Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes 603
Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes 603
Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes 603
8 Days Starting and ending in London, UK
Visiting: Lake Maggiore, Verbania, Borromean Islands, Como, Bellagio, Lake Como
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BLSG
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 25
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an enchanting journey through the Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes, where nature and history intertwine in breathtaking harmony. This tour invites you to explore the private garden of the President of the Italian Camellia Society and enjoy a private tour of Villa Cicogna Mozzoni with its owner. Discover the opulence of the Borromean Islands, with their baroque palaces and terraced gardens, and revel in the stunning vistas of lakes and mountains at every turn. From the botanical wonders of Villa Taranto to the serene beauty of Lake Como's Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello, each day offers a new delight. With comfortable accommodations and the expertise of a professional tour manager, this is a perfect escape for garden and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
We depart from London to Milan. On arrival we continue by comfortable coach to our base for the next four nights, the Grand Majestic Hotel, Pallanza, Verbania. Pallanza’s lakefront is one of the finest on Lake Maggiore; a walk along its promenade with the lake and the Borromean Islands on one side and colourful facades, flowered balconies and cafés on the other is a most agreeable experience.
Lunch is served on arrival.
A welcome drink will be served in the evening followed by dinner.
Day 2
Location: Verbania
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We start at a leisurely pace with a visit to the gardens of Villa Taranto. Flourishing with rare botanical examples, the early 20th century concept of a garden as both an aesthetic experience and a scientific adventure reaches its height of perfection in the grounds of Villa Taranto. In 1931, Captain Neil McEachern, a Scotsman from Galloway, bought the estate through an advertisement which appeared in the Times with the intention of creating an English-style garden where he could grow plants from all over the world, to delight the eye and satisfy the curiosity of the horticulturalist. Today you can appreciate a very important botanical collection with a wide range of plants. Captain McEachern is buried in the grounds which are a true testament to his dedication, continual work and great love of nature.
In the afternoon we travel the short distance to visit the most remarkable wholesale nursery business in the Italian Lake District – that of Compagnia Del Lago. This is a fascinating wholesale producer of azaleas, camellias, rhododendron and other plant species successfully grown for the Italian Lakeland gardens. There is an amazing selection of wonderful plants over a space of 30 hectares of polytunnels and greenhouses. Nice to see, nicer to treat yourself. Plants can be purchased but must be delivered by mail order.
Later in the afternoon, we return to the hotel where dinner is served in the evening.
Day 3
Location: Borromean Islands
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, after breakfast, we spend a full day exploring the famous Borromean islands. We start with a cruise from Stresa to Isola Bella to see the vast baroque palace built from the island’s rock and surrounded by terraced gardens that were inspired by the ‘Hanging Gardens of Babylon’. Our visit will reveal the magnificent palace, which was constructed in the 17th century by Carlo III of the House of Borromeo and was the scene of sumptuous and lavish parties, attended by the cream of European nobility. Out into the gardens, we find an ornate parterre with low box hedges and brilliantly coloured flowers, a pond adorned with blue and pink water lilies and lush plantings of oranges, grapefruits, orchids and more.
We then continue to Isola Pescatori, the ‘island of fishermen’, with its narrow cobbled streets and pretty harbour. The island was thought to be first inhabited in the 10th century and there are now approximately 50 residents. The church on the island is worth a visit and there is a good choice of restaurants and snack-bars for lunch (not included).
Our final visit is to Isola Madre, which in contrast to Isola Bella has a simple, unspoilt aspect, where tropical and Mediterranean plants, citrus fruits, crape myrtle, hibiscus, bougainvillea, protea and agaves all flourish. The English romantic feel is due to re-working of the former Renaissance terraced gardens. Woods of native trees – aromatic cypress, bay and pine – allow for shaded and fragrant walks past gardenias, azaleas, and camellias and the story of the salvage of the ancient Himalayan cypress is an inspiration to all.
We later return to our hotel where dinner will be served.
Day 4
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac
Today, following breakfast, we start with a real treat by visiting the private garden of the President of the Italian Camellia Society. The site is above the shores of Lake Maggiore surrounded by mountains and facing the south east. Since the 1950s due to the combination of acid ground, a mild climate and frequent rainfall the garden has housed a remarkable collection of camellias, developed with great passion by Antonio Sevesi, the founder of the Italian Society of Camellias and the current President. The camellia collection includes 500 plants and 318 cultivars. The garden, of course, is in full bloom in spring but is a delight to visit at any time of the year. Lunch is included here
Following our visit we have some free time in Stresa, before continuing to Villa Pallavicino, which overlooks one of the most charming parts of Lake Maggiore. Built in the grounds of an immense park, with chestnut woods growing alongside rare exotic plants, the villa is a stunning example of mid eighteenth-century architecture, a style which flourished around the lake and the islands. Originally conceived by the Neapolitan Statesman Ruggero Bonghi, the Villa was bought in 1862 by the Marquis Ludovico Pallavicino of Genova who enlarged the grounds. In 1952 his wife the Marquess created a zoological garden which is still one of the most interesting attractions of the area – nearly all the animals wander freely in the grounds. Ornate ponds, greenhouses with rare exotic plants, various architectural styles and a charming tiny Swiss-style chalet complete this idyllic spot.
Returning to Lake Maggiore, dinner will be served at the hotel in the evening.
