You, too, are aware that in Italy there are well-known destinations like Rome, Venice, and Florence, and when you plan a trip to the Beautiful Country, these are usually the first to be chosen. Yet, if you want a journey to discover authentic Italy, one of the Italians, these might not be the best choices. And if you desire an active vacation, to explore the Beautiful Country differently, it’s challenging to organize it all by yourself on the internet. The result could be nothing but a mundane or artificial experience.
How do you feel when participating in guided tours where you are just a passive spectator? While the guide speaks, it feels like listening to a recorder, you don’t feel involved at all, and after a few minutes, your mind is already wandering elsewhere. You look around and feel like a stranger to the place you are visiting. Visiting Italy’s classic destinations with large groups leads you to disregard your timing, your spaces, and your needs.
Do you like the idea of crossing Italy from North to South to discover the many facets of this land, personally getting to know the skills of artisans and farmers who use their hands to create masterpieces, visiting unknown places using biking, trekking, and other environmentally friendly modes that rejuvenate you? It’s a pity it’s always so difficult to find reliable information and be sure to find people who can guide you with professionalism and passion. And in the end, you always ask yourself the same question: will it be a truly authentic experience?
Imagine immersing yourself in the Italian lifestyle, crossing Italy from North to South, in the company of a few like-minded people, accompanied by experienced guides who will be Your Virgil. Imagine discovering hidden and exclusive corners, and unknown places, but also experiencing well-known destinations like Venice and the Dolomites differently. Stroll on the Mont Blanc glacier and observe the reflection of light; cycle to explore vineyards and small UNESCO World Heritage cellars. Raft down the Dora Baltea as adrenaline takes over your body while enjoying one of Italy’s most interesting river landscapes.
Imagine having an aperitivo in the Dolomites after exploring one of the most exciting routes in the world with a precious guide. Discover a hidden Venice, made of ancient arts, traditional cuisine, and identity-bearing vineyards. Experience creating glass beads, and wooden artefacts under the watchful eyes of passionate artisans. Challenge your senses to taste real Italian cuisine, from the flavours and scents of the North to the essence and unique taste of the South.
You can already sense the feeling you will experience in getting to know the people living in Italy. They will accompany you along your journey, opening their workshops and homes so that you become part of their lives. They are authentic Italians who love their places and want you to fall in love with them too.
Embark on a journey that will lead you to experience the true essence of a country rich in history, nature, and culture. You will immerse yourself in an experience that goes beyond a simple trip—it is a deep exploration of authentic Italian beauty, from the majestic peaks of the North to the refined mastery of the Italian arts, and finally to the strong sensations of the South. You will witness changing landscapes, evolving traditions, and intertwining stories as you learn and become a part of this country.
Begin your adventure in Italy with a myriad of landscapes, starting from the north to capture every detail of this country and fully savour its flavour. Enter the heart of the Italian Alps, where imposing snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and green valleys reveal a picturesque panorama. Following ancient paths trodden by the first inhabitants of these places, you will experience sensations, scents, and flavors, and learn ancient crafts, becoming custodians and advocates of the traditions of this land. With a wide variety of visits and experiential workshops, you will immerse yourself in the atmosphere of its landscapes, stories, and people, to live and continue to be moved by them.
As you move away from the captivating blend of ancient Roman greatness and the mysterious, majestic mountains, a new chapter unfolds, inviting you to the heart of the Veneto, the Land of Venice. Here, the landscape transforms into an elegant picture of gentle hills, green vineyards, and lively art cities that preserve the refined mastery of Italy.
Descend further down the peninsula to discover Italy of strong flavours, volcanoes, salt, and sunny landscapes. A vibrant and untouched land where the shadows of time still project among the hills. A silent mother who has cradled, in the heart of Sicily, legends of gods and ancient crafts, preserving the mysteries of great civilizations intact.
