Page 121 - Cork & Tee Sample Program Flipbook, 2018

Reconnect with your Tuscany-based driver for a private transfer 45 min to Colle di Val d’Elsa,
located above the valley of the river Elsa on the route of the ancient Via Francigena, the
medieval highway frequented by pilgrims and merchants traveling to Rome from Canterbury and
elsewhere in Northern Europe. Here, meet your guide, Elena, or one of her colleagues, and
collect your electric assist bikes (yes there are hills throughout the region and a little assistance
when you need it is a good thing). Following your guide, cycle at your own pace on peaceful
country lanes, through an endless panorama of wheat fields, cypresses and centuries-old stone
farmhouses. After approximately 2 hrs, end in Monteriggioni. Established in the early thirteenth
century, Monteriggioni is one of Italy’s best-known walled towns. The ancient walls are nearly
fully intact. You can walk along two sections of the walls to gain a unique perspective of the
town and the surrounding countryside.

After lunch, continue with your guide and driver to Siena. Located 50 miles to the south of
Florence on the other side of the Chianti hills is the beautiful, small Tuscan city of Siena. It was
a very remarkable and powerful city-state in the Middle Ages and the chief rival of Florence.
Most of its important monuments were built between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.
Fortunately, we still are able to admire these artistic and architectural wonders.

Start your visit to Siena in the fan-shaped main square, Piazza del Campo, the site of the Town
Hall, the largest Gothic civic building in Italy. The view from the top of the Town Hall is
magnificent (and it is a good workout to climb to the top). You can also visit a museum
dedicated to one of the contrade and learn about il Palio, the famous pageant and horse race that
takes place in the Campo twice each summer (it will be held two weeks before your visit). You
can also visit the wonderful Duomo (far more notable in the interior than the Florence Duomo).
Afterwards, time permitting, perhaps enjoy some shopping time in Siena.

Proposed Accommodations: Villa Bordoni

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