A tour that allows one to enjoy all aspects of the region of Tuscany. From the Icon of the leaning tower of Pisa to the Etruscan Coast and the Island of Elba with its wild lavender flowers on coastal hills and local delights. We then take the train to Florence for a final day of exploration and a chance to experience the works of art of maybe Botichelli or a Michelangelo painting or sculpture.

Elba
Elba, where Napoleon was sent in exile, is an excellent area to walk. After a short ferry ride, we alight at the pretty Tuscan town of Cavo for an introductory walk and some local wine tasting. The time on Elba includes walking the trail of the Grande Traversata Elbana through wild fields of rosemary and lavender towards Monte Grosso, where we find the remains of old lookouts used during the second world war. We then walk through wine estates and the olive groves to the top of Monte Orello (377m). From its peak we cross through old cork forests and then pass through some great chalk quarries and old mills as we walk the path on the main ridge line of the island. From Marina di Campo we walk along the coast before a climb to San Piero in Campo. Walking on, we pass the water mill of Moncione, old archaeological sites with roman and Etruscan remains and on to the top of Monte Capanne, the highest mountain on Elba, with spectacular panoramic views of the whole island.

Tuscany
The tour then heads into southern Tuscany, famed for its wine production. Our days walking in this area take us from the amazing vantage point of Montalcino and its view across the whole of the Val D'Orcia, through wild landscapes and vineyards to the hot springs of Bagno Vignoni, where the centre of town includes the old thermal pool - an opportunity soak in its clear waters. Then we head for Montichiello and Pienza, passing through the idyllic "picture postcard" Tuscan countryside with Cypress avenues and lone hilltop farm houses. Ending the walk in Montepulciano is a perfect way to finish the trip with a tour of the medici wine cellars of the town.

Florence & Pisa
There is a free day for group to explore the treasures of Florence including; the Uffizzi Art Gallery, the Academia to see David or the great Dome of the Duomo of Florence built by Brunellaschi. There are ample things to do and the time spent gives a taster for the delights of

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Pisa airport; time in Pisa; transfer by ferry to the Island of Elba. 2 to 4 Full days walking on the Island of Elba. 5 Ferry back to the mainland and full day walking in the Tuscan Hills; bus transfer via Vetulonia Etruscan remains & wine tasting en route to Montalcino. 6 Full day walking; transfer to hotel in Bagno Vignoni, time to enjoy hot springs and thermal pool. 7 Full day walking through local wine areas to Montepulciano. 8 AM train to Florence and full day sightseeing. 9 Tour ends Pisa airport.

Accommodation: 8nts hotel; 8 breakfasts & 5 lunches included.
Transport: Charter bus/On foot/Local bus/ Train/Ferry.
Comment: Some long walks and sections of terrain that may require some scrambling. Walks can be tailored to the group. Although walks on Elba are relatively long days, with up to 7 hours walking. Walks in Southern Tuscany are up to 6hrs in duration, with similar and easier trails and walking paths.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus locally organised drivers.
Trip Reference: EL