Basically a perfect week in a beautiful part of the world, good food, great companions, great walks, excellent guide, great weather and fantastic views and experiences...
The guys transporting us were really punctual, courteous, and kept us safe. Lino in Pompeii was fantastic! Nicola & Micaela were so hospitable and some of the best food I had in my 3 weeks in Italy was at Sant’ Alfonso Agriturismo. Everybody was top-notch on this trip, however, Vincenzo was the most exceptional Tour Leader and really made the experience unforgettable! He was personable, funny, and incredibly knowledgeable on all topics (with impeccable English)! He made the tour educational, entertaining, and memorable. He went above and beyond by assisting tour group members even on his own personal time. He helped individuals with post-tour travel plans, catching the right trains, and directing them on how to mail postcards to the USA. When the group expressed interest in doing an activity together on our free day, Vincenzo orchestrated a last-minute tour of a cheese making facility and a limoncello factory. He even spent his down time taking a few of us to a restaurant in Sorrento that was less touristy and popular among the locals. We were so grateful for this experience and for the cultural humility he espoused. It was evident that solo hiking and the resulting self evaluation have garnered him much wisdom and have tailored him to be an inspiring mentor. It was special to see him in his element as he prepared us for and led us on a hike on the Amalfi Coast. When someone is doing what they love, it always shows and is a gift to others involved. By the end of the trip he felt like an old friend! We will miss his storytelling and charisma!
This was a really great tour of the Amalfi coast. Our tour guide Enrico was amazing and knew so much about the area, restaurants and more! He made sure everyone was ok and had what they needed. Every day we walked to a different town. Be prepared... Hundreds of stone steps.... But all so beautiful!
I thoroughly enjoyed my local experience tour. I was able to complete all the hikes offered. A good number of my fellow travelers were not able to do the hikes. It seemed their understanding of the physical requirements was not good. Perhaps more or clearer information on physical fitness requirements would help(?…).
We really enjoyed our trip. All information was clear so didn't have any questions. Walks not very hard. Amazing views. Decent hotels. Clean. We left in the morning and came back in the evening. Hotel in Agerolo was lovely. Public transport was very confusing in Amalfi. No clear information where the bus stops. We had to to push to get on the bus with the third attempt.
Nearly missed stop in Pompey as all windows were in white dots and could not see passing stations. No screen or announcement. Use Google Map. We met lots of tourists from around the world in towns and had interesting conversations. I wish we had more time in Pompei and regret that we didn't hire a guide. The trip was a good combination of nature, history, cuisine, culture and people. I have to say in the last stay in B&B in Naples the receptionist Italian lady was wonderful. She didn't speak English so we used Google translate and it was an interesting experience. She hugged and kissed us as we were her best nephews. Such a lovely lady. It was interesting to talk with Antonio in Agerolo hotel. Great experience. Love Italy.
Thoroughly enjoyed the service and facilities at Due Torri, the hiking, the help and the community . We paid Bookmundi more for our self guided tour than the travel expert advertises for this same trip. We would like an explanation or refund if possible.
All in all this was a great week for us. We liked the itinerary and especially the fact it was two nights at each place. We did struggle with some of the other people in our group, but not so much that it impacted too much on our holiday. We just found them very loud and quite self centred which can be difficult in a group environment. We simply spent more time alone when we could. We would have liked some more detailed information about what to do in our free time as most of the group wanted to go shopping but that’s not our thing.
Very well organised trip. Logistics were excellent, accommodation was comfortable and central to all amenities of the towns. Hike maps and notes were extremely detailed. I would highly recommend them and am considering another trip in the near future.
Embark on a journey through southern Italy, from Naples (the birthplace of pizza) to Sicily’s Catania, exploring the best spots along the way. For those seeking to venture off Italy’s beaten path, Calabria offers clear waters and the stalwart fortifications of Tropea, as well as active volcanoes on the Aeolian Islands. With plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun by the seaside, you’ll also take a boat ride to the coves of Toarmina, indulge in local granita and maybe even take a dip in Sulphur springs. This trip promises a blend of culture, nature, history and cuisine – truly embodying the essence of Italy!
See a lesser-known part of Italy on this 16-day adventure, all with a handy local leader by your side. From the fresh waters and fortifications of Tropea, all the way to the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands, you’ll stray off Italy’s beaten path. Discover this less-visited part of the country before delving into the spectacular sights of bustling Sicily, the volcanic valleys of Mt. Etna, timeworn streets of Syracuse, the Baroque wonders of Ragusa and the rich anti-Mafia history of Palermo. Starring dramatic cliffside villages, clear waters and delicious seafood, this is a chance to experience the highlights of this European gem.