FALL IN LOVE WITH THE ENCHANTING DIVINA COSTIERA
Stray off the beaten path on a journey along one of the most awe-inspring and romantic regions of Italy – the Amalfi Coast and Puglia. Considered among the most beautiful places in all of Italy and located on the northern stretch of the Gulf of Salerno, Amalfi and Positano among others town gems sit upon the steep and rocky coastline that overlooks the gorgeous Tyrrhenian Sea. Possessing 58 prestigious Italian sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with its picturesque postcard villages and towns, the Amalfi Coast makes for a marvelous backdrop in this memorable Italian adventure. We invite you to explore this Mediterranean landscape that is one grandiose balcony suspended between the hypnotic blue sea which lies at the feet of the Lattari Mountains. With its tempting coves, inviting terraces, delicious cuisine, cultured vineyards, and heavenly scented citrus and olive groves, you will become spellbound with its remarkable beauty that awakens all the senses. Venture through Naple’s historic city and meet with local artisans; Visit and unveil the meaning of the Veiled Christ statue, rumored to be created through alchemy, in the Sansevero Chapel. Hear the music performed by the Napulitanata musicians in a private concert. Encounter the past as you wander through Pompeii to explore the ancient villas, followed by a delicious wine tasting in a nearby winery located in the volcanic countryside. Taste the delectable regional cuisine and wines created from the rich volcanic soil and curated by Mother Nature’s gentle climate. Soak up the sun in pretty Positano, home to the world-famous colorful hillside houses and local posh boutiques; and experience the gorgeous town of Ravello with its stunning Villa Rufolo, as you wander through the garden’s latticework of hedges and flowers. Spend starlit evenings in boutique accommodations ranging from unique cave dwelling accommodations in the UNESCO Heritage site of Matera, to a converted pre-historic house in Monopoli. Uncover the Baroque beauty of Lecce, the magnificent artisan city of limestone, and enjoy a multi-stop culinary dinner. Discover sfusato lemon groves and hike the ancient Path of Lemons which connects the towns of Minori and Maiori…the trail passes among the groves that produce the famous lemons (also used to make Limoncello); it is the original trail that was walked by the lemon growers to carry their harvested fruits from the trees to the seaside harbor for trade. Journey by ferry to the coast’s namesake town of Amalfi to explore this wonderful town of cobblestoned piazzas and towering cathedrals. Zoom through Ostuni like a local in an open-air touring experience from the backseat of a 3-wheeled Ape Calessino car. Stroll through the whimsical city of cone-shaped trulli houses of UNESCO Alberobello. Fall in love with the extraordinary natural beauty, picturesque landscapes and cherished cultures of the “Divina Costiera” (the Divine Coast)…leave with its Amalfitana heartbeat forever imprinted into your spirit.
This is a private THIRDHOME small-group tour with a maximum occupancy of 24. Our group size is kept small, allowing this Adventure to be a more engaging and rewarding experience for participants. On this active, immersive journey, travelers will connect with the culture of the extraordinary destinations of the Italian Riviera and Puglia in an authentic and more intimate way.
Who Can Participate
Exchange Club & Adventure Club Members, along with their family & friends â—Ź Age requirement 12+
Activity Level
To experience this unique destination, you will need to be able to participate in physical activities such as walking tours, that includes walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and various time-period lengths of standing (between 1-2 hrs). You can navigate hills and uneven ground, climb onboard various modes of transportation and adapt to changes in elevation. You can expect some longer guided days, balanced with ample free time to relax or set out on your own to explore each city. Some of the touring days have pre-planned select included group activities in addition to occasional meals together as a group. Guests should bring adequate sun protection, appropriate layers and sturdy walking shoes adequate for walking and climbing on uneven surfaces.
