ItalyTourTravel

Exploring Ancient Footpaths North of Siena

Explore the Tuscan countryside on foot and a world of delightful encounters opens up. Writes one guest: "We picnicked near a house in a private vineyard. The couple who lived there offered us Chianti Classico they had made themselves and showed us where they crafted the wine. Were we not on foot with Backroads, this winery would have remained Chianti's lovely secret." The key to such experiences is our long history and wealth of friendships throughout Tuscany. Join us to explore the vineyard paths and unpaved trails of this timeless landscape, past luxurious villas and olive groves to medieval hill towns where elegant inns invite us to linger.

Days 1-3 Radda in Chianti Meet in Florence
• From the hamlet of Vescine, make your way on foot to the hilltop village of Radda in
   Chianti
• Learn about historic Radda, with its medieval street plan, on a guided walk
• Follow ancient pathways through vineyards and along rolling terrain, perhaps
  sampling local vintages in an enoteca (wine bar) along the way
• In Poggio San Polo, the de Mari sisters invite us to their family’s culinary school in a
  restored farmhouse
• Prepare and then indulge in a feast of favorite Tuscan dishes.

Days 4-6 Gaiole in Chianti
A winding route takes us in and out of Tuscany’s many valleys
• Make a detour to the family-owned Ceramiche Rampini, known for distinctive Tuscan
   ceramics
• Stroll the strade bianche (unpaved trails) of Gaiole, past cherry orchards and ancient
   olive trees
  
• Explore the beautifully preserved medieval town of San Gimignano with our local guide
   and regional expert
  
• Wander among its medieval architecture, admire its magnificent frescoes, and indulge
   in a refreshing gelato.
  

6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS
INN TRIP

2003 DATES
9/15-20, 9/22-27, 9/29-10/4, 10/5-10, 10/12-17

TRIP PRICE
$2,898
(all meals except 2 lunches)

SINGLE ROOM CHARGE
$800

EQUIPMENT
RENTAL
$0

MEET/DEPART
Florence, Italy / Florence, Italy

Medieval Charm with Modern Luxuries

Palazzo Leopoldo
Radda in Chianti (3 nights) This charming estate has undergone careful restoration while maintaining the refined style of Tuscan nobility.