Our Walking Holidays in Tuscany

“Tuscany is a world; Italy is a universe.
Five lifetimes would not be enough to explore it.“
Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun

And so to Tuscany. We simply could not resist it. It’s not one of our usual ‘off the beaten track’ destinations, but Tuscany is too good for you to miss out on. In spring and autumn, its temperate sunny climate is perfect for a walking holiday. As ever, we do it differently from the others and a Collett’s walking holiday in Tuscany will enchant you beyond your wildest dreams.

When trying to capture the essence of Tuscany, it is easy to see why travel writers dwell on the unassuming abundance of superlative art, architecture, culture, gastronomy and wine. These riches are hosted exquisitely by dreamy landscapes of terracotta farmhouses, idyllic villages, rolling hills, solitary cypress trees, immaculate olive groves – and many of our planet’s most culturally spellbinding towns and cities. But there is still more to savour. Frances Mayes wrote “Tuscany is a world; Italy is a universe. Five lifetimes would not be enough to explore it.” We believe the Val d’Orcia, our base here, is the icing on the cake. Our competitors tend to focus on northern Tuscany, so that big-hitting Florence, Siena and San Gimignano etc. are in easy striking distance, but the walking is unquestionably better in the south and you will be bewitched by local mediaeval towns, such as Montalcino (famous for its Brunello wine), Montepuluciano and Pienza. Siena is an hour away and it is easy to add a few days before or after your time with us so that you can explore other areas.

In its classically Tuscan location, our accommodation at Il Rigo is sure to warm your hearts. It is one of the area’s most characterful and beautifully-presented farmhouses (or Agriturismo), converted to guest accommodation in the most special and discerning way by its owners and our friends, Matthias and Luisa. If you like your food, you will be very happy here.

Now add the Collett’s factor: warm and welcoming hospitality from a dedicated team of four, always careful not to interfere but ever-present to take care of your every need and provide you with extensive local knowledge, whether you come here to self-guide or join organised walks. They deliver a well-researched and stunning walking programme (2 options daily) which will suit ramblers and hillwalkers alike, not to mention some special local touches and embellishments that will help you get the best out of an area, where culture and charm are so rife.