Tuscany reigns supreme as the postcard-perfect version of an escape to Italy. On this six-day trip from the experts at Visit Italy, the rolling landscape, maze-like villages and beautifully restored castellos come to life between wine tasting classes in the Chianti Classico region, a wander in the hill town of Montepulciano and a pampering treatment in the spa of the historic Castello del Nero.
It's La Bella Vita, complete with knowledgable guides and luxe accommodation.
Tuscany is Italy's region of rolling hills, medieval palazzos, lingering Renaissance beauty and the mineral-rich soil that produces Tuscany's famous wines and fantastic produce. On this six-day trip you will experience all these wonders firsthand, and add some pampering spa treatments at the ESPA in the 12th-century Castello del Nero. All 50 of the restored guestrooms have a historic elegance, with beam ceilings, terra-cotta tile floors, frescoes, large fireplaces and family crests on the walls.
From this idyllic base, we want to lead you on daytrips around the Tuscan countryside. In a Chianti vineyard you'll visit the barrel-filled wine cellars, assist with barrel tests and, of course, join in the tastings. A full day should be spent exploring four exceptional medieval villages: Montalcino, Montepulciano, San Quirico d'Orcia and the UNESCO World Heritage village of Pienza.
To help you unwind from the days of sightseeing, there's a full spa day at the state-of-the-art ESPA complex in the Castello del Nero. As well as exclusive olive oil and lavender massages, there are hydrotherapy treatments and a whirlpool with countryside views. The final evening is a very special one, as the group heads for an alfresco dinner on the terrace of Ristorante La Loggia, at the amazing Villa San Michele in Fiesole, a hilltop hotel with exceptionally romantic views of Florence.
What we suggest
- Five nights accommodation in a Double Deluxe Room at Castello del Nero with daily breakfast and spa treatments
- The Tuscan cooking and warm hospitality of the hotel staff
- Beautiful countryside views from the hotel terrace at breakfast
- Experiencing the small and enchanting medieval villages of Tuscany around the property
- The Vitality whirlpool bath at Castello del Nero's ESPA, which overlooks the surrounding vineyards
- Dining at the world famous Villa San Michele, overlooking all of Florence should be a must
What to know
- The rooms at Castello del Nero vary in size and decor
- Castello del Nero is in the countryside; those looking for evening entertainment will have to drive into Florence
- You must be in reasonably good shape to tackle the winding cobblestone streets of the Tuscan towns
Wine and Meditation in Tuscany
Duration: 6 Days, 5 Nights
- Day 1: Arrival
Flights are available to Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) in Pisa and Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) in Florence from major U. S. cities on a variety of carriers. Taxis are available to/from PSA and FLR; prices vary. Please use only official taxis.
- Day 2: A Wine Tour in Chianti
On a daytrip to a Chianti winery to explore the vineyards and wine cellars and take part in an expert-led tasting.
The breakfast terrace of Castello del Nero overlooks a quintessential Tuscan scene.
- Day 3: Medieval Architecture and Hilltop Towns
A visit to Montalcino, a hilltop town surrounded by the vineyards that produce Brunello wines, and continues to Montepulciano, known for its central piazza, which dates back to Etruscan times. The third leg of this suggested tour is to San Quirico d'Orcia, famous for its historic castle and rolling valley, and finally Pienza, a small Renaissance city locked in time.
- Day 4: Spa Time at the Black Castle
Relax into almost three hours of treatments at Castello del Nero's on-site ESPA. Included in the mix is a foot ritual, a detox body massage, stimulating hip and thigh treatments, an intensive facial and a light spa lunch.
- Day 5: At Leisure in Florence
After a day of leisure in Florence, hire a Limo or Car for a memorable final alfresco dinner on the terrace of Villa San Michele.
- Day 6: Departure
Don't forget to enjoy your breakfast on the hotel terrace before your trip back to the airport.
Useful Links:
Portofino World, a World apart.
Home » Chianti Region » Fiesole | Arezzo | Siena | San Gimignano