Day 5
Location: Como
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, following breakfast and hotel check out, we will head for Villa Cicogna Mozzoni, situated in what were ancient hunting grounds for the nobility, in the foothills between Varese and Lake Lugano. Here we will be privileged to enjoy a private guided tour with the owner. The garden was established by Ascanio Mozzoni, a man of great culture who from his travels, including to Rome, brought back ideas for the arrangement of his garden over seven levels. In 1580 his only daughter was married to Giovan Pietro Cicogna, through whose descendants we arrive at today’s owners. The most pleasant characteristic of the villa, apart from its surprisingly intact frescoes, is its merging with the garden. A two-flight stairway with a brook running in between leads directly to the halls of the Villa. The walled garden is a typical example of formal Italian garden with box hedges, water basins, fountains and a grotto. The visit raises the “who” and “how” questions relative to the conservation of historic buildings and should prove to be most illuminating.
We continue to the town of Como where we will check into our lakeside hotel, the Barchetta Excelsior for the next three nights. The hotel is situated in the heart of Como and is only accessible on foot or by horse-drawn carts.
Dinner is served in the hotel in the evening.
Day 6
Location: Bellagio
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we have a free day for you to shop and sightsee at leisure. It is very easy to hop on board one of the many ferries or hydrofoils which go to Bellagio where you may have lunch and visit the Villa Melzi d’Eril (admission not included). Our guide will be on hand to assist.
Day 7
Location: Lake Como
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we travel along the motorways and lake shore roads for an enchanting day on Lake Como, so similar and yet so different from its larger neighbour, Maggiore. On arrival in Tremezzo we will have time to enjoy the elegant 18th century Villa Carlotta, where, in the spring, azaleas and rhododendrons burst into a simply dazzling display. Around the house the layout is formal with lemon arbours on the terraces and tall camellia hedges while further away from the villa we will discover a relaxed English-style garden in the woodland, dotted with unusual trees. Imaginative planting includes twining climbers, jasmine and roses while in the more natural garden a dell of tree ferns, palms, eucalyptus, Japanese maples and cactus reveal the microclimatic conditions with banana and flowering orchids creating an exotic semi-tropical jungle effect. The house itself has its own story to tell, full of neo-classical art treasures including paintings by Hayez and sculptures by Canova.
After our visit to Villa Carlotta, we will have a relaxing break in Tremezzo. We then catch the ferry to visit the Villa Balbianello on the Lavedo point which, combined with the romantic arrival at the water gates landing stage, turns the expedition into an Arcadian delight. Remote from lakeside tourism, in a sylvan setting of pine, soaring cypress and oak, with pollarded plane trees, manicured lawns and flowerbeds, the garden is maintained to an exceptionally high standard by the Italian National trust or FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano). With unparalleled views down the three branches of the lake and fronting the promontory of Serbelloni, the first villa was built in 1540, but was later moved to a new site inland to protect it from flooding.
Later we return to the mainland and our hotel where dinner is served in the evening
Day 8
Location: Lake Como
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast today we must check-out of the hotel. We return to the airport in time for our return flight to London, where the group will disperse or make onward connections.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included throughout the tour.
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Services of a professional tour manager
The services of a professional tour manager are included.
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Comfortable coach travel throughout
Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.
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Meals - as per the itinerary
Meals are included as per the itinerary.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
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Lunch on Day 3
Lunch on Day 3 is not included.
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Admission to Villa Melzi d’Eril
Admission to Villa Melzi d’Eril is not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with coach transfers throughout the tour, including a cruise to explore the Borromean Islands, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through the picturesque Italian Lake District.
Accommodation
Stay at the elegant Hotel Milan Speranza Au Lac in Pallanza, Verbania, and the lakeside Hotel Barchetta Excelsior in Como, offering comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the Italian lakes and mountains.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of experience can I expect at Villa Taranto?
At Villa Taranto, you can expect a leisurely visit to gardens that are both an aesthetic experience and a scientific adventure. The gardens were created by Captain Neil McEachern, who intended to grow plants from all over the world. The grounds house a significant botanical collection, and Captain McEachern is buried there, reflecting his dedication and love for nature.
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What is special about the Borromean Islands visit?
The visit to the Borromean Islands includes a cruise to Isola Bella, where you will see a vast baroque palace surrounded by terraced gardens inspired by the 'Hanging Gardens of Babylon'. The tour also includes Isola Pescatori, known for its narrow cobbled streets and pretty harbor, and Isola Madre, which features a simple, unspoilt aspect with tropical and Mediterranean plants.
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What can I expect from the private garden of the President of the Italian Camellia Society?
The private garden of the President of the Italian Camellia Society is located above the shores of Lake Maggiore and features a remarkable collection of camellias. The garden is developed with great passion and includes 500 plants and 318 cultivars, making it a delight to visit at any time of the year.
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What is unique about Villa Cicogna Mozzoni?
Villa Cicogna Mozzoni is unique for its merging with the garden, featuring a two-flight stairway with a brook running in between that leads directly to the halls of the Villa. The garden is a typical example of a formal Italian garden with box hedges, water basins, fountains, and a grotto. The villa's history and conservation efforts are also highlighted during the private guided tour with the owner.
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What activities are available on the free day in Como?
On the free day in Como, you have the opportunity to shop and sightsee at your leisure. You can easily take a ferry or hydrofoil to Bellagio, where you may have lunch and visit the Villa Melzi d’Eril. The guide will be available to assist you with your plans.
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What can I see at Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello?
At Villa Carlotta, you can see a dazzling display of azaleas and rhododendrons, formal gardens with lemon arbours, and a relaxed English-style garden with exotic plants. Villa Balbianello offers a romantic arrival at the water gates landing stage, with gardens maintained to a high standard by the Italian National Trust, featuring unparalleled views and a sylvan setting.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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