Let this generous land gift you with the enveloping flavours of its fruits and cuisine, the shade of its olive trees sheltering from the sun, and the rugged hills hosting perched villages. Be welcomed by the genuine saltiness of the inhabitants of these places, vestals of the oldest Sicilian tradition who proudly embrace those who want to be a part of it.
For this journey, you are free to choose the departure date.
Send us your request, indicating the period in which you want to take your trip, and we will confirm the available accommodation facilities and the personalized quote*.
(*) See our basic proposal and the special promotion we have reserved for you immediately.
Transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport to Aosta
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Aosta (or nearby)
Glacier of Mont Blanc Guided Hike
Embark on a thrilling glacier trek in complete safety. Experience the excitement of adventure as you explore the hidden corners of the glacier, guided by your expert and knowledgeable instructor. Feel the adrenaline rush through your veins as you ascend to breathtaking viewpoints, where you’ll witness the panoramic beauty of the valley stretching at your feet and the majestic peak of Mont Blanc rising on the horizon, Europe’s highest mountain. Gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of nature and the significance of these frozen giants. As you traverse the frozen expanse of the glacier, imagine the centuries of erosion that have sculpted this natural masterpiece. Feel the freshness of the ice under your boots as you glide effortlessly on the glacier, marvelling at the intricate formations and crevasses that adorn the ice.
High Altitude Wine Tasting at Cave De Mont Blanc
Discover an exceptional wine-tasting journey at Cave de Mont Blanc, the highest-altitude winery in Europe. Located amidst the majestic Italian Alps, this renowned winery offers a unique immersion into the world of fine wines. Transport your senses to the pinnacle of high-altitude winemaking. Embark on a journey through the esteemed cellar’s collection, including its exceptional sparkling wine made from grapes that embody the indomitable spirit of alpine guides who have crossed the perilous Mont Blanc massif for centuries.
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Aosta (or nearby)
Aosta: A Roman Treasure Amongst the Alpine Peaks
Under the watchful gaze of the majestic Italian Alps, standing as silent guardians of the valley, Aosta unveils a captivating landscape where the grandeur of nature intertwines with the history of humanity. Nicknamed the “Rome of the Alps,” this enchanting city hosts an extraordinary collection of Roman ruins, surpassed only by Rome itself. Immerse yourself in the past and let it transport you to a world where emperors and gladiators once walked, where echoes of ancient Rome blend with the vibrant rhythms of contemporary Italy. As you stroll along the narrow cobbled streets adorned with lively flowerpots and picturesque shops, you will feel the heartbeat of Italian life. Enjoy local delights, savour the rich flavours of the cuisine, and let the warm hospitality of the locals embrace you.
Dinner at a selected local restaurant
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Aosta (or nearby)
Rafting on the Dora Baltea River
A perfect balance of adrenaline and natural landscapes awaits on the rafting journey along the Dora Baltea River, an ideal experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Glide through turbulent waters surrounded by majestic Alpine scenery. This activity allows you to experience the thrill of the river even if you don’t yet possess the necessary technical skills. There will be a guide accompanying and leading you along the entire route, showcasing the beauty of the river and this sport. Venture aboard an inflatable raft and tackle the river’s currents, where excitement and adrenaline will accompany you at every turn. Feel the power of the water as you navigate the rocks and savour the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Free afternoon
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Aosta (or nearby)
Visit to the Castles of the Valley
Explore the interiors of their weathered walls and uncover tales of chivalry, intrigue, and the enduring spirit of a bygone era. Let your imagination run wild as you navigate labyrinthine corridors, hidden chambers, and breathtaking vistas that stretch along the valley.
Experiential Cheese and Mountain Wine Tasting
The Valle d’Aosta has been home to a rich tradition of cheese production, a practice passed down through generations, harnessing the unique conditions of the Alpine environment. These mountains lovingly nurture herds with rich pastures, producing nutritious milk that is then transformed into flavorful Fontina cheese, which patiently matures in long rows.
