06 – 12 September 2012
The heritage of Tuscan gardens begins with those belonging to medieval monasteries, becoming more refined with the advent of Medicean gardens, followed by the influence of the Baroque period. The region around Lucca, a historic walled city at the foot of the Apennine mountains in northern Tuscany, is a perfect example of the idyllic landscape of olive trees, cypresses and vines. From the 15th century Lucchese merchants built country residences with superb gardens on the hillsides overlooking the plain of Lucca. We visit formal Italian gardens of grand villas, private gardens, and wine cantine. September is a delightful season to visit the region. We stay for four nights within the walled city of Lucca in the very comfortable, family-run, 4 star Hotel Ilaria, situated within the city ramparts.
Our next base is in the Chianti hills in the typical perched village of Panzano. We visit historical gardens in the forested hills of Chianti and surroundings and enjoy the sweeping Tuscan landscape of cypress trees, olive groves and vineyards.
Itinerary
DAY ONE – THURSDAY 06 SEPTEMBER
Morning flights to Pisa airport, where you will be met and transferred to the hotel in Lucca. Aperitivo and short talk on the week’s programme before dinner together in Ristorante Il Giglio.DAY TWO – FRIDAY 07 SEPTEMBER
After breakfast we enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating walled town with our local guide. Lunchtime in Lucca. Afternoon visit to the formal gardens of Villa Reale in Marlia. The impressive gardens were laid out by Count Orsetti in the 17th century with a superb green theatre and statues of river gods pouring water into the fishpond. The property was eventually acquired by Napoleon’s sister. Dinner together at Ristorante Buca San Antonio in Lucca.DAY THREE – SATURDAY 08 SEPTEMBER
Villa Torrigiani in Camegliano lies on the south-facing hillside above Lucca. The Baroque villa is surrounded by an early 19th-century romantic-style garden with magnificent trees. To the east lie the Baroque secret garden, the grotto of winds and the long fishpond with statues and balustrades. We continue up into the Lucchesi hills for lunch in a fattoria. Wine tasting will take place during lunch, sitting under an arbour with splendid views over the hills, covered with vines and olive trees.DAY FOUR – SUNDAY 09 SEPTEMBER
We leave after breakfast to visit the gardens of an enchanting private garden at Massa Macinaia, near the Compitese hills. The 16th-century former hunting lodge and gardens have been renovated in the past twenty years. Box parterres, cypress columns and terraces give the framework for formal compartments around the villa, with the pergola covered with Claire Jaquier roses, and many sun-loving plants. The property also has a vineyard, olive grove, kitchen garden and a wild flower meadow. A delicious Tuscan lunch awaits us nearby. The afternoon visit is to Villa Oliva-Buonvisi. An enclosed five-hectare garden, it encircles the elegant Renaissance villa with its arched loggia and faded pink hues. We are invited into the villa by the owner.DAY FIVE – MONDAY 10 SEPTEMBER
Depart Lucca in the morning for the delightful gardens of Villa Poggio Torselli, on a hill-side south of Florence. Terraced with pots of lemons, the garden has been lovingly restored in the last ten years. We enjoy lunch and visit the villa before leaving for the Hotel Sangiovese in Panzano in the Chianti hills. Time to relax, enjoy the views or have a swim before an aperitivo on the terrace and dinner together.DAY SIX – TUESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
Morning visit to the fabulous gardens of Villa Cetinale in the hills north of Siena. Acquired from the Chigi family by Lord Lambton, who restored and created new areas of garden. The Sienese Palio took place in the woods during the seventeenth century. Lunchtime in Monte Riggioni. Afternoon visit to the gardens of Villa di Geggiano with tall cypress and a green theatre still used in summer. The owners are noted wine producers, refreshments are provided with a visit to the interior of the villa. Return to Panzano for dinner together.DAY SEVEN – WEDNESDAY 12 SEPTEMBER
Depart in the morning to visit the hill town of San Gimignano with its towers before returning to Pisa airport for the return flights.
Tour Costs
Airflight, Hotel and Itinerary costs £1840pp
b&b with private shower/bathroom
Dinner on 4 evenings/3 lunches
Single room supplement £320
Activity Level:
level walking, some terraced gardens.
Additional Information:
Some of the best gardens in Tuscany.