Tuscany Walks & Chianti Wines
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the heart of Italy, exploring the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of Tuscany. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, and gastronomic experiences. Starting from the charming Hotel Le Renaie (or similar), you'll traverse ancient pilgrimage routes, visit iconic cities like Florence and Siena, and indulge in the region's renowned wines. With a mix of guided activities and free time, you'll have the chance to tailor your experience to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food and wine enthusiast, this tour promises a captivating and immersive Tuscan experience.
Included
7 nights renovated farmhouse with panoramic swimming pool
5 days gentle walking and sightseeing
Low altitude throughout
Centre-based holiday
All breakfasts, five dinners and three wine tastings are included.
Breakfast is usually a continental-style buffet.
The five included dinners are taken at Hotel Le Renaie. Four meals consist of three courses, dessert and a glass of wine. On Tuesday evening, when the restaurant is closed to the public, you will be treated to a special pizza feast.
All meals are homemade and prepared using locally sourced ingredients and following the traditional Tuscan recipes.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free choices are available – please advise us of dietary requirements on booking.
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Surrounded by Tuscan hills, Hotel Le Renaie occupies a privileged spot in the little village of Pancole, just 4mi (6.5km) from San Gimignano. Here, the Sabatini family has created an intimate, friendly retreat with just 25 air-conditioned rooms and plenty of places to mingle.
Under the beautiful Italian summer sun, the swimming pool area (which has a separate hot tub) is the perfect place to cool down; alternatively, find a shady spot in the flower-filled gardens to sit, chat or read a book. Come evening, gather in the bar-restaurant for delicious Tuscan cuisine and a glass or two of excellent local wine. It’s a popular stop for Pancole residents, so you know it’s good. There are also games tables (table football, billiards and ping pong) to keep the entertainment going or you can take your drinks onto the bar terrace for views over the garden, which is filled with hydrangeas and citrus plants.
Amenities
Swimming pool (usually open May to mid-October)
Restaurant serving traditional Tuscan meals
Bar/cafeteria for light snacks and lunches (open every day)
Games tables
Worth knowing
A limited number of rooms have a balcony (facing the pool or garden) and these are assigned by the hotel
Pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements; cooler months may not be suitable for swimming
The leader will accompany the group on all programmed activities, except for your free day and your walk on Day 4, which will be led by a local guide.
We use a private minibus for airport transfers and most excursions plus the local train/bus services on certain days. Transfers are no longer than one hour and road conditions are good.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival at Hotel Le Renaie
Day 1: Arrival at Hotel Le Renaie
Your Tuscan adventure begins at Hotel Le Renaie (or similar), a family-run establishment located just a short distance from San Gimignano. In the evening, our guide will provide an overview of the exciting week ahead. If you have additional days to spare, consider extending your trip with a visit to Pisa or Florence.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Via Francigena and Tuscan Wines
Day 2: Exploring Via Francigena and Tuscan Wines
- Castello di Verrazzano
- Vista Panoramica de Siena
- More
Today, we journey along the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route connecting the villages of Gambassi Terme and San Gimignano. After a day of exploration, we'll visit an eco-friendly wine estate near Certaldo for a sensory wine experience, complemented by traditional Tuscan appetisers.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discovering the Heart of Chianti
Day 3: Discovering the Heart of Chianti
We start the day with a scenic walk to the heart of the Chianti region, known for its picturesque vineyard valleys. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore further, perhaps sampling the renowned Chianti Classico at a local winery.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Siena and Tuscan Wines
- Siena
- More
- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
- Piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- More
Today, we delve into the rich history of Siena, visiting its stunning cathedral and relaxing in the Piazza del Campo. In the afternoon, we'll deepen our understanding of Tuscan wines with an informative lecture at the Tuscan Wine School.
Day 5 – Day 5: Leisure Day
Day 5: Leisure Day
Enjoy a day at your leisure. Relax by the pool, join a local wine-tasting tour, try a cooking class, or explore the area on an e-bike or Vespa. Your tour leader can provide recommendations for unguided walks or day trips.
Day 6 – Day 6: Florence - The Cradle of the Renaissance
- Florence
- More
- Uffizi Gallery
- More
Today, we journey to Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Join a local tour to learn about the city's rich history and artistic heritage. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Caravaggio, and other Renaissance masters.
Day 7 – Day 7: From San Donato to San Gimignano
Day 7: From San Donato to San Gimignano
- Palazzo Vecchio
- Porta Camollia, Siena
- Chiesa di Sant'Agostino
- More
We start the day with a transfer to the hamlet of San Donato, from where we walk to the medieval town of San Gimignano. Here, we visit the Palazzo Comunale and the towering Torre Grossa. The day concludes with a wine tasting at the family-run Cesani Estate.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure Day
Day 8: Departure Day
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to Hotel Le Renaie (or similar) and Tuscany as you embark on your journey home or to your next destination.
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