AMALFI COAST & PUGLIA HIGHLIGHTS
- Discover the panoramic beauty and hidden historic gems of Amalfi Coast including Puglia
- Tour Italy’s Divine Coast with expert regional guides
- Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine from street vendors, marketplaces to coveted local tables
- Explore Naples’ UNESCO medieval architecture and its underground ancient ruins
- Visit the Sansevero Chapel to view the Veiled Christ masterpiece
- Hear the music performed by the Napulitanata musicians in a private concert
- Marvel at Pompeii’s ancient public baths and private villa ruins
- Delight in a wine tasting with vineyard lunch in the volcanic countryside of Pompeii
- Walk the historic “Path of Lemons” along the scenic hillside route that links Minori to Maiori
- Journey by ferry to the coast’s namesake seaside town of Amalfi
- Wander through the famous gardens at Villa Rufolo in picturesque Ravello
- Encounter with the ancient UNESCO Heritage site of Matera – featured in many blockbuster films
- Delve into the multi-colored artisan shops and ceramic workshops of Grottaglie
- Delight in the Baroque beauty of the city of Lecce with a multi-stop culinary dinner experience
- Immerse yourself in the whitewashed town of Ostuni to enjoy an open-air ride in an Ape Calessino
- Stroll through the whimsical city of cone-shaped trulli houses of UNESCO Alberobello
- Soak up the idyllic sun and the quintessential ambiance throughout this adventure
- Gain an appreciation into the old practiced traditions made famous in this region
- Choose to Add-On an optional Premium Experience – Enjoy a sensory-immersive full-day exploration into Salento’s wine country and Medieval heritage (while in Lecce). Details can be found in the Itinerary expanded version and in the Adventure Optional Premium Experience section.
ADVENTURE ROUTE MAP
Itinerary
Collapse AllFRIDAY, JUNE 9 (2023)
ARRIVAL INTO NAPLES, ITALY
Today the vibrant mecca-city of Naples awaits your arrival….where volcanic landscapes give way to medieval architecture and Grecian lanes, creating a unique culture exclusive to Naples. Upon arrival into the airport, transfers will be provided to our group hotel for all guests’ arriving based on their individual flight times. Settle into the Royal Continental Hotel and admire the picturesque sea views and bobbing boats. This evening become acquainted with your fellow travelers, as we toast to the start of our Italian Adventure over a Welcome Group Dinner, overlooking the deep blue Bay of Naples to Mt. Vesuvius looming in the distance. Overnight at the Royal Continental Hotel. (Dinner included)
SATURDAY, JUNE 10 (2023)
NAPLES HISTORY & CULTURE
Awaken this morning, enjoy breakfast and experience an insightful day with our guide as we discover highlights of Naples. Explore Naples’ historic UNESCO city center and underground ancient ruins; next we will visit the Sansevero Chapel, home to the Veiled Christ statue, rumored to be created by alchemy due to its carved flowing cloth. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy as you wish – perhaps explore the city further, and take in a visit to the nearby National Archeological Museum to peruse relics from Pompeii; or just relax. This evening enjoy an exclusive Impact Moment of a private concert, performed by the Napulitanata social enterprise, which supports Italian heritage and unemployed performing artists. Afterwards enjoy dinner on your own in the Naples at a restaurant of your choice or return to the Royal Continental Hotel for a bite, with overnight accommodations. (Breakfast included)
SUNDAY, JUNE 11 (2023)
DEPART NAPLES TO POMPEII & MINORI
This morning after breakfast, we will check-out of the hotel, for our scenic journey to Pompeii and onward to Minori. Upon arrival we will explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii with a local guide; and after exploring the public baths and private villa dwellings, we will enjoy a new perspective in the lovely volcanic countryside with a visit to a nearby winery. As we sip and taste wine with a wonderful lunch, we will learn how layers of ash have transformed the timeworn soil into a fertile vineyard within this region. We will depart the vineyard and continue onward along the beloved Amalfi Coast. Arriving at our charming boutique villa-hotel just in time to catch the sunset along the horizon in coastal Minori, we check-in and freshen up for the evening to enjoy a delightful group dinner of local cuisine. Overnight at Villa Hotel Romana. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
MONDAY, JUNE 12 (2023)
MAIORI & PATH OF LEMONS EXPLORATION
Following breakfast, we will depart our hotel to venture to the divine Italian fishing village of Minori, with its terraced lemon groves, where we will enjoy its quintessential Amalfitana vibe. As we stroll the morning within the groves, we will hear the story of the sfusato lemons, used in the production of the famous Limoncello liqueur. We will delight in sampling this fragrant elixir in a local pastry shop. We will then set out on foot to explore the historic rugged coastal Path of Lemons – an ancient, hilly route that links Minori with the nearby town Maiori. Please note: The hike is 2.4 miles long and involves multiple flights of stairs; a boat will be provided for travelers who prefer not to hike. At the end of the trail for those who hike, you will return by boat to the village of Minori. The remainder of the late afternoon and evening is on your own to relax or perhaps take in a wonderful local restaurant of your choice. Overnight at Villa Hotel Romana. (Breakfast included)
