Day 1: Arrive in Siena

Arrive in the medieval city of Siena, where you will feel as if you are stepping back in time. At Siena’s heart is Il Campo; the central piazza and where the Palio horse race takes place twice every summer. After checking in at your hotel, head here for a coffee or glass of chilled wine and let yourself soak up the Italian ambience and relax into ‘la vita bella’.

Free time in Siena

Day 2: Travel to Montepulciano

Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s must-see attractions. The city is well-known for its wine and cuisine, art, museums and Gothic architecture. Take time this morning to explore this charming historic town. This afternoon, take the train (payable locally, approx.1hr duration) on a picturesque journey through classic Italian landscapes to Montepulciano, from where you will receive a transfer to your hotel, for your welcome meeting.

Choice of loop walks

Day 3: Montefollonico or Pienza and Montichiello

Option 1: Transfer to Montefollonico, an amazing village with terrific views over the Valdichiana. Take a relaxing stroll through vineyards and olive groves.
Walking distance: 14 km (3h30)
Option 2: Transfer to Pienza, a village said to boast the most delicious pecorino in the whole of Tuscany—why not stop in at one of the shops and take some home! On your return walk to Montepulciano you will come across Montichiello, a stunning hamlet with fortified walls.
Montichiello is the ideal spot to rest and enjoy a lovely lunch.
Walking distance:15 km (4-4h30)

Day 4: Half day walk to Acquaviva. Transfer to Cortona

Leaving Montepulciano, walk a short distance through the iconic Tuscan countryside of yellow fields and hilltop villages to Acquaviva. At around 12h30-13h00 take a transfer to Cortona, where you can find a quiet spot and relax in the Tuscan sun or perhaps a shady place. Cortona, located at 600m altitude, is characterized by steep narrow streets and medieval architecture. Pay a visit to the distinguished Etruscan Academy Museum, founded in 1727, or simply enjoy the expansive views from the Piazza Garibaldi.

Day 5: Ossaia - Tuoro. Transfer to Cortona

Your day begins with a short (10 mins) transfer to Ossaia, where you start your walk to Tuoro. You’ll be walking with spectacular views over the Valdichiana Valley and Lake Trasimeno, scene of Hannibal’s ambush of the Roman Army in 217 BC (Battle of Lake Trasimeno). Cross into Umbria at the village of Tuoro, where there are several lovely shops and a café to quench your thirst. A transfer will take you onwards (20 mins) back to Cortona.

Day 6: Panicale and Mongiovino Abbey & Castle

A 30 mins transfer brings you to Castello di Mongiovino, from where you will walk to the charming hill-town of Panicale. Before you set out, pay a visit to the Renaissance Mongiovino Abbey, before following the path up to the castle. Its easy terrain to Panicale; a picturesque medieval village with a nice square and café where you can enjoy a light lunch and a glass of good local wine. At 14h00 approx. take a transfer (30 mins) to your accommodation at la Borgo Mandoleto Solomeo, a highlight of your Italian adventure.

Day 7: Monte Vibiano and wine tasting

A car will transfer you to Monte Vibiano (20 mins) where you will visit the vineyards (touring by electric car) and enjoy the delights of the region with a wine tasting. Return on foot to your accommodation at Borgo Mandoleto Solomeo —a peaceful and relaxing stretch along an almost-flat path which traces the Nestore River Park.

Day 8: End our service

See you next year to walk together!!