Italy: Tuscany Fall Harvest & Tuscan Cooking with Chef Claudio

This walking trip takes place in the romantic hills of central Tuscany. The riches of former Etruscan and Roman empires unfold as you follow ancient trails. You trek along worn paths and country roads that lead to the magnificent hill towns of Siena, San Gimignano, and Volterra, some of Italy's best preserved medieval locations. A finale to the daily walking itinerary is a four-day culinary exploration of Tuscan food and wine, and the traditions surrounding them—with hands-on cooking lessons, a wine tasting, and guided tours of Tuscan cultural and artistic centers.
There is a harmony of nature and civilization in this landscape that brings you back in time. Tuscans today have retained traditions of the past; pageants and events that are essential to their modern-day lives. The food and wine of the region reflect the rhythm of the past as each season’s bounty is delightfully offered. You walk through the vineyards and proceed to taste the wine known as Chianti Classico. Walking here offers a splendid combination of exploring the history and culture of the towns along with some of the most beautiful country walks imaginable. The rolling hills are a patchwork of expansive vineyards and silvery olive groves intermixed with forests of fir, oak, and chestnut. Elegant cypress trees line country roads and entrances to Renaissance villas. The itinerary allows ample time to explore the region’s natural beauty and culture.
Each meal is an encounter with authentic ingredients, from a farmhouse terrace to an elegant villa dining room. High standards apply in every element, from fragrant olive oil, to rich Tuscan red wines, to high quality meats and cheeses. Cooking lessons with a trained chef deepen your knowledge and appreciation of a week of outstanding food and wine.

*Please note:  The Tuscany Fall Harvest and Tuscan Cooking with Chef Claudio tours may be booked independently of each other; please call for details.