overseas adventure travel italy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

4 Epic Adventure Travel Ideas in Italy, From Tuscany's Rolling Hills to the Dolomite Mountains

From Tuscany to the Dolomites, Italy’s vast and varied landscape is perfect for adventure travel.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to grip the world, it's hard to imagine a day when travelers will willingly crowd into the corridors of the Vatican Museums, squeeze into St. Mark's Basilica, or sunbathe elbow to elbow on an Amalfi Coast beach.

So, what's a vacation in Italy without crowded attractions, busy piazzas, and closely arranged restaurant tables? It's an active adventure waiting to happen.

While it's famous for its cities, museums, and monuments, Italy is also full of wide-open spaces, including those familiar rolling fields of Tuscany , the Apennine and Dolomite mountain ranges, and vast stretches of rugged terrain in the south. And all that space and solitude mean plenty of fresh air and room for safety and exclusivity. Adventure travel in Italy offers active vacationers a way to see the natural side of the country, stay in rural and semi-private accommodations, and enjoy excellent local food and drink. So, instead of the well-trodden Rome-Florence-Venice circuit, consider these less-traveled journeys in Italy's magnificent outdoors.

Walk the Via Francigena Path

Italy's answer to Spain's Camino de Santiago, the Via Francigena route starts in Canterbury, England, and stretches for 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles) through France, Switzerland, and Italy, culminating in Rome. Four hundred glorious kilometers (248 miles) run north to south through Tuscany, and walking even a stretch of the path puts you in touch with the earthy, natural beauty of Italy's fabled heartland. The classic portion from the walled city of Lucca to medieval Siena is 132 kilometers (82 miles), typically spread out over seven nights. Stay in historic hotels in city centers, at simple pilgrim hostels, or at cozy agriturismi (farm stays) amid the iconic Tuscany landscape. Pointy cypress trees? Check. Rows of undulating grapevines? Check. Super Tuscans, salami, and pasta with porcini mushrooms? Check, check, check. Camino Ways can set you up for a weeklong hiking or biking trip with overnights in basic or luxury accommodations, plus meal and luggage transport options.

Follow the Shepherds in Abruzzo

For thousands of years, shepherds across the world would seasonally migrate their flocks of sheep between lowlands and highlands, a practice called transhumance. The movement shaped rural culture in Europe so much so that UNESCO added it to its List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Industrialized farming has eradicated transhumance in most places, but in Abruzzo, the mountainous region east of Rome, the practice lives on. In June and July, curious trekkers can join shepherds and their flocks for a few days and nights, wending along rushing rivers, through crumbling stone villages and Roman ruins, and up steep mountain tracts until the herd arrives at its summer stomping grounds. These are bucolic days indeed, with stops for snacks of bread and cheese and someone's homemade wine or fruit tart, hearty lunches and dinners, and sleeping under the stars (or, for those seeking more creature comforts, at a simple inn). Nunzio Marcelli, a legend among transhumanza proponents, organizes four-day, three-night trips through La Porta dei Parchi agricultural cooperative.

Hike to High-altitude, Rustic Digs in Trentino

In Italy's craggy Dolomite Mountains, a series of rustic huts provide hikers with simple, comfy overnight stays and rib-sticking meals. Called rifugi (plural of rifugio ), these high-altitude accommodations — some 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level — have welcomed weary mountaineers for a century or more. The region of Trentino alone has more than 140 rifugi , typically open from June through September. Some are reachable only on foot, while others are connected by roads or cable cars. But all are a welcome sight after a long day of lung- and thigh-scorching trekking. Accommodations range from cozy private rooms and family rooms to simple (and now, socially distanced) dorms. Virtually every rifugio has views that will leave you gobsmacked, and a nighttime celestial show that will make you forget all about flat-screens and Wi-Fi. Majestic doesn't even begin to sum it up. Visit Trentino has information on staying at rifugi , which must be booked in advance, including distances and degrees of difficulty for hiking from hut to hut.

Journey to Mount Etna on Horseback

Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Normans all rode through the seaside town of Cefalù, Sicily, the point of departure for a horseback trek to Mount Etna, some 130 kilometers (81 miles) away. On the way to Mount Etna, riders log up to eight hours a day in the saddle, traversing ancient roads through beech forests and alongside mountain lakes, and passing castles and villages rich with history. The Tyrrhenian Sea, with the Aeolian Islands in the distance, appears at turns until finally, Italy's largest active volcano is front and center. Climb past Mount Etna's orchards, vineyards, and olive groves to reach the closest you might ever come to riding a horse on the surface of the moon. Spend the night in rural farmhouses and dine on fresh farm-to-table products, local specialties, and of course, wine from grapes cultivated in the region's mineral-rich volcanic soil. Unicorn Trails organizes eight-day, seven-night programs that include meals, overnights, and transfers.

Writer and editor Elizabeth Heath covers travel, wellness, and lifestyle from her home in central Italy.

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of 20 wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Ultimate Italy

14 days, rome to venice.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

From the villages of the Cinque Terre to Tuscany's medieval splendour, this is an adventure for those looking to indulge in all of Italy’s delights. Walk through grand piazzas and winding lanes, stroll the canals of Venice, and float past villas on Lake Como. Marvel at the ancient grandeur of Rome and the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence. Your expert local CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will take care of the details so you can travel at a leisurely pace and appreciate the scenery, whether it’s sipping vino in Tuscany or sampling local delicacies within the walls of charming Montepulciano. Experience the best of Italy in this all-encompassing tour.

