Lake Albano

Immerse yourself in the history and nature of this peaceful lake, located just a short distance from Rome, on a kayak tour with plenty of interesting stops and technical kayaking tips. After a quick paddling, navigation, and communication lesson, you will begin your tour of the lake. Stops will include the village of the millstones, the Roman port of the Villa of Domitian, the Trampoline of the Pope, and a beautiful beach reachable only by kayak, where you can swim if the weather is right. Along the way, you see the summer residence of the Popes, atop the mountain of Castel Gandolfo and surrounded by untouched nature. Listen to the sound of local wildlife and the water lapping—a unique and unforgettable experience so close to Rome. Your guide will provide technical assistance throughout the tour and offer stories and anecdotes about the lake. After arriving back at the starting point, you will have the opportunity to take a shower before heading back to the capital.

Your tour will begin with you being helped into all of the safety devices, such as the life jacket. You will then partake in a lesson on the ground which will run you through the techniques of paddling and on the use of the kayak. The first leg of paddling will involve your guide teaching you how to paddle, correcting the posture and the movement of your arms as you go. Your first break will then be at the village of the millstones, which consists of submerged stilt houses that you will see from your kayak. After your break, you will engage in another stretch of paddling through untouched nature where you can admire the summer residence of the Popes on the mountain of Castel Gandolfo. You will then take a second break at the Roman port of the Villa of Domitian. Next, you will pass in front of the old structure of the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, where all the kayaking and rowing competitions were fought. Your third stop will then be the Pope's Trampoline, where you will stop to admire the old structure on the lake shore with the ancient papal coat of arms. You will next be invited to continue your tour in a unique way to awaken all your sensory activities, as you paddle in perfect silence and listen exclusively to the sound of nature and the local wildlife. To stay in the theme of wild nature, you will then dock in an uncontaminated beach reachable only by kayak, where if the season allows, you will also dive and swim. Your paddling will then continue to the starting point, from where you will receive another relaxing break.

Borgo Laudato Si' is located in the marvelous Gardens of the Papal Villas of Castel Gandolfo, a botanical and historical heritage of inestimable value. With its 35 hectares of gardens and 20 hectares of agricultural area, it is home to more than 3,000 plants and trees of 300 different species, as well as the archaeological remains of the Roman Emperor Domitian's villa. The beauty of the Gardens becomes the natural setting for the development of a place for training in integral ecology, open to all people of good will. The route - aboard an ecological vehicle - winds through the ruins of Emperor Domitian's villa and along avenues that flank beautiful gardens and majestic fountains.

Come and explore the famous panoramic terraces, ancient archaeological remains, and scenic nature trails in Castel Gandolfo's vibrant gardens! Traveling between Castel Gandolfo Villas (Ville Pontificie di Castel Gandolfo) and Rome has never been easier with Trenitalia's convenient combined bus and train ticket, taking you directly to the palace entrance in less than an hour. Begin your adventure by boarding a regionale train from Roma Termini to Castel Gandolfo station. Upon arrival, hop on the Castel Gandolfo Link bus, which runs twice daily from Monday to Saturday. This direct bus will take you straight to Castel Gandolfo Villas without any intermediate stops. The return journey is just as seamless, with the same route running four times per day. The Ville Pontificie di Castel Gandolfo, or the Pope's summer residence, is a must-visit destination. It offers stunning views, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a rich history. Enjoy the panoramic terraces overlooking Lake Albano, explore the ancient archaeological sites, and stroll through the lush nature trails. Experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique and historic location.

Elected as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Castle Gandolfo will amaze you with its beauty of the surrounding nature and its elegant historical centre. In a splendid position overlooking Lake Albano, Castle Gandolfo is situated on the brink of a volcanic crater. Above all, the small town is famous for the Papal Palace where Popes have spent their summers since the 17th century. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Papal Palace (where you will be given an audio guide if asked, remember to specify the language you want it in once you arrive there), open to the public only recently, and the Barberini palce and gardens, (which you can visit and by your tikets by your self) befor this actiy vity , where you will be able to admire french-style gardens, special kinds of flowers, roman statues and fountains. You will be picked up by a private driver (9.30am) on van or a car, in the morning from your accommodation one hour before the start of your tour, and you will be personally taken to the entrance of the Papal Palace in Castle Gandolfo where you will be able to take your time to visit this stunning place. After your visit (that should take up to two hours) we will be leaving you the time to also explore the city and have lunch or an italian aperitivo (not included in this package). Once you are over with your visit, our private driver will personally pick you up again (around 14.00-15.00pm) and take you back to your accomodation. PLEASE NOTE: this is a private transfer service PLEASE NOTE: it is important to read the whole description above to avoid misunderstandings, thank you! PLEASE NOTE: We ask you to kindly provide us your phone number and evry one name and the sername so that we can contact you for any changes.

Find yourself immersed in the nature of the Roman castles, beautiful locations surrounded by greenery outside the chaos of Rome. The departure is from Rome from your hotel or holiday home, direction in the heart of the Roman castles, Castel Gandolfo there you visit the town, the papal castle, the gardens and you will find one of the most evocative lakes in Lazio, Lake Albano. The tour will continue with a lunch stop in Ariccia or Frascati, well-known culinary destinations, excellent local food and the famous wine. As a last stop, a visit to Nemi will be held. The historic center is located in a panoramic position on Lake Nemi, famous for being the site of the discovery in 1927-1932 of two Roman celebratory ships from the age of Emperor Caligula, preserved in the Museum of Roman Ships until their destruction in 1944 Famous for its sweet, small and tasty strawberries, known as the Cinque Terre of Lazio for its typical colorful houses. The tour ends with return to the hotel.

