Regularly featuring in travel awards as the must-visit European destination and a perennial favourite with tourists seeking la dolce Vita, Italy is again proving to be a very popular place to visit in 2016. So the question is how to escape the tourist hordes this summer yet still enjoy Italy's alluring scenery, history and gastronomic delights? The best answer is to take a walking holiday where the paths and trails lead away from the over-crowded tourist hot-spots to give a more authentic experience and a sense of Italy's true cultural and regional diversity.
Trails of Naples, Capri & the Amalfi Coast (new for 2016)
Based in the charming village of Bomerano, a series of easy-paced day walks follow ancient mule tracks through fragrant woodland, citrus groves and sleepy white-washed villlages, whilst coastal paths offer breathtaking views over the Sorrentine Peninsula. There is also time to wander the chic towns of Amalfi and Positano, enjoy walking tours of Capri and Naples, ascend the crater of Vesuvius and explore the ancient remains of Pompeii.
Mount Etna Volcanic Islands (new for 2016)
Spend a week exploring the wild landscapes of the volcanic islands of the Aeolian Archipelago. Each has its own distinctive personality and attractions: Lipari has sulphur baths and hot springs; Salina offers vineyards and a salt lake, Stromboli is famed for its fiery volcano and Milazzo has Mount Etna – the highest volcano in Europe. Varied day walks let you explore the dramatic coastal and volcanic scenery, whilst comfortable hotels and excellent regional cuisine make for relaxed evenings.
Dolomites Circuit Trek
Mountain Kingdoms' unique itinerary delivers an exhilarating 7-day guided trek between delightful mountain rifugios set high in the spectacular sculpted landscape of the Dolomites. The fully supported circuit begins beneath the soaring towers of the Tre Cime and ends near Cortina d'Ampezzo passing through the Fanes-Sennes-Braies National Park, across the breathtaking Forcella del Lago pass and up the impressive Lagazuoi massif with its many remnants of World War 1. Luggage is transported between the rifugios which have been chosen for their delicious cuisine, comfortable accommodation and stunning mountain settings.
