lobby of the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel at 10:00 am on Day 1. 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Your Trip Leader can assist you with arranging this taxi.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T13:06:55 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Italy.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip. <\/strong>Once tickets are purchased, please forward a copy of your email flight confirmation from the airline. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_Passport":"","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"","Custom_Money":"","Custom_Tipping":"","Custom_Food":"","Custom_Communications":"","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Reading_List":"","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"","Custom_Luggage":"","Custom_Clothing":"","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"","Custom_Optional_Items":"","Custom_Also_Reccomended":"","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Lombardia, Piemonte, Emilia-Romagna, and the Veneto","Custom_Lodging":"8 nights inns and hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 2 dinners","Custom_Activity":"","Custom_Difficulty":"A mix of moderate walks and hikes, 2-4 hours a day, van support","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>This trip is rated a <strong>Level 2+ (Moderate)<\/strong> according to our trip grading system. While we do not see major elevation gain or loss, you will need to be comfortable hiking 6 miles a day and being on your feet for up to 4 hours a day. Hiking days are varied, with some very light days on flat country paths and some more challenging days. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.<strong><br><\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Average Hiking Day<\/strong><ul><li>4 miles<\/li><li>2-3 hours<\/li><li>300 feet gain\/loss<\/li><\/ul><strong>Challenge Day<\/strong> <ul><li>Day 6: 6 miles, 3.5 hours, 700 feet gain\/loss<\/li><\/ul><\/body>","Custom_Terrain":"Our walks and hikes traverse a variety of terrains, from flat trails alongside a river to paved paths to mountain trails with occasional short, steep sections. You will need to be comfortable hiking on uneven surfaces including downhill over loose scree.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"The weather in northern Italy in May, September, and October ranges from the low-70s\u00b0F during the day to the mid-40s\u00b0F at night, with cool winds and showers possible at any time.","Custom_Accommodations":"We spend our nights in picturesque inns, full of charm and character, and comfortable hotels in exquisite settings. All accommodations are chosen for their local history and central locations. Since they are often in historic buildings, the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.","Custom_Cuisine":"Meals will be taken at the hotels where we are staying or at restaurants in nearby towns. Some of our meals will be at Michelin-starred restaurants with 8-9 courses and may take up to three hours. At those restaurants, it is often difficult to accommodate dietary restrictions other than food allergies. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.","Custom_Transportation":"Our support vehicle will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). 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If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the<\/p>","System_References":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:50:51 --><p>We'd be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us on this trip.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:51:32 --><p>At <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and special WT Expeditions that aren't listed in our catalog. You can also access a complete library of our detailed itineraries and browse the customized reading guides for each of our adventures.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-17T11:00:24 --><p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions -- even if it's just the two of you -- yet still enjoy a guided adventure.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T13:27:44 --><p><strong>COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please double-check COVID-19 entry requirements for any countries you may be traveling to or transiting through, on this website: <a href=\"apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions\">apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions<\/a><\/p>","System_Pre-Trip_Safety":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:37:06 --><p><strong>PRE-TRIP SAFETY:<\/strong> In the next weeks, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy. Please practice social distancing, steer clear of potential COVID-19 exposure, and take an at-home antigen or lab based PCR test before you depart.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_Questions?":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T13:47:31 --><p>Our Area Specialists are you single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about yout trip!<br \/>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-13T09:24:57 --><p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. The Trip Leader for each departure is listed on the "Dates & Prices" tab on our Pilgrim's Way webpage:<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p><\/body>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}