Rome to Venice

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12.

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

Alternative Trips

Don't miss out on the big Italian highlights plus all the mystery and excitement of Venice Carnival.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world — with trees! Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 14

Ripple Score

Want to create ripples that change lives? The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 100

More from Ultimate Italy

Places visited

Arrive at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Enjoy a G Adventures supported migrant led walk of Rome before enjoying a free day to explore a myriad of options. Opt to tour Vatican City, cross the river to charming Trastevere, eat some gelato in Piazza Navona, or swing by the Colosseum and Forum.

Meals included:

Day 3 rome/montepulciano.

Travel to Montepulciano in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Explore the medieval and renaissance hill town with an orientation walk.

Day 4 Montepulciano

Spend the day in the Italian countryside. The famous wine-producing region is the perfect place for an optional vineyard tour and wine tasting, or a bike ride in the rolling hills.

Day 5 Montepulciano/Florence

Continue on to Florence. Enjoy an evening walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

Day 6 Florence

With a free day, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful.

Day 7 Florence

Enjoy a day trip to vibrant Siena. After an orientation walk around this medieval city, opt to visit Torre del Mangia, Battistero, il Campo, or the Duomo or to take a "passeggiata" and meet the Sienese locals. Return to Florence at the end of the day.

Day 8 Florence/Cinque Terre

Visit Pisa en route to the coast. Settle into the colourful, charming town in the Cinque Terre.

Day 9 Cinque Terre

Walk the coastal path between Riomaggiore and Monterosso or opt to take the train. Visit charming, colourful towns along the way.

Day 10 Cinque Terre/Lake Como

Travel to Lake Como, a perfectly picturesque region laden with villas and lush gardens. Arrive in the late afternoon and start exploring the town.

Day 11 Lake Como

Spend the day on Lake Como with a day pass for the Lake Como boat. Visit multiple towns along the shores. Opt to take the funicular to Brunate for a fantastic view over the area.

Day 12 Lake Como/Venice

Travel to Venice, the "city of canals," and enjoy an orientation walk over bridges and canals and view Piazza San Marco.

Day 13 Venice

Spend the day getting lost in Venice. Opt for a vaporetto (water taxi) ride to the islands of Murano and Burano, take a gondola under the Ponte Rialto (Bridge of Lovers), explore the Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, or get lost in the twisting maze of the city.

Day 14 Venice

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Migrantour Rome, Rome
• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Discover Moment: Rome
• Your Discover Moment: Florence
• Your Discover Moment: Venice
• Orientation walk of Montepulciano (Tuscany)
• Day trip to Siena
• Piazzale Michelangelo evening visit (Florence)
• Pisa visit (half-day)
• Cinque Terre park fee, unlimited train ticket and CEO-led hike
• Lake Como boat day pass
• Venice orientation walk
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (13 nts).

13 breakfasts Allow USD510-665 for meals not included.

Transportation

Public bus, train, boat, walking

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Florence food tour - from $98.00.

Uncover the treasures of Florence, savoured by locals for generations, on this 3-hour walking tour through Oltrarno. Experience the unique flavours and foods that make the cuisine of this region so distinct from the rest of Italy. Famous for being the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to Michelangelo’s famous statue of David, Florence is a city rich with culture, history and of course, some of the tastiest Tuscan food in the region. Wander the streets and soak up the bohemian vibe as you stop to sample wine and salami. There is even the chance to get hands on as you learn how to make Italian cantucci (cookies).

Rome Vintage Vespa Tour - From $221.00

When in Rome... live "la dolce vita" and hop onto a Vespa! Make your way around the city (like the locals do) on a vintage Vespa scooter. Visit Rome's must-see landmarks with a local guide, who will also be your Vespa driver, on this 3-4 hour afternoon excursion.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

Deals of the Week   Green Hikes & Treks   Up to 50% OFF

Active Tours & Trips in Italy

Find the right active tour for you in Italy. There are 78 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 15 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Italy.

78 Active tour packages in Italy with 307 reviews

Best of Apulia region - 9 days (Small Group)

The destinations and hotel accomodations were excellent. We did this trip during the late May and early June timeframe. Our tour was promoted as a 14 person max tour which was not exactly true. There were 2 groups of people split by English Speaking and Spanish Speaking. There were 2 seperate groups but touring the same places, hotels and restuarants. More people then to deal with and figure out logistics and wait time. Overall fairly smooth but room for improvement by decreasing wait time staying on schedule. The tour left a little late each morning so we had less time to see the sights and our free time to explore on our own. Our guides English comprehension was limited and difficult to understand the English with her heavy Italy accent. The tour would be much better just having a group of 20 or less and a better guide that could explain the sights better.

• Train & Rail

Alps By Bernina Train & Northern Lakes - 6 Days

Excellent choice of places to visit. Tour Leader Chiara was fantastc. Nino the Driver was also very professional and friendly. Would recommend this tour to all my friends and acquaintances.

• Christmas & New Year

LITTLE ITALY

• In-depth Cultural
• Local Living
• Hiking & Trekking

Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast

This was my first tour and I'm happy to say it exceeded all my expectations. It was exactly the type of holiday I wanted, hiking in beautiful scenery with good company and fabulous food. The food was absolutely fantastic - homemade and some homegrown. The hosts at our accommodations were wonderful and did so much extra for us. Our guide was a perfect for this trip, and she helped make a great itinerary even better. I am already planning my next tour and have recommended this to many people already.

