A trip following the scent of the Great Wines through the most stunning hilly landscapes of Greve and Castellina in Chianti, Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana.
Proceeding along a scenic route we admire the picturesque village of Monteriggioni, a small mediaeval jewel still surrounded by its ancient walls.
Further on, the unmistakable landscape of the Crete Senesi, where impressive, dramatic, clay ravines and cavities split the hillsides.
We drive on to an area – which is a total contrast to the Crete territory – the lusciously green Val d’Orcia, another UNESCO heritage site, a harmonious succession of hills dotted with cypresses and castles, churches, ancient villages of Etruscan origin and farms strung out along the famous Via Francigena, a High Medieval Pilgrim’s Way. Here, in a historical farmhouse, you will be served lunch and will be guided through a wine-tasting session of the renowned Rosso di Montalcino, Brunello and Supertuscan wines.
You will be able to enjoy a large selection of typical products of the territory and a delicious homemade fruit pie.
All this is followed by a visit to the wine-cellars and some free time to enjoy the countryside. We then drive on to the medieval village of Montalcino, its boundary walls studded by towers, with the imposing 14th century fortress that offers one of the most beautiful views onto Val d’Orcia.
In Moltalcino, one can also wander along narrow streets with dozens of wineries and artisans’ shops selling local produce.
Finally, after a short journey along a scenic route, we reach Montepulciano, enclosed by fortified walls and perched on a hill 600 metres above sea level between Val d’Orcia andVal di Chiana.
The town is renowned for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, obtained from the grapes growing in the surrounding vineyards. We stop briefly in the town to take a walk through its steep streets and elegant squares and admire the splendid Renaissance buildings and churches, and visit one of the many wine-cellars of the old town to taste their delicious wine, after which we drive back to Florence.
*For those staying in hotels in the downtown.
**The driver-guide leads the tour providing general introductory information. He is not allowed to lead a guided visit inside a city centre, nor to provide historical and artistic information inside museums or churches.