Gardens of Tuscany 2021: May 1 - 10

Presented by: life can be a trip Tuscany

Tuscany has long been a treasure trove for art. Sculptures and paintings, Michelangelo and da Vinci: from hilltop churches to city cathedrals, Tuscany is a living, breathing museum of masterpieces—including its extraordinary gardens, with almost every palazzo and villa hiding its own exquisite gem. Our Gardens of Tuscany tour takes you through some of the region’s finest gardens, whilst exploring its fascinating landscaping, with majestic rolling hills. Of course, Tuscan gardens are best enjoyed with a side of authentic Italian cuisine, paired with a glass of delicious Tuscan wine. Day 2

Upon landing in Florence, we will take a private shuttle to our hotel, which is in the center of Florence. After checking in and freshening up, Tommaso will take us on an orientation tour of the city. You will then have the evening free. Day 3

After breakfast at the hotel, we will set off for a full day of garden tours. We’ll begin by visiting Villa Castello, a palatial garden designed in 1538 for Cosimo Medici I. Initially, the garden was a simple geometric design with three terraces, but it has been updated with Mannerist artworks throughout the centuries and classic sculptures that were placed in the garden in the 17th century. We will then head to Villa Petraia, originally bought by the Brunellechi family. In the 16th century, The villa eventually changed hands to the Medici family, which implement drastic changes to the garden when it was divided into three magnificent terraces. Day 4

We will spend the morning visiting of Villa Gamberaia, which at the end of the 14th century was purchased by Matteo di Domenico Gamberelli, father of the famous sculptures and architects Antonio and Bernardo Gamberelli. The villa provides splendid panoramic views of Florence and the Arno valley. The villa and garden were partially destroyed in WWII, but the family that owns the house undertook the enormous task of rebuilding them. The afternoon is yours to do as you wish. Visit any of the world-class museums, relax at the hotel, get a fresh Italian haircut, search for the perfect gelato, or simply stroll the streets of Florence. Day 5

Today, we’ll stay local with visits to Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens. The Pitti Palace is a stunning Renaissance palace situated on the River Arno. The palace urchased by the Medicis in 1549 and later used as one of Napolean’s bases before becoming the principal royal palace of Italy. In 1919, King Victor Emmanuel III donated the palace and its contents to the people of Italy. It is now the largest museum in Florence. The Boboli Gardens have been open to the public since 1766, after originally being design for the Medici family. It is considered one of the first and most important examples of the “Italian Garden.” One of its main attractions is the 16th century Buontalenti grotto. Day 6

After breakfast, we’ll hit the road for a full-day in Val d’Orcia—a UNESCO World Heritage Site— exploring its beautiful and untouched landscape. Known for its endless rolling hills. The day will include a visit to La Foce, a re-created renaissance style garden designed by Cecil Pinsent between 1927 and 1939. La Foce is considered one of the most important and best kept early 20th century gardens in Italy. Day 7

• After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll head to Vignamaggio—home to the Gherardini family. You probably don’t recognize her last name, but Monna Lisa Gherardini was depicted by Leonardo da Vinci in one of is his more famous works. The villa was used as the set for Kenneth Branaugh’s adaptaion of Shakespeare’s ”Much Ado About Nothing.” We’ll have a guided tour followed by a four- course lunch and wine tasting. Records show that wine has been produced on the property since 1404. Day 8 After breakfast at the hotel, we will hit the road for Lucca—a medieval ring-walled town in Tuscany. Upon arrival in Lucca, Tommaso will take us on a guided walking tour of the town.

You will have the afternoon free to explore the Lucca. We recommend walking the wall around the perimeter. You’ll have the evening free in Florence. Day 9

We’re spending our last full day away from the gardens. The morning will be yours to relax before we partake in a cooking class at our favorite restaurant in Florence. Lunch and wine will be included. After lunch, we’ll visit the Torre a Cona vineyard. Located 30 minutes from Florence, the villa has overlooked the area for 800 years. We will learn the history of the famous wine region, the vineyard’s production methods, and will tour the historic cellars before enjoying a tasting, followed by a sunset dinner. Gardens of Tuscany 2021: May 1 – 10 $4,850 USD (Includes: Air | Accommodation | Ground Transportation | Tours | Guides | Breakfasts & more)

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