Culture and influence of Italy
Key civilizations have existed in Italy since prehistoric times. Throughout history, Italy has been a major influence on European culture, from the Etruscan community to the dominant Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Italy was the center of art and science. Italy’s religious influence has also been far-reaching. The Vatican is an independent state within Rome that is governed by the Pope (or Bishop of Rome), the seat of the Catholic Church.
Italy Tourism – Something fun for everyone
Tourists flock to Italy each year to enjoy art galleries and museums, learn about Italy’s many historical sights, and see the beautiful scenery outdoors. Italy has much to offer both individuals and families. For the golfer, courses are available throughout the country. Golf courses can be found in the mountains, by the sea, near art cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome, and even alongside many of Italy’s picturesque lakes.
The beaches of Italy
Families can enjoy fun in the sun at one of Italy’s many beaches. There are more than 7,600 miles of coastline that nestle into the mainland and islands. The Mediterranean Sea offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and many resorts line the shores with sand for sunbathing, sun loungers, and umbrellas. Italy’s beaches are known for their cleanliness and safety. Abruzzo, Apulia, Calabria and Tuscany are among the many regions where beaches have recently received the Blue Flag, an award given to beaches that are clean and offer safe bathing areas.
Nature lover’s dream
There are 20 national parks in Italy where nature lovers can explore the great outdoors and rugged terrain. Unique lakes, mountains, plants and animals abound in Italy’s parks. The regions where the national parks are located include Apulia, Calabria, Sicily, Sardinia, Tuscany, Piedmont, and the Marches.
Nature lovers also enjoy touring the unique Italian botanical gardens. There are more than 30 of these charming gardens in Italy. For the cyclist, each region offers great bike trails to explore the great outdoors and tour various sites and parks.
Explore art and history in Italy
As one of the world’s foremost centers of art and history, Italy offers many iconic galleries, museums, and landmarks. Unique museums with cars, entertainment, science and technology and archeology are scattered throughout the Italian regions to satisfy all tastes. Saint Peter’s Square is one of the most beautiful sites in the world and was built by many famous architects, including Michelangelo, Vignola, Raphael, and Pirro Ligorio. There are also many castles, palaces and cathedrals that attract visitors every year.
Whether it’s learning about key periods in history, relaxing with family on the beach, or enjoying a romantic getaway, Italy has something to offer for every occasion!
Hiking through the hills and valleys of Italy
Bring your trekking poles for an amazing hiking adventure in the beautiful country of Italy! Italy offers some fabulous hiking trails where you will discover the unique culture and history of the land and enjoy some great food along the way.
Hiking in Italy is exciting because there are so many beautiful places to explore. Whether you like nature or busy city life, there are hiking tours available for both. Here are some recommended hiking adventures to consider while visiting Italy.
The Gran Paradiso National Park
Enjoy a hilly hike through the beautiful terrain of this park. You will be introduced to the wildlife of the park, experience challenging hikes to see the high mountain peaks of the Alps, and see the glaciers that surround the Rifugio Sella. You can also visit the wooden village of Nex Tignet, which looks like something out of a fairy tale!
Tour the Dolomites (starting in Ortisei, Italy)
The Dolomites, where the Mediterranean and German cultures meet, are home to an ancient people called the Ladinos, who live in the high valleys that surround the Sella Group massif. While hiking through the Dolomites, he will discover the well-preserved culture and traditions of the Ladino people, see grazing pastures in the Gardena Valley, and also see karst rock formations.
Tour the Italian Lake District (starting in Milan, Italy)
Hike challenging trails while overlooking some of Italy’s most picturesque lakes. The lakeside towns of Stresa, Bellagio and Lugano offer delicious cuisine, great shopping and a variety of wines. Each lake is surrounded by an incredible mountainous landscape, and you will be able to walk among impressive glacial lakes. This walk may include a visit to the islands of Lake Maggiore, where there are gardens, palaces and fishing villages. There is also a milky white waterfall called Fiumelatte in Varenna.
Hiking in the Cinque Terre (starting from La Spezia)
Cinque Terre is a charming collection of seaside towns where Italian gastronomy meets traditional Mediterranean food and culture. You can walk among the many cliffs and trails that surround the villages, take a tour of nearby Pisa to see the famous “Leaning Tower,” or explore the medieval art city of Lucca.
Hiking in the Abruzzo National Park
This is a difficult and challenging hike where you can explore the true wild side of Italy. The park is home to around 300 types of birds, mountain goats, wolves, bears and chamois. Don’t worry, sightings of bears and wolves are rare during hiking tours. This park is the largest national park in Italy and offers beautiful landscapes of mountains, alpine pastures and more. Be sure to visit nearby towns to enjoy the local cuisine and wines, and discover the unique history of each town.
Hiking in Majella National Park in Italy
As one of Italy’s newest national parks, Majella National Park offers an abundance of plants and wildlife, a lush green gorge, and a charming mountain village. Explore Monte Amaro, the second highest summit in the Apennine chain, which is known locally as Montagna Madre (or Mother Mountain). Other recommended walks include tours in Tuscany, Le Marche, and Capri.
Tips for hiking in Italy
Hiking in Italy is great if you know where to go and are well prepared beforehand. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Paid hiking tours
There are many guided hiking tours where the hike is planned for you. These are great if you have never been to Italy or if you are new to hiking. Complete hiking tours offer hotel accommodations, transportation to and from hiking areas, experienced tour guides, paid admission to sites, museums, and wine tastings along with an itinerary.
self-guided tours
If you are already an experienced hiker and familiar with Italy, you may want to take a self-guided hiking tour. Remember, let someone know where and when you will be hiking in case of an emergency.
Decide what kind of hike you’d like to do beforehand. If you are a beginner, you might want to try the light trails where there are nearby towns. Also, choose trails that you will enjoy. Do you like mountain scene or lakes? Do you like to tour towns, farm fields or vineyards? Want to spot wildlife during your hike? Once you decide on the type of hike, you can research different trails and areas to find the perfect spot.
Get a hiking map
In Italy, many of the hiking trails are not well marked. Some of the markings can be found in dark places, such as on a tree or rock. That’s why you should buy a hiking trail map once you decide where you’ll be hiking. A map that outlines the trails for you will help you find your way when markings are unavailable or unclear.
Watch out for hunters
Hunting is popular in Italy, so you’ll want to make sure there are no hunters where you plan to hike. Find out from a hiking tour company where you can hike safely, and also what signs to look for while hiking. There are “No Hunting” signs displayed along some hiking trails.
Use trekking poles for support
Even if you feel physically up to the trek, use trekking poles for support. You may not realize the stress that a steep hike can put on your legs, knees, and ankles. Trekking poles will help relieve some of the stress and save you from a lot of aches and pains later on. Even the most experienced hikers use trekking poles for support.
Pack light, but pack wisely
Your backpack should contain the essentials for your trek, such as food, water or drinks, a first aid kit, etc. But, don’t pack more than you need. Packing too much can make your hike unpleasant due to the extra weight. Make sure you have what you need for emergency situations. This could save your life!
The mountainous landscape, local towns and parks make Italy a great place for hikers to explore and relax!
You can find international cell phones and service for Italy at http://www.planetomni.com. Free incoming calls from all countries day and night and calls to states are only US$0.60 per minute! They also rent and sell phones and satellite phones.