Robert Cook

Northern Italy Grand Journey

Luxury - Zicasso

July, 19th - August, 1st

Dolomites, Lake Garda & Veneto

Alpine Luxury, Gastronomy, and Nature Experiences

Ideal for: Slow travelers | Culture & wine lovers | Couples | Travelers seeking authenticity over crowds

Overview

This journey is an extraordinary combination of Alpine peaks, crystal-clear lakes, vineyards, and charming historical towns. From Cortina’s Dolomites to Lake Garda’s shimmering waters, each day offers curated experiences: from artisanal cheese-making to Dolomites pastry masterclasses, alpaca encounters, and private wine tastings on the lake. Exclusive transfers with a private driver allow maximum flexibility, comfort, and discovery along scenic routes. Luxury hotels, spa moments, and gastronomic highlights make this a complete sensory journey where every detail is thoughtfully curated.

Why travellers love this trip?

  • Experience the Dolomites in comfort and style, with private NCC (driver) daily

  • Hands-on gastronomy and artisan experiences: cheese-making, pastry classes, and wine tasting

  • Luxury wellness and spa moments in iconic mountain and castle hotels

  • Scenic drives, lakeside moments, and exclusive private tours for photography and relaxation

  • Immersive experiences connecting with local culture, nature, and traditions

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Milan & Transfer to Cortina

Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport and meet your private driver for a scenic transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Check in at a 4-star charming hotel, ideally located for mountain views. Spend your day in total relaxation, enjoying the hotel’s spa or swimming pool, soaking in the alpine atmosphere. Evening at leisure to admire the surrounding peaks and enjoy a gentle alpine dinner. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 2 – Lago di Braies & Sunset Dinner at Tre Cime

Today, enjoy a full-day private excursion to Lago di Braies, one of the most iconic Dolomite lakes, perfect for photography and a serene walk along the water. Optional stops include Prato Piazza or Lago di Misurina for additional Alpine views. In the evening, experience a Sunset Dinner in a Mountain Hut at Tre Cime di Lavaredo, where breathtaking vistas accompany local specialties. A truly magical mountain evening. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 3 – Cheese-Making Experience & Alpine Exploration

Your private driver takes you to scenic villages and valleys for a hands-on cheese-making experience with a local casearo. Learn traditional techniques and taste the final products, pairing flavors with local breads and mountain honey. Optional scenic stops may include Passo Falzarego or Cortina viewpoints, offering sweeping Dolomite panoramas. Evening free to relax at the hotel or enjoy dinner in town. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 4 – Dolomites Pastry Masterclass

Spend the day with your private driver, exploring Alpine villages and taking part in a Dolomites Pastry Masterclass. Learn to create traditional mountain desserts under the guidance of a local pastry chef, then savor your creations with coffee or local liqueurs. Optional stops can include San Candido or Cortina boutique bakeries. The day blends sweet indulgence with breathtaking mountain scenery. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 5 – Alpaca Experience & Nature Walk

Enjoy a day of nature and wellness with your private driver, visiting an alpaca farm where you can interact, feed, and walk alongside these gentle creatures. Optional scenic drives may include Val Pusteria or Lago di Dobbiaco, offering stunning landscapes and photo opportunities. Afternoon at leisure for relaxation in your hotel spa or a gentle mountain hike. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 6 – Discover the Mountain People & Tastings

Today, your driver takes you to a local cultural immersion experience, meeting mountain communities and tasting regional specialties such as cured meats, cheeses, and artisan breads. Discover the traditions and stories that define Alpine life. Optional stops along scenic routes can include Lago di Misurina or Tre Cime viewpoints. The day is an authentic blend of culture, food, and breathtaking landscapes. Overnight in Cortina.

Day 7 – Dolomites to Lake Garda

Travel by private driver from the Dolomites to Lake Garda, with curated stops along the road, such as Lago di Molveno, Riva del Garda, or scenic wine estates, perfect for photos and short walks. Check in at a 4-star charming hotel in Sirmione with lakeside views. Evening at leisure to enjoy the charm of Sirmione’s historic streets. Overnight in Sirmione.

Day 8 – Sirmione: Castle, Boat Tour, and Tasting

Morning guided tour of Sirmione, exploring its medieval streets and iconic castle. In the afternoon, enjoy a private 1.5-hour boat tour on Lake Garda, gliding past villas and shimmering shores. Onboard, indulge in wine and local food tasting, pairing each bite with a perfectly matched glass. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and relax. Overnight in Sirmione.

Day 9 – Lake Garda: Peschiera & Desenzano

Full-day private NCC excursion exploring Peschiera del Garda with its canals and fortress, then continue to Desenzano del Garda for lakeside strolls and boutique exploration. Optional stops for photography or lakeside cafes are included along the route. Evening free to enjoy your hotel or a romantic lakeside dinner. Overnight in Sirmione.