• Coach / Bus

A Taste of Italy: 8 Days

If you want to see a lot of Italy in a short amount of time this is the tour for you! Our guides and driver were fantastic. They took all the guess work out of the equation with their guidance on Italian culture and recommendations of good restaurants and safe areas to visit during free time. Be prepared for a lot of walking as much of Italy is best accessed via walking tours. There is beauty around every corner. If walking is difficult for you, be warned that the handicapped accessibility is not near the standard we find in the USA. All of our hotels were great—clean and comfortable. The bus was well appointed and had free WiFi.

Sail Italy: Procida to Amalfi

Fantastic sailing tour.

Ultimate Italy

Like that I do not have to do any transportation arrangements. Just follow the ceo to the right place and get off when he says. No worries for someone who does not normally use public transportation. Like the new town orientation upon arrival and then do our own thing for the next day. Like that the supper reservations were made for us and get together with the group then. Like that we were shown the atms, and local grocery shops for snacks and anything needed for the next trip

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights

This tour allowed me to experience THE must see locations in Italy. The guides were extremely knowledgeable. In addition, at each location, the travelers had time to explore the city and cites on their own. The tour guides also had tremendous food recommendations. Honestly, pizza will never be the same. If you like to plan your trips down to the very last detail but don’t know where to start, go with Italy on a Budget!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Italy Family Holiday

I took my 12 year old son on the Intrepid Family Adventure. We had an amazing time. The guide was helpful, considerate and lots of fun. Playing games with the kids in the pool and making sure everyone was comfortable and happy. The pace was fantastic for a family with the mornings full of exploring with the group and the afternoons reserved for free time for families to spend together. Our highlight was the sailing trip to Capri. Can't recommend highly enough

4-Day Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and Capri

Puglia: Discover the Heel of Italy

Although I have traveled often this was my first experience with an organized/guided tour. The tour was exactly as described. Our guide Gabriele was an outstanding host. He ensured we were well informed of all details throughout our journey which made it stress free and fun. He went above and beyond organizing a few group dinners. The one that stands out in my mind was our dinner in Lecce in a piazza under a star and moonlit sky. It was like a dream. Accommodations were characteristic of the town, clean and with friendly staff. Daily breakfast were fresh , abundant with plenty of variety. My personal favourite Apricot Crostata! If you take this trip here a few tips; - wear comfortable shoes with good treads. It would be difficult to navigate Materra and Alberobello in flip flops. - arrive hungry saving room for a gelato or two - be prepared to pay a small city tax to each hotel. It’s minor but in my opinion it would be more convenient for staff and guests if it were included. - take lots of pictures Pulgia…you won’t be disappointed. The tour was busy yet somehow I returned home relaxed. Buon Viaggio!!

• Mountain Hikes

Dolomites Adventure

Tailor-Made Private Italy Tour to Tuscany

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Authentic Umbria

What an amazing experience, totally authentic cooking recipes from the talented Rafaela

• Kayak & Canoe

Italian Lakes District Adventure

What people love about active tours in italy.

Fantastic guide Salvo…wonderful people on the tour. I would have loved a local wine / lemon farm tour to have been included. The hikes (I did the first 3 ) were great , but calling the tour local living without doing some of the real local experiences is a little disappointing.

Regions in Italy

• South Italy (40)
• Northern Italy (21)
• Italian Alps (15)
• Central Italy (14)
• Campania (14)
• Sicily (12)
• Amalfi Coast (10)
• The Dolomites (10)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (7)
• Prosecco (7)
• Tuscany (6)
• Lazio, Marche & Abruzzo (6)
• South Tyrol (6)
• Italian Lakes District (5)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025
• Italy Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Itinerary Ideas for 10 Days in Italy, 2022-2023
• Best 7 Day Italy Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Discover the Best Italy Vacation Packages 2024/2025
• What is the best time to visit Italy in 2024/2025?

International Versions

• Deutsch: Italien Aktivreise Rundreisen
• Français: Italie : Circuits aventure active 2024/2025
• Español: Aventura Activa Circuitos en Italia
• Nederlands: Actief avontuur Rondreizen in Italië

Call Us +1 (610) 657-7894

Truly unique, authentic and immersive, escorted and guided experiential adventure expeditions to Tuscany, Italy and Provence in The South of France

We tailor deeply immersive & culturally explorative discovery adventure expeditions designed for people who are looking for a truly unique, “once in a lifetime”  Mediterranean Adventure Experience.  This is so much more than just sight-seeing!   Our small group experiential expeditions (just 11 to 14 guests) are personally escorted and professionally guided, with accommodations in our magnificent private hilltop Villas on sprawling Estates, giving you a chance to truly “Eat, Pray and Fall in Love” on these amazing European Adventures… And our trips include all the things the other guys forget about: Adventure, Excitement & FUN!

Learn More…

Our Magnificent Villas

Our wonderfully exclusive tours stay all week at our magnificent & rustically elegant private Hilltop Villas amidst vineyards, olive groves & magical forests on massive country Estates in the very centers of Tuscany and  Provence…  Sprawling gated hilltop country Estates with Private Chefs, Ensuite Baths, Swimming Pools, Open Wine, Prosecco, Champagne & Beer Bars, Daily Happy Hour Parties, Alfresco Dining, Evening Theme Parties, live entertainment, on-site complimentary wi-fi & laundry facilities and more…

Proud Member of  the

What makes us different, makes all the difference in the world!  We don’t just say these words; keep reading and you’ll soon find out!  Carefully handcrafted & curated expeditions that are designed to not just give you a taste of Europe, but to totally engage you, and deeply immerse you into the magic of the local people & cultures! Remember; The way you choose to see the world, creates the world you see! And the way you’ll see it on our Tours creates memories you’ll never, ever forget!  Got questions about our Tuscany & Provence Trips? Just call us at 610-657-7894 or shoot us an email at [email protected] 

Contact Us…

Choose From Two Incredibly Magical Mediterranean Adventures

The best of tuscany in 8 days, friends food & fun under the tuscan sun, the beautiful villages of provence, a château in the south of france.

