Italy
— Land of wonders —
— land of wonders —
ITALY
What we love
Matera is a hidden gem located in the southern region of Basilicata. The town is famous for its Sassi, a complex network of cave dwellings that were once home to the city's poorest residents. Matera has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often called the "City of Stones." Explore the ancient caves and learn about the town's fascinating history.
Festa della Madonna Bruna is an annual festival that takes place in Matera on July 2nd. The festival is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, and it includes a procession, fireworks, and traditional music and dance performances.
Trulli houses are unique cone-shaped buildings that can be found in the town of Alberobello in the Puglia region. The houses were built using a technique that dates back to the 14th century and were traditionally used as homes for farmworkers. Today, many of the trulli houses have been converted into shops and restaurants.
Sagre are traditional food festivals that take place throughout Italy. These festivals celebrate local cuisine and culture and offer visitors a chance to taste traditional dishes that they might not find in restaurants. Some of the most popular sagre include the Truffle Fair in Alba, the Chestnut Festival in Soriano nel Cimino, and the Wine Festival in Montepulciano.
Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman dish that is made with pasta, cheese, and black pepper. While it may sound simple, it's a delicious and comforting dish that is beloved by locals. You can find cacio e pepe in many restaurants throughout Rome, but some of the best versions are to be found in the neighborhood of Testaccio.
Aperitivo is a pre-dinner drink and snack that is popular in many Italian cities. It's a great way to socialize and unwind after a long day, and it usually involves a glass of wine or a cocktail and some small bites such as olives, cheese, and cured meats.
Italy is a country that is full of surprises, and these hidden gems, traditions, and destinations are just a few of the many things that make it such a special place to visit.
venice
Discovering Venice through the eyes of a local and off the beaten tracks, feels like a dream. From the mystical greens of the canals, the unknown, lost islands and magical gardens, the experience of turning a corner and arrive on an empty square full of history or discovering the markets where real Venetians come every morning to buy fresh produce, give the city a dreamy impression that’s hard to shake.
Venice is also a city where time is of relativity: Time doesn’t really flow the same way in Venice. To get lost in time, that’s part of the joy of discovery. You never know when you’ll come back to your hotel or where you might find the next majestic palazzo, secret garden, or plate of perfect ciccheti that will continue your journey.
tuscan hills
Swirl on the endless waves of the green hills of Tuscany. The cypress alleys, heroic Castello’s, and magical scenic landscape are peaceful environment to enjoy century-old hamlets, winery hopping, and organic culinary experiences. The Tuscan countryside is the perfect place for memorable excursions for families or couples.
the Amalfi Coast
Stunning hilltop towns and breathtaking coastal views make a trip to Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Capri one of the most scenic trips in Italy. Although the Amalfi coast carries a world-famous reputation, it remains both perfectly sophisticated yet simply rural. Be transported by the hidden treasures of the terraced towns and villages along the way, the lemon groves and the crystal clear waters. Like in your most magical dreams, the food and scents here will leave a trace in memories.
lake como
Lake Como is a picturesque lake located in the Lombardy region of Italy. The essence of Lake Como lies in its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance. Surrounded by the foothills of the Alps, the lake boasts stunning views of the mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Luxurious villas and elegant towns line the shores of the lake and the towns are filled with charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant piazzas that are bustling with life. The lake's serene environment, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning scenery have inspired many works of art, literature, and music over the years.
Rome
Rome is a complex combination of historical, cultural, and architectural elements that have shaped the city's identity over centuries. Rome is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and its rich history has left an indelible mark on its character. At the heart of Rome's essence is its role as the center of the Roman Empire, which was one of the most influential empires in world history. The city is home to countless monuments, buildings, and ruins that reflect its ancient past, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. In addition to its historical significance, Rome is also known for its vibrant culture, which is characterized by fashion, art, music and its cuisine which is renowned for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its emphasis on simple, traditional dishes. Rome’s stunning architecture blends elements of ancient, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. From the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica to the intricate details of the Trevi Fountain, the city's architecture is a testament to its rich cultural heritage and its enduring legacy as one of the world's most important cities.
Puglia
Puglia, in the southeastern tip of Italy's boot, is a land of contrasts. Its rugged coastline boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the country, while its interior is a patchwork of olive groves, vineyards, and quaint villages. The region's unique cultural identity is evident in its cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and hearty meat dishes. The people of Puglia are friendly and hospitable, eager to share their traditions and way of life with visitors. Yet, despite its many charms, Puglia remains off the beaten track, overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. To travel here is to discover a hidden gem, a land of unexpected beauty and rich history that few have had the pleasure to explore.
Rome, Florence, Venice.
the essence
Start your trip in Rome, the captivating ‘Eternal’ city. Live the dolce vita and discover the artistic culture through wonderful palaces, thousand-year-old churches and basilicas, grand ruins, opulent monuments, ornate statues and graceful fountains, Rome has an immensely rich historical heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Continue to Florence, the birthplace of the Italian renaissance and gateway to the famous Tuscan countryside. Enjoy shopping around the streets of Florence and immersing yourself in the city like a local. Continue your journey into the green Tuscan hills for wine touring and peaceful country life.
Finish in Venice, the fascinating city on the water which has remained untouched for centuries. Discover this sanctuary through its lagoon waters and hidden gems where the romantic charms remain.
The Aeolian Islands
Beautiful and serene, this volcanic archipelago is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the northeastern coast of Sicily. It consist of seven major islands: Panarea, Vulcano, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi, Lipari and Stromboli. Stromboli in particular, is famous for its regular eruptions, which have been occurring for thousands of years. The Aeolian Islands boasts clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, charming villages, trails and natural parks and are home to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. The largest island, Lipari, is home to the archipelago's main town and port, as well as a number of historic sites, such as the ancient Greek acropolis and the Norman Castle. Salina is known for its lush vegetation, vineyards, and delicious Malvasia wine. Panarea, on the other hand, is a small but exclusive island, favored for its luxury resorts and nightlife.
Our favorite way to embrace the island group is by a private sailboat.
Camogli, Portofino, Cinque Terre
Italian riviera Coast
This crescent-shaped region arcing across the Ligurian Alps and down to the sea along the Mediterranean’s northwestern coast is chock full of hidden gems, secrets kept by Italians and quiet greenery, and has been supporting Slow Tourism projects long before Slow Tourism was a thing. Slow-paced fishing villages and picturesque towns like Camogli enjoy incredible views and vertiginous hills giving way to the sparkly blue sea.
THE ALPS
Visiting The Alps is a breathtaking experience, surrounded by towering peaks and stunning, natural beauty. Hiking trails lead to serene valleys and picturesque villages, while skiing and snowboarding provide thrilling adventure. The region also boasts rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
“At Epic Road, we specialize in creating custom itineraries that incorporate luxury, special access, deep experiential travel and thought provoking experiences. Above are just some examples of our favorite destinations in Italy. ”
