At a Glance

Taste your way around Italy on this mouth watering 6 days culinary adventure. A gourmet escape from Chianti to Florence showcasing the perfect balance of tantalizing food and wine experiences while taking in exquisite scenery. From home-style cooking classes to sipping on fine wines, unfold the secrets of traditional recipes by local chefs on this immersive culinary walking voyage into breathtaking Tuscany.
Your journey begins in the enchanting city of Arezzo. Discover Italy's most famous wines to its organic winery in the heart of the Chianti region and immerse into its culinary pursuits. Relish your inner chef as you unfold the secrets of home-style Italian meals in cooking classes from pasta to saffron. Delve deeper, discovering quaint medieval towns and villages. Marvel at their natural splendours and indulge into cuisine that ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified in itinerary
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- Park and other entry fees
- 5 nights accommodation in hotels on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Hiking, activities and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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TWO HIKING OPTIONS: Benvenuti in Italia! Begin your journey with the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany, where rolling hills and timeless charm await. Discover the enchanting medieval village of Castellina, nestled in the heart of Chianti Classico. Perched atop a hill, Castellina offers sweeping views of verdant valleys and the heroic vineyards that define the Tuscan countryside. Once a fortified Florentine outpost until the fall of Siena in 1555, this historic hamlet exudes a unique soul that comes alive in its winding alleys, charming piazzas, and centuries-old olive groves, all framed by dry stone walls now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a leisurely stroll along Castellina’s scenic pathways, forest trails, and iconic strade bianche (white gravel roads), soaking in the region’s timeless beauty. Along the way, stop at a family-run farmhouse-turned-villa for an exclusive olive oil tasting led by a local expert. Then, indulge in a delightful alfresco pranzo (lunch) buffet, savoring the flavors of Tuscany under the open sky. After lunch, enjoy a serene descent through the woods and the meticulously cultivated vineyards, traversing forested paths and gravel roads. This quintessential Tuscan landscape feels like a masterpiece come to life—a place so stunning, it might seem too perfect to be real. |
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Settle into the enchanting Hotel Villa Campomaggio Resort & Spa, our home for the next two nights, nestled perfectly to showcase the breathtaking views of the Chianti Valley. Take some time to explore the hotel's serene grounds, relax by the swimming pool, or savor a tasting of the estate’s own Chianti Classico wine. For an added touch of indulgence, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage this evening (spa treatments are not included in the trip price, and advance reservations are highly recommended). As the sun sets, raise a glass of prosecco to an unforgettable week ahead before enjoying a delicious dinner at the hotel. |
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THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Other Activities: Tuscan Cooking Class 2 Hours This morning, after a delightful breakfast, soak in the stunning views of the Ricasoli fortresses nestled in the surrounding hills as we take a shuttle to Gaiole to kick off today’s adventure. A gentle climb through serene woodlands leads us to a scenic ridgeline, offering sweeping views of Radda in the distance, as we make our way toward the beautifully preserved hamlet of Vertine. From there, the trail descends below the village, winding through quaint rural communities and endless rows of meticulously tended vineyards. Our journey culminates at a beloved agriturismo—a charming working farm and countryside retreat—where we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring local flavors. This afternoon brings the perfect opportunity to slow down and immerse yourself in the enchanting village of Radda in Chianti. Whether you choose to browse for unique souvenirs or simply wander its charming streets, it’s a delightful experience. Alternatively, you may opt to return to the hotel to unwind by the pool or indulge in some rejuvenation at the spa. |
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This evening, we gather for a hands-on cooking class hosted by our local amici (friends), who are deeply passionate about their cuisine and heritage. Welcomed into the heart of their home—the cucina (kitchen)—we’ll learn the art of authentic Italian cooking, discovering the secrets of daily culinary traditions. The night promises unforgettable moments filled with delicious food, fine local wine, and warm camaraderie. Afterward, we retreat to the hotel for a well-earned rest, ready to embrace tomorrow’s culinary adventures. |
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TWO HIKING OPTIONS: Other Activities: Truffle Hunting & Wine tasting We begin the day with a shuttle ride to the 14th-century Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a serene monastery still home to Benedictine monks. Founded in 1313 by Sienese merchants seeking refuge from the distractions of city life, the abbey offers a fascinating glimpse into history. Stroll through its peaceful grounds and visit the cloisters, where you’ll find some of Europe’s finest Signorelli frescoes—Renaissance masterpieces celebrated for their lifelike figures and remarkable use of perspective. From there, we set off on a scenic walk along ridges framed by breathtaking landscapes, making our way toward San Giovanni d’Asso. Along the route, don’t miss the chance to pause at Chiusure, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the abbey and the iconic crete senesi—the chalky hills of Siena. Upon reaching San Giovanni d’Asso, we’ll delve into the world of truffles with a local tartufaio (truffle hunter), learning about these prized delicacies while savoring a decadent, truffle-inspired lunch. |