Our personal, intimate & exclusive small group adventure expeditions of Tuscany, Italy  and Provence, in The South of France (just 11 – 14 guests)  will stay all week in our own magical and magnificent 400 year old, beautifully restored Villas on large beautiful private Estates high in the  hills of Tuscany and Provence… and in the true definition of an adventure expedition, you’ll follow us through these magical regions Road Rally Style in your own Italian or French sports car with large colorful Road Rally Decals on the sides,  and two-way radios …

Your experienced Hosts & Tour Leaders, both figuratively and literally lead you on an incredible experiential adventure throughout The Chianti Classico region of Tuscany, or The Beautiful Villages of Provence in The South of France… We’ve personally been touring Europe for over 38 years and bringing these intimate Tour groups over to The Mediterranean for these incredible experiential Villa Adventures for over 23 years… We’re passionate about these truly magical regions of Europe…  We know what our guests want and we’ll show you how to make every moment an amazing memory! Why settle for an ordinary 50 person bus tour staying in crowded tourist hotels, and eating in bland banquet halls…  These incredible Villa vacations offer truly unique, authentic & immersive, escorted & guided, experiential adventure expeditions in the very heart of Tuscany, Italy or Provence in The South of France!

Our Villas:

Villa toscana, in tuscany, italy (top), château du soleil, provence in the south of france (bottom).

You’ll get to experience The  Mediterranean  the way the locals do… not getting on and off a tour bus and checking into and out of busy city tourist hotels, but in magnificent & authentic Private Villas on beautiful large Private Estates, and the adventure of driving your own sporty car, as you follow us, touring road rally style through the hills and vineyards of Tuscany or Provence… If you’re going to travel half-way around the world, let us show you how to make it an adventure you’ll never forget… Because life isn’t measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away…

Join One of Our Upcoming Tours ~ Got questions; call us 610-657-7894

Or email us at [email protected], complimentary planning services for flights, hotels & suggested activities for pre & post tour extensions for rome, paris, florence, lake como, the cinque terre, the alps, etc..

We’re happy to help you arrange Pre or Post Tour Extensions in Rome, Paris, Milan, Florence, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, etc  in personally inspected TripAdvisor            3 Star Certificate of Excellence Award Winning Hotels that we frequently use ourselves in the very center of Historic Districts – Great Rates!

The way you choose to see the world, creates the world you see…

© [2020] · Adventures to Tuscany. All Rights Reserved.

Create an account

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Amalfi Coast Tours

Amalfi Coast tours are some of the most sought after travel experiences in the World, and it’s easy to see why. Breathtaking coastal terrain, vibrant villages, and exquisite cuisine all combine to make tours on the Amalfi Coast an unforgettable adventure. Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast can be tricky due to how popular the region is, so leave it to the professionals with one of the amazing Amalfi Coast tours below.

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

Filter Results

Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast E-Bike Tour

The Amalfi Coast is perhaps the world’s most beautiful coastline. On the Amalfi Coast E-Bike Tour, you can take in this amazing scenery almost without effort. You’ll cycle with ease along the beautiful coastal road and have plenty of time to take in the scenery and stop in the villages along the way.

Campania & Cilento Cycling Tour

On the Campania & Cilento Cycling Tour, you’ll discover some of the most idyllic parts of Italy at a fantastic price. The region of Campania has been known as a paradise on earth from ancient times on. The Greeks built some of their most impressive temples here and under the Romans it became known as  ‘Campania Felix’  or the ‘Happy Land’. When travelling the region, one becomes overwhelmed by its wealth of cultural and natural attractions.

Amalfi Coast and Capri Walking

The Amalfi Coast and Capri Walking tour is a magical chance to tour one of Italy’s most picture-perfect regions on foot, from the shimmering sea to imposing volcanoes and everything in between.

Amalfi Coast Self-Guided Walking Tour

The Amalfi Coast is known as one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world and it is yours to discover on this fabulous 7-day self-guided walking adventure! Walking from Salerno to Amalfi, you’ll spend 7 days immersed in the eastern part of the Amalfi Coast, experiencing its breathtaking natural landscapes, ancient sites, and rich culture. 

Campania and Amalfi Coast Walking Tour

There is no better way to experience the magic of Southern Italy than on foot, where nothing separates you from the splendour of the land. The Campania and Amalfi Coast Walking Tour is an 8-day adventure that will take you through some of Southern Italy’s most spectacular landscapes.

We are here to help

Ask us a question!

We promise you will always have a real person to help plan your next vacation. A team member is always just a call or a click away.

Hiking the Amalfi Coast Alta Via

The Amalfi Coast is probably Italy’s most beautiful coastline, with a stunning combination of sea, picturesque coastal towns and mountains, and an abundance of both culture and nature. The landscape is immensely varied and surrounded by infinite ever-changing views. It can be typically Mediterranean, intoxicating with its wild perfumed herbs, with myrtle shrubs, thyme, rosemary and mastic trees, or almost alpine with meadows and bare rocks. The Hiking the Amalfi Coast Alta Via tour follows the Alta Via, one of the must-do long distance hikes in Italy.

