Day 1:
After a short drive from Chuisi, begin a warm-up walk through the Renaissance town of Pienza and proceed to a welcome lunch in your home for the next three nights, an old Monastary overlooking the stunning Val d’Orcia. After lunch and an introductory talk, continue exploring the town of Pienza, birth place of 15th-century Pope Pius II, who commissioned the building of an ideal town based on Renaissance principles. Planned and built by architect Bernardo Rossellino in 1449, buildings are angled to show off the clear blue Tuscan skies.
Then walk through some stunning landscape and into the surrounding countryside. There is time on your own to wander through the cobblestone streets and visit local shops of Pienza or simply relax by the pool with a glass of limoncello. For dinner, dine at a local restaurant.
The Walk: 6 km/3.8 miles
Accommodations: Il Chiostro, Pienza (or similar property) (L,D)
Formerly a 15th centrury convent, this hotel offers functinal and comfortable rooms in an inspiring setting. It is situated in the heart of Pienza and is within easy walking distance of shops and restuarants. The pool and outdoor terrace offer marvellous vistas over the Val D’Orcia. Day 2:
The day begins with an Italian buffet breakfast. Guides will take you to local specialty shops and grocers, where Evia will help you choose your own picnic lunch. Your guide will explain the regional cheeses, breads and meats. Today, walk through one of the best wine-producing zones in Italy. Meander through cool forests to the Abbey of Sant’Antimo – a 12th-century Romanesque structure fashioned in large part from luminous alabaster. Following a luncheon feast, take a short walk to the nearby village of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. During the afternoon, there is a transfer back to Pienza for an afternoon at your leisure. For dinner, drive to the nearby town of Montalcino where your guide will provide you with an introductory walk and history of the town. You will have time to wander on your own before gathering for dinner at a local restaurant.
The Walk: Variable
Accommodations: Il Chiostro, Pienza (or similar property) (B,D) Day 3:
Walk through fertile valleys to the village of Monticchiello, set high on one of the many Tuscan hills. After lunch, walk or transfer by car to Montepulciano, a miniature Florence famous for its Vino Nobile. Visit the Vintners’ cellars, dug deep beneath the town’s medieval quarter among ancient Etruscan tombs. Included in the tour is a visit to the cellars of the award-winning Avignonesi winery.
The Walk: Variable
Accommodations: Il Chiostro, Pienza (or similar property) (B,D) Day 4:
The area of Greve is featured today, with a visit to this quaint wine market town and a walk in the nearby hills. Later, you learn about the complex process of grappa distillation, followed by a tasting of the final product (if you dare!) at one of the area’s traditional distilleries. At the end of the day, transfer to new accommodations in Castellini in Chianti, There is time before dinner to relax by the pool or explore the twisting alleys of this small Tuscan town.
The Walk: Variable
Accommodations: Palazzo Squarcialupi, Castellina in Chianti; or equivalent (B,D)
This converted 15th centruy Palazzo is situated in the heart of the historical center of Castellina in Chianti. Underneath the hotel, one can see the antique wine cellars that are still producing famous Chianti wines from the vineyards around the village. Day 5:
Visit nearby San Gimignano, reknowned for its medieval skyscrapers. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of this medieval town, after which you will have time to wander on your own and discover hidden alleys, local shops, and taste the best home made gelato (ice cream) in Italy. Transfer back to Castelllini for a farewell dinner.
The Walk: Variable
Accommodations: Palazzo Squarcialupi, Castellini in Chianti; or equivalent (B,D) Day 6:
After breakfast, your guide will take you back to Florence or assist you with a transfer to your next destination (B) |
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