The beautiful peninsula of Cap Corse is a ribbon of sheer coast along a fault line, suspended at an altitude of 3,280 feet. Between two seas. The prelude to the beauties of Cap Corse will be found along the road called the Cliff Road which, starting you will journey on  from Bastia and it will a matchless view over the Tuscan Archipelago.  A 30-minute ride will take you to the small and colorful fishing port of Erbalunga  where you will have time to spend before re-boarding your motor coach for the 30-minute to Luri for another short stop.  Then on for a 60-minute drive to the marine of Pino and the sheer cliff of Nonza with its Genovese tower and a boundless grey beach — offering astonishing landscapes.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.  This tour is not recommended for people with vertigo as the road is extremely windy with several hairpin turns.

           

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372).  They needed a city and port which could assure the contact between their “Homeland” and their “colony”. Even if this small port was swept by terrible winds, it was protected by a rock,  easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastia. The numerous religious buildings dotted all over the island bear witness to the profound religious fervor of its inhabitants and their attachment to the Catholic faith. Despite this, the collective consciousness remains steeped in many pagan traditions,with relics of ancient beliefs. The mystical spirit of Corsica finds its true expression during the great Christian festivals, however the barrier between the natural and supernatural world is extremely permeable and Corsica is teeming with visionaries, faith healers, and mediums. This walking tour will take you to some purportedly haunted sites, and give you an overview of the superstitions and local legends which still hold sway.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring Euros. You will have about 30 minutes to shop on your own.

            

 

 

 

Your journey from Bastia will lead inland to Oletta – a small village terraced up the hillside, and from where there is a lovely view of Saint Florent and over  the countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and pastures – small squares of property delimited by dry stone walls. Then the road climbs up to the San Stefano Pass, through chestnut and olive groves, and from there is a spectacular panorama down to the east coast and the Biguglia “étang” (pool) and in the other direction, across the Agriates Desert and the sea at Saint Florent.  You will climb a sinuous, narrow road, up to the Teghime Pass, where at an altitude of 1,759 feet ( 536M), the views are completely different in each direction. To the West: over extensive vineyards right to the gulf of Saint Florent. To the South: across mountains and valleys towards the chestnut forests of the Castagniccia. The East: past Bastia and the sea leading to Italy. Finally North: the mountainous backbone of the Cap Corse. The road turns and twists its way down to Patrimonio, offering picturesque views background. Patrimonio village is dominated by its church and high steeple (built in 1749). Of course, it would be impossible to be in the finest wine producing region of the island, without having a wine-tasting session!

 

Please note: The order of sites visited might vary.

            

 

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372). The Genoese needed a city and port which could ensure contact between their “homeland” and their “colony.” Even if this small port was swept by terrible  winds, it was protected by a rock, easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastua. You will be met by your tour guide for a walking visit of the old City and the citadel . During your city tour by foot you will enjoy a stop for a Corsican spuntinu and tasting of Corsican specialties.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.

 

            

 

Your guide will be pleased to meet you on the pier to start your tour by private car or minivan heading to the charming village of San Rocco by a panoramic road. San Rocco is a small hamlet, settled on the top of Portofino’s National Natural Park ( Site of Community Importance) , and is the starting point of a lovely path. The walk follows the coast line and stops in front of the little church of San Nicolò Capodimonte for a short visit. Proceed then to Punta Chiappa, a rocky formation jutting out into the sea, which is also a very interesting area due to a breathtaking landscapeand this site can be reached only by path or boat, no roads, no vehicles! All around there is  the coastline of Liguria, ahead Corsica, and behind on land there is the Batteria di Punta Chiappa hidden in the mountains. You will arrive at Stella Maris Resort and have the choice to swim (please note: no beaches and no sand, only rocks and water shoes recommended) or snorkel (no guide or equipment included, guest should take mask and fins on their own) or just relax on the terrace of Stella Maris Resort. You will then be welcomed with an aperitif on the terrace accompanied  by local specialties, and enjoy lunch including a starter and special homemade pasta with Camogli pesto sauce. After lunch, you will sail to  Camogli by boat to enjoy a guided walking tour among the highlights of this lovely fishing village. 

 

Please note: Very comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit and towel, sunscreen/hat/sunglasses and water shoes are recommended. If you wish to snorkel you will need to bring your own snorkeling equipment.

