Guided tours are offered by a professional art historian in historical Siena, Florence, Lucca, and Tuscany's many hill towns. Discover the art and history these places have to offer.

The horse race that celebrates all of Siena's culture and ancient traditions in two epic days twice a year, July 1st-2nd and August 15th-16th.

Day 1 - July 1st or August 15th
An afternoon guided tour of the city's most important sites, strolling along the cobble-stoned narrow streets learning about the medieval history and the anecdotes behind the Palio during the centuries (the Palio is a banner representing the prize awarded to the winner of the horse race). Enjoy the early evening rehearsal of the famous horse race from your seat in Piazza del Campo. The rehearsal will be followed by a dinner in one of the several contrada locations. All the fans will gather to share the anticipation of the next day and cheer for their favorite jockey. The festive dinner will be hosted by the Contrada Captain and everybody will participate in the event with chanting and applause.

Day 2 - July 2nd or August 16th
Meet your art historian in the early afternoon to attend to the "benediction of the horse" in the church of each participating Contrada. Then proceed to the Cathedral to watch the preparations of the "Historical Parade" preceding the race. All the Contradas will be represented in Medieval costumes, drums will play and flag-shows will be performed. Later, take your seat in Piazza del Campo (the square where the race takes place) or in one of the prestigious residences overlooking the square to enjoy the Historical Parade. The victory banner, the Palio, will be shown along the street, followed by the breathtaking horse race. You can have dinner in the square where the winning contrada will celebrate the victory; an incredibly exciting atmosphere, surrounded by candle lights on the palazzos.

Re-balance your body, mind, and spirit through the practice of yoga in the tranquil setting of your own villa nestled in the inspiring scenery of the Tuscan landscape. Guests interested in a complete rejuvenating experience may combine daily yoga classes with massages, cooking demonstrations, and trekking tours.

Discover the nature, the history, and the food and wine of Tuscany. Here is a sample itinerary for Chianti Classico, one of our most popular tours…

Explore medieval castles and wine cellars in the midst of the green Tuscan hillside.

• Trek the route through Chianti pathways, enjoy historical sites, and medieval ruins.
• Reach the peak of Chianti hills at Monte Muro and Montegrossi to visit the evocative ruins of the castle and abbey at Coltibuono.
• Lunch at the restaurant Badia a Coltibuono (the chef is a direct descendant of the Medici family!)
• Visit the historical cellars where the classic Chianti "Badia a Coltibuono" is mellowed. Shop at a genuine Tuscan gourmet and local art store.
• Visit the Brolio Castle and its winery. Vinsanto tasting in the cellars of the Count Ricasoli.

While getting fit, enjoy a different sightseeing trip every day! Bike among the hill towns of Chianti, stopping to make brushetta and taste wine, view Renaissance frescoes and medieval towers, and tour many historic sites and towns. Large groups can be accommodated for stays in charming Borgos. And smaller groups can choose the more intimate setting of a villa. During this wellness/active experience you will enjoy a different trip every day: the pleasure of genuine Slow Food, tasting quintessential wines, getting fit, and visiting art and historical sites.