The rolling Tuscan Hills are absolutely beautiful and planning a trip to this Italian region will often begin with a desire to see the Tuscan landscapes, visit one of the historical cities, or to feast on the delicious food and wine! We love everything about Tuscany with its striking hilltop towns with beautiful facades; local markets full of olives and honey; and its undiscovered coastline that boasts some of the best beaches in Italy.
Yes there are lots of beautiful Borgo’s that fit perfectly with a grown-up escape to the countryside and the fine dining experiences that go with it are not to be missed. But, we advocate that the Tuscan experience can be one for the whole family. Gemma took her two children for an Easter break to explore and here is what she recommends..
HOW TO GET THERE?
First you need to pick your airport. Pisa, Florence, Rome – the journey can begin at any one of these points and we would recommend a one-way journey from one to another. Driving the Tuscan roads is easy to do and, in our opinion, the best way to see the region.
A TUSCANY ROADTRIP BY OUR EXPERT GEMMA
Flying directly into Rome means you can spend a few days in the city before venturing north skirting the border between Tuscany and Umbria. Go for lunch in the small city of Orvieto followed by a night or two at the incredible Castello de Reschio. Next, spend at least a night at the beautiful hotel Pieve Aldina near the old town of Radda in Chianti. Perched on a hilltop in an area covered in forests and vineyards it is a perfect stop on a road trip itinerary. It features enough history and gastronomy for the visitor but without being classed as ‘too much sightseeing’ by a stroppy teenager! Make sure you visit some of the nearby vineyards before you journey on to your next destination.
From here it is short drive to the towns of San Gimignano and Volterra. Swim in the carved-out pool at Borgo Pignano whilst watching the sunset across the valley, challenge the kids to a game of tennis at COMO Castello de Nero or partake in a pasta making class whilst staying in a villa at Casali de Casole. Gemma found a variety of children pleasing activities at all these hotels from cookery, art classes and truffle hunting to tennis, basketball, cycling and horse riding.
Once you have found your inner creative self, head to the coast to spend a few nights by the sea. Make sure you sample the local fish at L’Andana, go olive oil tasting, and hang out at some of the coasts fabulous beach clubs. End your trip like Gemma did with a couple of nights in the harbour town of Porto Ercole to enjoy some beach time. Stay at the new and beautifully furnished La Roqqa with its roof top terrace, mosaic tables and interiors that you will just want to look up when you get home! It will then be time to make your way back to Rome to head home.
Tempted by this trip to Tuscany or want to do something similar? Speak to Gemma today.