
Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes
From $3,075
Summary
The fabulous scenery and benign climate of the northern Italian lakes have attracted aristocrats and the wealthy for years, and today their elegant villas and lush gardens perfectly complement the natural landscape.
From our bases on the Gulf of Borromeo on Lake Maggiore and at the foot of Lake Como we will explore a succession of villas and their gardens, all set against the breath taking backdrop of snow-capped mountains and glittering water. We begin with a real treat as we visit the private garden of the President of the Italian Camellia Society, which is home to a remarkable collection of over 500 plants. Nowhere captures the extravagant spirit of the lakeland gardens better than the three Borromean islands, Bella, Madre and Pescatori, which feature sumptuous terraced gardens, shaded woodland walks, flowered terraces and elegant statuary. Other highlights during our stay on Lake Maggiore include a fascinating wholesale specialist plant nursery, Villa Taranto and Villa Pallavicino.
During our stay on Lake Como we will have a private tour with the owner of Villa Cicogna Mozzoni. Azaleas and rhododendrons will put on a dazzling display at Villa Carlotta while the manicured Villa Balbianello, whose garden is impeccably maintained, will be an undoubted highlight. In addition we enjoy a free day to relax and shop in Como town, or visit Villa Melzi d’Eril.
Our departures will be led by popular tour manager and local resident Kate Williamson.
PLEASE NOTE A GOOD DEGREE OF MOBILITY IS REQUIRED TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS HOLIDAY AS THERE ARE A LARGE NUMBER OF STEPS AT MANY OF THE GARDENS
Tour highlights:
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Your Departure date
Today's Price
$3,075
Deposit: $350 Single supplement: $795
Meet your Experts
Kate Williamson
Kate Williamson is one of our most popular tour managers, largely on account of her obvious passion for Italy, her adopted country.

Tour dates & prices
Included in your cost:
- Accommodation
- Services of a professional tour manager
- Comfortable coach travel throughout
- Meals - as per the itinerary
Tour Departure | Tour ID | Departure date | Return Date | Guided by | Price | Deposit | Single supplement | Offer | Availability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4 October 2023 | BLSG231004 | 4 October 2023 (Wednesday) | 11 October 2023 (Wednesday) | Kate Williamson | $3,075 (ex. flights) |
$350 | $795 | Call for availability | |
20 March 2024 | BLSG240320 | 20 March 2024 (Wednesday) | 27 March 2024 (Wednesday) | Kate Williamson | $3,390 (ex. flights) |
$350 | $695 |
$2,799 save $591 |
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1 May 2024 | BLSG240501 | 1 May 2024 (Wednesday) | 8 May 2024 (Wednesday) | Kate Williamson | $3,810 (ex. flights) |
$350 | $835 |
$3,177 save $633 |
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