Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Italy Summary Not far off‐shore from the Amalfi Coast, Ischia and Capri have long been the summer playground of the rich and famous. However, away from the yachts, glamorous piazzas and exclusive boutiques, the stunning natural landscape of these islands also offer breath‐taking walking opportunities with their great variety of quiet coastal trails, secluded sea coves and pastel‐coloured villages. Starting from the blissful Sorrento peninsula, we sail through the blue waters of the gulf, walking on the world‐famous Capri and Ischia, plus the island of Procida ‐ one of Italy's best kept‐secrets ‐ and ending in the vibrant Naples. Perfect for first timers as well as the Amalfi Coast aficionados, this new trip is definitely one for the bucket list! 16 8 DAYS 8 DAYS TDE MIN AGE FLIGHT INC. LAND ONLY TRIP CODE At a glance 5 days walking and 1 free day Low altitude throughout Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs 7 nights in four 3‐star hotels, all rooms en suite All breakfasts and 3 dinners included Trip can be combined with TDA: Walking the Amalfi Coast Highlights Explore wild nature and azure bays in volcanic Ischia Discover the other face of glamorous Capri Visit pastel‐coloured villages in Procida Enjoy a limoncello tasting in Sorrento Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 1 Day 1 ‐ Massa Lubrense Those on group flights fly to Naples, to be met by the tour leader on arrival. A transfer of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes takes us to the lovely fishing village of Massa Lubrense, our base for the next two nights located right at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula. Enjoy a warm welcome from local hosts and enjoy a delicious dinner in the hotel's restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Land only clients can arrive at any time, although we do recommend to join the group at the airport or arrive at the hotel before 8pm. (Dinner) Day 2 ‐ Sorrento Activity Level: 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) 5 days walking with low altitude throughout. Similarly to the Amalfi Coast, the islands of the Gulf of Naples are home to some of the best walks in Europe, with a variety of great coastal trails, secluded beaches and coves and picture‐perfect fishing villages. The pace of the walks on this trip allows time to rest and enjoy the views, however, the terrain and amount of ascents and descent encountered is similar what you may find on a moderate walking trip. The terrain and type of path will vary from man‐made paved tracks, tarmac to forest trails. The walks usually take between 3 and 6 hours including lunch stops (depending on the pace of your group). Please note that the summer temperatures can make some of the walks more strenuous. Overall, the trip offers a very good balance between backcountry walks and sightseeing in beautiful towns of Italy such as Sorrento, Capri and Naples. The boats used to travel between the islands are normally high speed ferries with good facilities on board. Occasionally, depending on sea conditions and seasonal timetables, slower ferries or private fully licensed boats might be used. Due to the number of transfers included on this itinerary, we recommend packing light and limiting the number of suitcases/rucksacks you travel with. You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference: http://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Traini ng_Guide.pdf All ascents, descents and distances listed below have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders. Please note that different GPS measuring devices can give differing results dependent on the barometric pressures at the time. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the meals included. We start the day with a walk to the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento, hometown of Limoncello, the famous lemon based liqueur. Perched on top of a cliff, the town is known for its sweeping views over the Bay of Naples and its charming and elegant historic centre. There will be some free time to stroll around at our own pace or take a drink in the lively Piazza Tasso, before enjoying a refreshing limoncello tasting (included). In the afternoon we continue our walk back to Massa Lubrense; dinner and overnight in Massa Lubrense (4hrs walking, +350m ‐350m, 14 km). (Breakfast, Dinner) Day 3 ‐ Capri In the morning we set off for our sailing adventure in the Gulf of Naples and head to our first stop: the idyllic island of Capri. Capri's intriguing combination of fabled beauty and hedonism has charmed its visitors for centuries, from Roman Emperors to contemporary Hollywood stars. During our stay we explore beyond the elegant cafes and designer boutiques and get to see the more unspoilt and authentic part of the island. Our walk starts from Punta Carena and continues along stunning, rugged coastline following the fortress system built by French and British in the 19th century. We finish at the Blue Grotto, Capri's most famous attraction. An optional boat trip is available for those who want to explore the dark cavern where the sea glows electric blue, the result of sunlight passing through an underwater cave (weather dependent and payable locally); transfer and overnight in the peaceful residential village of Anacapri (3hrs walking, +250m ‐250m, 6 km). (Breakfast) Day 4 ‐ Free day in Capri Free day with many optional activities: we recommend starting the day with a chairlift ride up to the top of Monte Solaro to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Gulf of Naples. In the afternoon explore the island's flower‐filled gardens and Roman villas, or take a leisurely boat tour around the island with time for a swim in hidden coves and lesser‐known sea grottoes. Don't miss a visit to Capri town, arguably the most chic and glamorous Mediterranean place in Europe! Take a stroll in the pretty town's lanes, and