Italian Alps In Style

Itinerary

• Italy

  Italy is one of the most visited destinations in the world. It's top attractions include; Rome (Colosseum, Vatican City, PIazza Navona, Forum, Pantheon, Fountains of Trevi, Spanish Steps), Florence (Duomo, Old City, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi), and Venice (Grand Canal, Doge's Palace, St. Marks Square). But there is much more to discover outside these heavily travelled spots.  Tuscany and Umbria with its wine, food and hilltowns (Sienna, San Gimignano, Orvietto, Spoleto), the dazzling Amalfi Coast (Positano, Capri, Sorrento), Siciliy with its old words ways, the urbane Milan and nearby Lake Como, the Italian Riviera... and more.  One important piece of advice, the soul of Italy is in its small towns, so be sure to get outside the big cities and into the country. That is where you will find the magic.

• Lana

  Lana, in the South Tyrol, is an idyllic little town at the gateway to Merano and offers a tremendous wealth of attractions; sophisticated gastronomy, a rich variety of accommodation, the charms of nature, from the romantic Gaulschlucht gorge to the vineyards and orchards as far as the eye can see. The town is surrounded by fantastic countryside, which makes it easy to discover nature and the cultural treasures.

• San Cassiano in Badia

  San Cassiano in Badia is situated in the Northern Italian province of Bolzano in a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. The village of San Cassiano in the Badia Community is1,537 m above sea level. The town has a population of 750 inhabitants and is part of the Alta Badia tourist district located in the heart of a valley basin, surrounded on all sides by Dolomite peaks. The Alta Badia district may well be considered as the “Heart of the Dolomites” both for its geographical location and the cheerful and welcoming nature of its people with six towns grouped into three separate communes: Corvara, Badia and La Valle.

• Venice

  In the rich cultures of Europe and celebrated cities of Italy, few places capture the imagination as much as Venice. Its fabled canalled thoroughfares and gilded palaces possess a beguiling beauty unsurpassed by anywhere else on Earth. Everywhere you go you'll find works of art - in the architecture itself or within the walls of the palaces and basilicas that are liberally sprinkled in every area of the city. Venice is an ever-changing, living canvas. No other place has such a mutable geography where you can discover delightfully peaceful piazzas and deserted canals seemingly unmarked on any map. Quite simply, there is nowhere else in the world quite like it.

• • Venice
  • Venice, Italy
  • Venice Lagoon Facade
  • Gondola's in Venice
  • Albergo San Marco Hotel

  Day 1: Venice

  A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at the first hotel on your trip.

  On arrival in Venice you will be met and transferred by a private motor launch and English speaking assistant to your accommodation on Venice Island. Our local representative will accompany you on the transfer and assist with your hotel check in.

  Enjoy a 2 hour private walking tour of Venice with an English speaking local guide. Visit St. Mark's Square, the heart of political and religious power of the Venetian Republic for centuries, and learn the history that lies behind the walls of its most famous landmarks; the Basilica and its Byzantine heritage, the Doge's Palace and its adjoining prisons that retain the true secrets to comprehend how a city built on swamps became one of the most enlightened cities in the western world. Then, leave St. Mark's behind you to discover the enchanting Hidden Venice. Following a monumental route, your guide will narrate the in-depth history of Venice from its origins to the modern-day. You'll hear tales of illustrious Venetian characters like Marco Polo and Casanova. And you'll see Marco Polo's House, a Merchants’ Warehouse, explore the lively Campo Santa Maria Formosa with its outstanding Venetian Palaces, the Church of San Giovanni e Paolo (the Pantheon of Venice), and at the Scuola di San Marco you'll learn about the famous Confraternities (Schools) of merchants and artisans of Venice that provided the foundations of the Venetian mercantile empire. This walking tour of Venice finishes at the evocative Rialto Bridge overlooking the Grand Canal and the Rialto Market. (Entrances not included)

  Sit back and relax on a marvellous and enchanting half an hour evening gondola ride through the Grand Canal and inner canals of Venice. You will breathe the atmosphere of this ancient city built on water. Start your journey at the 'Stazio Gondole Santa Maria del Giglio". Close to Saint Mark, right on the Grand Canal, in front of Guggenheim Collection palace and Santa Maria della Salute church; this gondola station is one of the oldest Gondola stops in Venice. Enjoy your ride with a beautiful bottle of Prosecco.