We use our minivan to pick you up at the Anagnina underground station in Rome, we do it so that the journey itself to the Castelli Romani can unite us and let us enter a unique atmosphere, of preparation for something special. We will arrive after about twenty-five minutes in the town of Hannibal's fields so called because it was here that the famous Carthaginian general decided to establish his camp in order to admire the city of Rome from above. After about one hundred meters from the beginning of the route, the paved road will give way to a Roman paving dating back to the seventh century BC, the route known as via sacra has been one of the main communication routes of the place for centuries and owes its name due to the fact that it must have been used to reach the temple dedicated to the deity of Jupiter from Lazio, considered the most important place of worship in the pre-Roman era. After about an hour of walking immersed in the history and nature of the Castelli Romani park, a panorama opens up before our eyes that will leave you breathless, from this wonderful view you can embrace the entire naturalistic area of the Castelli Romani including the two enchanting lakes where we guides grew up practicing the sport of kayaking. After having taken the right time to let ourselves be lulled by this enchanting panorama, we will begin the descent that will take us back to the starting point, from which with a short journey of a few minutes we will reach a cute restaurant on the shores of Lake Albano, where we will eat a typical Roman pasta dish of your choice With full bellies and a smile we will take you back to Rome to the Anagnina station. During the summer, due to the excessive heat we will do this night tour in the moonlight with headlights, and we will stop to eat a typical Roman aperitif instead of pasta.

Discover the astronomical observatories of the Vatican Observatory of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo. Climb to the third floor of the palace and admire the view of Lake Castel Gandolfo from the panoramic terrace. For the first time in almost ninety years since their construction, the astronomical domes of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo are opening their doors to visitors. These are two perfectly functioning astronomical observatories of the Vatican Observatory: the “major dome” with a diameter of 8.5 meters, equipped with a Visual Telescope, for observing stars and planets; and the “minor dome”, with a diameter of 8 meters, with the Double Astrograph, used for photographic surveys of the sky and the position of the stars. Access allows, via a spiral staircase, access to the third floor of the Papal Palace, on the highest point of the panoramic terrace, which offers a splendid view of the lake of Castel Gandolfo. It was Pius XI, on September 29, 1935, who inaugurated the new headquarters of the Vatican Observatory, as its transfer from the villa that Leo XIII had built in the Vatican Gardens became necessary due to the light pollution of the City. The astronomical observatory was thus refounded and entrusted to the Jesuits, equipping the Observatory with three new telescopes and an astrophysical laboratory for spectrochemical analysis. Among the various study programs of the new institution, in those years, an important research on variable stars should be remembered.

Once you have booked, you will inform us about the meeting point. There you will meet our driver who will be with you for all the tour at the various main stops. This will allow you to move from one point of interest to another quickly and comfortably, making your day perfect. Based on the time of this tour, we recommend 4 stops: -Castel Gandolfo - Lago di Albano - Nemi (Lago di Nemi) Our driver will wait approximately 20/30 minutes for each stop to give you time to take photos, enjoy the place, eat something or simply enjoy an espresso.

Are you ready to escape the bustling streets of Rome and uncover the hidden gems of the Roman countryside? Join us on an exquisite 8-hour private tour to explore the enchanting Roman Castles of Ariccia, Nemi, and Castel Gandolfo. With an English-speaking chauffeur and deluxe vehicle at your disposal, prepare for a day filled with breathtaking scenery, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Your adventure begins as your luxurious deluxe vehicle pulls up to the entrance of your Rome hotel. With anticipation mounting, you'll be greeted by your friendly English-speaking chauffeur, ready to guide you on this journey of discovery. Settle into the plush comfort of your ride as you bid farewell to the Eternal City and set your sights on the picturesque Roman Castles Your first stop is the charming town of Ariccia, nestled in the verdant hills of the Castelli Romani. Known for its stunning architecture and delectable cuisine, Ariccia is famed for its succulent porchetta, a savory roasted pork dish that tantalizes the taste buds. Stroll through the quaint cobblestone streets, admiring the Baroque beauty of the Chigi Palace and the majestic Bernini-designed Bridge of Ariccia. Next, you'll venture to the picturesque town of Nemi, perched on the shores of a tranquil volcanic lake. Renowned for its captivating beauty and ancient traditions, Nemi is steeped in mythology and legend, earning it the title of the "Mirror of Diana." Explore the town's charming streets, visit the quaint shops offering local crafts and delicacies, and soak in the serene atmosphere that envelops this hidden gem. Your final destination is the historic town of Castel Gandolfo, nestled atop the Alban Hills overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Albano. Here, you'll discover the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the traditional summer residence of the Pope. Marvel at the grandeur of the palace, stroll through the immaculately manicured gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the tranquil lake below. As the sun begins to set on your day of exploration, your chauffeur will escort you back to Rome, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Reflect on the memories made and the sights seen as you reminisce about your enchanting tour of the Roman Castles. Conclusion Experience the charm and beauty of the Roman countryside on this unforgettable 8-hour private tour of Ariccia, Nemi, and Castel Gandolfo. With an English-speaking chauffeur and deluxe vehicle at your service, immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning scenery, and culinary delights of the Roman Castles. From ancient ruins to picturesque lakeside towns, this journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure filled with discovery and delight.