Itinerary Highlights Verona This medieval old town on the Adige River is famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Among the sights students will see is Verona’s impressive Arena, which is still an active performance site. It’s the world’s largest opera theater and one of the best-preserved ancient structures. It was built in 30 AD and has stood the test of time thanks to its strong foundation that was created by digging a depression into a hill Venice Venice is one of the most famous cities in Italy with its 150 canals. Among the best known is the Canal Grande or Grand Canal which flows through six districts of the city. Landmarks along the way include the Rialto Bridge – Ponte di Rialto – which is a covered pedestrian bridge and the Ponte dell’Accademia that crosses the canal. The students will also see other culturally significant sites like St. Mark’s Basilica. Lake Garda This is the largest lake in Italy and is on the edge of the Italian Alps. It’s bordered by 25 villages, along with monuments, castles and fortresses. The lake has also been an inspiration for many authors including Franz Kafka and James Joyce.
Accommodations Students will stay at a beautiful property that dates back to the 13th-century and utilizes Venetian Gothic architecture. The residence is immersed in a park with a lake. Here are details: The Castle The Villa Bartolomea Castle is located near Legnago. It has two floors with six bedrooms and six bathrooms. The guest house also has large living room gathering spots. Outside there’s a swimming pool area, grass football field, volleyball area, and ping pong tables. Plus, the site is near the banks of the Adige River. It’s a picture-perfect setting for an Italian adventure!
Service Projects Work on eco-conservation projects in the Euganean Hills outside Padua. The hills formed about 35 million years ago from volcanic activity. The area now includes a regional park that’s visible from Venice. Amid the hills are hot springs and numerous vineyards. Leaders in the area use the park to promote sustainable tourism and offer environmental programs for school children. Rustic Pathways’ service work enhances these efforts. Specific tasks you will accomplish will depend on local needs. Projects may include removing invasive species or working on hiking trails. While completing these jobs, learn about the location’s history and geography.
If I could choose my favorite aspect of this trip, it would hands down be the counselors. They were the funniest, most welcoming group of people I have ever met and they made this trip the perfect experience! –Francie Beck, Rustic Pathways Alumni Food Breakfast on most days will be fresh, local Italian pastries, fruit, yogurt, or cereal at the base house. A few of the days students will have the option to visit patisseries and experience Italian breakfast culture. Most lunches will be eaten on the go during activities, service, or exploring different locations. These meals will typically include pizza, pasta, panini, or stops at local markets to create picnics. Dinners will be a combination of eating out at Italian restaurants, local pizza, and local cuisine prepared family-style by chefs at our base house. When exploring places like Verona, Venice, Milan, and Lake Garda there will be frequent snack stops to try gelato, pastries, fresh local fruit, cappuccino, espresso, and all the classics. Want to learn more about the fascinating Italian food culture before your trip? Here are eight fun facts about Italian food.
What’s Included in Your Program Program Leaders & Guides English Speaking Rustic Pathways international and local leaders Airport Transportation Meet and greet with private transportation to and from the airport Comfortable Accommodations All nights of accommodation All Meals Included Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your stay Ground Transportation All transportation between program locations and activities All Activities Every activity, entrance fee, and experience in your itinerary 24/7 Support On-call support throughout the program for peace of mind Emergency Coverage Included emergency evacuation assurance plan All Fees & Tips Airport taxes, departure fees, donations, and guide tips What’s Not Included in Your Program International Flights Souvenirs Additional Snacks Visa Expenses Passport Fees