  Right in the heart of Venezia,in proximity to the major tourist attractions of venezia, 5 minutes from piazza San Marco, 15 min from Ponte di Rialto, and close to the Arsenale you will find Carpaccio, elegant 2 story restaurant: on the ground floor, a beautiful terrace with a view of San Giorgio, upstairs a dining room with panoramic view of the Bacino in all its splendor. Carpaccio is close to the Bacino of San Marco along the Riva degli Schiavoni. Ideal for lunches and unforgettable dinners that transform themselves in a warm and inviting setting when the sun sets for the evening. The chef offers you traditional venetian food and international cuisine, and of course impeccable service in a totally refined taste and grandeur.

  Accommodation: Albergo San Marco (3*)

  The Best Western Albergo San Marco Hotel (3*) is located in the heart of historical Venice, just 50 mts from St. Mark Square, the Basilica of St. Mark, and Doge's Palace and is 20 minutes by boat from St. George's Island. The Guggenheim, Accedemia Galleries and the Rialto Bridge are located nearby. Set in a 19th century building completely refurbished, this property is equipped with all modern facilities. All rooms are furnished in the typical Venetian style and the warm, careful service will make you feel like home. The restaurant offers tasty typical Venetian dishes and an international menu. Thanks to its position, this hotel is the ideal starting point to enjoy all the charm of this unique city.

• • Winter Landscape Italian Alps Dolomites
  • Casual dining at Rosa Alpina
  • Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa

  Day 2: Venice - San Cassiano in Badia

  Enjoy a private transfer from Venice to San Cassiano in the Dolomites with a private vehicle and driver.

  The largest of the suites in Rosa Alpina, the Chalet loft suite measures 50 m² with a 10 m² terrace facing south. It is furnished in a traditional style, with a modern twist. Exquisitely unique, each of the state-of-the-art Chalet Loft Suites in the brand new wooden Chalet wing, encompass charming variations of the local style that is so distinctive to the area. The suite will be appreciated by those who enjoy the refinements of authentic local style combined with modern touches featuring flat-screen televisions, stereos and high speed internet access. The fireplace provides a welcoming focal point, while a relaxing sitting area and natural wooden floors from an ancient Austrian farm house add warmth to the sophisticated accommodation. Supremely relaxing beds with luxurious touches such as goose down duvets provide ultimate comfort, while indulgent marble bathrooms with hammam showers and bathtub complement this very special hotel experience. Room facilities include: bathrobe, slippers, hairdryer, safe, make-up mirror, minibar, phone, TV, free movie channel, CD stereo in the Suites, guest amenities, welcome gift from the pastry upon arrival.

  Quite simply, when staying at the Rosa Alpina, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to food! Choose from any of the four on-site restaurants; The Relais Gourmand Restaurant St Hubertus, a Michelin 2-starred restaurant has nine tables in the dining room, one chef's table with a view to the kitchen and one small table at the open fireplace. The restaurant is open only for dinner during the summer and winter season and is closed on Tuesdays. The spacious Limonaia, with its wooden ceiling and wide windows facing the mountains is where breakfast is served. One of the well known specialties, fondue, is served in the Fondue Stuben. Lastly, the informal Restaurant Wine Bar & Grill serves grilled meat and vegetables, fresh pasta dishes, various salads and pizza from the wood oven. During the summer months you can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace or front patio.

  Accommodation: Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa (4*)

  Dating back to 1850, the Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa is surrounded by the majestic cliffs of the Conturines, La Varella, the Santa Croce and the Lagazuoi peaks and faces onto the main street of the San Cassiano village in front of a small church, built in the 1600’s with bright frescoes painted on the façade. Its spa offers treatments worthy of the best beauty centers, and the panoramic views of the Dolomites are unmatched. Enjoy great food at any of the four on site restaurants. Sample the cuisine of the 2* Michelin awarded Norbert Niederkofler. Cuisine is his passion and his joie de vivre, and he creates dishes featuring local produce artfully marrying tradition and modernity. The Hotel evokes an atmosphere of serenity and has numerous areas for relaxation - both indoor and out.

• • Indoor relaxation area & pool

  Day 3: San Cassiano in Badia

  Endulge in any number of the great range of treatments available at the Daniela Steiner spa - on site at the Rosa Alpina hotel. From the first moment you walk into the Spa, the environment exudes true comfort, utmost luxury, and timeless elegance. The unique Daniela Steiner care suite philosophy encompasses the human need to be pampered in all senses of the word. The treatments and services are rendered to enhance natural beauty with products aligned to individual skin needs. Every mixture, for example the seaweed, the volcanic clay, the salts, the herbs and oils are prepared just

  before the treatment begins, in order to reach the desired effect; even the fruit, cut and pressed, is prepared just before the beginning of the treatment, to take advantage of the concentration of vitamins. You can arrange for any treatments on site or your Kensington Tours Sales Advisor will be happy to make any arrangements in advance if you would like to pre-book anything before your arrival. Payment for any spa services would be settled by you directly on check out.

