tuscan experience enquire now

For traveller’s keen to indulge their passion for authentic Italian food, Renaissance treasures and a deliciously relaxing stay in a 15th century villa in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, the Tuscan Experience is ‘La Dolce Vita’ personified. Not only will this holiday be the most relaxing 15 days ever, there’s opportunity to learn more about Italian food combined with a discovery of the riches of this extraordinary region with genial host – Renato Di Stefano.

The setting: Nestled in the Chianti hills, overlooking valleys rich in history, is the 15th century manor house - Castellare de’ Sernigi. Once owned by wealthy merchants and patrons of the arts – the Sernigi family, It’s enviable location in the heart of Tuscany in the thousand-year-old hamlet of Palazzuolo, a stone’s throw from Siena, San Gimignano and Florence, makes Castellare de’ Sernigi an idyllic base. Lovingly restored, the finely appointed and fully air-conditioned 7-bedroom villa each with Tuscan views and en suite bathroom is furnished with antiques, two large upstairs sitting rooms with picturesque views, spacious dining and living room, well-equipped kitchen and cellar. Surrounding the villa, in the lovely gardens are furnished seating areas, a large stone terrace with arbour covered al fresco dining area, and swimming pool with surrounding stone deck.

Your Host: Renato has a passion for Italy, Italian food and the romantic Italian language. From an early age, under his Nonna’s guidance, Renato learned the correlation between choice, fresh ingredients often gathered at local markets and delicious meals. His childhood experiences together with the repertoire of tips and tricks learned while helping Nonna prepare family meals laid the foundations for Renato’s love of good food and traditional Italian cooking.

Departure dates:

• 07 September - 21 September 2019
• 05 September - 19 September 2020

Tour costs:

Twin share per person      $7,899*
Single supplement            $1,500*

• 13 nights accommodation - Villa Castellare de’ Sernigi
• 1 night accommodation - Pensione Sorriso, Vernazza, Cinque Terre
• Travel by coach, train and boat per itinerary
• Sightseeing per itinerary with entry fees
• Culinary art sessions (optional) including fresh pasta making
• 30 meals including a help-yourself breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 11 traditional dinners prepared by local cook with limited wine*
• Services of professional guides at selected locations
• One-way home to airport transfer
• Pre-departure function with antipasti and wine, tour notes and booklet

*Additional wine can be purchased

PLUS receive a Beginners Italian Language Course for 1 person or an Italian Lunch for 2 people