Amalfi Coast Walking Tour

Want to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast in just a few days? The Amalfi Coast Walking Tour is the perfect way to spend 4 days in this incredible part of Italy.

Vesuvius, Amalfi & Naples Walking Tour

One of the most exciting parts of Italy is Campania, and the Campania walking tour shows you the most incredible summits, shoreline, and cities of the region.

Tour group discount

Travelling with a group of 8 or more?

Contact us to get a group discount and pick your next adventure at a lower price.

Ischia and Capri Adventure Tour

Want to experience the beauty of Ischia and Capri? The Ischia and Capri Tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city and nature of the islands without missing a thing.

Ischia Family Tour

The exciting volcanic island of Ischia is the perfect place for a family vacation, and the Ischia for Families tour is a wonderful way to engage with all the island has to offer!

Sorrento Peninsula Adventure Tour

The Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula is one of the most breathtaking parts of Italy. The Sorrento Peninsula Adventure tour takes you on foot and bike to the most incredible attractions in the area, getting you in touch with unforgettable oceans, mountains, and towns.

Amalfi & Ischia Walking Tour

The Amalfi Coast and surrounding islands are sublime, and this walking tour is a perfect way to get the most of your visit. From the sea to the mountains, this tour connects you with the landscapes that make this one of the must-see parts of Italy.

Customize your trip

Your trip. Your way.

All private tours can be customized, so you can get the tour you've been dreaming about.

1-12 of 12 tours

Why book with 10 Adventures?

Make lifelong memories with the people you care about most. We specialize in custom & private active travel experiences.

Travel made easy.

Spend your time making memories, not planning them. Enjoy a stress-free vacation and leave the trip logistics to us.

You matter to us.

No bots here. A real human is always a click or a call away to ensure you get the adventure of your dreams.

Travel authentically.

Immerse yourself in the destination with highly-vetted, local tour operators who love to showcase where they live.

Tours in Amalfi Coast by Activity

Other tours in italy by region, get travel inspiration and discounts.

Join our weekly travel newsletter

The Scoop: What to Know About Overseas Adventure Tours (OAT)

This small-group specialist runs tours to all continents..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

• Looking at an Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) tour, but want to know more about this small-group tour company?
• Here’s everything you need to know about the tour company, all updated for 2024.

Overseas Adventure Travel —more commonly referred to as OAT (saying the letters as opposed to naming the grain)—is a small-group tour specialist with tours on all continents. As its name suggests, tours with Overseas Adventure Travel tend to be fairly active, so participants should be comfortable with six to eight hours of activity each day, including walking distances ranging from three to six miles.

OAT has a great reputation for its solo guest focus (more on that below), and offers a generous number of no-additional-cost single spots on its tours. It also has women-exclusive departures on many itineraries.

BEST OF THE BEST: Best Tour Companies for Guided Tours

On OAT tours, accommodations tend to be less about amenities and more about authenticity. Another thing to note is that airfare is often bundled into the up-front price of the tour (unless you specify that you want to book your own travel). OAT is one of the family of Grand Circle Corp. companies, also including Grand Circle Travel and Grand Circle Cruise Line.

TourScoop Takeaways

• Countries: OAT has tours on every continent 
• Tour Size Average: OAT specializes in small-group trips of no more than 16 people. Its small-ship tours are aboard 50- to 98-passenger ships max out at 25 travelers. 
• Tour Type: Coach, van, small ship, rail, and air

Credibility Check

Overseas Adventure Travel is BBB accredited with a rating of A+. It’s an active member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). The OAT website posts verified guest reviews on each tour page (sometimes with hundreds of reviews) so it’s easy to see what past travelers think of each tour. 

Tour Destinations

For 2024, OAT has 80 itineraries that include tours on every continent. Some of the most popular tours are to destinations in Italy, Egypt, and multi-country tours in Africa and around the Adriatic. 

Overseas Adventure Travel gives all its tours an Activity Level Rating that ranks tours from one (easy) to five (strenuous) to help travelers find the right fit. It has both women-only departures and many no-additional-cost single traveler spots on tours. 

There are multi-country and single country tours. On many tours, OAT creates spaces for discussion and learning with its Controversial Topics program that covers topics such as Scottish independence on its Scotland Revealed itinerary and female genital mutilation on its Safari Serengeti: Tanzania Lodge & Tented Safari tour. 

Tour Guides

OAT’s tour guides are called Trip Experience Leaders. All are fluent in English and have a range of skills, certifications, and experience specific to the tour destination and experience. Trip Experience Leaders focus on both the logistical and the experiential, and help connect travelers with destinations by sharing firsthand insight that brings a destination to life. 

Inclusions/Extras

Inclusions are tour-specific (there’s a “What’s Included” section on each tour’s page), but generally include round-trip flights, many (but not all) meals, transportation, accommodations, activities, and gratuities for local guides, porters, etc. As with most tour companies, gratuities for trip experience leaders is separate. 

Typical Travelers

OAT’s guests are mostly American travelers aged 50 and older. In the last few years, Overseas Adventure Travel has seen a major jump in the number of solo travelers—more than half of all OAT guests are now solo travelers, and 80% of these solo travelers are women.

