Wildflowers, Gardens and Landscapes of Italy & Switzerland Hiking Tour

Today, you will be transferred from Milan to charming lakeside Varenna, arguably one of Italy's most beautiful towns. Walk to Lierna along the Viandante Path. In Varenna, it is also possible to take a 20-minute walk to the Fiumelatte, or River of Milk, a waterfall whose waters pour down in a white cascade from glacial heights.

Later in the day, you might enjoy strolling the picturesque lanes of Varenna, stopping to browse in shops that sell, among other things, fabulous silks produced by the mills of nearby Como. Stay Two Nights: Varenna, Hotel (D)

A ferry brings us to the village of Cadenabbia this morning. From here, we take a short walk along the shores of the lake to the village of Tremezzo. Here, we glimpse several of the region's charming lakefront villas. After briefly exploring, we retrace our steps and stop in at the church of San Martino in Griante. The little hilltop church offers us spectacular views across Lake Como's waters. Returning to Cadenabbia, we embark the ferry once more for our return trip to Varenna. (B)

Crossing the border into Switzerland, we soon arrive in the city of Lugano. Here, a tour awaits with a local guide.

Afterwards, we take our seats aboard a funicular for the journey to the top of Monte Bre. Sweeping views of the lake abound from our position along the mountain top. Should the funicular be closed, you can instead visit the charming village of Cannobio, on the far side of Lake Maggiore. The Cannobina Valley offers wonderful views of the tranquil lake, Orrido di Sant'Anna. Late afternoon finds us relaxing in Bellagio, one of Italy's most beautiful lakeside towns, where we spend the next two nights. Stay Two Nights: Lugano, Hotel (B/D)

Today, depart from the shores of Lake Lugano and set out on a loop hike of Monte San Salvatore. On reaching the summit, exceptional views of the lake below are available from the hilltop museum, church and restaurant. (B)

This morning, we transfer from Lugano to Stresa. From the nearby village of Levo, we begin another short loop hike to the foothills of Monte Mottarone. From here, enjoy extraordinary views of the Golfo Borromeo and the Italian Alps beyond.

This evening has been left free for you to explore the delightful flower-filled streets of Stresa. Perhaps take a stroll along the boardwalk and take in the sights of 19th-century lakeside villas. Stay: Stay: Stresa, Hotel (B/D)

This morning's walk takes us to the small village of Pella, whose population is just a little less than a thousand people. We take a peaceful stroll along the waterfront, comprised of a handful of boats and a row of pastel-coloured buildings.

Afterwards, embark a boat and cruise to San Giulio Island. The island harbours an active Benedictine monastery, as well as a 12th-century basilica. Back on the mainland, we head to the hilltop sanctuary of the Sacro Monte d'Orta, which is comprised of several chapels containing terracotta statues and elaborate sets that detail the life of St. Francis, Italy's most beloved saint. These life-sized sets were created in the 17th century to educate and inspire the largely illiterate population of the times.

This evening, our journey reaches its end as you are transferred back to Milan. (B)