TUSCAN VILLA STAY

After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour of Bologna—famous for its elegant porticos, medieval towers, and vibrant piazzas. Discover why its historic centre is considered one of the best preserved in the world. Enjoy a traditional Bolognese lunch at a local trattoria before travelling by private coach to your villa. Our elegant Tuscan accommodation, nestled among olive groves and rolling hills. This peaceful villa will be our home for six nights, offering comfort, charm, and a true taste of la dolce vita. Tonight, we come together for a welcome dinner at the property’s restaurant—an opportunity to relax, settle in, and toast the start of a very special journey.

Hotel: Hotel Relais della Rovere, Tuscany for 6-nights

The Relais Della Rovere, historical villa of Pope Giulio II in 1400, is today an exclusive 4 Star Hotel with 30 rooms in the heart of Tuscany countryside, in the medieval village of Colle Val d’Elsa. A corner of peace and wellness located in a natural park with swimming pool and restaurant.

Enjoy a slow morning to adjust to the local rhythm—perhaps a stroll through the gardens or a coffee on the terrace. In the afternoon, we travel to the medieval hill town of San Gimignano. Known for its soaring stone towers and ancient laneways, this UNESCO-listed gem is often called “the Manhattan of the Middle Ages.” Our local guide will bring its rich history to life on a gentle walking tour. Later, we visit a nearby vineyard to sample regional wines. Dinner this evening is served outdoors in the garden (weather permitting), offering a perfect end to a magical Tuscan day.

This morning, we transfer to Siena, Italy’s loveliest medieval city. Enjoy a gentle walking tour of Siena with a local guide. View Piazza del Campo, Duomo of Siena and Torre del Mangia. After the visit, transfer to the location of your cooking class and enjoy a Tuscan cooking lesson. You’ll learn how to prepare some traditional recipes, and, at the end of the course, you will enjoy what you have prepared for dinner!

Enjoy a day at your leisure or take an optional tour to Florence for a guided walking tour of the city’s highlights and visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s original David. Dinner is served at the property.

This morning, we venture into the Tuscan woods with an expert truffle hunter and their skilled dogs. Learn about the traditions of truffle foraging and discover the secrets of this prized delicacy.
Afterwards, enjoy a rustic tasting lunch featuring fresh truffles and paired with local wines.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby Chianti winery for a relaxed tasting of regional reds, accompanied by salumi, cheese, and bruschetta. Return to the villa for a restful evening.

Today we head west to Pisa to view its famous Leaning Tower and the surrounding architectural marvels of the Piazza dei Miracoli. Continue to the walled city of Lucca for a guided stroll through its elegant streets and charming piazzas. Known for its Renaissance walls and Roman ruins, Lucca is one of Tuscany’s hidden treasures. Return to the villa in time to freshen up before our final dinner in Tuscany—savouring local flavours and reflecting on a wonderful stay.

After breakfast, we farewell our villa and travel east towards Umbria. En route, we visit Arezzo, a fascinating town with Etruscan roots and Renaissance charm. Admire its Gothic cathedral, vibrant piazzas, and connections to film, art, and architecture. We then visit the beautiful hilltop town of Cortona—famous from the book and film Under the Tuscan Sun. Wander the cobbled streets, soak in the views, and enjoy the timeless atmosphere. Continue to our countryside hotel in the Perugia area and settle in for three nights. Dinner is served at the hotel.
Hotel: Hotel Locanda della Posta for 3 nights

Explore the historic heart of Perugia on a guided walking tour, including Piazza IV Novembre, the Rocca Paolina fortress, and ancient Etruscan gates. Later, enjoy a long lunch overlooking Lake Trasimeno—the largest lake in central Italy. Visit the lakeside village of Castiglione del Lago, before a sweet stop at the Perugina Chocolate Museum for tastings and a touch of nostalgia.

This morning, we visit Assisi, birthplace of St Francis. A place of quiet beauty and deep spiritual resonance, it’s home to remarkable basilicas, frescoes, and medieval streets. In the afternoon, continue to Spoleto, a city of Roman arches, Renaissance palaces, and sweeping views. Discover its history and charm before returning to our hotel for dinner.

We farewell Umbria and stop in Orvieto, dramatically perched atop volcanic cliffs. Tour its famous cathedral and explore the atmospheric underground tunnels that reveal the city’s Etruscan past.
Continue to Rome and check into our hotel. Tonight’s dinner is at the hotel.
Hotel: Hotel Dei Mellini, Rome for 2 nights

We’re off on a morning tour of Rome to see the sights by golf cart with a private guide. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, shop or explore. Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning before checking out. We transfer to the airport to begin our journey home. Upon arrival in Perth (day 14), your driver will be waiting to transfer you home.