23 – 30 September 2012
Concentrating on the wealth of beautiful gardens around Lake Maggiore in Italy and Lake Lugano in Switzerland, this tour offers a balance between interesting botanic gardens and those of classic Renaissance and later Italian style. Sheltered by high Alps to the north, the sharply varied seasonal temperatures and the humidity of the lakes provide excellent growing conditions.
We stay in the very comfortable Hotel Cannero with its pretty garden on the quiet Maggiore lakeside. Of a high standard, it has recently been beautifully renovated by the architect Mauro Bissattini, and is owned and run by the Gallinotto family who are most welcoming. The restaurant overlooks the lake and mountains beyond and specialises in north Italian cuisine. Cannero, a delightful, typically Italian village, is a perfect base.
Itinerary
DAY ONE – SUNDAY 23 SEPTEMBER
Flight to Milan Malpensa airport where you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Walk in the late afternoon to discover the village. An aperitivo and short talk on the week’s programme before enjoying dinner together in the hotel restaurant.DAY TWO – MONDAY 24 SEPTEMBER
We leave for a guided visit to the romantic garden of San Remigio, created in the last century. Situated on a hilly promontory, six terraces descend from the villa. Statues are based on classical myths, the fountains are magnificent, and roses ramble over stone walls. At lunchtime we proceed to the Villa Taranto where light refreshments are available. Purchased in 1930, the 44 acres of parkland and garden were created by Captain Neil McEacharn, assisted by Henry Cocker who trained at Kew. The collection of mature trees and plants are impressive. We return to the hotel late afternoon.DAY THREE – TUESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER
A full day’s visit to the Borromean island of Isola Bella, an architectural wonder. We will discover the dramatic, well-planted, Baroque gardens, starting in the Courtyard of Diana, continuing to the parterres, and finally the superb water theatre. In the afternoon there will be time to visit the magnificent palazzo. Return by ferry to Cannero. Tasting of Piedmont wines in the hotel cantina before dinner.DAY FOUR – WEDNESDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
Leave in the morning for Luino where the weekly market will be taking place. We continue by ferry to Ascona in Switzerland to visit this attractive lakeside town at lunchtime. In the afternoon we take the ferry to the well-known Swiss botanic island gardens of Isole di Brissago. The retired head gardener will take us to discover the superb collection of plants from around the world. Return to Cannero by ferry.DAY FIVE – THURSDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
Ferry across the lake to Luino, continue to Villa Cicogna-Mozzoni at Bisuschio in Italy. The U-shaped villa has frescoes with floral motifs, garlands and vines, reflecting the garden and countryside beyond. The Renaissance garden dates back to 1560 and is like an extension to the villa with box parterres, statues and fountains, while beyond is the celebrated water staircase. We enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing through the rural Valculvia valley to visit the gardens of the early 18th century Villa della Porta Bozzolo, now belonging to FAI, the Italian National Trust. Return by boat to Cannero.DAY SIX – FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER
Morning visit to a private garden in Cannero. We leave late morning for the Borromean island of Isola Madre for lunch and visit the superb garden. Essentially a botanic garden with its own microclimate; citrus trees, mimosa and carob thrive, and white peacocks can be seen among hibiscus, canna, oleander and brugmansia. The views from the island across the lake to the snow-capped Alps are spectacular. Return to the lakeside town of Pallanza by ferry.DAY SEVEN – SATURDAY 29 SEPTEMBER
Taking the ferry to Luino we continue to Lugano in Switzerland for some free time, departing at lunchtime for the attractive lakeside village of Morcote. Visit to gardens of Parco Scherrer, a terraced garden with plants and artefacts collected worldwide. The arcaded village streets and the imposing church are enchanting. Return to Cannero by ferry.DAY EIGHT – SUNDAY 30 SEPTEMBER
Morning departure for Milan Malpensa airport for the return flights.
Tour Costs
Airflight, Hotel and Itinerary costs £1520pp
Accommodation based on 2 people sharing
Half board with private shower/bathroom
Supplement – single use of double room £160
Lake view supplement £140pp sharing
To extend your stay £105pp day/sharing b&b
Taxi to airport £125
Activity Level:
On/off lake boats. mostly level garden paths, flights of steps.
Additional Information:
Extra days can be added.