Current as of: October 22, 2019 - 14:44 Valid for departures: From January 1, 2017 to January 1, 2022

Island Hopping in the Bay of Naples Trip Notes

 Ways to Travel: Guided Group 8 Days Land only Trip Code:  Destinations: Italy Min age: 16 TDE Leisurely /  Programmes: Walking & Trekking Moderate

Trip Overview

Not far off-shore from the Amal 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 rst timers as well as the Amal Coast acionados, this trip is denitely one for the bucket list!

At a Glance  7 nights in 3-star hotels, all rooms en suite  8 days land only  4 days walking and 1 free day  Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs  Low altitude throughout  Trip can be combined with TDA: Walking the Amal Coast

Trip Highlights  Wild nature and azure bays in volcanic Ischia  The other face of glamorous Capri  Procida, one of Italy's prettiest islands  Enjoy a limoncello tasting in Sorrento

Is This Trip for You? Activity Level: 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) 4 days walking with low altitude throughout. Similarly to the Amal 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, deserted beaches and coves and picture-perfect shing 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 nd 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 4 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 nd our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference: https://www.breakaway-adventures.com/Breakaway_wt_fitness_training_guide.pdf

Adult min age: 16 Min group size: 4 Max group size: 16

Itinerary Land Only

Start City: Massa Lubrense End City: Naples

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1 Start in Massa Lubrense, at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula.

The trips starts today in the lovely 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.

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2 Walk to beautiful Sorrento; free time for sightseeing and enjoy a delicious limoncello tasting; return to Massa Lubrense. 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.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Distance covered: 10 km / 6.2 miles Altitude gain (m): 600 Altitude loss (m): 500 Day 3 Boat to Capri; free time for optional walk, explore the glamorous town's centre or take a boat tour to explore the island's best swimming spots.

In the morning we set off for our sailing adventure in the Gulf of Naples and head to our rst 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. The rest of the day is free with many optional activities: we recommend taking the chairlift up to the top of Monte Solaro to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Gulf of Naples. In the afternoon explore the island's ower-lled 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!

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4 Walk along the unspoilt western coast of the island and take a boat trip to the iconic Blue Grotto, Capri's most famous sea cave (optional). Today's 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 nish 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 by public bus and overnight in the peaceful residential village of Anacapri.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 10 km / 6.2 miles Altitude gain (m): 350 Altitude loss (m): 350 Day 5 Spectacular walk to discover Capri's rugged nature, caves and stunning view points; late afternoon boat to Ischia.

Starting from Capri's iconic 'piazzetta', we walk past colorful villas and owery 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 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 9 km / 5.6 miles Altitude gain (m): 300 Altitude loss (m): 300

Day 6 Panoramic coastal walk from the colourful harbour to the quaint shing village of Sant'Angelo. Today's walk follows a panoramic coastal trail which, on a clear day, offers stunning views of Naples. After passing through the lovely countryside village of Piano Liguori, surrounded by green vineyards, we reach the picturesque shing 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! Private Transfer to Ischia town.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 12 km / 7 miles Altitude gain (m): 400 Altitude loss (m): 400 Day 7 Optional visit to Castello Aragonese; sail to the pastel-coloured Procida, rated as one of Italy's most beautiful islands; enjoy a short walk and spectacular island views; boat to Naples.

In the morning we have some free time to enjoy an optional visit the iconic Aragonese Castle, dating back nearly 2,500 years. We then take a boat 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 lms 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 fortied 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.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Distance covered: 5 km / 3 miles Altitude gain (m): 150 Altitude loss (m): 150

Day 8 End Naples. Our tour ends in Naples in the morning of day 8. Depending on the group ight 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Please note: it is possible that the order of the itinerary listed above will be changed to ensure the best possible conditions for each activity during the trip. All listed activities and services will be included. Your leader will inform you of any changes locally after assessing conditions.

