For our last day in Italy, we made our way from the Alps to the Venetian countryside, stopping at an apple orchard in Valsugana.  We learned from the owner about apple cultivation and the production of apple juice, cider, and vinegar.  Cherries were being grown there as well and we were fortunate to arrive just in time to taste them at their best!

(For all photos, click on the image for a full screen view.)

Lunch followed; a variety of home-cooked dishes that included apples as an ingredient, of course!

Our journey continued to Villa Condulmer where we stayed our final night.  Built in the 17^th century as a monastery, it later became a private residence that changed owners several times. Famous composer, Guiseppe Verdi, was friends with the one of the owners and stayed there for a few months in the 1800’s.  In 1959, the villa was transformed into a hotel and features the piano that Verdi played during his stay.

The villa was gorgeous!  We enjoyed meandering through the lobby, bar, and sitting rooms as well as the lush grounds in both the front and back.  It was a perfect place to relax and enjoy the last day in one of our favorite countries!

In the evening, following a champagne reception for our group, we enjoyed our last dinner together and bid farewell to our fellow travelers and Maria, our tour leader.

As was our previous three tours with Overseas Adventure Travels, we enjoyed it very much and highly recommend their small group tours.  If you do check out the site and contact OAT, please let them know Elaine Krugman referred you and give them my customer number: 3018126.  If you book a trip with them, not only will you receive $100 off because you were referred by me, but I will, too!

Thanks for joining me on this journey!  I hope you will return to see Peru!

Coming up next:  PERU #1: LIKABLE LIMA