Italy's Mountains and Lakes in Summer

Day 1  Milan  
Arrive into Milan where, upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your charming city centre hotel. After settling into your hotel, enjoy an authentic pasta dish at one of the numerous popular nearby restaurants.  

Days 2-4  Lake Como  
Pick up your comfortable vehicle and make the scenic journey across to magnificent Lake Como. Pull out the camera as you begin your idyllic countryside escape, featuring gorgeous mountain views and picturesque lakeside promenades. While staying in Lake Como you can try out a wide variety of seasonal outdoor activities including hiking, cycling and kayaking - all terrific ways to make the most of the dazzling scenery. Additionally, why not enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Como, taking in views of the lakeside villages and villas, nestled among rhododendrons, magnolias and cypress trees. In your down time, soak up the rays on the many picturesque beaches lining the lake.  

Days 5-6  Lake Garda  
Arrive to Lake Garda after an inspiring drive through Italy’s lake region. Make the most of the historic charms of the ancient villages surrounding the lake. Perhaps, visit the village of Sirmione, which is renowned for its magnificent and imposing Scaligero Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Italy. Continue onto enchanting Limone sul Garda, recognised for its centuries-old, terraced lemon houses, carved out of rocky mountain slopes. If seeking the best views of Lake Garda, why not ride the phenomenal Malcesine Monte Baldo Cable Car in the afternoon, transporting you above the beautiful valley below and delivering you to a stunning mountain-top, where you can enjoy a walk followed by picnic with a view?    

Days 7-8  Val Gardena  
From the Italian Lakes, make your way to the stunning Italian Alps, widely recognised as offering some of the most striking scenery in Europe. Val Gardena is known as home to some of the Dolomites most impressive hiking routes, featuring jaw-dropping cliffs, spectacular valley views and charming villages. Take advantage of the numerous cable cars transporting you up to 2000-3000 metres above sea level, where you will find a plethora of well-marked trails. If you are feeling adventurous, why not opt for one of the nine Via Ferrate on offer in the Dolomites – these being a challenging climbing routes with iron lines, often along sheer cliff faces. Alternatively, for mountain biking enthusiasts, opt for an exhilarating ride around the area’s best cycle paths. Why not celebrate your outdoor achievements with an afternoon lazing by the pool?  

Days 9-11  Cortina d’Ampezzo
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to what is known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina d’Ampezzo which is known for its spectacular national park and fashionable boutiques. Pack a picnic and take to the scenic hiking trails leading from your hotel, perhaps stumbling across awe-inspiring viewpoints such as the Lago di Sorapiss, Cinque Torri or Rifugio Lagazuoi. Wander through Cortina, perhaps stopping to take photos of beautiful chalets, stunning lookout points and charming streets filled with cosy Alpine cafes and restaurants. Later, why not check out the designer shops located on the main shopping street, Corso Italia?  

Day 12  Venice  
After picking up your final few souvenirs, take to your comfortable car for your final scenic drive across Veneto, to drop off the vehicle at Venice airport and make your onwards flight connection, or continue your travels.