The Splendour of Tuscany — Italy to the Adriatic — Page & Moy Europe Holiday Collection 2008 online holiday brochure

ITALY TO THE ADRIATIC The Splendour of Tuscany 8 days from �699 Assisi Tuscany � The best of Tuscany � Walking option on selected dates � Family-run hotel The timeless rolling landscapes of Tuscany are revealed in all their glory on this unforgettable holiday. Follow the twists and turns of the River Arno as you look out over Florence's famous skyline, step back in time in mediaeval Siena, gaze in awe at Giotto's wonderful frescoes in Assisi and discover some of the region's hidden gems; all from the idyllic base of our delightful hotel in Chianciano Terme. ITINERARY DAY 1 UK/Chianciano Terme We fly to Rome and transfer to our hotel in Chianciano, where we stay for seven nights on a half board basis. This fashionable hilltop spa town is set on a hillside dominating the western side of the Chiana valley and is renowned for its rich mineral waters and therapeutic thermal spas, each standing in verdant parkland. DAY 2 Montepulciano & Pienza We begin our discovery of beautiful Tuscany with an included day of sightseeing. Set upon the crest of a volcanic hill, the lovely town of Montepulciano is little changed since the 16th century and is famous for its red wine and elegant palaces. The impressive little Renaissance town of Pienza, built on the order of Pope Pius II, is famous for its pecorino cheese, porcini mushrooms and excellent olive oil and boasts a harmonious blend of piazzas, fountains and stylish buildings. DAY 3 Florence Enjoy the artistic treasures of the handsome Tuscan capital on this wonderful included excursion. The superb collections of art and sculpture in the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia and Bargello draw art lovers from around the world, and many of the city's palaces and squares are adorned with statues and intricate carvings. Take a walk to the Piazzale Michelangelo for a glorious view over the entire city, dominated by the huge terracotta-tiled dome of the magnificent cathedral. DAY 4 San Quirico d'Orcia, Montalcino & Sant'Antimo Today we visit three of Tuscany's lesser known gems. We call first at the pretty walled town of San Quirico d'Orcia, overlooking both the Orcia and Asso valleys; before moving on to hill-top Montalcino, guarded by its mediaeval castle and renowned for its excellent red wine and pottery. Then it's on to the glorious little Abbey of Sant'Antimo, standing in splendid isolation in the Tuscan countryside. The 12th-century church is a classic example of Italian Romanesque architecture. Abandoned for centuries, the abbey is again home to a chapter of monks. DAY 5 Siena We discover the charms of Siena on this included full-day excursion. Twisting narrow streets and flights of stone steps lead to the spectacular Piazza del Campo, the town's great mediaeval square and setting for the riotous Palio horse race. You may like to climb the campanile, the second tallest belltower in Italy, to enjoy the excellent views over the surrounding countryside; and visit the cathedral, with its magnificent facade of black and white marble. DAY 6 Tuscany We explore more of southern Tuscany today on our optional half-day excursion. Experience the timeless beauty of the region as we journey through scenic rolling hills and charming villages � it's a truly inspiring landscape. Florence Siena Pienza Assisi San Quirico Montepulciano d'Orcia Bagno CHIANCIANO TERME Vignoni Rome I TA LY To view dates & prices click here 34 To book click here

Italy to the Adriatic contd… The Splendour of Tuscany