The Valle d’Aosta also has a long winemaking tradition, and as in all “challenging” territories, hard work bears good fruit. Strolling among the vineyards accompanied by the winemaker is always an evocative experience that provides the opportunity to delve into the finer details of the world of wine. Once in the cellar, you can immerse yourself in an exciting sensory experience that will make you appreciate the myriad nuances of aromas and flavours that emerge from the grapes of the Valle d’Aosta’s native varieties.
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Aosta (or nearby)
Transfer from Aosta to the Dolomites
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Cadore-Dolomiti (or nearby)
Excursion to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (UNESCO)
Embark on the adventure of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, where imposing peaks rise like majestic guardians among the Dolomites, revealing their best profile only to adventurous hearts aspiring to touch the sky. These iconic peaks have long been revered as symbols of the natural splendour of the region, captivating adventurers and artists over the centuries. As you ascend along well-maintained trails, marvel at the distinctive pink colour of the peaks, known as “enrosadira”. This charming colour emerges from the unique composition of the Dolomitic rock, rich in calcium carbonate and magnesium. Imagine a time when these peaks were submerged beneath the Tethys Sea, teeming with prehistoric creatures. Embedded in the very stones you are treading, their fossilised remains whisper tales of this ancient marine world.
Aperitif at Lake Misurina
After the enjoyable effort of the hike, the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, casting a warm light on the Dolomites. Soothe your limbs with an aperitif on the enchanting shores of Lake Misurina. Delight your palate with a selection of regional delicacies and spritz. The gentle lapping of the waves against the shore provides a harmonious backdrop to your aperitif experience, while the Tre Cime di Lavaredo outline their majestic silhouettes against the twilight sky.
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Cadore-Dolomites.
Bicycle Tour Through the Prosecco Hills
Discover the enchanting essence of the Prosecco land as you pedal through a symphony of vineyards, gentle hills, and charming villages. The gentle hum of bicycle wheels blends seamlessly with the tranquil rhythm of the area, where the sun and the scent of ripe grapes fill the air. These sun-kissed vineyards are the source of the renowned Prosecco Superiore DOCG. A captivating place that beckons travellers with its serene atmosphere, picturesque landscapes, and rich wine heritage.
Visit to the Winery and Prosecco Tasting
Amidst the charming hills of Valdobbiadene, immerse yourself in a tasting experience that highlights the delicate flavours and distinctive aromas of Prosecco, an authentic sparkling masterpiece from Italy. Guided by an expert connoisseur, you will have the opportunity to discover the fascinating stories connected to this precious wine and the region that produces it.
Dinner at a selected local restaurant
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in the Prosecco Hills.
Discover the Other Venice
Uncover the hidden side beneath the mask of Venice, learn the oldest craft skills, and appreciate its surprisingly quiet elegance, far from the noise of the main streets. Explore the city, revealing an authentic fabric where history whispers through the weathered facades, and the soul of Venice emerges in its untouched corners. This journey goes beyond the tourist surface, leaving an indelible connection with the authentic spirit of this captivating city.
Experiential Workshop of Venetian High Craftsmanship
Infused with a mercantile and multicultural spirit, Venetian craftsmanship has been the soul of the city’s social and economic fabric, a true representative of Italy’s renowned elegance and artisanal mastery. Here, you’ll find artisans who have honed their skills for generations, preserving ancient Venetian techniques and giving life to timeless creations. Admire the majestic transformation of raw wood into the iconic oars of Venetian gondolas, the art of crafting glass beads, the intricate process of creating thin sheets of gold that adorn artworks and architecture, and the rich weaving of baroque velvet.
Dinner at a selected local restaurant
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Venice.
Gastronomic Experience in Venice
Venetian cuisine, much like the city itself, is a harmonious blend of influences, a culinary tapestry woven with threads of its maritime heritage, diverse trade routes, and rich cultural heritage. Sea flavours take centre stage, with dishes like “sarde in saor,” an appetizer of sweet and sour sardines, and “risotto al nero di seppia,” a creamy black squid ink risotto infused with the essence of cuttlefish ink. Polenta, a simple cornmeal porridge, serves as a versatile canvas for hearty stews and savoury fish creations. And no Venetian culinary experience is complete without indulging in “cicchetti,” delightful small bites that showcase the city’s culinary creativity and love for fresh, seasonal ingredients. A narrative that captures the lagoon landscape and its flavours.