WALK THE WORLD: Best Walking, and Trekking, and Hiking Tours

OAT does right by its strong solo traveler base —in 2024, the company is offering 25,620 single spaces—91% of which are free (the remaining 9% of single spots have what OAT says is the lowest single supplement in the industry). And a number of itineraries also have women-exclusive departures. 

Communication

After booking, travelers have access to all trip details through the “My Planner” section on the website. The section includes details like flight information, destination weather, and itinerary information.

Then, two weeks before departure, travelers receive all their final documents, and are also contacted by their Trip Experience Leader. Any additional questions can be directed to OAT’s customer service email or phone number.

Loyalty Program

OAT’s loyalty program is the Sir Edmund Hillary Club . Membership benefits kick in when travelers reserve their third trip, and increase after traveling with OAT five and ten times. Benefits include credits to use on future trips, travel credits, exclusive gifts, and priority luggage service. 

Private Options

OAT offers Personalized Private Adventures for groups of five to 10 people. These private departures are available using existing itineraries, and include a dedicated Trip Experience Leader. The private group premium amount depends on the number of travelers in a group. Some of the most popular private tours include Ultimate Africa , Sicily’s Ancient Landscapes , and Japan’s Cultural Treasures . 

Sustainability Efforts

OAT is part of Grand Circle, and participates in the Grand Circle Foundation , which supports projects around the world focused on water and sanitation, education, community development, renewable energy, the protection of indigenous cultures, conservation, historic preservation, and disaster relief.

CULINARY ADVENTURES: Best Tour Companies for Culinary Tours

Health and Safety Practices

On OAT tours that include time onboard a ship, additional precautions include crew trained on best health and hygiene practices to prevent onboard spread of illnesses, nightly electrostatic disinfection of public areas, and disinfection of high-efficiency air filtration systems before each sailing. The OAT website is the place to go to read more about the current health and safety practices for land and ship tours.  

Family Companies

The Grand Circle family of companies includes Overseas Adventure Travel , Grand Circle Cruise Line , and Grand Circle Travel .

More from Tour Scoop:

• 9 Travel Companies That Specialize in Women-Only Tours
• Best Senior Travel Tour Companies
• Best Tour Companies for Solo Travelers

New Vacation Trend: European River Cruise Companies Are Now Targeting Family Travelers

New Year Tour Sales: They’re Big and They’re Limited Time

Why Older Women Are Increasingly Choosing to Travel Solo

What’s tourscoop.

Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

More about us

The Scoop: What to Know About Collette

For more than a century, Collette has been leading award-winning tours.

The Scoop: What to Know About G Adventures

Award-winning small-group adventure-travel tours are the G Adventures specialty.

The Scoop: What to Know About Avalon Waterways

This award-winning river cruise company focuses on experiences and food.

The Scoop: What to Know About Intrepid Travel

Local experts, a focus on sustainability, and immersive small group experiences help set Intrepid Travel apart from other tour operators.

• South America Tours
• Africa Tours
• Oceania Tours
• Polar Tours
• North America Tours
• Gift Certificates

Tel: 07340 724 558

Sapphire Adventures

making travel easy

call to book your adventure 07340 724558

Adventures for the discerning traveller, there's an amazing planet out there, rail journeys, marine adventures.

There is a magical feeling travelling by train, yet most of us have forgotten it. Climb aboard and see your world in a new way all over again. Ride the rails on trips built around the iconic railways of yesteryear, like Switzerland’s Glacier Express, India’s Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Maharajah Express and the sprawling Trans-Siberian.

Marine tours are designed for travellers  who want to go on adventure tours beyond the shore. And they go just about anywhere there’s water. Sea travel brings the world’s remote corners closer. Antarctic penguin rookeries, secluded Thai coves, and the beaches of Greek legends can only be reached by sea. The poles, the Amazon, the Galápagos Islands, and other amazing places are out there. 

Active Adventures

Wildlife adventures.

Get closer to the destination by hiking, biking, and walking your way through it. We provide the equipment, the experts, and the opportunity, you provide the energy. You don’t need to be an elite endurance athlete to enjoy an active tour. Whether you're looking for overseas adventure travel or at home

Wildlife focused adventure tours give you unique opportunities to see some of the planet’s most fascinating animals, while at the same time, respecting their freedom.  You will be introduced to overseas adventure travel in ways you’ve never imagined. 

Love Travel! You've come to the right place

Everyone loves to travel, but not everyone loves to travel the same way.  When it comes to planning travel, it's easy to fall back on the usual destinations. While beach holidays and cruises definitely have their place, it can also be nice to indulge in your sense of adventure. 

Don't want to travel far? The active adventurer will love kayaking along the Amalfi cost in Italy or climbing Mt Vesuvius. 

Why not try a train journey. The magic of train travel hasn’t diminished with time, yet most of us have forgotten it. Climb aboard and see your world in a new way all over again. A classic way to travel rediscovered. 

Be open, curious, fearless and challenge life.

Haunted Prague Adventure

Haunted Prague with a paranormal investigator will get your juices flowing. The mental asylum graveyard tour and the underground tour where the TV program "Haunted Live" visited.

Tours run from April to October

Whatever your style, do it your way

Give the gift of travel.

Choose the value of the certificate you would like to give and we will post them the same day. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or Christmas, treat them to something special. The gift of travel they'll never forget. Whether it's overseas adventure travel or at home, certificates are great

Top up your bucket list. Contact us now 07340 724 558

Want to know about any up coming adventures.

