Tuscany

The rolling hills of Tuscany that seemingly will roll on forever have inspired many a painter, writer and poet. Scattered amongst the landscape are a network of beautiful hilltop villages and towns, breaking up journeys from A to B wonderfully. Florence is a destination in itself
whilst Pisa is worth a visit if only for its famous leaning tower. The Paleo in Siena is a bucket list favourite and we can get the best tickets in the house.

The whole region was built on Roman and Etruscan roots, where in Florence Renaissance reigns, the towns in the surrounding countryside retain the rustico charm of Medieval. Masterpieces from all ages can be found, tucked away in churches, museums and galleries throughout the region.

Siena’s scallop-shaped piazza, flanked by soft orange townhouses and Torre del Mangia, is one of the most idyllic public spaces. Towns seeming untouched by time, such as Montalcino, Pienza and San Gimignano, sit scattered across the region amidst golden wheat fields, silver olive groves and ancient vineyards, each with their own charms. Pisa has more to offer than its skewed tower; the Duomo, Baptistery and Camposanto complete a stunning quartet of medieval triumphs.

The food and wine here enjoys an unpretentious integrity. Tuscans are enormously proud of their culinary traditions and their locally sourced, seasonal produce. Always order the special and try and find a seat outside. Encompassing the Chianti region, Tuscany can also claim to produce some of the finest wines in Italy.