Italy’s national parks offer landscapes of rare natural beauty and woodlands that are home to deer, wild boar and hundreds of varieties of birds. In mountain regions, these parks help to conserve all major species of alpine flora and fauna. Hundreds of rivers and waterfalls provide tireless natural spectacles. The majestic Po flows 420 miles from the Alps to the Adriatic; Umbria’s Marmore Falls comprise three grand cascades constructed by the engineers of ancient Rome. 

Sicily’s two active volcanoes are Stromboli and Etna, both in constant states of mild discontent. Around Naples, you’ll see Vesuvius and, at Herculaneum and Pompeii, the dramatic results of its early eruptions.

Below the surface, picturesque caves reveal secrets. Grotta Gigante, near Trieste, is the largest cave in the world open to tourists. At Frasassi in Marche, stalagmites and stalactites form graceful natural sculptures, while Sardinia’s Grotta di Nettuno is a fantastic cavern explored by boat. 

The ancient Romans knew the value of baths for physical and spiritual well-being. Italy’s modern spas, many located in mountain hideaways and natural grottoes, offer healing therapies as well as beauty treatments.