enjoy an Italian aperitivo in the famous "Piazzetta", where everyone comes to see and be seen! (Breakfast) Day 5 ‐ Capri Starting from Capri's iconic 'piazzetta', we walk past colorful villas and flowery gardens and reach Grotta di Matromania, a hidden cave tucked into the island's limestone crags and site of ancient pagan worship ceremonies. Later we continue Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 2 on to Terrazza di Tragara, a spectacular panoramic trail offering postcard views of Capri's iconic Faraglioni and the summit of Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island. In the afternoon we take a hydrofoil to the volcanic island of Ischia, the biggest in the Gulf of Naples and home to some of the prettiest beaches and best hikes of the whole Campania region (3hrs walking, +450m ‐450m, 7 km). (Breakfast) Day 8 ‐ Naples Day 6 ‐ Ischia For those on group flights, these depart in the afternoon and will arrive in the UK the same day. Today's walk follows a panoramic coastal trail which, on a clear day, offers stunning views of Naples. In the afternoon, we reach the picturesque fishing village of Sant'Angelo, where we have time for a swim and a visit to the famous Maronti beach. Here jets of steam created by underground volcanic activity rise up through the sand. The sand is so hot in places that locals use specially‐made containers to cook food such as chicken or clams underground! Those who whish can return to the hotel earlier and walk to the the iconic Aragonese Castle, dating back nearly 2,500 years. The others will get a single transfer (by private or public bus depending on season) to the hotel later in the afternoon. (5h walking, +400m ‐400m, 12 km). (Breakfast) Our tour ends in Naples in the morning of day 8. Depending on the group flight departure time, there might be some free time to explore the famous historic neighbourhood of Spacca Napoli, Toledo street, Umberto I Gallery and the Plebiscite Square. (Breakfast) Please note that the 27th May and 7th October 2017 the departures will operate in reverse and the itinerary will run as follows: Day 1 ‐ Fly to Naples and overnight in central hotel. Day 2 ‐ Sail to the pastel‐coloured Procida, rated as one of Italy's most beautiful islands; enjoy a rewarding walk and spectacular island views; boat to Ischia. Day 7 ‐ Procida and Naples In the morning we leave Ischia and sail to the volcanic Procida, the Bay of Naples' smallest island and its best‐kept secret. Mercifully off the mass‐tourist radar, the island's perfect blend of sun‐bleached streets, lemon groves and pastel‐coloured houses makes it a real joy to the eye and soul. Procida's special charm has also led to it featuring in a number of films including the classic Il Postino and The Talented Mr Ripley. Our short walk starts from the most picturesque and charming spot on the island: the hamlet of Corricella. After passing through the narrow streets of the village we walk up to the fortified medieval district Terra Murata or 'walled land', dominated by its castle from where we enjoy marvellous views. In the afternoon we take a hydrofoil to the colourful city of Naples, where we take a quick orientation tour before enjoying a farewell pizza night in the historic centre; overnight in Naples. (2hrs walking, +100m ‐100m, 3km) (Breakfast, Dinner) Day 3 ‐ Panoramic coastal walk from the colourful harbour to the quaint fishing village of Sant'Angelo; overnight in Ischia. Day 4 ‐ Morning boat to Capri; walk along the unspoilt western coast of the island and take an optional boat trip to the iconic Blue Grotto, Capri's most famous sea cave; overnight in Anacapri. Day 5 ‐ Free day in Capri: enjoy an optional walk, explore the glamorous town's centre or take a boat tour to explore the island's best swimming spots. Day 6 ‐ Spectacular walk to discover Capri's rugged nature, caves and stunning view points. Boat and overnight in Massa Lubrense. Day 7 ‐ Walk to the beautiful Sorrento; free time for sightseeing and enjoy a delicious limoncello tasting; return to Massa Lubrense. Day 8 ‐ Transfer to Naples airport and fly to London. Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 3 We spend the first two nights in Massa Lubrense, two nights in Anacapri, two nights in Ischia and the final night in a central hotel in Naples. All rooms at the hotels are en suite, and all of them offer free Wi‐Fi. The hotels are all 3‐star and have been chosen for their warm hospitality and character; some of them have a pool. Massa Lubrense, which are served sautéed or eaten raw with just a bit of olive oil. There is no better way to end your meal than with a generous slice of torta caprese, a local chocolate and almond cake, which is traditionally served with a small, icy glass of limoncello. In Ischia, enjoy spaghetti alla puttanesca (spaghetti with olives, chilli, garlic and tomato sauce), coniglio all'ischiatana (rabbit cooked with garlic, chilli, tomato, herbs and white wine) all accompanied by top quality local wines such as Ischia Bianco, Ischia Rosso, Biancolella and Forastera. List of hotels normally used: Transport Massa Lubrense: Hotel Il Piccolo Paradiso or Hotel Primavera A mix of private minibus, boats, hydrofoils and public buses will be used throughout the week. Road conditions are generally good although some of them migth be winding. Capri: Hotel La Bussola Ischia: Hotel Europa or Hotel Bellevue Naples: Hotel Chiaja Single Accommodation Single rooms are available for a supplement of £210 (approx. US$275) payable in advance. Please note availability is greatly restricted so this will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Food All breakfasts, 3 dinners and 1 limoncello tasting are included. Breakfast at the hotels is continental style with a choice of cereal, bread, pastries, yoghurt, orange juice and milk with an array of teas/coffee. Lunches will be picnic style or taken in local cafes. The first two evening meals included in the itinerary