Mezzogiorno: The Traditional South

	Discover the treasures of southeast Italy on this off-the-beaten-track tour of Apulia. Far away from large tourist hotels you can enjoy the scenery and explore historical dwellings, such as the caves in Matera and an octogonal castle built by a medieval emperor.				13 days USD 1,689.001 EUR 1,220.00 Recommended travel period: May – October

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	1st day: Rome

A downtown suite: The view of St. Peter

Accommodation: A hotel in the heart of Old Rome This centuries-old building is located in the city centre, between the Spanish steps and the Via Veneto. Marco and Guilia, the enterprising proprietors who have roots in the hotel business, have completely restored the property and now offer modern, comfortable accommodation in a historical building. Marco can suggest the best sites to see - he is an accredited Rome tour guide. The building offers many practical conveniences. An elevator takes guests to the air-conditioned rooms on the three upper stories. The upstairs rooms have a view extending over the roofs of the old city to the dome of St Peters. You're guaranteed a good night's rest here (a valuable commodity in Rome), as the guesthouse is next door to a convent!

2 nights Bed & Breakfast

		Rome  more info »

Eternal city: Forum Romanum

The western world was ruled from the city built on the legendary seven hills for 1,500 years. Rome was the stage for many historic events of worldwide significance. After the end of the Roman Empire Rome became the seat of the Catholic Church. During the zenith of its power (the second century A.D.) Rome's population numbered more than a million, making it the world's first metropolis. Only 25,000 people lived among the city's ruins at the close of the Roman Empire. Re-growth didn't begin until the return of the pope from Avignon in the fifteenth century. Today the Italian capital ranks amongst the premiere cities of Europe with regard to art, culture and a fast-paced lifestyle. Millions of tourists visit Rome annually, not only to take in the sights but to shop and enjoy the cuisine as well.

	3rd day: Rental car pick-up

Type: Fiat Grande Punto or similar (Group B) Air-conditioning, radio/tape Pick-up location: Rome Downtown

duration of rental: 11 days

3rd day: Amalfi Coast

A hotel with a view: Casa in Positano

A casa in Positano The 200-year-old estate is located in the centre of Positano high above the Golf of Salerno and offers a breathtaking view of the Amalfi Coast. Since the hotel is only reachable by stairway, guests are not disturbed by traffic noise. The decor is tactfully simple, Mediterranean and charming. The rooms are of adequate size and all are equipped with a modern bathroom and a balcony from which guests can enjoy the view. The Casa was opened as a guesthouse in 1960. It is now run by the family's five children, who lend the place the cheerful, lively atmosphere of a big Italian family. A beach is just five minutes' away down a stairway.

2 nights Bed & Breakfast Display route

		Amalfi Coast  more info »

Spectacular views: The Amalfi Coast

South of Naples the Sorrentine Peninsula extends about 50 km into the Tyrrhenian Sea pointing towards Capri. The rugged cliffs on the southern side of the peninsula are known as the Amalfi Coast, which is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. The region was only accessible by sea until the 19th century, when a road was carved into the side of the cliffs. The picturesque villages therefore appear to be clinging to the cliffs below the road. The area was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997 due to its great physical beauty and the diverse nature of the terrain, which ranges from terraced vineyards and orchards on the lower slopes to wide upland pastures.

5th day: Matera

Cave dwelling: A hotel in Matera

Accommodation: A cave hotel The hotel is the result of painstaking preservation and renovation of over 1,400 square metres, including cave dwellings, pathways, stairways and courtyards. It can accommodate up to 45 guests distributed among 16 historical dwellings. Guests can enjoy the restaurant, which offers local specialities in a warm rustic atmosphere, two bars, furnished panoramic terraces, leisure halls and an art gallery. The historical and architectural value of the hotel itself makes this an unforgettable cultural and recreational experience for all our guests.

2 nights Bed & Breakfast Display route

		Matera  more info »

City of cave dwellings: Matera

Located in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is the most outstanding example of an intact troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The city has over 100 rock churches, a testimony to the Greek-Byzantine monastic civilizations that once ruled the region. It is the city of art and folklore, and is considered one of the most ancient continuously inhabited settlements in the world, dating as far back as the Palaeolithic period. In addition, Matera is located near the beaches along the Ionian coast and the archaeological sites of Metaponto and Policoro. The Pantano Woods, an area protected by the WWF, is close by as well. Excursions can also be taken to the Melfi and Venosa castles near Potenza, to Pollino National Park, or to Murgia Materana Park. The location offers many opportunities to enjoy beautiful landscapes and become acquainted with the culture and folklore of the region.

