WINTER WARMER - Lake Garda – Enchanting Christmas markets around Lake Garda - 6 Days

Get into the Christmas spirit with a winter adventure exploring the delights of the most picturesque alpine Christmas markets in Trento, Verona, Rango and Canale di Tenno and enjoy local product tastings.

Day 1: Arrive in Italy and begin your stay at the lovely, lakefront Grand Hotel Riva del Garda. Benvenuti!

Day 2: Visit Verona and its enchanting Christmas markets with a local, licensed guide. See the city decked out in holiday charm as you do a walking tour to the historic sites and to the special Nativity Scene Exhibition in the ancient Arena. In the afternoon, on the way back to Trentino, stop for a tasting at a winery in the hills of Valpolicella. The variety of lively, balanced red wines will help to make the season bright.

Day 3: The tour will take you to the capital of the province, Trento. Its Christmas markets offer a variety of products from all over Italy, with kiosks extending over a wide, open piazza just outside the medieval city walls. The grappa tasting at a nearby producer will warm you after the stroll.

Day 4: Enjoy the wintery beauty of Trentino as you tour the two tiny, extraordinary towns of Rango and Canale. Their tangle of streets and arcaded private recesses – open just for the occasion – enable local artisans to sell their wares directly to visitors in their historic villages. Rango is the larger of the two, but Canale is the better known, winning national awards for its well-preserved medieval center. To complete the rustic experience, nosh on some carne salada, a salt-cured meat prepared using the traditional recipe and served on a sandwich.

Day 5: Take the day at your leisure. Your hotel is strategically located near the cute Christmas market in Riva del Garda, so if you have any last-minute shopping to do, you can easily reach the kiosks and shops on foot. For the sporty, the lakefront promenade wrapping around the north part of the lake is a “must.” The intense hues of nature are at their dazzling best in winter. In the afternoon, sip some pipping hot espresso or dense Italian hot chocolate in one of the many cafés scattered throughout the town.

Day 6: With your senses fully rewarded by all of the seasonal loveliness – and your bag a little heavier for the souvenirs and Christmas presents to take back – leave for home. Buon viaggio!