Your first port of call is Gaeta, a popular destination set on a headland that juts out towards the Gulf of Gaeta, within the Lazio region of southern Italy. Apart from the beautiful beach, the key attraction in this historical seaside town is Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain), a natural sea grotto and 11th-century sanctuary. According to local legend, the miraculous rock split was created when God sent a lightning bolt that formed three giant cracks in the mountain, which dramatically plunges into the sea. DiscoverMORE: Sperlonga National Archaeological Museum with Tiberius's Villa (Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours, extra expense, must be pre-booked): Discover the timeless beauty of Sperlonga, one of Italy's most picturesque seaside villages, where whitewashed houses, ancient history, and spectacular coastal views combine to create an unforgettable experience. Travel by motorcoach to the National Archaeological Museum of Sperlonga, where remarkable marble sculptures known as the "Marble Odyssey" reveal scenes inspired by Homer's epic tales. Continue to the archaeological remains of Emperor Tiberius's Villa, including the famous seaside grotto and ancient fish ponds, once part of the emperor's luxurious coastal retreat. After your visit, continue into the heart of Sperlonga for a guided walk through its charming historic center. Wander the narrow whitewashed streets, pass through the ancient town gates, visit the Church of Santa Maria, and admire the historic Truglia Tower, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Free time allows you to browse local boutiques, relax at a cafe (own expense), or simply enjoy the atmosphere before departing for the return journey. DiscoverMORE: Monte Cassino Abbey and Matilde Winery (Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 6 hours, extra expense, must be pre-booked): Journey into the heart of southern Italy to visit one of Europe's most important monasteries before discovering the renowned wines of the Campania region. Travel by motrcoach to the magnificent Monte Cassino Abbey, founded by St. Benedict in 529 AD on the site of an ancient Roman settlement. Throughout its remarkable history, the abbey has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, most notably following the devastating Battle of Monte Cassino during the Second World War. Today, the beautifully restored monastery stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural heritage. During your guided visit, admire its impressive architecture, peaceful cloisters, and learn about the Benedictine order and the abbey's extraordinary past. Continue to Villa Matilde Winery, one of Campania's most respected wine estates. Enjoy a guided visit through the vineyards and cellar, where traditional winemaking techniques blend with modern innovation to produce award-winning wines. Your visit concludes with a tasting of selected white and red wines accompanied by traditional bruschetta before departing for the return journey. Docked: 8 AM-7 PM ...
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