Drive the latest cutting-edge Mercedes GLE
For superior comfort on a family road trip, an SUV is a must! Renting the latest Mercedes GLE will add a touch of class to your road trip. The new 4th generation Mercedes GLE traces its roots back to the M-Class and is the first Mercedes SUV to offer seating for 7 people. The cabin is exceptionally luxurious and spacious with the state-of-the-art MBUX infotainment system that uses natural voice control and a touchscreen. The driver can relax knowing that a host of Safety Features and Driver Assist Features are at his fingertips. Customise the look and feel of your cockpit to be Classic, Sport, Progress or Subtle – depending on your mood.
Drive to Parma for ham, cheese and wine
Set off along the A1 through the scenic landscape on a two hour trip to Parma. Your drive is exceptionally serene, quiet and relaxing with the new E-Active Body Control fully active air suspension. Parma is famous for food, and many of the world’s top restaurants follow the trend set by local restaurants in this region. Start your visit with a tour of a caseficio, cheese factory, to learn how authentic parmigiano-reggiano is made. Watch the artisans at work and end by sampling some cheese with freshly baked bread, honey and wine.
Drive to the Piazza del Duomo and be awed by the imposing Cathedral that fills an entire side. This stunning Romanesque basilica dates from the 12th century. Stroll around and see the huge fresco of the Assumption of the Virgin inside the dome. Then go down into the crypt to see the beautiful pillars and early Christian floor mosaics. Your next stop is the Teatro Farnese. Learn how it was built in 1618 and at that time was the largest theatre in the world with 4500 seats. Much was destroyed in World War II and extensive restoration has been done to bring it back to its former glory.
Time for lunch and your stop is La Forchetta in the heart of the historic centre. This venue offers a family ambience with traditional dishes and freshly prepared seafood. After lunch, stroll around the Historic Centre and enjoy some cooling Gelato. Drive to the lovely Parco Ducale, where you can stroll along the river of this grand 16th century palace.
Continue south to La Spezia
Your afternoon drive takes you south along the A15 for a two hour road trip to La Spezia. This seaport town has a rich maritime history and a fascinating Technical Naval Museum where you can see cannons, guns, ancient artillery and model ships. Learn all about the Italian Navy Special Forces which originated in the mid 1800’s and are still stationed here. If you are in need of some retail therapy, the Via del Prione is the place to find interesting boutique shops. The Garibaldi family is famous in Italy and you can see the Monument of Giuseppe Garibaldi, located in the Park near to the port. On the top of the monument is a massive statue of Garibaldi on his galloping horse.
Spend the night in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
Drive the short distance to the village of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre. This region is made up of 5 villages - Monterosso. Vernazza. Corniglia. Manarola and Riomaggiore. They are built on the towering cliffs that overlook the sea and offer an astounding view of vividly coloured structures and small, narrow winding streets up and down the cliff sides. The best way to explore Cinque Terre is by foot and by boat. Park your Mercedes GLE and head down the paths to the waterfront. Here you will find a local fisherman who is willing to take you for a boat ride to see this amazing sight from the water. Then, enjoy stunning views from the Hotel La Torretta where you can spend the night. It overlooks the Piazza Della Chiesa and offers a delicious breakfast in the morning.
Take advantage of our exclusive rental service
From Cinque Terre, you can choose to drive back to Milan or continue to Florence, Bologna, Venice or further afield. No matter where you decide to travel, we will arrange to collect your Mercedes GLE when you are ready to return home. We can meet you at your luxury hotel or Villa or find you at an Airport or Cruise Port. You tell us what suits you best.