Begin with a pickup from your location and a picturesque drive to the countryside. Head to Bomarzo, approximately a one-hour drive from your starting point, and visit an enchanted park, immersed in the green hills and the forest.
Explore the so-called Parco dei Mostri (the monsters park), an extraordinary and surreal garden filled with strange and unsettling sculptures. Inspired by Ariosto’s Orlando Furioso, this unique site was created by Vicino Orsini, Duke of Bomarzo, in a rivalry against the illustriousness of Caprarola and the Villa Lante. Each corner of the park offers a fascinating story, blending fantasy with history in a way that is truly incomparable.
Next, continue to Caprarola, where you’ll visit the renowned Palazzo Farnese, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. This palace was designed by Cardinal Farnese in 1525 and should’ve served as a fortress. However, it was later transformed in one of the most beautiful palaces in the region. Inside, admire the exquisite work of celebrated artists.
The palace is surrounded by the Summer and Winter Gardens, featuring fountains, grottoes, nymphaea, and an array of statues that line the paths between the hedges and grand staircases. Two bridges connect the palace to the vast Italian Garden and the park behind it, offering breathtaking views and serene landscapes.
If the Farnese Palace in Caprarola is closed on the day of your visit, an alternate stop at the magnificent Orsini-Odescalchi Castle of Bracciano will be arranged. This historic castle overlooks the tranquil Bracciano Lake, adding a unique charm to your itinerary.
Your private tour driver will be happy to make some recommendations on where to stop for a delicious local meal in one of the many great Trattorie or restaurants.
On the return journey to Rome, the final stop is Calcata, a beautifully preserved medieval village perched on a cliff. Once a prominent center of the ancient Faliscans, Calcata has evolved into one of the most picturesque and charming towns in the region. Its narrow streets, artisan shops, and panoramic views make it a perfect conclusion to your day of exploration.