are normally taken at the hotel and in a local restaurant. The last group dinner in Naples will be taken in a typical pizzeria in the historic centre. The abundance of fresh local produce as well as highly skilled local chefs make the Campania region one of the most envied culinary landscapes in the world. Most regional meals are prepared using of seasonal fresh ingredients such as olives, oranges, lemons, eggplants, tomatoes, almonds, grapes, and more; not to mention all of the seafood fished right off the coast. On this trip the leader will always be on hand to recommend the best restaurants and specialities in the islands. In Capri try the simple but delicious insalata caprese (mozzarella, tomato and basil salad) and the ravioli capresi, Capri's staple dish made with simple pasta dough filled with parmigiano and aged caciotta cheese, tossed with a fresh tomato and basil sauce. Other of the island's traditional first courses are scialatielli, a fresh ribbon pasta often served with seafood or sautéed vegetables, and spaghetti alla Nerano, tossed with zucchini and cheese. Seafood lovers visiting the islands will also find excellent local shrimp caught on the sea floor between Capri and Southern Italy, like much of the Mediterranean, has a hot, dry climate in summer and cooler but sometimes wet spring and autumn periods. Summer can be very hot with daytime temperatures in July and August reaching up to 35ºC on the coast. The earlier and later departures in spring and autumn are likely to be cooler with a slightly higher chance of rain. In late summer there is the possibility of heavy thunderstorms, but these are usually short‐lived. With so much to see and do in the world we know how hard it is to settle just on one destination. That's why we have put together a handy guide of trips you are able to do back‐to‐back. Island Hopping off the Amalfi Coast (TDE) can be combined with TDA (Walking the Amalfi Coast), but we recommend doing the TDE trip first for the transport logistics between the two trips to work better. After the island hopping trip (TDE) you will need to travel from Naples the city centre to Naples airport by alibus (30 mins journey, €3). Once at the airport you can join the TDA group and transfer with them to Bomerano, the start point of your next trip. Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 4 All TDE departures dates can be combined with TDA if both trips are guaranteed to run. 8 days, normally start Massa Lubrense Sat, end Naples Sat Itinerary Start 8 days, normally depart London Sat, return Sat Itinerary Start The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary. Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Massa Lubrense in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks before departure. Airport Transfers Flights from London We normally use the scheduled services of British Airways or Meridiana (depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure. UK Regional Flights The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert advice. If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays. Airport Transfers Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight, even if Exodus has booked it. Those arriving from London on non‐group flights should read the airport transfer section below for information on reaching the start point. Please check with the Exodus office. If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the arrival time of the group flight ‐ please check the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense. It is possible to reach the start hotel in Massa Lubrense using the public transport network. There are regular services from Naples airport to Sorrento operated by Autolinee Currieri (info and timetables available at http://www.curreriviaggi.it/eng/autolinee.html). The journey to Sorrento takes approximately 1hr and 15 minutes and the cost of a one way ticket is €10. Once in Sorrento, you can reach Massa Lubrense by public bus (15mins journey, €2, http://www.sitasudtrasporti.it/orari). Alternatively, taxi from Sorrento to the start hotel would cost approximately €10. If you prefer to travel in more comfort, Exodus can arrange a private transfer on arrival. The cost for this will be approximately £100‐ 120 depending on number of people sharing the vehicle. Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 5 Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required. Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company. On this trip we stay in the lesser‐known parts of the islands and Sorrento Peninsula, mainly in family‐run or locally owned hotels. By choosing our accomodation in less touristy towns such as Massa Lubrense and Anacapri, guests are providing income to areas which don't normally receive the same tourism influxes as other popular destinations like Sorrento. All the hotel food is homemade, using locally produced and sourced goods where possible. When pic‐nic lunches are arranged, the produce and ingredients are purchased from small local bakeries thus helping to sustain small family‐run businesses. This small group tour has a maximum of 16 participants, meaning that we have a low impact on the communities we visit and are able to ensure that we do not disrupt or lead to the displacement of local people. Few holidays have as little detrimental impact on the environment and local residents as a walking trip. It is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively little resources to support. Erosion on and adjacent to popular paths is a growing problem and our trip leaders encourage clients not to stray from paths to minimise this. We do believe in leaving more than just footprints, however; this walking tour actively encourages guests to chat with local people, visit local cafes and bars, purchase local produce, gifts and crafts and discover what life is really like in these small island of the Bay of Naples. For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: Vaccinations and Health Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad. There are no specific health risks on this trip. The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up‐to‐ date information. Insurance ‐ are you adequately covered? You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. Local Time GMT +1 hour Group, Staff and Support The group will generally be between 4 and 16 people. There will be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed. www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian. Passports and Visas Most nationalities, including British, require a full passport that must be valid beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects. Certain European nationalities may be able to travel within Europe on their national identity card. Check carefully with the relevant authorities if you intend to do this. Currency Information The national currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 1.2 to the UK£ and 0.9 to the US$. Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication. ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques ATMs and banks are avalable in all the islands although we recommend obtaining some € cash before travelling or on arrival at Naples airport. Credit cards are accepted in most shops, hotels and restaurants although cash is generally easier. No visa required for British passport holders. Extra Expenses and Spending Money Please note in Italy it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times. For lunches you should budget approx. €10‐25, depending on whether you choose a set menu in a Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples café or restaurant. Approximately €30‐35 should be enough for an evening meal including drinks. Drinks and snacks on the islands can be quite expensive (e.g up to €10 for a coffee in the famous Capri Piazzetta), however cheaper places are always available outside the main tourist routes. LOCAL TAXES: many Italian cities have recently introduced a tourist tax for non‐residents. The local administration is in charge of the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check‐in or check‐out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €0.50 and €1.50 per person per night. For this trip, please allow between €5 and €10, depending on the season, for the week. Children and people aged 75 or over are exempt from this tax. Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group sizes) Optional chairlift ride in Capri: €10 return, €7 single Blue Grotto in Capri: €13‐20 Boat tour around Capri: €20‐50 Villa Jovis in Capri: €2 Villa San Michele in Capri: €7 Castello Aragonese in Ischia: €10 Tipping (leader and local staff) Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of between €15 to €30 per client per leader. Page 6 Waterbottle: While mineral water is available in restaurants and shops, it's safe to drink the tap water in hotels in the islands, so remember to bring refillable water bottles and keep hydrated during the day Optional items walking poles swimwear Baggage and Baggage Allowance At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the recommended international carrier for this trip is 23kg. We recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage. As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check the airline's website for the latest information prior to your departure. Please remember that you are expected to carry your own luggage at times, so don't overload yourself. Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write‐ups which have featured in the national media and take advantage of some special deals on travel gear and equipment. In the Community Travel Forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition. Essential Equipment and Clothing Small daypack (for water bottle, camera etc) Lightweight waterproof jacket and wind stopper Trekking shoes and lighter trainers Long walking trousers (some paths may be overgrown) Warm clothes for departures in October and March Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for summer departures To make full use of the Community you'll need to join My Exodus. It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for? http://www.exodus.co.uk/community Italy • Island Hopping In The Bay Of Naples Page 7 Should there be any change to advice prior to or during travel, we may have to cancel or curtail a tour at short notice, or re‐ route an itinerary part way through. In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability you should call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone's ability to safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people's enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to section 16 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be contacted on 0044 (0)1582 640 045. Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www.exodus.co.uk/about‐exodus/essential‐information? Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The most up‐to‐date prices can be found on the Exodus website. © Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email. 2. Secure your place You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days. 3. Complete your booking and payment When you're ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA ‐ The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to us for your trip are fully protected. The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons ‐ climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary. As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice Service advises British tourists on the potential dangers they might experience when travelling overseas. We liaise closely with them and adhere to their travel advice. For up‐to‐date advice on all countries, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign‐travel‐advice. Edition No. MM 1 2017
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