Lake Como & The Bernina Express

Your Italian adventure begins as you make your way to the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia, where you will meet your tour manager and fellow travelers. Situated on the shores of Lake Como, this four-star hotel is our base for the next seven nights. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Dinner

We cruise to Lenno, sailing past striking vineyards and olive groves. On arrival, we visit Villa Balbianello, a star of the silver screen, having been used in the Star Wars and James Bond films. Perched on a wooded peninsula, this striking 18th-century mansion boasts a sophisticated façade and beautiful terraced gardens. We explore on an insightful guided tour, followed by free time. You could either spend another hour or so at the villa or visit charming Lenno. The town is home to some irresistible cafés and the Baptistery di San Giovanni, which dates to the 11th century. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

Sailing to picturesque Bellagio, at the tip of the peninsula which divides the 'legs' of the lake, we head into the woods overlooking Lake Como to enjoy the centuries-old tradition of truffle hunting. Joined by a local chef and his specially trained dog, we search for truffles and other mushrooms before savoring an expertly prepared meal made using our findings. There's free time in Bellagio afterwards before our return journey across the lake. Perhaps wander the old-world streets that wind away from the main square, Piazza San Giacomo. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast, Lunch

Today we embark upon an unforgettable journey on the Bernina Express. The incredible line is over 100 years old and is recognized by UNESCO for the feat of civil engineering used to create it, as well as the stunning scenery through which it travels. We journey in panoramic carriages, admiring idyllic flower-filled meadows as we wind toward St Moritz, where you have time to explore. St Moritz is one of Switzerland's most iconic resort towns and is synonymous with glamour; maybe window-shop at the luxury boutiques or relax with a coffee and watch the world go by. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a free day in Cadenabbia di Griante. Split into two parts, with Cadenabbia right by the lake and Griante located a little higher in the hills above, why not visit nearby Villa Carlotta? Built in the 18th century and perched between the water and surrounding mountains, it boasts pretty gardens and artworks including sculptures by Canova. Or you could find a quaint café in which to unwind with some delicious Italian cuisine or a traditional coffee. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast

We take a coach to Bergamo, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, for a visit to the 'Città Alta', or 'upper town'. Here, we take a guided tour of the Renaissance buildings, encircled by 17th-century walls. This afternoon, we continue to the DOC wine region of Valcalepio. Our destination is Gandosso, where we visit a local wine estate set in a beautiful rural spot surrounded by greenery. We're treated to a traditional lunch as well as an introduction to the local wine production, during which we tour the wine cellars ahead of a delicious tasting. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast, Lunch

Boarding a boat to Varenna, on the lake's eastern shores, enjoy free time to explore the quaint cobbled streets and jumble of narrow alleyways that bring to life the village's medieval history. Next, we continue to Menaggio, a stunning small town that epitomizes the charms of Italy. Stroll along the pretty lakeside promenade, perhaps enjoying some ice cream from a local gelateria, or soak up the atmosphere in the timeless piazza. Overnight Cadenabbia di Griante. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

Your tour concludes after breakfast this morning where you are free to depart Cadenabbia and Lake Como for your onward journey. 

• Breakfast