Connect 2 Italy

Excursion to Roman Castles full day (from Rome).

Rome-Nemi-(Roman ship Museum)-Castelgandolfo-Roma

Departure from Rome is at 9.00 am. The journey is along the Via Appia, and the arrival time at Nemi is estimated at 10 am. Driving along the Via Appia as far as Genzano, the route to Nemi then diverts to the narrow road which goes down to the lake of Nemi.  This lake which was made by the Vulcano Laziale (Laziale Volcano) in the prehistoric age. Once we have arrived at the shore of the lake we can visit the Museo delle Navi Romane (the Roman ships museum) located in Via di Diana, summer time open from 9.00 am to 6 pm, closed on Monday, winter opening time 9.00 am to 2.00 pm entrance fee is 2 euro.  Here is possible to admire two wonderful replica of the Roman ships built on commission of the Emperor Caligula on the lake itself.

After the visit to the museum, a short drive and we reach the town of Nemi, where you may like to stroll through the little village, from here it is also possible to see a beautiful view over the tiny lake.  You may like to sit in one of its numerous cafe's, and you can taste the celebrated Nemi strawberry, here served topped with whipped cream.  Nemi as well as its stunning, leafy location, is famed for its strawberries. Visitors in May may like to take part in the 'Sagra delle Fragola', the famous strawberry festival, and eat as many as you can! The strawberries are more precisely 'fragoline di bosco' which literally means they grow wild in the woods. As the name suggests they are extremely small, more like regular berries. May is the month for the strawberry harvest at Nemi and related celebrations last until the end of June. 

The journey then continues to the Via dei Laghi from here it is possible to admire from a high position another incredible view of a second lake named Albano, which was made the same way as the Lago di Nemi, originated by the Vulcano Laziale.  We will then drive to the town of Castel Gandolfo. The local restaurant with views here suggested is well known for very good meat, a fine selection of vines, vine tasting is available.  After lunch it is possible to reach the historical centre, a short stroll of 5 minutes.  The town is a famous  picturesque village,  but more famous as this is the host town of the Pontifical Palace built by Maderno, and is used as the summer residence by popes since 1636.  Other sites are the Church of San Tommaso and a fountain both built by Bernini.

Return to Rome at 5 pm about.