Chianti: Walking & Wine

Day 1
Start Villa Casalta, 2km from Castellina in Chianti.

Day 2
We head to the mediaeval market town of Greve in Chianti walking through a magnificent setting of olive groves and vineyard. On the way, we will stop in the fortified hilltop village of Montefioralle, considered the most ancient 'borgo' in Chianti. We return to our farmhouse in time for tasting the local wine before dinner.

Day 3
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 cafés 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. In Siena we also have the fantastic opportunity to learn about Tuscan wines on a 2-hour fun interactive course at the Tuscan Wine School.

Day 4
After a short transfer to the quaint hamlet of San Donato, we walk through the farm grounds following the pathway to Montauto and on up to the picturesque mediaeval town of San Gimignano. The walk is not long and should take approximately 2 hours. The afternoon is spent exploring this beautiful town including visits to the Palazzo Comunale, Pinacoteca and Torre Grossa and there is some free time to wander and soak up the atmosphere. Before returning to the Villa, we enjoy a wine tasting in the nearby Villa Il Palagetto, where the excellent Vernaccia wines are produced.

Day 5
Today is free to rest any potentially tired legs at the poolside. Alternatively, your leader can advise on local Chianti wine tasting tours and cooking classes, offer assistance for unguided walks, or help you plan a day trip to Montepulciano.

Day 6
Our destination today is the magnificent city of Florence, home to world-class art and astonishing architecture. We spend a full day here, allowing plenty of time to wonder around the narrow streets of the old town and visit some of its numerous art galleries, churches and palaces, including the Cathedral and the Uffizi (optional).

Day 7
We leave the villa on foot and walk through the lovely Tuscan countryside to the charming fortified town of Monteriggioni, founded in the early 13th Century as stronghold to protect the town of Siena from Florence. Along the thick walls there are 14 watch towers and 2 gates offering wide sweeping views of the Chianti hills, villages and vineyards.

Day 8
End Villa Casalta, Castellina in Chianti.