Copyright © 2018 Sapphire Adventures  - All Rights Reserved.                                                                                     ATOL Protected 

• Core Values
• Privacy Policy
• Haunted Prague
• Wellness Tours
• Family Tours
• Honeymoons and weddings
• Destination Weddings
• Postcards from my travels
• Download Brochures

Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.

What's your next adventure

Sign up here to receive emails filled with  ideas, promotions and other good stuff.

Shannen Doherty is ‘downsizing’ assets to fund quality time with mom amid cancer battle

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Shannen Doherty said her years-long cancer battle prompted her to “take stock” of her life — and her multiple storage units of unused antique furniture.

The “Charmed” alum, who is battling Stage 4 breast cancer , revealed she is letting go of some of her finds to help fund more memory-making trips with her mother and loved ones. Doherty said cutting back on her assets will also help “make things clean,” just in case she precedes her mother, Rose Elizabeth Doherty, in death.

“I’ve accumulated too much crap,” Doherty admitted Monday on her “Let’s Be Clear” podcast

Shannen Doherty says cancer has spread to her bones but she’s ‘not done with living’

Shannen Doherty of ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ fame says cancer has spread to her bones, which she’ll discuss in her memoir-style podcast on her life and career.

Nov. 29, 2023

She added: “Do I need to have three dining room tables? The answer is no, none of us really need all the stuff that we have, and we could all do with a little bit of downsizing and not be a hoarder, which I was becoming with all my furniture.”

Doherty, 52, said the revelations about downsizing came as she began cleaning up a property she had in Tennessee. In case of her death, the actor said doesn’t want leave her mother puzzling about what to do with “four storage units filled with furniture.”

When deciding to get rid of the excess furniture and letting go of her Tennessee home, Doherty said she felt she was “giving up” her dream of building an animal rescue and “throwing in the towel” on her cancer journey .

After the initial grief of letting go, Doherty said she took comfort in knowing she could carry out her animal-rescue aspirations by working with other rescues, and that selling her unneeded furniture could go toward her “bucket fund.”

Entertainment & Arts

Shannen Doherty reveals breast cancer diagnosis in lawsuit against former manager

Shannen Doherty has breast cancer, which she has disclosed in a lawsuit against her former manager and management firm.

Aug. 19, 2015

“I get to take my mom on vacations because I’ll have all this extra money lying around, and I’m not digging into the money in my savings that’s going to make sure everybody in my life is taken care of once I’m dead,” Doherty said. During the podcast, she recalled her mother’s teary reaction to a mother-daughter trip to Italy.

Doherty’s mom won’t be the only one benefiting from the “90210” star’s downsizing. She said she will also spread the love to her friends and loved ones — people who will care for her mother if she dies.

With long-stored furniture paying for prospective cross-country and overseas trips, Doherty added that the downsizing will benefit one other person: herself.

“I’m cleaning stuff up so I can have a better quality of life,” she said.

Shannen Doherty is planning a ‘lovefest’ funeral with ‘long list’ of folks not invited

Shannen Doherty details her fears about death and hopes for her funeral, one of which is excluding a long list of people she considers not invited.

Jan. 16, 2024

Doherty, who was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, revealed in 2023 that the cancer had spread to multiple parts of her body. In June 2023, it had metastasized to her brain, and in November 2023 to her bones.

For years, the “Heathers” actor has been open about her cancer journey, but it in recent months she has seemingly thought more about her own mortality. In January she revealed that she has already envisioned her funeral, which she wants “to be like a lovefest” — with some exceptions .

“I don’t mind my fans showing up,” she said in January about potential attendees. “Those are the people who have supported me my entire life and my career. And I love them.”

Former Times staff writer Emily St. Martin contributed to this report.

More to Read

Cara Delevingne’s Studio City home engulfed by massive fire: ‘Cherish what you have’

March 15, 2024

Michael Strahan details daughter Isabella’s ‘rough’ chemo treatment: ‘She’s been fighting’

Feb. 21, 2024

How this heir can head off challenges to her mother’s estate

Feb. 11, 2024

The complete guide to home viewing

Get Screen Gab for everything about the TV shows and streaming movies everyone’s talking about.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Alexandra Del Rosario is an entertainment reporter on the Los Angeles Times Fast Break Desk. Before The Times, she was a television reporter at Deadline Hollywood, where she first served as an associate editor. She has written about a wide range of topics including TV ratings, casting and development, video games and AAPI representation. Del Rosario is a UCLA graduate and also worked at the Hollywood Reporter and TheWrap.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Michael Stuhlbarg returns to Broadway after man allegedly hurled a rock at his head

April 2, 2024

Jay Leno’s wife Mavis Leno sometimes ‘does not know’ him due to dementia, lawyer says

Angie Harmon’s dog fatally shot by Instacart driver: ‘We are completely traumatized’

Joe Flaherty, ‘Freaks and Geeks’ and ‘SCTV’ star, dies at 82

They celebrated their 25th anniversary with a trip to Paris and ended up buying a stone house in the countryside for $100,000. Now, they're dreaming of retiring there.

• Michael and April Meyer bought a stone house in France for about $108,000 in 2022.
• The house was fully furnished and came with over 1.6 acres of land in the countryside.
• The Gen X couple from California is now toying with the idea of retiring there in the future.

Michael and April Meyer's love affair with France began with a trip to the country five years ago to celebrate their wedding anniversary.

"I wanted to surprise April with something, and I knew that she loved art but had never really been to Europe," Michael, 56, told Business Insider. "We usually went to Hawaii for vacation , but it was our 25th anniversary, so I surprised her with a trip to Paris."

