Discover a side of Italy most travelers never see on an immersive journey centered in Molise, one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Settle into a peaceful countryside retreat and experience Italy at a slower pace, with day trips that take you through medieval villages, historic abbeys, vineyards, artisan workshops, mountain landscapes, and the nearby regions of Abruzzo and Lazio.
From the historic Montecassino Abbey and turquoise waters of Castel San Vincenzo to the medieval streets of Sulmona, Pacentro, Oratino, and Agnone, each day offers a new glimpse into local life. Along the way, taste regional wines and olive oils, learn traditional cheesemaking and pasta-making, and meet the people keeping centuries-old Italian traditions alive.
Highlights
Explore Montecassino Abbey, one of Italy’s most historically significant monasteries
Discover Castel San Vincenzo, its turquoise lake, waterfalls, and ancient abbey
Taste native Molise wines during visits to family-run vineyards
Wander the medieval towns of Sulmona and Pacentro in neighboring Abruzzo
Discover Sulmona’s famous confetti tradition and artisan shops
Visit Oratino, one of Italy’s most beautiful hilltop villages
Tour a family-run cheese farm and the historic Marinelli Bell Foundry in Agnone
Spend a day along the coast in Gaeta and experience its centuries-old olive traditions
Taste locally produced olive oils at historic agricultural estates
to make fresh pasta during a hands-on cooking class
Slow down and enjoy the countryside, local cuisine, and rural traditions of Molise
What’s Included
Accompanied small-group travel with Phil
Countryside accommodations at Villaggio Rurale Le Sette Querce
Private transportation for scheduled excursions
Guided cultural and historical experiences
Winery tours and tastings featuring regional wines
Artisan cheese farm tour and tasting
Olive oil experiences and tastings
Fresh pasta cooking class and culinary experiences
Visits to medieval villages, abbeys, and artisan workshops
Group meals featuring authentic regional cuisine
Personalized pre-trip planning and preparation
Dedicated support before and throughout your travels
Access to local experiences and places most visitors to Italy never discover
