The Highlands of Asiago have always been considered 'the backyard' to Italians living on the Venetian plain - and a jealously guarded secret - why bother encouraging a steady tourist flow when they have all they want? The fact is the young people here cannot exist on such limited working periods so, despite loving their home area, they are forced to move out, very much as their own grandfathers did 90 years ago during the 1st World War, when the British were called to Asiago to support the Italians against the Austrian invasion.

Family hotels and little restaurants only work to full capacity for no more than three weeks in August and Christmas period - certainly too precarious in today's expensive economy. Day trippers may buy some Asiago cheese or salame, but they seldom stay long enough to boost other activities - and it hurts the locals that everything they have to offer historically and geographically are exploited for such short periods of time.

By bringing in new people who are interested in practicing nature-friendly sports, who can appreciate some good food and wine along with the beauty and history of the environment - and who won't be too critical of the local's imperfect English - we hope to provide a steady work flow which will enable the young generation to look to a future in Asiago with more confidence.

Sunday: Flights, transfers and welcome
You will be met at Venice Marco Polo Airport for the transfer to the Hotel Gaarten in Gallio. In the evening we will have a welcome drink before an introductory meeting and dinner.

Monday: Picnic trek
This morning we head for the mountains where we spend the day trekking, rock scrambling and admiring the expansive views across the region and the Dolomites. A picnic lunch is included.

Tuesday: Rafting & river trekking
We leave the plateau and descend into the Valstagna Valley for a day on the River Brenta. Today's activities include white water rafting and river trekking with a barbecue lunch included to maintain our energy levels.

Wednesday: Cycling exploration day
After allocating your bikes we transfer to the Granezza Woods where our instructors will provide an introduction to mountain biking to ensure children and less confident riders make the most of the day. Experienced cyclists will set off to cover extra distance with both groups meeting up for lunch in a mountain refuge cabin. We will cover a minimum of 20kms during our four hour ride.

Thursday: Free day or optional activities
Relax, take advantage of the hotel's spa facilities or why not try some of the activities available locally?

Friday: Horse riding
The day will be split according to the number of people in our group and their respective abilities. Beginners will receive an hour of expert tuition and assessment before venturing away from the stables. For the more experienced riders, this is simply wonderful horse riding terrain.

Saturday: Mini-rafting
We return to the valley for another session on the Brenta River. Mini-rafting is similar to white water rafting but in smaller inflatables giving you far more control over your own destiny as you negotiate the rapids. After a light lunch it's back to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon before our farewell meal this evening.

Sunday: Depart or extend your stay
Today you will either head back to the airport or we can arrange for you to extend your stay in Italy and visit the awe inspiring city of Venice - it's great way to top off your holiday.

The diversity of this region's landscapes provides an excellent combination of mountain and river based activities. The accommodation is also a real favourite, a lovely four star spa hotel providing a fabulous retreat after an active day.

Asiago and the small town of Gallio are situated on a high plateau in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. The plateau is nothing short of beautiful with expansive alpine meadows, forests and lower down in the valleys, fast flowing rivers. All ideal spots for great activities.

After a day in the great outdoors it is also lovely to return to a spa hotel for some genuine pampering and comfort.

The region provides an ideal combination of activity and comfort to please the entire family.

Families with children aged 8 years and over (please note: this does not preclude children under the age of 8 but their participation in the activities will be at the discretion of our activity providers)