We depart from Rome and we do what the Romans do on the weekend and travel to the countryside to have lunch amongst the vineyards, olive groves and the fields of grain at the farmhouse at Agriturismo Bertacco.   The farm grows the prized Monococco grain from which you will enjoy an authentic four course lunch. 

We then discover the once Papal dynasty of the area visiting the medieval town of the Popes –Anangi, before heading on for our visit and overnight stay at Castro dei Volsci, a hilltop town steeped in history, and where you will be served the most mouth-watering dinner in a hidden location in the mountain area known as the Ciociaria.

Today we see the legacies of the two powers that once ruled this land; the Popes and the Royal Court of Kings.  We travel south to the majestic monastery of Monte Cassino to look at the treasures on display in the wonderful museum and abbey.  We learn about its historical significance over the ages and more recently during WWII.   

An unforgettable visit to the largest regal palace of Europe at the Reggia di Caserta then awaits us.  You will be enchanted as you wander through its stunning ornate rooms filled with art works and treasures of times gone by. 

The sea beckons us towards the spectacular Amalfi coast.

Today you choose what to do.  Perhaps a day of leisure to take in the atmosphere of this much loved coastline.   You can take the short bus ride to Positano to admire this glitzy village clinging to the cliffs.  For those feeling more energetic walk the Path of the Gods taking in the magnificent views of the towns and coastline below.  Head to the water by boat to explore the turquoise waters and caves of Praiano or just sit by the sea. Take an unforgettable visit to beachside hamlet of Furore.

We visit the beautiful town of Amalfi and enjoy its attractions and stunning position by the sea.  From Amalfi you can take an optional day trip to the Island of Capri. Alternatively, visit the hill town of Ravello with its magnificent gardens where you can relax and unwind in this tranquil paradise while you enjoy beautiful views of the coastline. 

In recent years, more and more discoveries and excavations are made at the ancient city of Pompeii and these are waiting for you to explore.  It is the closest you’ll get to time travel. When you visit Pompei it’s like going back in time: the town along with the bodies of its inhabitants was preserved so well because it was buried quickly by volcanic ash. 

There is nowhere in the world quite like Naples.  Feel the hustle and bustle of this energised city. After a mandatory lunch of Pizza Napoletana, we explore its character with a walking tour through its historical centre of Spaccanapoli.   Then it is time for some relaxation and an aperitivo.

If you can look beyond the decaying facades of the buildings, you will see the beauty of Naples.  Our discovery of Naples continues with a visit to its outstanding attractions. We will then climb up to the Vomero for outstanding views of Mount Vesuvius and the city sprawling towards the bay of Naples.    We celebrate with a typical dinner in one of the city’s popular restaurants. As the saying goes; “See Naples and Die”.

After a leisurely breakfast,  we say our goodbyes and board the Freccia Rossa very fast train for return trip to Rome.  We leave having fallen in love with the Beautiful South.