TUESDAY, JUNE 13 (2023)
AMALFI TOWN & POSITANO EXCURSION
Enjoy breakfast this morning and get ready for a memorable day! We will depart the hotel for a ferry excursion across the bay to the delightful rocky coast’s namesake town of Amalfi. Formerly a maritime republic, Amalfi puts a historic spin on the seaside hubs, containing cobblestone piazzas and towering mosaic cathedrals. After a few hours exploring on your own, we will once again board the ferry and marvel at the nostalgic historic colorful cliff-sides with their pastel-colored houses, as we journey on your way to Positano. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to sightsee on your own in this magnificent resort town, perhaps browsing the posh boutiques or resting underneath a beachside umbrella. In the late afternoon, we will return to Minori by ferry. This evening enjoy dinner on your own either at the Villa or in a restaurant of your choice. Overnight at Villa Hotel Romana. (Breakfast included)
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 (2023)
RAVELLO & VILLA RUFOLO SPREE
After breakfast we will depart Minori for a full-day exploration along the Amalfi Coast to the enchanting village of Ravello. With its picturesque views from its vantage point along the winding coastline, we will visit the fragrant gardens of the famous Villa Rufolo. Stroll your way through a latticework of hedges and flowers to gaze out upon the azure sea below, making for perfect picture-taking moments. Take advantage of some free in Ravello or stay longer at Villa Rufolo to explore as you wish with recommendations from your local guide; perhaps consider a half-mile trail hike further down into the gardens of Villa Cimbrone. Return to Minori in the late afternoon to freshen up before enjoying a group dinner of regional cuisine. Overnight at Villa Hotel Romana. (Breakfast and dinner included)
THURSDAY, JUNE 15 (2023)
DEPART MINORI TO EBOLI & MATERA
This morning after breakfast we will depart Minori (and check-out of the Villa) for yet another day of regional experiences awaiting to be discovered. We will journey to Eboli to get a glimpse into the area’s war-stricken past at the Museum of Operation Avalanche. Continue south to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Matera, whose inimitable breathtaking scenery has been featured in blockbuster films. We will walk in the footsteps of ancient ancestors and experience the town’s cave dwellings and stop at scenic vantage points for photo opportunities. Each cave is unique, half-excavated and half-carved from the land. In these ancient stone dwelling surroundings, we will enjoy unparalleled accommodations, allowing us to connect with the Italian landscape within the Locanda di San Martino boutique hotel. This evening enjoy dinner on your own either at the hotel or in a local restaurant. Overnight at Locanda di San Martino Hotel. (Breakfast included)
FRIDAY, JUNE 16 (2023)
UNESCO MATERA EXPLORATION
Enjoy breakfast this morning before we depart for on an informative in-depth exploration of Matera. We will journey into this magnificent UNESCO’s 9,000-year-old historic site, on a guided walking tour along its hillside caves, known to locals as the Sassi. After some time to explore and enjoy photo opportunities, enjoy an “It’s Your Choice” experience – (a) Roll up your sleeves and take to kneading in a bread-making class and learn about how the community comes together over food -OR- (b) Explore Matera’s prehistoric and medieval heritage on a further hike through the surrounding countryside and rock churches and/or weather permitting visit the underground cistern in the ancient Matera City center. This evening is free to enjoy as you wish, relaxing or enjoying a local restaurant on your own. Overnight at Locanda di San Martino Hotel. (Breakfast included)
SATURDAY, JUNE 17 (2023)
JOURNEY INTO PUGLIA – GROTTAGLIE & LECCE
After breakfast this morning, we check-out of the hotel and journey into the Puglia region, where we will stop to spend time in the artisan town of Grottaglie, famous for its ceramic workshops. Stroll by the multicolored artisan shops and be tempted to purchase a lovely handmade piece to cherish within your home. Afterwards we will continue onward to Lecce, in the southern Apulia region, known for its Baroque architecture and buildings made of limestone. Get to know the city with a local expert and take in its iconic charm and papier-mâchĂ© craftsmanship offerings. This evening delight in a “Dine your way around Lecce” experience that includes a multi-stop dinner in the city center, enjoying some of the best culinary bites in Italy. Overnight at Santa Chiara Suite Hotel. (Breakfast and dinner included)
SUNDAY, JUNE 18 (2023)
FREE TIME & EXPLORE LECCE
