Tuscany has long attracted poets, artists and philosophers who have fallen in love with the romantic cities, rolling landscapes and fine wines for which this region is famed. Staying in the heart of Chianti our tour includes easy day walks through the lush countryside; visits to evocative Florence and Siena; opportunities for wine tasting and ample time to relax. This one-week, centre-based tour allows you to enjoy the best of classical Tuscany.

Tuscan Landscapes
Nestled deep in the rolling countryside are lonely farmhouses bordered by rows of cypress trees; miles of quiet sandy tracks meander their way between vineyards and acres of forest; perched on scattered hill-tops are fortified towns such as Monteriggioni and the incredible medieval towers of San Gimignano. Our tour offers four markedly different walks through the region, allowing an overview of the classic landscapes that have been so inspirational to artists and travellers throughout time.

Cities of the Renaissance
No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to the beautiful cities of Siena and Florence. Steeped in art, culture and architecture, we include a day in each. Our visits allow ample free time to explore their rambling streets, cobbled squares and an unrivalled collection churches, galleries and museums. (Between 13-16 Aug there is the opportunity to see a Pako Horse race in Siena including practice races in Siena during the tour).

Traditional Tuscan Villa
We stay in Casalta, the views from which are of vineyards and ancient woodland and a great panorama of the town of Castellina in Chianti, 15min away by foot. A recently converted old borgo, or village, with large villa, small outhouses and chapel, Casalta has its own grounds, with a rich ambience and history behind its location. The group will stay in the main villa of Casalta, all rooms with en-suite facilities and antique Tuscan furniture. There is a relaxing lounge and terrace at the villa from where we can relax in the sun or swim in the pool. Ideally located for taking short walks, visiting nearby Castellina and heading to the cities, our villa's swimming pool makes it a great place to take days off, relax and soak up the Tuscan sun.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Pisa airport; drive Castellina in Chianti. 2 Valley walk through local villages close in the Radda area, optional wine tasting tour. 3 Walks around San Gimignano and, after, around the Monteriggimi - quintessential Tuscany. 4 Day visit to Siena. 5 Morning walk through Panzano in Chianti region near Greve. 6 Day visit to Florence. 7 Easy day walk with distant views of San Gimigriano and Siena. 8 Tour ends Pisa airport.

Accommodation: 7nts traditional Tuscan villa with excellent facilities, including swimming pool; 7 breakfasts & 3 lunches included.
Transport: Bus/On foot.
Comment: An easy-paced centre-based tour, with a healthy balance between included activities and free time to enjoy gentle walks, cultural cities, interesting villages, fine wine or just a laze by the poolside.
Group: Approx. 10 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus support vehicle.
Trip Reference: LTY