Villages of Tuscany & Piedmont
5 nights in Chianti, 3 nights in Barolo
Imagine embarking on an adventure that unfolds the vibrant tapestry of Italy, a country where every corner tells a story, and every meal is a celebration of life. This is not just a tour; it’s an exploration of culture, history, and gastronomy, designed to captivate your senses and leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. You’ll find yourself in a wine-hotel nestled amidst the tranquil countryside, where the aroma of the vineyards and the flavors of local cuisine blend to create a symphony of the senses. Tuscany is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a culinary haven. From the Renaissance beauty of Montepulciano to the rustic charm of Pienza, each town offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Italy.
The adventure continues in Piedmont, a hidden gem where the undulating hills of Barolo tell a story of tradition and innovation. This region, renowned for its exquisite wines and white truffles, offers an authentic taste of Italian heritage. Here, you’ll experience the joy of a truffle hunt, the elegance of family-run wineries, and the pleasure of dining in settings that seem straight out of a painting.
As you traverse these iconic landscapes, your journey through Italy becomes a journey through time, culture, and flavor. Each day presents a new discovery, a new delight, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Italy. This tour is an invitation to experience the essence of Italian life, where every moment is savored, and every experience is treasured. Join us on this Italian odyssey, where the magic of Italy unfolds in its streets, its people, and its food.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to Italy.
Upon arrival in Rome, meet your driver and tour escort and move to your accommodation in Tuscany. You will be welcomed in a magnificent countryside wine-hotel, in the middle of the enchanting Tuscan countryside. You’ll enjoy a welcome aperitif followed by a delightful dinner with local wines. Overnight in Chianti.
Day 2: Sunday Cheese, wine & postcard-perfect villages
After a leisurely breakfast, your Tuscan adventure begins with a visit to the enchanting little town of Pienza, where you’ll have time to soak up the unique atmosphere and taste some pecorino cheese, the local specialty.
Lunch will be served in a lovely estate out of Montepulciano.
The next stop is Montepulciano, the pearl of the Renaissance and the birthplace of the famous Vino Nobile blend. Other great wines will await you for tasting at the Vecchia Cantina cooperative before traveling back to the hotel.
Dinner will be served in a nearby village. Overnight in Chianti.
Day 3: Cooking class and relax
After breakfast, you’ll take part in a hands-on cooking class to learn all the tricks behind some Tuscan classics, which you’ll then be able to recreate back home. When the clock strikes lunch time, you can sit back and enjoy your culinary creations paired with local wines. The rest of the day is free for leisure and relaxation at the hotel’s beautiful outdoor pool.
*Optional Horse Riding
Horse riding is a great way to explore the Tuscan countryside and experience the region’s famous wines. This ride starts from a village near Siena and ends at Monte Chiaro Estate.
The horses are very well trained and never ride the same trail twice. You will enjoy a gentle meander through the vineyards. The ride can be tailored to beginners, although some riding experience is recommended. Along the way, you’ll stop for wine tastings and lunch. Overnight in Chianti.
Day 4: Montalcino & Buonconvento
Montalcino is a beautiful medieval village located in the heart of Tuscany. The village is home to many historical buildings and landmarks, as well as several excellent restaurants and cafes. Continue to Casanova dei Neri for a lunch followed by a wine tasting.
After lunch, stop by the medieval village of Buonconvento for some shopping and sightseeing.In the end, return to Il Borro. and enjoy your dinner. Overnight in Chianti.
Day 5: Chianti & Siena among vineyards and Castles
Today, visit Chianti, walk in vineyards and enjoy wine.
In the morning, embark on a privately guided exploration of Siena’s many artistic and architectural treasures, including the stunning shell-shaped piazza. You’ll also learn about the famous Palio horse race and what it means for the town’s 17 contrade (districts).
Enjoy a good lunch in a small village in Chianti.
Afterwards, continue for a tour to the heart of Tuscany and into the Chianti-shire, with a breathtaking background of lushing hills and countryside you will reach two historic wine estates where some of Tuscany’s best wines are produced. Enjoy wine tastings at a beautiful villa estate that has been owned and run by noble families throughout the centuries and to this day. You will visit the ancient wine estates’ cellars and follow a wine tasting of the estate’s award-winning wines, plus a tasting of extra-virgin olive oil accompanied by traditional bread and cheese, where the Tuscan experience comes together.
Late afternoon, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel. Free time for dinner. Overnight in Chianti.
Day 6: Parma and its great cured meats
It’s time to say goodbye to Tuscany and move north towards the Emilia region, a perfect stop between Tuscany and Barolo. We will have a pleasant en route stop in Parma, the city of Culatello, Parma ham and Parmigiano Cheese. We will enjoy a good lunch in the heart of the town with a tasting of the best local produce. Late in the afternoon, meet your driver and move to your hotel in Piedmont. Enjoy a relaxing dinner in a noble villa-hotel in the heart of the Langhe, nestled between lush woods and with a magnificent view of the Alps and the soft hills of Barolo. Overnight in Barolo.
Day 7: Along the Wine Route of Barolo, the King of the Italian wines
Discover this surprising territory rich in culture but most of all in food and wine. You will visit the elegant Alba and family-run winery Pio Cesare. End your morning in Alba with a three Star Michelin lunch at Piazza Duomo with a tasting menu created by the renowned chef Enrico Crippa. Let’s go to the countryside driving through The Unesco Landscape of the Langhe and stop in the charming towns of Barolo, La Morra e Vergne before ending your day with a wine tasting at GD Vajra winery.
Dinner will be served in a local winery. Overnight in Barolo.
Day 8: Alba and White Truffle Hunt
Embark on a delightful tour of Alba, Piedmont, where history, culture, and gastronomy converge to create an unforgettable experience. Begin with a guided visit of the town, as your knowledgeable guide leads you through cobbled streets and medieval squares, sharing fascinating stories of Alba’s rich heritage.
Next, prepare for an exciting White Truffle Hunt, a cherished tradition in this region known for its prized truffles. Accompanied by a truffle hunter and their trusty dog, venture into the enchanting truffle forests, where you’ll witness the art of truffle hunting first-hand.
Feel the thrill of uncovering these elusive treasures hidden beneath the earth. After the hunt, indulge in a delectable truffle-themed meal, savoring the exquisite flavors of this precious culinary gem. Overnight in Barolo.
Day 9: Departure / Departure
Say hello to Piedmont.
