Breathtaking Landscapes: A Road Trip Through Northern Italy's Hidden Gems

Day 1-3: Venice - A Dreamlike Start

Our journey begins in the enchanting city of Venice, where time seems to stand still and every corner exudes history and beauty. Wandering through narrow alleys, crossing stone bridges and gliding along the iconic canals on water taxis, I couldn't help but fall in love with the city's unique charm. Highlights included exploring the awe-inspiring Doge's Palace zoducale.visitmuve.it/en/home/, marveling at the intricate details of St. Mark's Basilica and soaking in the atmosphere of the Rialto Bridge.

But Venice has more to offer than just its iconic landmarks. A short boat ride took us to the colorful fishing town of Burano, where vibrant houses lined the canals and the smell of fresh seafood filled the air. Speaking of seafood, my taste buds were treated to a heavenly seafood risotto at Al Giardinetto da Severino - a culinary experience I won't soon forget.

Day 4-6: Borgo Pignano - Unwinding in Volterra's Embrace

Leaving the enchantment of Venice behind, we embarked on a scenic drive to Volterra, where the tranquil beauty of Borgo Pignano awaited. Wine tasting, infinity pool lounging, pasta-making classes and hikes to breathtaking waterfalls filled our days. And oh, that Florentine steak served at the Michelin-star restaurant on-site - a true gastronomic masterpiece that melted in my mouth.

Day 6-8: Cinque Terre - A Hiker's Paradise

Next stop: Cinque Terre, a cluster of vibrant coastal villages linked by hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Hiking from Manarola to Riomaggiore on the Via Beccara trail, kayaking along the coast, and savoring the region's signature pesto and focaccia dishes made for unforgettable days. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky turned shades of pink, casting a dreamlike spell over the sea.

Day 8: Lake Garda - Roman Ruins and Dance Parties

Lake Garda beckons with its natural beauty and rich history. Exploring the Grotte di Catullo's excavated ruins and dancing the night away at Jamaica Beach's DJ-hosted party was an unexpected delight. Swimming against the backdrop of towering mountains was a surreal experience that left me in awe.

Day 9-12: From Mountains to Lakes

As the sun dawned on a new day, we embarked on a drive that led us into the heart of the Italian Alps. Our first stop was the Santuario Madonna della Corona, a hidden gem perched dramatically on a mountainside. The winding road that took us to this sanctuary was an adventure and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains were simply awe-inspiring. The architecture of the sanctuary blended seamlessly with the natural beauty of the landscape, creating a spiritual and serene atmosphere.

Continuing our journey, we found ourselves in Bolzano, a town that felt like a charming blend of Italian and Austrian influences. The architecture, language, and cuisine all bore traces of its unique history. We wandered through the quaint streets, admiring the mix of cultures that had left their mark on this fascinating place. And of course, we couldn't resist trying the signature dish of wurstel and bretzel, which was a delightful change of pace that echoed the town's cultural diversity.

Rising early, we set out on a drive that led us through breathtaking Alpine scenery. Our first destination was Lake Carezza, known for its stunning emerald-green waters that reflect the surrounding peaks like a mirror. The lake's tranquility and the towering mountains created a scene straight out of a postcard.

Continuing our journey, we ascended through the Sella Pass, where the road wound its way through craggy peaks and alpine meadows. The views were nothing short of spectacular and we found ourselves stopping often to soak in the beauty of the landscape.

Our final destination for the day was Lake Braies, a shimmering gem nestled amid the Dolomites. We rented a paddle boat and gently glided across the pristine waters, surrounded by towering peaks that seemed to touch the sky. It was a moment of pure serenity, as we marveled at the grandeur of nature and the incredible landscapes that Italy had to offer.

Day 11: Conquering Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The next day was reserved for a hiking adventure of a lifetime – the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These towering peaks are an iconic symbol of the Dolomites, and we couldn't wait to conquer the trails that wound their way around these majestic giants. Setting out early, we began our ascent, surrounded by alpine meadows and the rugged beauty of the mountains. The hike was challenging but incredibly rewarding, with every step revealing new vistas that took our breath away. As we reached the summit, the panoramic views of the three distinctive peaks and the sweeping valleys below left us in awe of nature's grandeur.

Day 12: Valdobbiadene's Prosecco Paradise

As our journey neared its end, we retreated to the charming town of Valdobbiadene, nestled in the heart of the Prosecco wine region. Our day was spent savoring the delights of local Prosecco, as we embarked on wine tours that took us through the lush vineyards and historic wineries. The flavors were exquisite, and every sip was a celebration of the region's rich viticultural heritage.

The highlight of Valdobbiadene, however, was the luxurious infinity pool where we lounged, gazing out over the rolling hills and vine-covered landscapes. The tranquil ambiance, coupled with the warm Italian sun, was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey we had undertaken.

Day 13: Back to Where it all Began

As our two-week adventure drew to a close, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the memories we had made, the landscapes we had witnessed and the flavors we had savored. Northern Italy had truly captured our hearts, and as we headed back to Venice for our flight home, we knew that the enchantment of this journey would stay with us forever.

This journey ignited my wanderlust, and I hope it's done the same for you. So why wait? Let's start planning your own Italian adventure – a journey filled with culture, cuisine, and endless beauty. Until then, keep dreaming and exploring!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. In need of further inspiration? Check out Bettina Hughes’s guide, Guide to Solo Travel in Florence, Italy.