dossier

Gastronomic Walk in Tuscany

Day 1: Arrive in Palazzuolo
You arrive at your hotel, in the heart of the pretty mediaeval village of Palazzuolo, in time for dinner.

Day 2: Monte Prevaglio & Piane Valley  14km/8.5mi/4.5hr
Start your holiday with a great circular walk direct from the hotel passing the ruined Medici tower to the summit of Monte Prevaligo at 956m. There’s a super shaded picnic spot from where you can drink in the tremendous views of valleys and dramatic mountain ridges before a gentle stoll through wild fennel and juniper back down the lovely Piane Valley.

Day 3: The Mantigno Valley  16km/10mi/5.5hr  or 20km/12mi/6.5hr
You have a choice to make today after walking up the lush valley to the ancient farming hamlet of Mantigno (C13 castle). Either take the lower walk through sunny meadows past atmospheric abandoned farmhouses and old terracing where generations of labourers tilled the soil. Or, if you are feeling more energetic, climb to the ridge of Blacksmith’s Mountain for glorious views.

Day 4: The Traders’ Trail  14km/8.5mi/5hr
A lift to Marradi (15mins) where you pick up the old traders’ trail – a route trodden by the likes of Machiavelli and Garibaldi in times gone by. Your initial steady climb is rewarded with glorious views to the north-east up the Lamone valley. After striding crests, your path descends across meadows bright with broom, angelica and wild mint. In the late afternoon, Ercole and Roberta invite you into the kitchen to learn some traditional Tuscan recipes – don’t forget your notebook!

Day 5: Capello del Grillo  9km/5.5mi/3hr or 13km/8mi/5hr
Today’s walk takes you across high meadows – splendid views over Palazzuolo – and on to the strangely named Chapel of the Cricket (Capello del Grillo). After descending through giant chestnut forests, it’s off to English-speaking Marco’s medieval farm where you can learn all about the local history, customs, animals and culture.

Day 6: Lozzole & Lamone Valley  12km/7.5mi/3.5hr or 19km/12mi/6hr
All walkers will be taken over the mountain to the abandoned village of Lozzole, renowned in days gone by for silk production. Those choosing the shorter route hop out at Villa Fantino and return via the Strada Maestra. This ancient road from Florence is a lovely balcony walk. The longer route is an exhilarating hike along three ridges with contrasting panoramas, terrains and spectacular views stretching up to 70km in the distance. Tonight you enjoy a tasting of local wines and olive oils.

Day 7: Tuscany & Emilia-Romagna  12km/7.5mi/3.5hr
It’s downhill nearly all day today as you explore the Senio and Santerno valleys, on the Tuscan/ Emilia-Romagna border. Passing first the ruins of a former customs house, your path winds down through oak and beech trees to the grassy plateau of Prati Piani – great views of the surrounding hills. You continue through fields dotted with wild basil, sage and caraway to the mediaeval hamlet of Visano before your final descent to Palazzuolo.

Day 8: Return home
We take air customers to the airport after breakfast.