Book excerpt: Scenic routes, charming hotels, authentic regional cuisine... Take a journey through the back roads of northern and central Italy to discover the area's real soul and charm. DK Eyewitness Back Roads Northern and Central Italy driving vacation guide will take you via scenic routes to discover charming Italian villages, local restaurants, and intimate places to stay. Unearth the real soul of northern and central Italy relying on all the practical information you could need, from road conditions and length of drive to parking information and opening hours. Twenty-five themed drives, each lasting one to five days, reveal breathtaking views, hidden gems, and authentic local experiences that can only be discovered by road. Each tour is bursting with insider knowledge and loaded with ideas for varied activities, from short walks and longer hikes to days on the beach or at a spa, to wine tours, cycling trips, watersports, and swimming in secluded Italian lakes. Meanwhile, the most friendly, best-value hotels and guesthouses and charming restaurants specializing in regional produce have been selected by expert authors. Full-color throughout, discover the unexpected on your driving vacation with DK Eyewitness Back Roads Northern and Central Italy.