Villa Lante, Viterbo & Montefiascone

A lot of variety — historic gardens, a sampling of architecture, lake view panoramas — without a lot of driving.

 

A NOTE ABOUT DRIVING TIMES
About 2.5 hours total.

DETAILS

Viterbo
Typically we start in Viterbo, about an hour’s drive from port.

Architecture enthsiasts will appreciate Viterbo, as it one of the best-preserved Medieval cities in central Italy and contains many architectural points of interest covering various centuries and styles. In the 12th century Viterbo became a favourite residence of the Popes, hosting the papacy for a couple of decades in the 13th century. Today the Palazzo dei Papi (Palace of the Popes) is one of the most popular attractions in Viterbo.

Visitors will also be fascinated by stories of the city’s yearly procession of the macchina di Santa Rosa — a 100-foot decorative tower honouring Santa Rosa, the city’s patron saint. Every year on September 3 the tower is carried through the streets of Viterbo on the backs of 100 local men.

Villa Lante (closed Mondays)
Villa Lante is a noble property from the late 15th/early 16th centuries featuring Mannerist gardens of surprise. The Mannerist style emerged in the late Renaissance, when art was considered to have reached its apex. Movement and drama are central to the style, as can be seen in paintings and sculpture from the period as well as these fascinating gardens. The nobles who commissioned them were attracted by the idea of surprise and novelty in the garden’s design for the purpose of impressing their guests at outdoor parties. Enjoy the splendor of a bygone era as you stroll amongst the big shade trees, fountains and water features. If you love gardens you may very well never want to leave.

Lake Bolsena/Montefiascone
Lake Bolsena is quite popular due to its beauty and is a nice choice if you’re seeking natural vistas and a breath of fresh air. Montefiascone sits at the highest point on the lake, offering visitors stunning views and interesting stories of its past.

DURATION: 8-9 hrs

OTHER COSTS & NOTES