Tour Details
This thirteen-day journey through northern Italy explores the landscapes and cultures that sit at the meeting point of the Italian and Alpine worlds. Beginning in Trento and continuing through the Dolomites to Castelrotto, Merano and the northern shores of Lake Garda, the itinerary moves through a sequence of mountain valleys, historic towns and lakeside settings, each with its own distinct character.
As the journey unfolds, there is a gradual shift in both landscape and atmosphere—from vineyard-covered hills and Renaissance cities to high alpine meadows and quieter mountain communities. Along the way, time is spent not only visiting key sites, but also experiencing the region through its food, local traditions and the rhythms of daily life. The pace allows for a balance of guided visits and time at leisure, making it possible to take in the setting without feeling rushed.
Tour Dates and Prices
- 7 – 19 June 2027
- 6 – 18 September 2027 – limited availability
$10,450 AUD per person (twin or double share)
$11,850 AUD per person (solo traveller)
Accommodation
- Trento – Hotel America
- Castelrotto – Hotel Lamm
- Merano – Hotel Meranerhof
- Riva del Garda – Hotel Bellavista
Rooms may vary in size, layout and outlook, particularly in historic or alpine-style properties. Final hotel selections are confirmed prior to departure, and where necessary, similar properties of an equivalent standard may be used.
What’s Included
- Twelve nights’ accommodation in well-located hotels
- Daily breakfast
- A selection of lunches and dinners featuring regional cuisine
- Wine (or non-alcoholic alternative) with included meals
- Private transport throughout the tour
- Entry fees to all listed sites
- Local guides at key locations
- Group transfers at the start and end of the tour
- Experienced tour leader
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Local city taxes
- Meals not specified
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
Additional Information
The tour requires a moderate level of fitness, including walking on uneven terrain and at a steady pace.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers.
- Spend time in Trento and visit Castel Buonconsiglio and its medieval frescoes
- Visit Lake Molveno and enjoy a tasting of regional wines
- Stay in Castelrotto and travel to Alpe di Siusi
- Experience Ladin culture in Alta Badia
- Explore Bolzano and visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology
- Visit the Abbey of St John in Müstair
- Explore Castel Thun in the Val di Non
- Visit local producers including a winery and olive oil estate
- Enjoy time on Lake Garda with a boat excursion
Day 1 - Arrival in Trento
The journey begins in Trento, a historic city at the foothills of the mountains. A group transfer is provided from Verona in the afternoon.
After time to settle in, we gather in the evening for an aperitivo and a welcome dinner. Trento has long been a meeting point between Italian and Germanic cultures, evident in its architecture, food, and atmosphere.
Overnight: Trento
Day 2 - Exploring Trento
This morning we explore the city with a local guide. Once ruled by powerful prince-bishops, Trento became an important cultural centre during the Renaissance.
We visit Castel Buonconsiglio, a large fortified complex overlooking the town. Inside, the Torre dell’Aquila houses the well-known “Cycle of the Months” frescoes, offering a detailed glimpse into medieval life. The afternoon is free to continue exploring or relax in the historic centre.
Overnight: Trento
Day 3 - Lake Molveno and wine tasting
Leaving the city behind, we travel to Lake Molveno, set beneath alpine peaks and known for its clear waters and quiet setting. There is time for a short walk along the lakeshore before continuing to a local cantina.
Here we enjoy a relaxed tasting and lunch, with an introduction to regional wines such as Nosiola and Teroldego. These early days provide a gentle introduction to the food and landscapes of Trentino.
Overnight: Trento
Day 4 - Into the Dolomites
We depart Trento and travel through the Val di Cembra, where terraced vineyards line the slopes. Along the way, we stop in Moena to visit a local cheese producer and enjoy a light tasting.
By mid-afternoon, we arrive in Castelrotto, a small alpine town surrounded by dramatic peaks, which will be our base for the next three nights.
Overnight: Castelrotto
Day 5 - Alpe di Siusi
Today we travel by cable car to Alpe di Siusi, a wide alpine plateau set against a backdrop of rugged peaks.
A gentle walk across the meadow offers time to take in the landscape, followed by a relaxed lunch at a mountain hut. The afternoon is free to explore Castelrotto, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the town's atmosphere.
Overnight: Castelrotto
Day 6 - Ladin culture and Alta Badia
We explore the Ladin valleys, where local traditions and language remain an important part of daily life.
A visit to Castel Tor introduces the region's history, followed by a long lunch at a working farm in Alta Badia. The cuisine reflects a blend of Alpine, Austrian, and Italian influences, shaped by the area's geography.
Overnight: Castelrotto
Day 7 - Bolzano and Merano
Travelling west, we stop in Bolzano for a guided walk through its historic centre, where medieval arcades and Tyrolean architecture create a distinctive setting.
We also visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Ötzi, the well-preserved prehistoric figure discovered in the nearby mountains. Later in the day, we continue to Merano.
Overnight: Merano
Day 8 - Merano
With a local guide, we explore Merano, a former spa town known for its promenades, gardens and historic buildings.
The afternoon is at leisure. You may choose to visit the thermal baths, walk along the Tappeiner promenade or simply enjoy the relaxed pace of the town.
Overnight: Merano
Day 9 - Val Venosta and Müstair
Today we travel into the Val Venosta, stopping in the walled town of Glorenza before continuing across the Swiss border.
We visit the Abbey of St John in Müstair, a peaceful Benedictine complex known for its early medieval frescoes. After time to explore, we return to Merano in the afternoon.
Overnight: Merano
Day 10 - Val di Non and Lake Garda
Leaving Merano, we travel south through the Val di Non, an area known for its apple orchards.
We visit Castel Thun, a well-preserved castle offering insight into noble life in the region, before continuing to Riva del Garda, located at the northern end of the lake.
Overnight: Riva del Garda
Day 11 - Vallagarina and local producers
Today focuses on the food and wine of the region. We follow the Adige River through the Vallagarina Valley to visit a local winery, where we enjoy a tasting and lunch.
Later, we visit a small olive producer near Arco, learning about traditional methods and sampling the oils produced in this northern part of Italy.
Overnight: Riva del Garda
Day 12 - Lake Garda
We explore Lake Garda by boat, taking in the changing views of cliffs, villages and terraced hillsides from the water.
Stops include Limone and Malcesine, where there is time to walk through the towns or relax by the lake. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner.
Overnight: Riva del Garda
Day 13 - Departure
A group transfer is provided to Verona train station or airport for onward travel.
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