This entire day is free to spend as you wish…explore the city’s charismatic ambience full of winding lanes, sun-kissed piazzas, and hidden cafes. Perhaps join an Optional Premium Experience with an excursion to Otranto to enjoy a delightful nearby winery, featuring a tasting of the vine’s productions from the region’s dark-purple grapes. Salento’s Wine Region & Medieval Heritage | $160 per person | Duration: 6 Hours – Leave the town of Lecce behind and journey through Salento’s wine country. Pass rows of vines and olive groves until you reach Otranto. Nestled in Puglia’s easternmost corner, this quaint seaside town unveils a rich history: Greek, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Spaniards, French all vied for control of this strategic port – Italy’s gateway to the Levant and the Holy Land. The city’s Aragonese Castle inspired Horace Walpole’s The Castle of Otranto (1764), recognized as the first Gothic novel. Soak in the mysterious atmosphere during a guided walking tour of Otranto’s treasures: the fortified walls, the mosaic-rich churches, the sudden views over the Mediterranean Sea. Your day continues at a local winery, featuring a tasting of Salice Salentino wine. This intense and full-bodied wine comes from the region’s dark-purple grapes wine, known by the locals as “negroamaro” (which translates to “black-bitter”). Learn about the traditional techniques and productions as you sample the wine, followed by a delicious lunch. This evening enjoy an early dinner as you wish within a local restaurant, and then reconvene together with the group for a memorable experience – a private folk music and dance performance, highlighting the traditional pizzica e taranta (the Dance of the Spider). Overnight at Santa Chiara Suite Hotel. (Breakfast included) –
MONDAY, JUNE 19 (2023)
VISIT OSTUNI & JOURNEY TO ALBEROBELLO
Today after breakfast, we will explore Ostuni, one of the most picturesque places in all of Puglia…famous for its whitewashed town surrounded by olive groves. Stroll among the Old Town, and take in the Ostuni Cathedral that combines Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine elements, while the arched Porta San Demetrio is one of two remaining medieval gates. Zoom through the town like a local in the backseat of an open-air Ape Calessino, a traditional 3-wheeled car. Afterwards we continue onward, arriving into Alberobello and Trulli. Nestled into the magical landscape, we will check-in at our unique accommodations. This evening is free to independently discover the town’s hidden charm and dinner at a local restaurant of your choice. Overnight at the Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso boutique hotel. (Breakfast included)
TUESDAY, JUNE 20 (2023)
UNESCO ALBEROBELLO EXPLORATION
Welcome the day with “buongiorno” in the whimsical UNESCO Alberobello city that is world-famous for its a collection of cone-shaped Trulli uniquely constructed homes. Meander on your own through a labyrinth of these gnomish houses, sometimes featuring symbols with superstitious connotations. Enjoy the remainder of the day as you wish, relax and take in the scenery. This evening, we will gather for a group farewell dinner, as we reminisce together of memories experienced on this Adventure together. Overnight at the Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso boutique hotel. (Breakfast and dinner included)
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 (2023)
DEPART FROM BARI – JOURNEY HOME
Enjoy breakfast this morning and depart the hotel with ground transportation to the Bari International Airport for your return flight home or onward destination. (Breakfast included)
OPTIONAL PRE & POST NIGHTS
EXTENDING YOUR ADVENTURE
Would you like to extend the Adventure with an additional night on either end of the tour? Depending on your arrival and departure flight needs, pre and post nights accommodations can be arranged – please inquire
ACCOMMODATIONS
Enjoy 4 & 5-star boutique accommodations throughout the Adventure in the order of the itinerary nights, at the following properties:
- Royal Continental Hotel (Naples)
- Hotel Villa Romana (Minori)
- Locando di San Martino (Matera)
- Santa Chiara Suite Hotel (Lecce)
- Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso Hotel (Alberobello)
What’s Included
- 12 Nights Accommodations in 4-5-star properties throughout group itinerary – 2 Nights Naples, 4 Nights Minori, 2 Nights Matera, 2 Nights Lecce, 2 Nights Alberobello (Valletta)
- Small-group deluxe bus transportation where applicable in each region of the itinerary, including other modes of unique transportation as noted per adventure itinerary
- Internal Domestic flights when required per adventure itinerary as part of the organized group tour
- 18 Group Meals including 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch
and 5 dinners - Insider expert tour guides throughout adventure itinerary
- All sightseeing experiences as noted per adventure itinerary
What’s not Included
- International Airfare – into Naples for arrival / departure from Bari to home or onward
- Airport/Hotel Transfers – Arrival in Naples / Departure from Bari – $200 per person
- Visas may be required for each destination based on traveler’s nationality (SEE BELOW)
- Meals “on your own” when not provided in the scheduled group itinerary
- Alcoholic Beverages, and/or soft drinks are not included – these are personal pay
- Optional activities, spa treatments and hotel incidentals are on your own
- Premium Experiences offered are optional and at additional cost as noted
- Additional pre and post nights/extensions
- “Cancel for Any Reason” travel insurance (refer to pricing details)
VISA & PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
- ITALY – Currently, U.S. citizens may enter Italy for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. However due to the global pandemic, THIRDHOME will closely monitor the requirements on this matter should anything change or be added to tourism-entry requirements.