  Accommodation: Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa (4*)
• • Hiking in the Dolomites

  Day 4: San Cassiano in Badia

  Enjoy any number of optional activities during your stay. Golf (9 hole course just 15 minutes from the hotel), Tennis, guided excursions with a mountain guide, Rock climbing or mountaineering courses with a mountain guide, Hang gliding and paragliding, Archery, Horse riding (even indoor), Fitness trails, Sport fishing, Mountain and road biking are some of the many options to choose from. Thanks to its location, the Alta Badia region offers a large choice of excursions from easy walks (short or long), suitable for the whole family to the more demanding treks. Detailed walks and treks that you can take are available through the Rosa Alpina hotel. Hiking can be done independently or with a Local Professional Guide. The area is also steeped in history and culture, both of which can be expored at leisure. The area was a strategic location during WWI as Mount Lagazuoi was a theatre of operations during the 1st World War and the Italian Alpine troops were lined up against the Austrians. There are a number of picturesque villages with typical Romanesque architecture that are worth visiting. There are also a number of pilgrimmage routes in the area which can be taken. Please ask your Sales Advisor if you are interested in availing of any of these optional activities.

  Accommodation: Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa (4*)
• • Lana
  • Archery - one of the complimentary activities
  • Vigilius restaurant
  • Vigilius Mountain Resort

  Day 5: San Cassiano in Badia - Lana

  Enjoy a private transfer from San Cassiano to the Vigilius Hotel Resort & Spa in Lana, stopping off en route to enjoy a visit of a vineyard or two as well as a stop for lunch.

  During your stay at Vigilius Mountain resort, you have complimentary access to all regular cable car rides and lifts on the Vigiljoch (mountain where resort is located). During summer, the mountain is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. The hotel provides poles, bikes and backpacks for your use. Archery is also offered and there is a daily program - Move & Explore - where 2 to 3 complimentary guided activities are offered throughout the day available to all guests. Activities are mountain biking, the Five Tibetans (Five physical exercises for renewed energy), archery, spinal gymnastics, guided hiking tours, Body styling (special stretching excercise) and boccia (Italian style boules).

  Seasonal fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry primarily from South Tyrol, as well as fresh fish from the market are prepared gently and genuinely by the culinary team at the Vigilius Mountain Resort. In the Restaurant 1,500 you can enjoy a delicious dinner with a great view of the Dolomites, the stars and the distant lights of the valley. The light, modern cuisine, perfected through the use of superb herbs and spices, will surprise your palate every evening anew with symphonies of taste, while the varied menu always offers a choice of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The Viglius wine cellar harbours a delicate choice of wines from South Tyrol and the Alps, as well as Italian and international wines. If you feel like heading down to the nearby, local vilage, you can take the complimentary cable car from the hotel.

  The suite at Vigilus Mountain resort comprises 72 sqm with a balcony or terrace and a marvellous view of the South Tyrolean mountains. The modern designer sofa is accompanied by a corner bench and antique country furniture, providing the room with an air of South Tyrolean tradition. A natural clay wall divides the bathroom from the sleeping area with its panorama view. Room failities include: Separate toilet, hair dryer, toilet articles from South Tyrol, bathrobe and bath shoes, telephone, Hifi stereo with I-Pod connection, free HDSL access, mini bar, safe. All Suites are non-smoking rooms.

  Accommodation: Vigilius Mountain Resort (5*)

  The Vigilius Mountain Resort is a very special place; It is like an island in the mountains, located above Merano. Resembling a fallen tree, the resort nestles quietly into the surrounding landscape with its larch woods and provides a view of the unique mountain scenery of the Dolomites – unobtrusive architecture, wherein comfort and design blend naturally with each other. Located at 1500 meters, the property has an ecological approach, from the nature-based construction methods to the sustainable use of local resources. The hotel has won a number of awards for both its sustainability and design. Extensive window glazing open the views to nature outside – and brings the heavens a touch closer. A room turns into a hideaway, almost like a tree house. Enjoy the on site spa which uses the water from the local spring and enjoy the wonderful gastronomy in the restaurant.

