Why choose this tour?
Ideal for art and nature lovers, this tour is a journey through the hidden gems of the Tuscia area: you’ll discover medieval quartiers untouched by time, tiny hamlets on the slopes of the mountains and ancient mansions where nature becomes art
DAY 1: Viterbo
Morning transfer to Viterbo. Lunch based on typical products in a restaurant of the area.
Guided visit of Viterbo during the afternoon. The historical center of the town, named San Pellegrino, is one of the most characteristic and well preserved in Italy: a real example of a typical medieval town. The visit goes along picturesque alleys to reach the Palazzo Papale (Pope’s palace): built in medieval Gothic style, it is characterised by a loggia with seven arches. For centuries, it was the residence of the Pope.
At the end of the visit, transfer to the hotel, dinner and overnight accommodation.
DAY 2: Vitorchiano, Villa Lante and Farnese Palace
In the morning, guided visit of Vitorchiano, which has its roots in Etruscan times. Its history is full of disputes against Rome and Viterbo for its independence, until, spontaneously, in the Middle Ages, it swore a solemn submission to Rome.
In the late morning, guided tour of Villa Lante. The Villa is embellished by dainty fountains, decorated tanks, water games and statues made of “peperino”, the typical stone of the area.
At the end of the visit, free time to have lunch in a restaurant of the area.
Departure for Caprarola for a guided visit of Palazzo Farnese.
Rich in frescoes and surrounded by Italian gardens, it was founded as a fortress in a pentagonal structure, which was then skilfully turned into a majestic 16th century residence for Alessandro Farnese, the nephew of Pope Paolo III. Inside there is the charming Scala Regia, a wonderful spiral staircase resting on 30 Doric columns. The steps are so large that the stairs can be climbed on horseback!
Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 3: Boat Tour on Lake Bolsena, Marta, Bolsena and Olive Oil Mill
Breakfast and departure for Capodimonte, a small village perched on the shores of Lake Bolsena. Here the group will enjoy a guided excursion by boat. A panoramic tour with historical notes and curiosities about the towns that overlook the lake, as well as the Bisentina Island and the Martana Island. The islands, first owned by the lords of Bisenzio, then by the Farnese and the Papal State, were disputed for centuries.
In the late morning, guided visit of Marta, a tiny village of fishermen. The center of this village lies on a hill where, in 1260, Pope Urbano IV built a clock tower overlooking the lake. The houses built into the tuff, the external stairways and the narrow lanes make this center unique and enchanting. The group can also enjoy a walk along the shoreline, where at the end of the fishing day, the fishermen arrange their boats and stretch their nets out in the sun.
At the end of the visit, free time to have lunch in a restaurant of the area.
Guided visit of Bolsena during the afternoon, a picturesque village overlooking the Lake, whose origins date back to the 3rd century BC. The tour will include a guided visit of the catacombs in the Basilica of Santa Cristina, which dates back to 4th century AD. The catacombs consist of a labyrinth of corridors carved in the rock of the mountain. This cathedral/sanctuary was a stage for pilgrims on the route of the ancient Via Francigena to Rome. Two major events marked this place that has its roots in Christianity: the martyrdom of Santa Cristina and the Eucharistic Miracle of 1263, both tangible signs of Christ’s work on humans.
In the late afternoon, visit of a traditional olive oil mill. Guest will be shown the whole milling process, at the end of which a tasting of oils and “bruschette” will be provided.
Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
We don’t want our guests to leave without a tasty souvenir of this trip: that is why a gastronomic lottery of typical Italian cold cuts will be offered during the last dinner together, as well as a parting gift: a bottle of high quality local extra virgin olive oil.
DAY 4: Civita di Bagnregio
Breakfast and departure for Civita di Bagnoregio for a guided tour of the village. Because the mountain where the village was built is endlessly eroding, it is also known as “The Dying Town”. Civita is now submerged in the fabulous setting of the “Calanchi”, an area which guards cultures, ancient traditions and the amazing landscape of the village.
Lunch based on local products in a restaurant of the area.
Return home.
