Tour Overview
When looking to know more of European art and society, there is no better place to start than Tuscany, thanks to its fine Renaissance cities, beautiful rolling countryside and outstanding Chianti wine. The landscape of southern Tuscany fulfils all expectations, with mediaeval hilltop villages and cypress-lined avenues snaking through vineyards. We spend the week in a beautiful family-run Tuscan farmhouse, which has provided outstanding country hospitality for over twenty years. Only a short distance from the well-preserved hilltop town of San Gimignano, Voltrona continues to produce its own wine, which we taste over the week. There is also plenty of time to relax, wander amid the seductive countryside, explore ancient hill forts, take in the landmarks of Siena and sample some of the best Chianti around.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1Start Fattoria Voltrona.
Day 2
Relaxing circular walk to picturesque San Gimignano, with free time to explore Palazzo Comunale, Pinacoteca and Torre Grossa; visit wine museum.
Day 3
Visit mediaeval Colle di Val d’Elsa to absorb captivating history; full afternoon to discover the beautiful town of Volterra.
Day 4
Gentle walk to old castle ruins of Castelvecchio Reserve; afternoon visit local winery to see how wine process has changed over the years.
Day 5
Using a combination of bus and train we make our way to the centre of Siena for a day exploring this fascinating city. We have time for visits to the numerous museums and stunning Duomo, as well as a spot of relaxing in one of the many outdoor cafes in the main square, the Piazza del Campo, home of the world famous Palio horse race, and a visit to one of the many boutique shops specializing in local products and cutting edge Italian fashion.
Day 6
Today is free to rest any potentially tired legs at the poolside. Alternatively your leader can advise on local Chianti wine tasting tours, offer assistance for unguided walks or help you plan a day trip to the Renaissance city of Florence.
Day 7
Picturesque walk from Badia di Passignano to Montifiorelle and Greve in Chianti; afternoon wine tour and tasting.
Day 8
End after breakfast at Fattoria Voltrona.