Day 10 – Wine & Culinary Experience at Lake Garda

Spend the day exploring the vineyards and culinary traditions around Lake Garda. Your private driver takes you on a tour of selected wineries for tastings of three regional wines, followed by a lunch on the lakeshore, with each course paired to a wine. Later, visit the Parco Giardino Sigurtà, strolling among lush gardens and vibrant blooms. A perfect combination of flavors, landscapes, and local culture. Overnight in Sirmione.

Day 11 – Prosecco Hills & Villa Sandi

Private tour through the hills of Prosecco, with stops at scenic viewpoints. Visit Villa Sandi, a historic wine estate, where you will enjoy an exclusive tasting of the villa’s prestigious vintages, while learning about its centuries-old wine-making tradition and artistic heritage in the villa’s halls. Optional stops at local towns for coffee or photography. Overnight in Prosecco area.

Day 12 – Prosecco Vintage Tour

Enjoy a day of classic and playful exploration in a vintage Volkswagen T1, touring the Prosecco vineyards. Your private driver guides you through scenic routes, with tastings at small family estates and insights into local viticulture. A unique way to combine nostalgia, landscape, and wine culture. Overnight in Prosecco area.

Day 13 – Castle Spa & Farewell Dinner

Conclude your journey with a luxury spa experience in a historic castle, immersing yourself in wellness, history, and nature. Enjoy a gourmet dinner on-site, savoring the castle’s culinary traditions. Overnight in the castle hotel, living like nobility in one of Europe’s most iconic historical estates. This is a magical ending to an extraordinary Italian adventure.

Day 14 – Departure to Milan or Venice

After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to Milan Malpensa or Venice Airport, depending on your flight. Board your return flight to the USA, bringing home memories of mountain peaks, lakeside tranquility, and authentic Italian experiences.

What is included

  • Complete itinerary design and personalization, tailored to your travel style, pace, and interests

  • Full booking and reservation management for all included services prior to departure

  • Detailed final travel program, delivered before the trip, including daily schedules, confirmations, partner contacts, and logistical notes

  • Local assistance available 7 days a week, by phone, throughout your stay in Italy

Transfers and Transportation

  • Private arrival transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport to Cortina d’Ampezzo

  • Daily private NCC (driver) services for excursions throughout the Dolomites, Lake Garda, and Prosecco region

  • Private NCC transfers from Cortina to Lake Garda (Sirmione), from Lake Garda to Prosecco, and to final departure airport

  • Round-trip private transfers for castles, vineyards, and scenic stops along the route

  • Optional scenic stops en route included in NCC services, for photography, walks, or tastings

Accommodation

  • 4-star charming hotels in Cortina, Sirmione, and Prosecco region with daily breakfast included

  • Castle stay with spa including overnight and dinner

Experiences & Activities

  • Sunset Dinner at Tre Cime di Lavaredo with panoramic views

  • Hands-on cheese-making experience with a local casearo, including tasting

  • Dolomites pastry masterclass with tasting

  • Alpaca interaction experience in a scenic Alpine setting

  • Mountain cultural experience including tastings of local products

  • Private guided tour of Sirmione, including castle and historical streets

  • Private 1.5-hour boat tour on Lake Garda with wine and local food tasting onboard

  • Full-day wine & culinary experience at Lake Garda, including vineyard visit, tasting of three wines, lakeside lunch paired with wines, and visit to Parco Giardino Sigurtà

  • Prosecco Hills and Villa Sandi tour, with exclusive wine tasting and introduction to the estate’s history and art

  • Prosecco Vintage Tour in Volkswagen T1, including wine tastings and guided route

  • Luxury spa and gourmet dinner in historic castle

What is not included

  • Flights to and from Italy

  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the inclusions

  • Optional activities or additional excursions beyond the described itinerary

  • Gratuities for drivers, guides, or hotel staff

  • Personal expenses, souvenirs, and incidental charges

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Tickets or access for attractions not explicitly mentioned above

DEPOSIT

must be paid by

$
13.500

BALANCE

must be paid by

$
31.500

TOTAL PRICE

$ 45.000

Policies & Terms

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are subject to the following penalties calculated on the total trip price:

  • Deposit (30%) is non-refundable under any circumstances.

If the trip has been fully paid, the following penalties apply:

  • Up to 60 days before departure: 50% penalty
  • From 59 to 45 days before departure: 75% penalty
  • From 44 days prior to departure to the departure date: 100% penalty

Package Modifications

Once the package has been confirmed, modifications can be made up to 45 days before departure.

  • Upgrades: free of charge, except for the cost of the new services
  • Downgrades: subject to an agency fee of $200 per modified service

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip in case of unexpected cancellations, changes, or emergencies.

Payment Options & TERMS

Payment currency: US Dollar

Accepted Payment Methods:
– Credit card
– Debit card
– Revolut Direct

Payment Terms
Deposit: 30% non-refundable, due at the time of booking confirmation.
Balance Payment: due between 60 and 80 days prior to the departure date.

All payments are to be made in US dollars.

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