Seeking Italian Off-road Gems for 4Runner

[nathan6g]

Italy has been on my travel bucket list for ages, and with next year looking promising. Thinking about renting a 4Runner for the trip to visit the Dolomites. But I also heard parts of it can be reached by public transport as described here: https://mamalovesitaly.com/driving-in-italy-tips/

Any other off-road destinations in Italy you recommend that would justify the rental of a 4runner? Any tips or stories would be awesome!

 

[davidly_will]

Italy is amazing, especially the Dolomites! While public transport can get you to some spots, having a 4Runner would give you the freedom to explore more remote areas like Tre Cime di Lavaredo. If you're into off-roading, Sardinia's rugged landscapes and hidden beaches are perfect, or check out the trails around Mount Etna in Sicily. If you're sticking to tourist spots, public transport works, but the 4Runner will give you more adventure options! by the way, How long will you stay in Italy?

 

[nathan6g]

Thanks for the detailed response, @davidly_will! You definitely got me excited about those off-the-beaten-path possibilities. I'm planning to be there for 3 weeks - thinking 1 week in the Dolomites, and now you've got me seriously considering splitting the other 2 weeks between Sardinia and Sicily. Those hidden beaches in Sardinia sound incredible. Would you say summer is a good time for off-roading in those areas, or would spring/fall be better weather-wise? I've heard Italian summers can get pretty intense!

Also wondering if you encountered any parking challenges with a larger vehicle in the smaller towns? I know Italian villages can have some pretty narrow streets. Been watching some YouTube videos about driving in Italy and that seems to come up a lot. I was thinking of getting a private car tour through https://gowithguide.com/Italy, at least for my first day. It would give me a chance to observe how locals navigate and park.