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After lunch, we hop into the van for a short drive to Bagno Vignoni, a charming town renowned for its ancient thermal baths, which date back to Etruscan times. Legend has it that both the Medici family and Saint Catherine of Siena once sought the healing properties of these waters. While here, treat yourself to a refreshing gelato and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic gem. |
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For the next three nights, we’ll stay at Hotel La Posta & Thermal Spa*, which looks out onto the ancient Roman baths. Take some time this afternoon to relax at the hotel spa if you’re feeling indulgent. In the evening, we’ll head to a nearby agriturismo in the rolling countryside for a wine tasting and a delightful dinner, the perfect end to a day rich in culture, flavor, and history. * For some departures, the Night 3 hotel is at Palazzo Leopoldo. Located in the heart of the Chianti region, this boutique 14th-century manor house features spacious guest rooms with original frescoes. |
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THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Other Actvities: saffron-inspired cooking demonstration After bidding goodbye to Chianti, head to another legendary Italian wine area: Montalcino, the birthplace of the renowned Brunello varietal. Following a brief shuttle ride, our adventure begins at the Abbey of Sant'Antimo, a stunning example of Tuscan Romanesque architecture. Take a moment to explore the grounds and soak in the rich history that lingers in the air. From the abbey, we set off on foot toward the charming village of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, strolling along the Val d’Orcia’s picturesque "strada bianca" (white roads). Along the way, pause to admire the breathtaking views of rolling vineyards and the abbey nestled in the distance. Our first destination is the renowned Mastrojanni winery, where we delve into the fascinating history of saffron cultivation and its economic significance in the Val d’Orcia over the centuries. Here, the winery’s chef treats us to a demonstration of saffron-inspired dishes, perfectly paired with Brunello di Montalcino wine for an unforgettable gastronomic experience. |
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After lunch, we continue our hike through one of Val d’Orcia’s most secluded and enchanting corners. Along the trail, marvel at the striking views of the Ripa d’Orcia castle, Castiglione d’Orcia, the winding Orcia River, and the quaint hamlet of Vignoni Alto. This evening, relax and enjoy dinner on your own in the picturesque town of Bagno Vignoni. Buon appetito! |
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THREE HIKING OPTIONS: After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we set off on foot toward the picturesque village of San Quirico d'Orcia, following the gravel paths of the historic Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route. Take some time to explore this enchanting walled town or pause for an espresso at a local café. From there, we embark on a scenic walk through the breathtaking Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gently rolling paths offer ever-changing views: vibrant green hills in spring, golden fields with scattered hay bales in early autumn, and freshly plowed earth in late fall. Our journey continues along quiet farm roads lined with cypress trees and fertile landscapes, leading us to a gourmet trattoria owned by a local friend. Here, we savor a delicious lunch and enjoy a demonstration of traditional desserts. |
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Afterward, unwind on the trattoria’s terrazza, soaking in sweeping views of Pienza in the distance. For the afternoon, choose to shuttle back to Bagno Vignoni for some relaxation, or extend your adventure with a walk across the rolling hills to the magical town of Pienza. This charming Renaissance village was transformed in the 15th century by Florentine architect Bernardo Rossellino, commissioned by Pope Pius II to create a model town embodying Renaissance ideals. Stroll through the main square to admire two architectural masterpieces: Palazzo Piccolomini and the elegant duomo. |
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Once you’ve finished exploring, return to Bagno Vignoni to rest and rejuvenate. In the evening, we come together to celebrate our incredible Tuscan adventure with a farewell aperitivo and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. |
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Level 1, Approx. 4.4km (2.7 miles), Elevation gain: 213m (700ft) Spend a relaxing morning at the hotel or take one last opportunity to the fortified hamlet of Vignoni Alto to soak in our last views of the Val D'Orcia. Bid a farewell to your culinary adventure in Tuscany and board a private coach for Florence, leaving inspired and relaxed for your onward journey. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Arezzo
- The finish point is Florence
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Arezzo. The nearest international airport iis Perugia Airport which is 64.8 km (40.3 miles) away. Other nearby international airports include Florence, 66.4 km (41.3 miles), Pisa,122.3 km (76 miles), Bologna, 127.6 km (79.3 miles) and Rome 187.9 km (116.8 miles).
Summertime in Tuscany is typically hot with little to no rain. Spring (April and May) and Autumn (October and November) are milder and rainier, but there are still plenty of dry, sunny days. During the months of May and October you are most likely to experience good days with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) and 25 degrees Celsius (77°F). On average, the warmest month(s) are July and August. Winter can still have some sunny days but is usually wetter and colder, especially at night. The coldest month is January with an average maximum temperature of 10°C (50°F).
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-4.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.