Francesca, I began my Tuscan adventure cradling a small shot glass, its golden-green contents warming between my palms. With a tilt of my head, I tipped the olive oil into my mouth, a sharp triple inhale releasing the subtle hints of rosemary and basil. Surprisingly, the experience was smoother and more enjoyable than anticipated. This unique tasting took place at Fattoria di Maiano, a sprawling farm nestled within Italy’s largest botanical garden, just outside Florence. This idyllic location offers lodging as well as day trips from the city, featuring scenic trails, friendly farm animals, a tranquil lake, and tours through the olive groves. Later, back in Florence, my Tuscan immersion continued with a wine tasting at Villa Travignoli, overlooking the picturesque Fiesole Hills. Four glasses of Tuscan wine were presented, but the delicate strawberry notes of the rosé won my heart, ultimately finding its way into my suitcase.
My Tuscan sojourn was meticulously orchestrated by Tourist Italy, a company offering diverse travel packages, from comprehensive itineraries including hotels, tours, and transfers to individual excursions tailored for independent travelers. This particular day trip, a six-hour immersion into the Tuscan countryside, concluded back in Florence. There, I marveled at the majestic Duomo cathedral and strolled along the Arno River, taking in the beauty of historic stone bridges like the Ponte Vecchio. Dinner was a delightful experience at Trattoria Zà Zà, a restaurant known for its generous portions and delectable parmigiana. For a restful night’s sleep, Hotel La Casa di Morfeo provided comfortable accommodations just a short walk from the city center, its breakfast buffet a perfect start to any day.
Beyond the olive oil tasting and wine sampling, Tourist Italy offered a plethora of intriguing tours. One such experience was the Tuscany Sunrise itinerary, which began with a pre-dawn pick-up by our driver, Marco. The hour-long drive to the medieval walled town of San Gimignano passed quickly, captivated by the sunrise painting the horizon in vibrant hues of orange. The self-guided nature of each stop allowed for personalized exploration. In San Gimignano, I ascended the 218 steps of the Torre Grossa, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A refreshing pistachio gelato from Gelateria Dondoli provided the perfect antidote to the climb. Next on the itinerary was Pisa, where I indulged in the obligatory tourist pose beside the iconic Leaning Tower. The tour culminated in Lucca, an hour from Pisa, and arguably the highlight of the experience.
My desire to delve deeper into Lucca led me to book a one-night stay at Albergo Celide, a hotel and wellness spa located just outside the city walls, coupled with a private walking tour. My guide, Paola, met me at the hotel, and we made our way to the old town. Gazing up at the imposing 40-foot high brown stone walls, Paola described them as a protective embrace enveloping the city. These walls, however, served a dual purpose, also functioning as Lucca’s unique urban park. Paola led me up cobblestone steps near Porta di Santa Maria, the main entrance to Lucca’s Old Town, and onto the top of the walls. The tree-lined expanse atop the walls offered a refreshing escape, even hosting a park run, a testament to its popularity among locals.
The heart of Lucca, for me, was undoubtedly Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a former amphitheater transformed into a charming oval public space. Pale yellow apartment buildings and restaurants, adorned with dark green shutters, encircled the piazza, creating a captivating scene. Dinner at Sotto Sotto allowed me to witness the square come alive at night, its ambiance enhanced by twinkling lights. The gnocchi was a culinary delight, and the tiramisu a perfect sweet ending. Having commenced my Tuscan journey with a shot of olive oil, it seemed fitting to conclude it with a glass of limoncello, a familiar and comforting Italian tradition.
My Tuscan adventure, a blend of culinary discoveries, historical explorations, and scenic beauty, was a truly enriching experience. From the subtle flavors of olive oil to the panoramic views from medieval towers, Tuscany unveiled its multifaceted charm. The meticulously planned itinerary, courtesy of Tourist Italy, ensured a seamless and unforgettable journey, allowing me to immerse myself in the region’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. The memories of sunrises over rolling hills, the warmth of Tuscan hospitality, and the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine will linger long after my departure. This journey, a testament to Italy’s captivating allure, has left an indelible mark, inspiring a desire to return and explore further the hidden gems of this enchanting region. From the bustling city of Florence to the tranquil countryside, Tuscany offered a sensory feast, a testament to the art of living “la dolce vita.”