Accommodation Hotels We spend the rst two nights in Massa Lubrense, two nights in Anacapri, two nights in Ischia and the nal 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. List of hotels normally used: Massa Lubrense: Hotel Il Piccolo Paradiso Capri: Hotel La Bussola Ischia: Hotel Europa or Hotel Bellevue Naples: Hotel Chiaja

Where a single supplement is available, paying for a single will only guarantee a room for single use. It does not necessarily mean a twin or double room will be provided for sole occupancy.

Please note that a member of the group may be allocated a single room by default if the make-up of the group means there isn’t anyone for them to share with. Paying the supplement in advance is the only way to guarantee a single room.

Single supplements cannot be refunded retrospectively.

Single supplement from $449.50 USD

Food & Transport

Eating & Drinking

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 rst 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 shed 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 lled with parmigiano and aged caciotta cheese, tossed with a fresh tomato and basil sauce. Other of the island's traditional rst 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 nd excellent local shrimp caught on the sea oor between Capri and 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.

Transportation

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.

Weather & Seasonality

When to go

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 35°C 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.

Weather Charts

Joining Instructions Travelling land only: 8 days starting in Massa Lubrense and ending in Naples

Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Massa Lubrense in the afternoon 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.

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. The usual, standard check-in baggage weight allowance is 20kg.

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 ofce or your travel agent.

Transfers Details

Airport transfers are included for those able to meet the group transfer timings.

If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged at designated times, subject to change - please check the timing 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.

Location start: Massa Lubrense Location end: Naples

What to Take Essential Equipment

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

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 rellable water bottles and keep hydrated during the day

Optional Equipment walking poles swimwear

Practical Information Passport Italy All nationalities 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 offered below is to help you with that process. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs of cials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects.

Visa Italy

No visa required for USA passport holders. Please note in Italy it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times.

For further travel advice please visit U.S. State Department at https://www.state.gov/travelers/

Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required.

There are no specific health risks on this trip.

Vaccination Italy

There are no specific health risks.

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.

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. Please note: vaccinations that are routinely recommended to residents of North America or Australasia are not considered to form part of the travel health advice, and you should ensure these are kept up to date where necessary.

For additional information please visit: Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Insurance - are you adequately covered? It is a condition of joining any of our holidays that you must be fully insured against medical and personal accident risks (to include repatriation costs and air ambulance or helicopter rescue services where appropriate). On arrival in destination for your trip, you will be asked to present details to your leader or local representative of your policy.

If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend the Exodus travel insurance policy, this is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. If arranging your own policy please ensure that you are covered for all activities that are part of the trip, optional activities that you intend to take part in and/or on high altitude itineraries, that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip.

Local Time

Italy's Timezone: Europe/Rome CET (GMT +01:00)

Electricity

Italy's Electricity: European plug - 2 round pins.

Money Italy's Currency The national currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 0.9 to the US$.

Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.

ATM Availability 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.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money For lunches you should budget approx. €10-25, depending on whether you choose a set menu in a 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:

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 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 €20 per client per leader. Responsible Tourism

At Breakaway we believe in the power of Responsible Travel. Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage.

Important Information

On all guided trips 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 authorize 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 5 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.

On all trips In booking this trip you should be condent 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 Breakaway ofce and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.

In an emergency, please contact our 24 hour out of hours service on +44 (0) 844 326 7041.

Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure.

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 ofce or your travel agent.

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 exible 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.

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. Swimming results in more tourists deaths than any other activity. All customers should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim, and are requested to treat the sea with extreme caution if they choose to enter the water.

TRAVEL AWARE – STAY SAFE & HEALTHY ABROAD

The U.S. State Department has up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see https://www.state.gov/travelers/

Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Advice can change so check regularly for updates.

For all latest travel information about your holiday, please visit our Travel Safety Advice page.

How to Book

Ready to book? Please contact Breakaway Adventures on Tel: 1-800-567-6286; International Tel: +1-843-856-9771. https://www.breakaway-adventures.com

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