Day 1: We make our way through France and into Germany for our overnight stay in Saarbrücken.
Day 2: Departing after breakfast we arrive at the delightful Hotel Paganella and enjoy a welcome drink before freshening up in time for dinner.
Day 3: Today, our wonderful hotelier, Fausto, will play host and take us out for a gentle walk around this friendly village. We enjoy a picnic with great company, food and wine... it’s time to switch off, unwind and immerse yourself in the relaxed ‘Paganella way of life’, taking in the panoramic backdrop of the majestic mountains.
Day 4: Today we travel to Merano, akin to a scene from the ‘Sound of Music’ and one of Italy’s best kept secrets. This vibrant spa town, only a few miles from the Austrian border, is idyllically nestled between the Dolomites with a backdrop of snow-covered peaks and paths lined with palm trees. This stunning town is characterised by spacious parks, easy walking routes, botanical gardens and waterways. The town centre abounds with shops, restaurants and cafés oozing with delicious local delicacies. Try out some mouth-watering ‘speck’ in a local stube or tempt yourself with ‘sachertorte’ in one of the pastry shops! For a birds’ eye view of the city, take the chairlift up to the panoramic viewpoint. In the afternoon, we head to the historic winery of Kettmeir, nestled amongst the vineyards of Alto Adige, where we enjoy a tour and tasting of three top quality wines – South Tyrolean wines are so good they don’t export much as they prefer to keep it for themselves!
Day 5: Today we enjoy a spectacular drive, taking in the dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape in this most beautiful area of the Italian Alps. Driving north towards Moena, based in the heart of the Dolomites, we then ascend towards the vibrant town of Canazei. From here it’s just a short drive to the ‘Sella Pass’, an incredible viewing platform, from where we can enjoy lunch and appreciate the amazing 360 degree panoramic views across the Dolomites’ striking jagged peaks. We continue down into the alluring Val Gardena, a historic valley known for its wood making traditions and unique and ancient language, Ladin, which is only spoken here. Enjoy a break in the picturesque village of Ortisei and relax in the sun, taking in the idyllic scenery over a delicious plate of strudel, or perhaps shop for one of the other local specialities – handmade cuckoo clocks!
Day 6: Our journey this morning takes us past the lesser known and incredibly scenic Lake Molveno, with deep blue glistening water, surrounded by forests and mountains. From here we enjoy a relaxing journey taking us through to the back of Lake Garda arriving at the popular resort of Riva del Garda. Located on the northern tip of the lake with a Mediterranean climate, crystalline waters, wide sunny beaches and lemon and olive trees, it’s a picture perfect destination. There will be plenty of time to explore the piazzas and lakeside promenade which are lined with traditional restaurants, pizzerias and delicious gelaterias. With its pretty baroque buildings, works of art and architecture it’s no wonder poets and artists have been inspired here for centuries.
Day 7: After a delicious breakfast we say Arriverderci to our wonderful hosts and begin our return journey, making an overnight stop in Saarbrucken.
Day 8: After breakfast we continue our journey home.