Alternative Italy – holidays that escape the tourist trail

Leave the beaten track in Italy and discover extraordinary, ancient hill towns surrounded by beautiful scenery, history and culture. Explore untouched regions of Umbria – the green heart of Italy, Tuscany – the gourmet’s paradise or La Marche with stunning landscapes.

1.    4 day/3 night Truffle Hunting And Cookery Holiday – Umbria Region, Umbria, Italy
On this unique holiday in Umbria you go truffle hunting with local professionals and discover the secrets of Italian cuisine. Stay in an 18th century patrician villa which is now a beautiful luxury hotel with beautiful gardens, a wellness spa and fine dining restaurant. After your truffle hunting you will have a cooking lesson and will enjoy the lunch you have create with the finest wines of the region.

2.    4 day / 3 night Olive Oil Wine Tasting And Cookery Holiday – Tuscany Region, Tuscany, Italy
Pursue your passion for all things culinary during your stay in a beautiful farmhouse deep in the heart of Tuscany. Included is a tour of the estates vineyards, wine cellar and olive groves with wine and olive oil tasting as well as a cooking class. Located along the ‘route of the wines of the Pisa hills’ between Pisa and Volterra this is an ideal holiday to discover Italian culture apart from tourist crowds.

3.    7 day / 6 night Photography Course- Umbria Region, Umbria, Italy
Learn the art of photography while you are exploring the spectacular landscapes of the Umbria region on this one week long photography course. Your tutor Patrick will ensure you will get off the tourist trail and will show you a landscape where almost every civilization has left its mark.

4.    8 day / 7 night Painting Holiday – Le Marche, Le Marche, Italy
You will be inspired by the architecture, impressive landscape, rivers and the culture of Italy during this holiday in the wonderful region of Le Marche. You will stay in the pretty hilltop town of Camerino in a traditional farmhouse with pool with views over the Sibillini Mountains. Your host Caroline will ensure you have a great holiday full of painting, good food, wine and fun.

5.    7 day / 6 night Beginners Italian and Pizza Making – Campania, Sorrento, Italy
Combine learning to speak Italian with pizza making courses with a professional chef over seven days in Sorrento, Italy. Immerse yourself in the local culture whilst learning with highly qualified native Italian speakers and learn the art of traditional Neapolitan pizza. You can even stay with a welcoming family to enhance your language learning experience.

6.    7 day / 6 night Yoga And Horseriding Holiday – Village House – Lazio, Rome, Italy
Stay in eco- friendly yoga retreat that bases its holidays around health and relaxation and enjoy a yoga holiday with a difference. You will have yoga lessons each morning followed by a healthy breakfast and on two afternoons you will explore the stunning Sabina hills and Casperias surroundings on horseback. Unwind, relax, and physically, mentally and spiritually recharge during your stay in this magical place.