Palio :: 1weektour

The more the world changes, the more Tuscany remains the same. Wander ancient villages and taste splendid chiantis during a week-long romp through Italy’s proud northwest. Gaze out the window of your private villa suite and wonder, “What century is this?” as church bells ring and cypress trees sway lazily in the morning sun. After a refreshing dip at your private villa with nothing but vines to admire your form, plan the perfect day: off to Arezzo for a walking history (and our favorite gelato), hop on your bike (or Vespa) for a tour through Radda and Gaiole, speed through San Gimignano's famous spires, or simply catch up on that perfect book with our good friend Francesco (and your personal driver) catering to your every need. From the villa, it’s on to Siena for the Palio. Live 4 days of the 700 year-old Palio race. See some well-known sights (like the Duomo and Piazza del Campo) but also some lesser-known places as well. Get caught up in Palio fever at a pre-race dinner in your chosen district (or contrade in Italian). On race day, it’s up to the Spyns balcony for an unbeatable view of the race. Watch a pre-race procession that hasn’t changed in over 400 years before cheering on your contrade to victory. After the euphoria, join us for a private send-off dinner in one of Siena’s newer restaurants…only in business for 150 years. La Dolce Vita!