Lunch at a selected local restaurant
Enogastronomic Experience in Venice
Venice, a city often celebrated for its canals and gondolas, also hides a secret treasure: vineyards hidden within the weave of its urban labyrinth. These isolated oases, veiled by ancient walls and shrouded in mystery, produce a unique wine born from the lagoon, a testament to the city’s enduring connection to the land. Vineyards that have resisted the salt and high tides for centuries, give life to a wine with unique characteristics in the world.
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel or similar accommodation in Venice.
Flight Transfer from Venice to Catania (Sicily)
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel with dinner or similar accommodation in Catania-Etna.
Excursion to the Summit of Mount Etna
Venture into the fiery realm of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, and witness the raw power and captivating beauty of nature’s forces. Ascend with your guide, smelling the sulfur and hearing the crackling of black volcanic debris beneath your boots. The landscape transforms into a Mars-like terrain, a desolate expanse of alien flora sculpted by the raw power of the Earth. Reach the summit and admire the breathtaking panorama of snow-covered peaks, rolling hills, and the vast blue of the Mediterranean Sea, witnessing the majesty of the two opposing natural forces: fire and water.
Visit and Wine Tasting of Etna Wines
Under the watchful gaze of the fiery mountain, discover the soul of Etna captured in every sip born from the dance of grapes and volcanic soil, an explosion of flavours imbued with the primordial essence of the volcano that nurtures them.
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel with dinner or similar accommodation in Enna.
Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
In Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples stands as a silent guardian of an ancient and powerful Greek civilization that once inhabited the region. Walk on this sacred land, where the whispers of ancient footsteps blend with the gentle breeze, and let your imagination take you back to the golden age of Akragas, a city that once rivalled even Athens itself. Amidst sun-soaked plains and olive groves, prickly pears and almond trees add a touch of Sicilian charm to this breathtaking landscape.
Roman Villa “Del Casale”
Imagine a vast expanse of stone floors transformed into a captivating mosaic of images, where each tile is a masterpiece crafted by the skilled hands of the Romans. Let the soft sunlight filter through the ancient walls, illuminating the mosaics and casting a warm glow on the figures depicted within. As you walk through the corridors of the villa, let your imagination transport you back in time to a world of emperors, gladiators, and a beauty that endures forever, imprinted in the mosaics.
Dinner at a selected local restaurant
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel with dinner or similar accommodation in Enna.
Kore Siciliae E-Bike Tour
Embark on an electric bike tour into the heart of the Sicilian countryside. Pedal along ancient white paths that wind through sun-drenched hills and fields of ancient wheat, painting the landscape with a golden hue. Explore the forgotten depths of old sulfur mines, now silent witnesses to Sicily’s industrial tenacity, and discover the weathered walls of majestic castles.
Lunch at a selected local restaurant
Free afternoon
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel with dinner or similar accommodation in Enna.
Preparation and Tasting of Rosario’s Special Arancini
Rosario comes from a long tradition of restaurateurs known throughout Enna, and like his ancestors, he carries on the tradition of Sicilian baking, becoming its ambassador and Italian excellence. He is an alchemist who transforms simple ingredients into true culinary masterpieces. An ancient Sicilian cereal dough contains gastronomic treasures like a real treasure chest: saffron, Piacentinu di Enna cheese, Trapani salt, Ispica carrots, and donkey mortadella. Despite his success, he maintains the small shop where it all began, preserving a family atmosphere that makes you feel part of the daily tradition of the people of Enna, simple but powerful. You will be welcomed with a glass of organic Sicilian bubbles, then you will move to the kitchen where you will collaborate in preparing the traditional Enna arancino and taste his cannoli.
