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The Italian Lakes – Gardens & Villas of Como & Maggiore

Italian Lakes 6 nights Price from £3,169 per person
Departs: 03 May 2023, 03 Jun 2023
Departs: 03 May 2023

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One has to go far to find a more perfect and peaceful landscape than the shores of Lake Como, where this tour is based. Tranquil, serene and timeless, the mountains that fringe the crystal waters provide a dramatic backdrop as do the countless pristine villas that stretch up the hillsides from the lake shores. These villas that have been built over the centuries by wealthy Milanese families have superb gardens which we will visit during the tour. A visit to the shores of Lake Maggiore, quite different in atmosphere from Lake Como, completes this discovery of one of the most beautiful regions of Italy.


 

What's included

...when you travel with Kirker

  • Return flights
  • Six nights’ accommodation with breakfast
  • Two dinners
  • Three lunches including one at Villa D'Este
  • All entrances fees and gratuities as described
  • The services of a Kirker Tour Lecturer

Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Arriving at the Lakeside Town of Como

    We fly from Heathrow to Milan before transferring to the lakeside town of Como where we stay at the 4 star Hotel Terminus for the duration of the tour. The Terminus is a small, privately-owned hotel located in the heart of the town. A 19th century property in Art Nouveau style, it has been recently refurbished and has a large hall with a painted ceiling. The attractive bar leads on to a terrace with views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
  • Day 2 - Visiting Como and Bellagio

    After a morning walking tour of Como, we travel by hydrofoil to Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of the lake’. At the Villa Melzi exotic species thrive in the warm climate – the garden is renowned in spring time for its riotous display of azaleas.
  • Day 3 - Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello

    We drive to Villa Carlotta which was built in the 17th century and spreads over 14 acres that tumble down to the water’s edge. We then take a private boat to Villa Balbianello which sits on a promontory in an impossibly romantic setting.
  • Day 4 - Lake Maggiore

    We spend the day at Stresa, the principal town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. We will visit the beautiful Borromean Islands by boat and at Isola Bella will explore a magnificent palace surrounded by terraced gardens. At Isola Madre, we see brightly coloured annuals and other exotic species flourishing around a romantic unfinished villa. Lunch is included today.
  • Day 5 - Villa Cicogna and Villa della Porta Bozzolo

    Today we visit two stately villas with elegant interiors and formal gardens. First is the Villa Cicogna which is still owned and lived in by the ancestors of the family who built it in the 15th century. Our second garden is at the Villa della Porta Bozzolo. It clings to a steep hill leading from the centre of the village of Casalzuigno. Lunch at the Villa Cicogna is included.
  • Day 6 - Visiting Cernobio

    We will take the ferry the short distance to Cernobio where we’ll enjoy lunch at the fabulous Villa D’Este, one of the finest hotels in Italy. The afternoon is free for independent exploration; ferries depart from close to the hotel to numerous towns.
  • Day 7 - Departure Day and Monza Cathedral

    On our way to the airport we will visit Monza Cathedral to see the famous Iron Crown of Lombardy used at the coronation of the Holy Roman Emperor, Henry VII in 1312.

Flight Details

Flights with British Airways:

May Departure:

Depart London Heathrow at 10.40 arrive Milan (Malpensa) at 13.50
Depart Milan (Linate) at 14.15 arrive London Heathrow at 15.15

June Departure:

Depart London Heathrow at 10.15 arrive Milan (Linate) at 13.15 ( We will do Monza first )
Depart Milan (Malpensa)  at 13.25 arrive London Heathrow at 14.30

Departure Dates and Prices

03 May 2023

Status Limited

Price from£3169

Single Supp.£780

Call 020 7593 2284

03 Jun 2023

Status Limited

Price from£3169

Single Supp.£780

Call 020 7593 2284

Included Hotels

Hotel

Albergo Terminus, Como
Superior
Lake Como, Italy, Italian Lakes, Europe

A delightful, small, privately-owned property located in the heart of the fine town of Como. Ferries depart from close by to all parts of the lake making this an excellent place to stay for those looking to explore.

Charlie Hall

Charlie Hall

Tour Leader

More Info
Christopher Monckton

Christopher Monckton

Tour Leader

More Info

Recent Testimonials

Villa Cicogna

By Mr & Mrs L, Buckinghamshire, 15 August 2017

We thoroughly enjoyed the Villa Cicogna visit. Excellent information from the family member and a most delicious lunch. 

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