7th day: Otranto

Accommodtion: A former monestary near Otranto The hotel is situated on the Salento plain only 2 km from the port city of Otranto with its splendid beaches. The historical property, which was originally a monastery, has been carefully restored and is now one of the most attractive guesthouses in the region. Each room has its own entrance to the garden and is equipped with a minibar, air conditioning and beach towels for a trip to the seaside. Guests can also swim in the hotel's own swimming pool.

2 nights Bed & Breakfast Display route

		Otranto  more info »

On the scenic heel of the boot: Capo S. Maria di Leuca

This city of 5,100 marks the eastern point of Italy. Like many towns in the vicinity, Otranto was founded by the Greeks. The city's main attractions are the Cathedral with its famous floor mosaic containing depictions of ancient sagas, the fortress and the nearby beaches. More beaches can be found just to the south in Porto Badisco and Aquaviva. Farther south, where the Ionic Sea begins, the shore is bordered by rugged cliffs.

9th day: Castel del Monte

Organic farm in a historical setting: An estate in Pulia

Accommodation: A country estate in Apulia The organic farm features olive trees, vineyards, almond orchards and cherry orchards. All produce is organically grown. The main building on the farm was built in the 19th century and was recently renovated with care taken to preserve the original structure. The hotel has nine guest rooms, each featuring an original fireplace. Solar panels heat the rooms and the water that supplies the bathrooms. The manor house with its forty chimneys, the surrounding round-roof houses (called "trulli"), and a cave close to the main house illustrate the long history of the people who have lived and worked at this enchanting place with its panoramic view.

2 nights Bed & Breakfast Display route

		Castel del Monte  more info »

Still a mystery: Castel del Monte

This unique medieval castle was designed by the German emperor Frederick II in the 13th century. The "crown of Pulia" is situated on a hill and can be seen from far away. The symbolic significance of the structure is reflected in the location, the mathematical and astronomical precision of the layout and the perfectly regular, octagonal shape. Castel del Monte is considered a successful blend of elements from classical antiquity, the Islamic Orient and north European Cistercian Gothic. The reason for the unusual shape of the fortress remains a mystery, although theories abound (most of an astronomical or religious nature). Castel del Monte was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996 and is open to the public all day in the summer and mornings in the winter.

11th day: Gargano

Located in an olive grove: A farm near Peschici

A farmhouse near Peschici The property featuring an ancient tower is located in an old olive grove with a panoramic view of the landscape leading to the sea. The beach is only a short walk away, or guests can use the hotel's private swimming pool.

2 nights Bed & Breakfast Display route

		Gargano  more info »

The spectacular coast of Gargano: Mattinata Cave

The spur of the boot consists of a mountain range that extends 65 km into the Adriatic Sea and reaches a height of 1,000 metres. The landscape of this scenic peninsula is characterized by picturesque bays, cliffs, beaches and clear blue waters. Ancient woods dot the interior. The most impressive of these, the Foresta di Umbra ("Shadow Forest"), contains a trail for a three-hour hike. Although the coastal region has fallen victim to mass tourism in recent years, there are still many charming sites away from the crowds. Boats leave from Rodi Garganico to the Tremiti Islands, which have seen little tourism development.

	13th day: Rental car drop-off

Fiat Grande Punto or similar Drop-off location: Rome, Airport

	Cost of this tour
		The price is per person based on two persons sharing a double room and includes accommodations (meals included as stated above) and rental car. USD 1,689.001 EUR 1,220.00 Should you want to revise this itinerary, we can change any of the following items: the route, the number of persons travelling, the time schedule, the standard of accommodation and the type of vehicle, according to your wishes. The tour can begin on any date desired. Recommended travel period: May – October Upon booking this tour you will receive: the names, addresses and telephone numbers for each accommodation detailed directions to each accommodation vouchers If you have any questions, would like to request changes or book this tour, please call your personal consultant Jessica Parkin on +49 (0) 2268 / 90 98-23 or submit an enquiry via the Internet:	13 days Recommended travel period: May – October
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1) The price is per person based on two persons sharing a double room. Prices may vary due to the season and differences in available services. All tours are sold in euros. Prices indicated in other currencies are for informational purposes only and may vary in accordance with changes in exchange rates.

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