Activity description
If option selected: Starting in Florence, the tour takes you to Cortona, one of the oldest and most charming villages in Tuscany. Situated on a hilltop in the Chiana Valley and made famous by the film "Under the Tuscan Sun," Cortona has Etruscan origins, evidenced by the imposing walls that surround it, dating back to the 4th century BC. The village offers a perfect blend of medieval architecture, authentic atmosphere, and local culture, making it a must-see destination for those seeking timeless beauty and authenticity. As an exclusive experience, you will have the privilege of entering the workshop of a master ceramist, a true "cocciaio" (*), where you will discover the secrets of this ancient craft. Discover the traditional production process and watch a live demonstration of hand-decorating with the authentic colors that have made these creations so renowned over the centuries.
The next stop is Montepulciano, a captivating Renaissance town where you'll have the opportunity to taste five fine wines, including the prestigious Nobile di Montepulciano, while discovering the secrets of their production in a setting steeped in history. As part of this refined tasting, you'll also have the chance to taste the iconic Brunello di Montalcino, a world-famous wine that you'll later discover at its origin. Here, you'll also enjoy an exclusive and immersive light lunch experience in one of its historic underground cellars (if option selected), a truly unique setting where centuries of tradition meet the excellence of Tuscan winemaking. After this extraordinary experience, you'll have time to explore the town's charming historic center, famous as the setting for films such as New Moon and the series Medici: Masters of Florence, starring Dustin Hoffman and Richard Madden.
As you head towards Val d'Orcia, you'll enter the heart of one of Tuscany's most picturesque areas, where you'll admire iconic landscapes of rolling hills dotted with cypress trees, known worldwide for their ineffable beauty and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way to Montalcino, you'll see the filming locations of the famous film Gladiator—a perfect opportunity for iconic photos.
The last stop is Montalcino, a charming medieval town nestled in the Tuscan hills, characterized by an evocative 14th-century fortress still intact. Famous for its prestigious wines, Rosso di Montalcino and the world-renowned Brunello, which you will have already enjoyed during the tasting in Montepulciano, Montalcino boasts a rich history and stunning scenery. As you explore its charming little historic center, with colorful shops and wine bars overlooking medieval streets, you will be surrounded by ancient stone buildings, picturesque streets, and stunning views of the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour concludes with the return to Florence in the late afternoon, leaving you with unforgettable memories of stunning scenery and a collection of authentic experiences in art, history, and wine, which will take with you the flavors and aromas of this incomparable region.
(*) If not available, it will be replaced by a visit to authentic craft shops, with traditional and typical works of the village.
Please note that the order of visits may change.
Notes:
You must arrive at the meeting point at the indicated check-in time. If you are late, you will not be able to participate in the tour, receive a refund, or reschedule the tour.
It is mandatory to bring your original identification document with you during the tour.
For everyone's safety, we inform you that the services offered are designed to meet the needs of guests without motor disabilities or who do not use wheelchairs. We warn that some activities or tours may involve physical or environmental conditions unsuitable for people with motor disabilities or who use wheelchairs.
To safeguard the client's well-being, the driver and/or escort staff reserve the unequivocal right to refuse participation to clients with motor disabilities or those using wheelchairs if they believe their presence may compromise the safety of the client or other participants. This decision will be made solely by the driver and/or escort staff, and the client will not be entitled to any compensation or refund in the event of refusal to participate.
Customers with mobility impairments or who use wheelchairs are advised to inform the travel organizer in advance of their physical condition and to consult a healthcare professional to determine whether the proposed services are suitable for their specific needs.
By accepting these conditions, the customer acknowledges having read, understood and accepted the provisions relating to the participation of customers with motor disabilities or who use wheelchairs and agrees to abide by the unequivocal decisions of the driver and/or accompanying staff with regard to participation in the proposed services.
Minimum numbers apply. If the minimum number of passengers is not met, you will be offered a different date, an alternative tour, or a full refund.
Please note that this tour involves walking up and down hilltop villages. Therefore, we regret to inform you that it is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs or with reduced mobility.