Gardens and Villas of the Italian Lakes
Get to know the horticultural treasures of Padua and the Italian Lake Region that are steeped in history. Begin your garden experience in Padua where you’ll spend time at the first botanical gardens in the world. Meet the owner of the Baroque style Valsanzibio Gardens and partake in gardening workshop. Experience the Italian Lake District, featuring gardens of exotic and rare plants in the most ideal climate. There you’ll have magnificent vistas that surround this horticultural paradise. Spend time in Varese, known as Italy’s garden city. Explore one of the most spectacular gardens in all of Italy, the Villa Carlotta, built at the end of the 17th century. Travel by ferry to the romantic town of Bellagio to see stunning gardens and grounds. Head to Como to tour even more gardens with a member of the Cicogna Mozzoni family and immerse yourself in true Italian heritage. Finish off your trip in Lake Maggiore’s Barromean Islands at the spectaculat Isola Madre and Isola Bella and stroll through gardens featuring rhododendron, azaleas, pergolas of ancient wisteria, and camellia blossoms.