The couple, who are from Sacramento, were charmed by every part of the city — the culture, the food, the people.

"It was kind of transformative, and we went back almost immediately, like six months later," Michael said. The couple visited other parts of France and returned for a holiday whenever they could.

"But we still loved it. We kept going back, to try to get bored, and it just didn't happen," April, 54, told BI.

They liked the idea of spending more time in France, but it wasn't until Michael retired from his engineering job last year that they decided they were ready for a new adventure.

The couple had recently downsized their home , and their kids had moved out, he said: "We were like, 'OK, what are we going to do?'"

"So we decided to just go look at some homes," April, a teacher, added.

House-hunting in the countryside

The couple knew that they wanted to be in central or northern France because that's where they felt their dollar would go further, April said.

They ended up arranging a six-week trip across the French countryside, zipping from Burgundy to Bordeaux and then to the Loire Valley , to view some houses that were for sale.

"It was like our Tour de France," Michael said.

The couple was working their way down a list of properties they were interested in, which included a quaint €85,000, or about $92,000, stone house in a small hamlet some 12 miles north of Limoge, a city in central France, that they liked.

The couple wasn't planning on viewing the house until later in the week but got an email from the real-estate agent urging them to push their viewing date forward.

"He said, 'If you're really interested, you need to come tomorrow because it won't be here on Thursday,'" Michael said, recounting the agent's words.

The property had been under offer with another buyer, but the deal fell through, he added.

"So we jumped in the car and started driving," Michael said.

When they arrived, they knew almost immediately that the house was the one.

"It checked all the boxes. It was in a small hamlet in the country. It had a fenced yard for our dog. It didn't have a garage, but there were barns and the roof was redone. It was very well taken care of," Michael said.

And the house even came furnished, April said. The owner had died earlier in the year, and her kids didn't want the items anymore, so they left almost everything behind.

"All of the appliances were in the kitchen, there's even a dishwasher, all the dishes, bedding. Everything was included," April added.

Including taxes and other fees, the couple ended up paying about €100,250, or $108,000, for the property, which was built in 1789. The house has three bedrooms and one bathroom and came with a little over 1.6 acres of land, April said.

"We really just kind of stumbled into it, but acted quickly, especially after we went and saw a few other places nearby that were kind of a little more rough," Michael said.

They made the offer in July last year when they were only a third through their planned six-week trip, Michael said.

Related stories

"The nice part about doing that and having those six weeks is that we literally got to come back three times," he added. "We drove back to sort of solidify our decisions and explore around the area."

The couple finally closed the sale in September, and Michael flew back to France alone to get their utilities and some minor repairs sorted.

"It's not renovated per se, but we could live in it the way it was for as long as we wanted to. It's completely safe and comfortable," April added.

Embracing French culture

The couple is also committed to immersing themselves in the French way of life — they're even taking French language classes back in the US.

They've made some friends already, noting that almost everyone they met has gone out of their way to help them settle into their house.

"They're like, 'Oh, you want to do that? We'll help you. Let me call the nursery. I know the man who owns it. He'll open it for you on the weekend,'" April said. "How does that happen? Nobody does that in America. That's just how it is there — it's just the most welcoming."

Their French stone house is a vacation home at the moment, but the couple is toying with the idea of possibly retiring there in the future.

The cost of living in the French countryside is much lower than in California, and the couple feels their retirement dollars can go further.

"There's no way we could have what we have there in California. That house, as modest as it is, would be a million dollars," Michael said.

The median listing home price in Sacramento is $479,500, based on the latest data from real-estate platform, Realtor.com . There are 978 single-family houses for sale in the area, with prices ranging from $195,000 to $3.88 million.

But it's not just about the money; it's about the adventure and thrill of doing something different in their retirement , too, April added.

"We had this little saying, 'Why not?' Now it's just like, 'Why not now?'" Michael said, adding that they plan to spend all their future vacations in France before they make a decision.

"This is sort of our 'try it before you buy it' kind of thing," he added.

A growing number of people are considering retirement overseas, whether they're seeking a slower pace of life or a lower cost of living .

While there are no exact figures around how many Americans retire abroad, almost 444,000 people received their Social Security benefits outside the US in 2021, according to data from the Social Security Administration. This is an increase from slightly over 346,000 people in 2011.

A new adventure

The couple has been documenting their journey in France on their YouTube channel , and it's mostly Michael's idea.

Michael has been fairly active on social media ever since he retired and has a separate channel where he posts funny videos of their dog, Bernice, who also tags along on all their trips to France now.

When the couple bought their French house, Michael thought it'd be nice for them to share this part of their life online, too, like all the other travel and renovation channels that his wife enjoys watching.

"I thought, 'Why don't we see if we can do the YouTube thing?' Which is really scary since, to do that, you kind of open up your life," Michael said. "But it's about sharing the adventure."

Michael does all the video editing, and it's something that he really enjoys. He even gets tips from their daughter, who majored in film in college.

"It's kind of a hobby. And I kind of liken it to an art form, where you want to create something that has a good feel and put out good energy," Michael said.

The couple hopes to inspire others with their journey.

"We're midlife, and there are people who don't ever try. They don't go anywhere," April said. "You only get so long on this planet, and I would love for people to see that it's possible to achieve their dreams."

Have you recently built or renovated your dream home? If you've got a story to share, get in touch with me at [email protected] .

Watch: Was Italy's $1 home scheme worth it?

• Main content