Looking to explore Italy in a more active way? Fashion stylist Cathy O'Connor recently joined our Tuscany Walking Holiday and uncovered a different side to one of Italy's most iconic regions...
"There was a time when my idea of holiday heaven was to soak up the sunshine for an entire week, lolling about, day after day, with nothing to do and all day to do it. For the first day or two, this rhythm worked a treat but by day three, I was bored. Bored, bored, bored. I wanted more from my holiday; more memories, more experiences and more fun. Then I went on my first TD active holiday and everything changed. I discovered the perfect blend of relaxation and activity; the perfect balance of seeing more without the stress of organising it and the perfect dynamic of time alone and time with people. I was hooked!"
Travelling to Tuscany
When TD active offered a walking holiday in Tuscany, I had my suitcase packed before you could say Buon Giorno. Myself and my fellow travellers arrived to the sunshine of Rome airport where we were welcomed by our guide, Andrea. This kind and knowledgeable man became our tour guide, our hiking guide and our friend. Our group of sixteen gelled well together instantly as there was such a great mix of people; couples, solo travellers and family members. We soon discovered we shared a common passion for travelling, for being outdoors and with an appetite for adventure.
First steps on the Hiking Trails in Tuscany
We zoomed through the glorious Italian countryside and, in less than three hours, we were settled in our four star hotel at Chianciano Terme . The conversation at dinner that night was full of anticipation for the week ahead. After a buffet breakfast, we were on the coach, heading for the medieval town of San Quirico D'Orcia. This was our starting point for our 7km hike to Pienza. We ambled in the sunshine, through the rolling hills of Val d'Orcia, which was breathtakingly beautiful. The pace worked for everyone as our group was a mixture of experienced hikers and pleasure walkers. Arriving at the historic town of Pienza we enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the sunshine. Andrea, our guide, made this important spot come alive with stories of intrigue, influence and power. As the sun faded, we headed back to the hotel for a four course dinner.
Treking Val d'Orcia
Day two promised a visit to the 12th century Romanesque Abbey of Sant'Antimo and a hike through Val d'Orcia and Monte Amiata. Walking through the peaceful countryside mapped out by vineyards was such a pleasure. We were rewarded by a visit to the charming town of Montalcino after our 9.5km hike. There was much anticipation for the wine tasting experience that afternoon at Casato Prime Donne. This 40 hectare vineyard produces the much sought after Brunello wine. It's run exclusively by women and in the words of the founder Donatella Cinelli Colombini "great wine comes from talent and not from muscles". In this atmospheric setting we saw the harvesting and storage methods and were delighted to taste three different, but equally delicious, wines.
Tour of Siena
We woke up the next day to torrential rain but it didn't dampen our spirits as we were heading to the picturesque medieval city of Siena. We gazed at the impressive architecture of the main square, Piazza del Campo and the Duomo di Siena. While visiting the family home of Saint Catherine of Siena, we were immersed in the history of the political forces and culture of that time and thanks to Andrea, came away with a greater knowledge of Italian history and art. After lunch, we had time to explore the city and it was a particular treat for me to visit all the stylish boutiques!
Walking to Civita di Bagnoregio - 'The Dying City'
A bright start to our day as we travelled to the pretty village of Lubriano. Time for a quick coffee before we started our hike. Walking holidays really do offer the opportunity to 'get away from it all'; being surrounded by nature, listening to the happy chatter of people or birdsong, walking at an easy pace, offers a welcome break from life at home. And so it was as we walked through the peaceful Calanchi Valley. Andrea has a wealth of knowledge about the flora and fauna of Tuscany, which added to our appreciation of the nature around us. We arrived at the dramatic location of Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the "Dying City". Perched on a pinnacle, it offered the most spectacular views of this lush valley. After a leisurely lunch, we were on the coach to Lake Bolsena. Having visited the impressive Church of Santa Cristina, it was time for our daily ritual - finding the best gelateria in town. We all agreed that Italian ice cream is the best!
Exploring Montepulciano Wine Region
One of everyone's favourite days was our visit to Montepulciano. We were in a happy rhythm now, used to the early mornings, the hikes and the pace of our days. We walked through the gentle hills, admiring the layout of the numerous vineyards on this 7km hike. After a steep climb to this historic city we were rewarded by the majestic sights of Piazza Grande, the church of San Biagio and yes, a delicious glass of wine with lunch.
Hiking in Cortona
The destination on our final day was Cortona. We started at the neo Gothic style Basilica of Santa Margherita. Every aspect of this spectacular church is a testament to the craftsmanship of the time. Off we headed to Villa Bramasole, where the "Under the Tuscan Sun" was filmed. We climbed upwards to arrive at the breathtaking Franciscan hermitage of Eremo delle Celle. This spiritual centre has a unique atmosphere of tranquility and peace. It was a delight to savour it all. We were on the move again, heading for Cortona. This lively pedestrian town was bustling with cafes and shops. A leisurely lunch watching the world go by was heaven, the perfect end to a perfect holiday.
I always enjoy a TD active holiday - lots of great experiences with great people and none of the stress of organising any of it. For me, there's a true value in knowing that I'll be taken care of from beginning to end and I'll come home with stories to tell."
Has this inspired you to take a walking holiday? We offer a fantastic selection across Europe and beyond, with flights, accommodation, transfers, and an expert walking guide all included.
