North Italy with kids, August 2011

Travel diary written by Antonio (Madrid, Spain)
This summer my wife, two daughters and I wanted to do something different in the north of Italy. We were very fortunate to contact Sergio at italianfeelings, who from the very beginning transmitted to us his passion for his country. He understood perfectly the kind of trip we were looking for.
We first stayed in the area of the Dolomites at the Farmhouse Cirum, near Arabba.

It really seems that time has stopped in this beautiful Alpine landscape.I have to highlight the enormous kindness and generosity of the lovely owner, Mrs. Esther, we enjoyed an unforgettable stay. She took care of us with all the details and we still remember her delicious breakfasts prepared with local products.
This Dolomites area is simply spectacular. We enjoyed 4 days the mountain in its purest state.

Our highlights: the Marmolada glacier, the lovely lake Misurina, a walk through a canyon at Sotoguda, the Livinallongo valley, the lovely towns of Cortina d'Ampezzo, Corvara, Canazei, ... and the cablecar up to Portavescovo Arabba, with its walk at 2700 metre altitude. Simply unforgettable.

After these days of amazing nature we moved to San Pietro in Cariano, a village 15 minutes from Verona. We stayed at the Corte Casetta, a farmhouse surrounded by vineyards.

Totally different from the Dolomites area, but very beautiful as well.
In the farmhouse we were superbly served by Luisa and her husband Matteo.
The stay was very comfortable, we had delicious breakfasts and dinners in the middle of the vineyards.
Our kids (12 and 8 years old) had fun at Lake Garda, where we had a swim, visited the Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium, the Adventure Jungle Park and the natural waterfalls Molina park.
From Corte Casetta we visited several cities, enjoying beautiful Verona (with its Roman amphitheatre "Arena", the Duomo, Erbe Square, and Castelvecchio bridge amongst others), Padua with its spectacular San Antonio`s Cathedral and Scrovegni Chapel.
We ended the trip in the charm of Venice with its San Marco square and its magnificent Basilica, the Grand Canal, the Venetian lagoon and the island of Murano.
Thanks to all the advice Sergio gave us about places to visit and where to eat we have had a great holiday.
I want to emphasize that Sergio not only was responsible for organizing the trip and provide us with information, but he was all the time contacting these 2 Farmhouses to make sure we arrived without problems.
When you're 2000 kilometres from home, these kind of initiatives are very appreciated.
Thank you very much Sergio for everything and I hope you continue to transmit to everyone your enthusiasm for your precious country!