• • Nordic walking
  • Mediterranean specialties

  Day 6: Lana

  Avail of any of the numerous optional activities during the summer months during your stay at Vigilius Mountain resort. If you would like a mountain Guide to accompany you on hikes, this can be arranged. Paragliding is also available as well as cultural excursions with a car and driver. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in any of these optional activities.

  The Parlour Ida restaurant in Vigilius embodies cosiness and tradition. The warm, hundred-year-old tiled stove, and the typical South Tyrolean interior reflect the local history. The lunch menu likewise offers traditional dishes, down-to-earth and genuine delicacies from the region – and in the afternoon, home-made cakes are offered in the cosy parlour or outside on the attached sun terrace, with a splendid view of the distant Dolomites.

  Accommodation: Vigilius Mountain Resort (5*)
• • Indoor/Outdoor whirlpool

  Day 7: Lana

  Vast panorama windows draw nature into the rooms at the Vigilius mountain spa, where you can enjoy swimming, having a sauna, or doing Watsu in the whirlpool. Juicy apples from South Tyrol, fresh spring water from the Vigiljoch (mountain), and a great variety of teas are available for your pleasure during your time in this oasis. There are many body and facial treatments as well as massage that you can choose from.

  Enjoy some quiet time in the hotel library where books, volumes of photographs, and games offer refreshment for the intellect. Every evening at 10 p.m., a film is presented: an ageless old favourite or a new classic.

  Accommodation: Vigilius Mountain Resort (5*)

• Day 8: Lana

  Enjoy a private transfer from Vigilius Hotel Resort & Spa to Venice airport.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Local Pastimes

  Italian coffee rituals are often baffling to the uninitiated. Espresso coffee is very small and very strong. It is usually consumed in one or two gulps while standing at the bar. Italians will spend three hours eating a meal and then refuse the restaurant's coffee (which is always served at the end of the meal after dessert) because they want to drink it in a particular bar. If you ask for a Caffe you will get espresso, whereas a Caffe Americano will be a "long" espresso.  Caffe Latte is the true version of what we have colloquialized as a "Latte", but be careful not to order a "Latte" as you will receive simply a delicious glass of steaming milk.

• • Albergo San Marco Hotel

  Albergo San Marco (3*)

  The Best Western Albergo San Marco Hotel (3*) is located in the heart of historical Venice, just 50 mts from St. Mark Square, the Basilica of St. Mark, and Doge's Palace and is 20 minutes by boat from St. George's Island. The Guggenheim, Accedemia Galleries and the Rialto Bridge are located nearby. Set in a 19th century building completely refurbished, this property is equipped with all modern facilities. All rooms are furnished in the typical Venetian style and the warm, careful service will make you feel like home. The restaurant offers tasty typical Venetian dishes and an international menu. Thanks to its position, this hotel is the ideal starting point to enjoy all the charm of this unique city.

  • More information
• • Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa
  • Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa Room

  Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa (4*)

  Dating back to 1850, the Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa is surrounded by the majestic cliffs of the Conturines, La Varella, the Santa Croce and the Lagazuoi peaks and faces onto the main street of the San Cassiano village in front of a small church, built in the 1600’s with bright frescoes painted on the façade. Its spa offers treatments worthy of the best beauty centers, and the panoramic views of the Dolomites are unmatched. Enjoy great food at any of the four on site restaurants. Sample the cuisine of the 2* Michelin awarded Norbert Niederkofler. Cuisine is his passion and his joie de vivre, and he creates dishes featuring local produce artfully marrying tradition and modernity. The Hotel evokes an atmosphere of serenity and has numerous areas for relaxation - both indoor and out.

  • More information
• • Vigilius Mountain Resort
  • Vigilius Mountain Resort Room

  Vigilius Mountain Resort (5*)

  The Vigilius Mountain Resort is a very special place; It is like an island in the mountains, located above Merano. Resembling a fallen tree, the resort nestles quietly into the surrounding landscape with its larch woods and provides a view of the unique mountain scenery of the Dolomites – unobtrusive architecture, wherein comfort and design blend naturally with each other. Located at 1500 meters, the property has an ecological approach, from the nature-based construction methods to the sustainable use of local resources. The hotel has won a number of awards for both its sustainability and design. Extensive window glazing open the views to nature outside – and brings the heavens a touch closer. A room turns into a hideaway, almost like a tree house. Enjoy the on site spa which uses the water from the local spring and enjoy the wonderful gastronomy in the restaurant.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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