Walking In Tuscany, Italy

Our Clients’ Reviews

Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It's the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you're interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers. Any feedback collected (Good or bad) from Exodus clients is posted straight onto our website - totally unedited. Read more...

Average Review Rating: from 89 reviews.

Brian Bicknell

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written June 2013
Thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. The wild flowers were unbelievable. The guide, Sara Bull, was exceptional, very friendly and professional.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Reaching the top of Monte Prado.
What did you think of your group leader?
We could not ask for a better leader. Sara inspired and encouraged us with our walking and was very knowlegeable about the area. Nothing was too much trouble for her, she made an enjoyable holiday exceptional.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Go in spring time (last this year) for the wild flowers.
Caroline Leech

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written June 2013
An easy-paced week, well within the grasp of anyone who enjoys relaxed walks rather than a route march. The paths are mostly good and 500m of ascent per day was fairly typical. I would say the B grading is about right.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
On the final day, with thunder and black clouds threatening all around, the whole group made it to the top of the top of Monte Prado, crossing some patches of snow along the way. This included Elvis the dog who had been very off colour all morning but then sprung to life as soon as he was fed sausages! The rain held off and we got down in the dry.
All week, we were treated to stunning views and wonderful displays of wild flowers. It was definitely a good time of year to go and the temperature was ideal for hiking.
What did you think of your group leader?
Sara was an excellent guide, attentive to everyone's differing needs within the group. She allowed us all to go at our own pace and ensured plenty of stops to allow everyone to catch up. She also had an endless supply of biscuits!
She was ably assisted by Elvis and Dora, Braccicorte's two really gorgeous dogs, who led the way and ran about 4 times as far as everyone else.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If you don't fancy flying from Gatwick, it's easy to arrange your own flight from other UK airports and the train service from Pisa to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is excellent. Some of them also stop at Villetta, which is closer to Braccicorte, though not really suitable to walk with luggage. Either way, you just need to call Piero the local taxi man and he'll collect you from the station.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Braccicorte is in lovely grounds, very green and peaceful and overlooking the valley. The whole area doesn't get much tourism and is all the better for it.
Jane Clark

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written May 2013
I enjoyed the challenge, the food, the fresh air. The group was smallish and so the guide had time for everyone. Encouragement and support really made this holiday, as did the ice cream!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Being at the top of Tuscany with good weather and a 360 degree view. Being above the tree line. Walking through snow in May. Realising that the ledge paths are as wide as a pavement, thanks to Sarah.
What did you think of your group leader?
Sarah supported each of us, she was quickly aware of what we could do, even when I didn't think it was possible - those ledges again!
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Make sure you remember your waterproofs, just in case, don't bother with walking sandals in May.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Ask for more ice cream stops. Take a deep breath before drinking the Grappa, but give it at least one try.
John Van Praag

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written April 2013
A good experience. But I'd class the level as "challenging", not "moderate".
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The delicioius dinners and the good company.
What did you think of your group leader?
Very impressive and capable.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
I had a good time. However, though I am very fit, and an experienced hiker, I found the first day hike more of a challenge than I had anticipated or than I desired. I skipped the 2nd day hike and chilled out at the farm, which was perfect. Before you sign up for this or any Exodus trip I suggest you do careful due diligence as to the nature of the terrain, etc.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Exodus needs to keep travellers better informed about conditions at their destinations. We packed our bathing suits and goggles for use at the swimming pool, only to find that it was closed for the Winter. Also, it had snowed heavily the week before (in April, when you'd not expect it) but Exodus did not alert us to bring Winter gear.
On a more positive note, this was my first group getaway and I was very pleased by the experience. The group consisted of intelligent, interesting people who I was happy to get to know.
The cooking by Mama was superb, including her preparation of special vegan meals for me.
The Italian people were friendly, the food and wine great, and the landscapes and architecture enjoyable, making me eager to revisit Italy in the not too distant future.
Claire Palmer

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written April 2013
This is a fantastic walking holiday set in beautiful Tuscany. I was't expecting the steep ascents on the mountains but it was well worth the effort to see the fantastic views.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The most inspirational moment of the trip were the two valley walks, through various villages and the countryside was amazing.
I never in my wildest dreams thought that i would get an oppportunity to walk in snow shoes in Tuscany, but we did and it was a fantastic experience.
What did you think of your group leader?
Sarah is a brilliant group leader. She took everybody's ability into consideration and encouraged me to walk at my own pace. She is so fit, it's unbelievable!
Helen Edwards

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written October 2012
I really enjoyed this trip. The farmhouse and food are great for starters, and that's before the wonderful Tuscan scenery!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The ridge walk, the sun was shining and the views just stunning.
What did you think of your group leader?
Sara was an excellent leader and looked after us all - from getting train tickets and providing information for our rest day, to ensuring the whole group could walk at their own pace. And the supply of biscuits she carried were always welcome!
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
No, book it and enjoy!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
As the travelling in Italy is quite straightforward, I would have enjoyed a few extra days at the end of the holiday - there are so many wonderful sights to see. I will definately be visting the region again!
Rachel Jennings

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Written October 2012
Had a fantastic time on this holiday, I went on a solo week, I was apprehensive about travelling alone, but it is one of the best things I have ever done! The group was a great mix of people and the leader was amazing. The walks were pitched just right for me and our leader knew just where to go to avoid any poor weather. This holiday is perfect for anyone looking for pure escapism.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The walk up to the natural arch, I have never been one for being wowed by places, but my breath was definately taken away here!
What did you think of your group leader?
Couldn't have asked for more! Sara was fantastic and even went out to buy me tissues when I was ill. She obviously loves her job and really cares about clients.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take walking poles and good boots.

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Walking In Tuscany

Our Clients’ Reviews

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY

WALKING IN TUSCANY