Walking Tours in Tuscany - Italy
Discover Tuscany

Ancient Pilgrimage Trail
 Renaissance art and medieval villages
- a Self guided walking tour
In the footsteps of the pilgrims of old, our Tuscan walking tour follows old pilgrimage and trade routes through some of the most stunning landscapes of southern Tuscany. Broad fields of  wheat and well-tended vineyards with mysterious chalky limestone hills characterize the region. Ancient hill towns such as Monticchiello and Montalcino ringed by cypress trees dominate the Orcia valley. Discover Southern Tuscany on foot and appreciate the fine details, the wild flowers as you stroll through an area rich in history, culture and gastronomy. Relaxing thermal baths await at the charming village of Bagno Vignoni!

9 or 7 days - Self-guided walking

Day 1: Arrival Day. Transfer from Rome airport to Chiusi by train. Pick up in minibus and transfer to Pienza (2.5 hrs).
Day 2: Freedom Day
• Stroll to the medieval walled village of Monticchiello and its 13th century church.
• Walk to Montepulciano, one of the most attractive and highest towns in Tuscany.
Day 3: Short hike to the charming town of San Quirico d'Orcia (3-4hrs).
Day 4: Freedom Day
• Explore the charming spa village of Bagno Vignoni and relax in the heated outdoor spa swimming pool.
• Walk to Ripa d’Orcia castle with its spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Day 5: Pass by the Ripa d’Orcia castle and the abbey of Sant’ Antimo before arriving at Montalcino (5 hrs).
Day 6: Freedom Day
• Sample some of the fine Brunello red wines at the fortress of Montalcino.
• Take the local bus to Siena.
Day 7: Descending through the fine Brunello vineyards you arrive at the Villa Pieve Sprenna near Buonconvento (4-5 hrs).
Day 8: Freedom Day
• Walk through woodland of pine, oak and cypress to the beautiful Benedictine monastery of Monte Oliveto di Maggiore.
• Relax by the pool at the Villa.
Day 9: Departure Day. Transfer to Rome airport (3 hrs). 

“Well recommended and gave a good balance of independence with measure of security”. Mary Penny, UK

  
  Highlights:  
• Unique medieval hilltop towns of Montepulciano, Pienza and Montalcino.
 • Outstanding history; Abbey of San Antimo, monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore
•  Walking through two of Italy’s most outstanding wine areas; Montepulciano and Montalcino.

Trip profile:
Moderate walking trip; suitable for all ages. Walk along this old pilgrimage route, through medieval towns and breathtaking scenery along clearly marked tracks. A focus on the area’s heritage and world-famous wines.

Trip duration: 9 days.
Shorter version: 7 days

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9 days/ 8 nights $1,395
from Pienza
7 days/ 6 nights $1,195
from San Quirico
based on  £ 695/595
rates subject to currency fluctuations
every Saturday in June and September
  • 2008 Price includes:
    Overnights in 3  star hotels, all breakfasts, all  evening meals,     except 2 evenings meals in Pienza and Montalcino
    all internal transfers, holiday dossier with route notes and maps, emergency contacts
    Supplements:
    Single supplement: $30 per night
  • Start/End point:
    Rome
  • Accomodation:
    All hotels are 3 stars.
    3 hotels with pools. Half-board, except 2 dinners in Pienza and 2 dinners in Montalcino.
  • Number of participants:
    Minimum two.
  • Price does not include:
    drinks, lunches, entrance fees or additional transfers, holiday insurance.
    •

City discovery: Florence, Rome.