Why choose this tour?
Ideal for lovers of handicrafts and unusual activities, this tour takes in the artistic and culinary delights of Arezzo, created by the hands of local artisans and producers, and culminating in a dinner in an art gallery
DAY 1: Arrival
Arrival and transfer to the hotel. Depending on the arrival time, it is also possible to arrange a quick visit to the neighboring villages before the overnight accommodation.
DAY 2: Anghiari, artisan workshop and Sansepolcro
Breakfast and departure for a guided visit of Anghiari, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Walking through its narrow streets, visitors can breathe the air of the medieval ages: tiny houses made of stone, wooden doors, arches and terraces characterized this magical place. Anghiari played an important role for Tuscany: here was fought the Battle of Anghiari, a fundamental event which allowed this region to maintain its independence for centuries. During the morning, the group will also have the opportunity to visit a typical artisan workshop. As well as the whole region of Valtiberina, Anghiari boasts artisan traditions such as glass, wood, stone, restoration, wrought iron and so on.
At the end of the visit, time for lunch based on typical Tuscan dishes served in the charming location of an ancient castel.
Guided tour of Sansepolcro during the afternoon. Around the 10th century, two pilgrims, Arcanus and Aegidius, returning from the Holy with a stone from the Church of the Holy Land, founded here a Benedictine abbey dedicated to the Holy Sepulcher, therefore the name “Sansepolcro”. This lovely village has preserved its ancient appearance throughout the centuries and nowadays it maintains a distinctive character that is hard to find in the large cities which tourists usually visit.
At the end of the visit, return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 3: Arezzo and tasting in an art gallery
Breakfast and departure to Arezzo for a guided tour during the morning. Located in southeastern Tuscany, Arezzo has played an important role in ancient times due to its strategic position along the Via Cassia. Throughout the centuries, this town has maintained its ancient beauty and traditions. Rich in buildings, arts and churches frescoed by famous painters, Arezzo is one of the must-see of the area called “Aretino”. The beauty of Arezzo can be better appreciated from the Bell Tower where, from a panoramic terrace, it is possible to see the major buildings of the city. Arezzo is also known as the city where Piero della Francesca painted the so-called “Storie della Vera Croce” in the church of San Francesco, a wall painting considered a master-work by critics of all epochs.
In the late morning the group will have a tasting in an art gallery: a real experience in the world of flavors, surrounded by ancient paintings.
Free time for lunch and to enjoy shopping during the afternoon.
In the evening, return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 4: La Verna and Camaldoli
Breakfast and guided tour of La Verna in the morning. La Verna is a famous sanctuary where, according to the Christian tradition, Saint Francis received the stigmata. This mystical place, nestled in the woods, is rich in spirituality, artworks and beauty. Dante wrote of it in Paradiso XI and he referred to the Castle as a “crudo sasso” (bare rock).
Lunch based on typical Tuscan dishes in a picturesque agriturismo of the area.
After the lunch, transfer to Camaldoli for a guided visit. Camaldoli is one of the major religious sites of the Casentino. The origins of the abbey date back to the year one thousand, where the monks built a church and a hospice in this area. Years later, the ancient structure was renowned and made more efficient in its hospitality. The Monastery is surrounded by numerous paths that lead to lush woods.
In the late afternoon, return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay,
We don’t want our guests to leave without a tasty souvenir of this trip: that is why a gastronomic lottery of typical Italian cold cuts will be offered during the last dinner together, as well as a parting gift: a bottle of high quality local extra virgin olive oil.
DAY 5: Departure
Departure and return to home. Depending on the departure time, it is also possible to arrange another visit before returning home.