Learn the Art of Traditional Pastry
Infiltrate the backstage of a bakery, where the irresistible scent of freshly baked goods will capture you. The baker will share with you the secret of traditional soft bread from Enna. Under his guidance, you will sift the flour, beat the eggs, and bake the Enna bread in traditional cauldrons, following the same tradition as mothers and grandmothers. In the end, you can savour the delicious result and try to replicate it once you return home.
Culinary Excellence and Local Hospitality
Step away from the crowds and tourist traps and discover hidden gems known only to the locals. Historic trattorias and osterias await you, their kitchens alive with the flavours of generations: from the seasonal, hearty, and comforting dishes with their rustic and genuine Veneto flavours; to the rich and nutritious mountain dishes; to the simple rusticity of authentic Sicilian style that comes from fresh, sun-kissed ingredients, creating a blend of salty, sweet, and spicy notes. Let yourself be enveloped by the warmth and genuine hospitality as you connect with the people who truly call these places “home.”
Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel with dinner or similar accommodation in Enna.
Transfer from Enna to Catania Airport
The travel itinerary may be subject to minor variations due to force majeure, weather conditions, or organizational adjustments.
Upon confirmation of the trip, once the minimum number of participants is reached, any relevant changes and/or updates will be communicated.
3 WINE tasting
Experiential Workshop of Venetian High Craftsmanship
Excursion to the Summit of Mount Etna
15 nights in a double room at a 3-star hotel or equivalent with continental breakfast
3 typical dinners with traditional dishes made from local products
1 half-board dinner
1 typical lunch with traditional dishes made from local products
1 welcome aperitif
1 aperitif with a tasting of local products
4 visits to wineries with tastings of local wines and typical products
4 experiential workshops
Tourist and naturalistic guide for cultural visits
Alpine guide and equipment for hiking
Instructor and equipment for rafting descent
Alpine guide for hiking
Naturalistic and cycling guide for bike excursions
Bicycle rental for excursions
Assistance with a personal guide (Italian and English-speaking) throughout the trip
Arrival and departure flights to Italy
Internal transfers, which will be quoted at the time of booking. Specifically:
Day 1 > Transfer from the arrival airport to Aosta
Day 6 > Transfer from Aosta to the Dolomites (Cadore)
Day 11 > Flight from Venice to Catania
Day 16 > Transfer from Enna to Catania Airport for departure
Tickets for museums and castles
Wine and alcoholic beverages during dinners
Additional meals beyond those indicated in the program
Personal expenses (e.g., bar service, laundry service, tips, etc.)
“All Risk” travel insurance (can be requested as an extra at the time of booking)
Tourist tax – mandatory and payable locally
All additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances not attributable to our organization (e.g., flight cancellations, fare increases, strikes, other events and natural disasters, emergency evacuations, etc.)
Anything not specifically included in the “Price includes” clause.
PAYMENT AND BOOKING METHODS
The booking must be made at least 15 days before the trip departure date.
Payment is to be made via bank transfer in the following manner:
20% Down payment upon booking confirmation
80% Final payment due 30 days prior
by Openmind Travel Srl
Sede legale
Via Esperanto 2 – 11100 Aosta
Sede operativa
Via Bassi 60 – 35131 Padova
Ph. +39.0498256495
welcome@openmindtravel.it
P.IVA 05236340286
PEC:pec@pec.openmindtravel.it
Kamelion by Openmind Travel partecipa a:
Progetto finanziato con il POC
Regione del Veneto
Kamelion è un progetto
Openmind Travel Srl
Sede legale
Via Esperanto 2 – 11100 Aosta
Sede operativa
Via Bassi 60 – 35131 Padova
Ph. +39.0498256495
welcome@openmindtravel.it
P.IVA 05236340286
PEC:pec@pec.openmindtravel.it
Kamelion by Openmind Travel
partecipa a:
Progetto finanziato con il POC
Regione del Veneto