            

 

 

 

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a National Park and Protected Marine Area.  Clinging to the Ligurian cliffs on the west coast of Italy are five castles at nearly the same distance from one another - Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Today you will see two of these sites as the ancient mariners had - from the sea. Depart from the pier heading to Cinque Terre, or five lands, and marvel as you approach the beautiful coast with villages suspended above the sea, almost defying gravity. Pass the scenic Tigullio Gulf and Poet's Gulf, with terraced vineyards alive with the aroma of olive trees blended with the fresh ocean breeze.  Arrive at the village of Vernazza, where you will disembark the vessel and begin a guided walking tour of this 1st century village. Notice the richness of its architecture, which evinces a wealthier standard of living than that of other villages. Following your tour, you will have free time to browse the local shops or enjoy a cafe. Reboard your boat and proceed to the next stop, the most westerly village and Cinque Terre's beach town, Monterosso. The town is divided into two distinct parts, San Cristoforo Hill, and the old maritime village protected by a rock spur. After your guide points out the highlights of Monterosso, you will have some free time to explore on your own, enjoy the beach and purchase your lunch. Meet the guide after free time and enjoy a relaxing panoramic cruise back to Santa Margherita.

 

Please note:  The operation of this tour is weather / sea conditions related.  it may happen that only  the stop in Monterosso can be made and Vernazza will be a photo stop. Order of sites may change order to avoid congestion. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

            

 

 

 

Start your walk from the pier with your guide, viewing the elegant shops and boutiques that surround the charming piazzetta along the way.  You will walk by the church to the hiking path. The itinerary of the hike can vary depending on your guide, on the weather and path conditions and on the fellow guests in your group. The first half of the tour is mostly an uphill walk if your tour goes towards Cappelletta, San Sebastiano and Olmi, to reach Molini. You will pass elegant villas nestled among rich tropical vegetation and olive trees. If your tour starts heading towards Paraggi, you will walk along the coastline and then hike up towards Acquaviva and Molini, where an old olive oil mill has been restored, now housing a little museum, a café, and toilets. The path leads the way through the Mediterranean flora, vineyards and olive groves. Vegetation hugs the medieval dwellings and the cliffs drop off to the crystal-clear sea, making this one of the most fascinating locations of the Riviera. Continue walking on to Santa Anna and Nozarego and finally you will arrive at the main promenade of Santa Margherita Ligure. Santa Margherita’s colors, the arrangement of its characteristic houses, its rich villas and great hotels have painted around its bay something similar to a magical reflection. Pause for refreshment at a café and then you will return to Portofino by minivan, or you may choose to remain in Santa Margherita to stroll around on your own and go back to Portofino by taxi, public ferry or public bus. 

 

Please note: Wear a hat and comfortable walking/hiking shoes. Bring a bottle of water. 

           

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

             

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

       

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

          

 

 

 

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses! This tour is a more unique visit to some of the more charming and remote fishing villages in the area and offers a cultural excursion difficult to do on your own. This tour will operate or not depending on sea conditions. 

            

 

 

 

 

Please note: The Azienda Agricola La Chiuse is not wheelchair accessible. 

           

 

 

On the lovely island of Elba, visit the country residence of Napoleon who spent nine months on the island. Depending on the day of the week, the tour will visit either Napoleon’s in-town residence of Villa dei Mulini, or his country residence of Villa San Martino. At Villa San Martino, highlights include Room of the Doves, with a painting on the ceiling of two doves bound by the same ribbon and a knot that tightens as they fly further away from each other. The Egyptian Room has a circular ring of Zodiac signs painted on the ceiling. You can also view Napoleon’s bedroom, dressing room, study and stroll through the nicely manicured gardens. Napoleon’s town residence, Villa dei Mulini includes the study, reception hall, Napoleon’s bedroom and his library. You will make a stop in Porto Azzuro summer resort area with a short time to explore. The coach can get very warm. Please bring extra water to beat the heat and dress in layers for the unpredictable summer rainstorm. Return to the ship in time for lunch on board, or stroll around the corner to the Old Port of Portoferraio for a typical Italian meal.
 
Please Note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. As temperatures can be high, guests are advised to bring along a hat and bottled water.