dossier

Secret Tuscany Walk

SECRET TUSCANY WALK - DAY BY DAY

Locanda Senio *** , Palazzuolo sul Senio

This small hotel is in the heart of the old quarter of Palazzuolo, in a quiet narrow side street next to the church of San Antonio. The hotel has six rooms which are comfortable, quiet and traditionally decorated.

Saturday  Arrive in Palazzuolo

You arrive at your hotel, in the heart of the pretty medieval village of Palazzuolo, in time for dinner .

Sunday  Monte Prevaglio & Piane Valley  14km/9mi/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.

Monday  The Mantigno Valley  17km/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.

Tuesday  The Traders’ Trail  14km/9mi/5hr

A transfer 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!

Wednesday  Cappella 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 (Cappella del Grillo). After descending through giant chestnut forests it’s back to the hotel for an optional well-being session (jacuzzi, sauna, massages etc).

Thursday  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.

Friday  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 medieval hamlet of Visano before your final descent to Palazzuolo.

Saturday  Return home

WALKING DETAILS

This 2 boot holiday takes place in the remote hills & valleys of the Alto Mugello. On two days, there are a choice of walks both at the lower and upper range of a 2 boot holiday. The terrain is fairly challenging and there are some steep ascents and descents.