- PASSPORTS – All traveler passports MUST have validity of minimum 6 months or longer at the time travel occurs, otherwise the risk of denied travel could be experienced per airline carrier rules and country entry requirement mandates with Customs & Immigrations. We recommend that our members travel abroad with a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. Your photocopy should be packed separately from your actual passport. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact or entrusted family/friend.
- PROOF OF RETURN OR ONWARD TICKET – Italy requires proof of onward ticket or return to your original destination or another destination outside of their country, to ensure you are not staying past the 90-days allowance; travelers must present proof of purchase of your airline carrier ticket through the Customs & Immigrations process
OPTIONAL Premium Experience
ADD-ON this Premium Experience in Lecce
Salento’s Wine Region & Medieval Heritage | $160 per person | Duration: 6 Hours – Leave the town of Lecce behind and journey through Salento’s wine country. Pass rows of vines and olive groves until you reach Otranto. Nestled in Puglia’s easternmost corner, this quaint seaside town unveils a rich history: Greek, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Spaniards, French all vied for control of this strategic port – Italy’s gateway to the Levant and the Holy Land. The city’s Aragonese Castle inspired Horace Walpole’s The Castle of Otranto (1764), recognized as the first Gothic novel. Soak in the mysterious atmosphere during a guided walking tour of Otranto’s treasures: the fortified walls, the mosaic-rich churches, the sudden views over the Mediterranean Sea. Your day continues at a local winery, featuring a tasting of Salice Salentino wine. This intense and full-bodied wine comes from the region’s dark-purple grapes wine, known by the locals as “negroamaro” (which translates to “black-bitter”). Learn about the traditional techniques and productions as you sample the wine, followed by a delicious lunch. Please note a minimum of 6 passengers is required. Transportation is included.
ADVENTURE PRICING
$4199 per person based on Double Occupancy
$4999 Single Occupancy
DEPOSIT REQUIRED to Confirm: $600 per person
FINAL PAYMENT DUE: MAR 31, 2023
Deposits are refundable if the Adventure is cancelled or postponed by Collette Tours. Adventure is non-refundable after final payments have been made. This Adventure requires 24 people to operate at the price quoted; if less participants join this adventure than an increase in cost would be required.
“Cancel for Any Reason” Travel Insurance: $349 per person
Adventure is fully non-refundable after final payment. THIRDHOME requires all participants to purchase travel insurance. Insurance is required to be purchased by a deadline date that will be advised which occurs prior to final payment date. Collette Tours has partnered with TripMate Travel Insurance for this Adventure, offering a special group tour rate of $349 per person for coverage. Click here to learn more about what’s covered. Collette Tours reserves the right to modify or change itinerary accommodations and/or alter tour routing if conditions beyond their control require such alterations thereof due to unforeseen circumstances.
THIRDHOME strongly recommends that all travelers purchase travel insurance prior to participating in a THIRDHOME Adventure and that all such insurance be purchased when a tour deposit is made. THIRDHOME travelers can purchase travel insurance through (1) the THIRDHOME preferred provider Allianz Travel or (2) the traveler’s insurance provider of choice. THIRDHOME will require proof of such travel insurance protection when a tour deposit is made.
Any traveler that elects not to purchase travel insurance, by either of the above means, agrees to release THIRDHOME from liability for any loss of funds incurred due to the cancellation of a specific Adventure as a result of, but not limited to, an act of God, a failure to purchase travel insurance, the cessation of business with respect to a tour operator/ground operator, the failure of a tour operator/ground operator to refund consumer deposits or payments within 120 days following the cancellation of a THIRDHOME Adventure or a material failure to complete performance of a THIRDHOME Adventure.
Click here to view the THIRDHOME Adventures Terms and Conditions
CURRENT COVID-19 UPDATE per Collette Tours
This Adventure is provided in partnership with Collette Tours
