Great Gardens of Tuscany Tour

The early Renaissance Tuscan villas and gardens were designed as retreats from public life for the wealthy ruling class, and united both natural and artificial beauty which has been retained today. Designed as an extension of the villas, the garden styles were based on symmetry, axial geometry and on the principle of order over nature, and during the late Renaissance and Baroque periods became more elaborate symbols of power, adorned with rare plants, sculpture and fountains. Join expert David Hurrion to explore the beauty of various Tuscan villa gardens in and around Florence, many of which boast magnificent views out over the countryside.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from London Heathrow to Pisa
On arrival transfer by coach to Lucca (approx. 45 minutes) and the Albergo Celide Hotel for check-in. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Gardens around Lucca
We spend today visiting villas and gardens around Lucca, a charming city renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance city walls and historic architecture. First stop is Villa Oliva Buonvisa, on the northern hills of Lucca and surrounded by a large park featuring numerous tree species. Then head back to central Lucca and Giardino di Palazzo Pfanner, an Italian-style baroque garden which was designed at the beginning of the eighteenth century. The steps of the palazzo look towards the elegant north-facing lemon-house and the two historical bamboo groves which frame  the garden with a rich variety of ornamental plants, palm-trees and secular pines. After lunch (own expense) we drive to nearby Villa Torrigiani di Camigliano, which was built in the 16th century, and is considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Tuscany. The house still contains its original furniture and frescoes by Pietro Scorzini, and the gardens are decorated with large pools, and a a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. 

Day 3: Garzino Garden in Pistoia
Located in the ancient hamlet of Collido, the garden of grand 17th century Villa Garzino started as a small tiered area near the palace, used as a vegetable plot. The garden was designed by Lucca architect Ottaviano Diodati, and features an open-air theatre, cascading water features, and a majestic staircase which is flanked by female statues representing Lucca and Florence. We tour the garden with David, then return to Lucca for a group dinner.  

Day 4: Villa La Pietra and Giardino Corsini al Prato
Morning visit to the outskirts of Florence to Villa La Pietra, which has been maintained by New York University since receiving the villa in 1994 in a bequest by owner Sir Harold Acton. Renowned for its Renaissance revival style, La Pietra garden mirrors the preferences of the Anglo-American community that resided in Florence around the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and along with the Villa is officially listed as cultural heritage by the Italian Ministry of Fine Arts. After lunch (own expense) we coach into Florence for a tour of Giardino Corsini al Prato, an oasis of tranquillity in the bustling city centre. Behind its Palazzo which dates from 1590, in the colourful garden you'll find around 180 lemon trees, along with wisteria, roses, tulips and peonies. 

Day 5: Free day to explore Florence
Free time today to relax and enjoy Lucca, or explore Florence. 

Day 6: Villa della Petraia and Villa Medivea di Castello
Originally designed by the Brunelleschi family in the 14th century, Villa della Petraia because part of the Medici family's estate in the 16th century who transformed it's garden into three magnificent terraces featuring dwarf fruits, flower beds and citrus trees. We visit the museum interior with its rich history and stunning architecture, then explore the gardens with panoramic views of Florence. After lunch (own expense) we visit the gardens of Villa Medivea di Castello, known for their symmetry, elegance and intricate layout which inspired many other famous gardens. 

Day 7: Bardini, Boboli, and Giardino delle Rose
Guided walking tour of Florence today to visit Florence's most beautiful and historic gardens, starting with a visit to Bardini Gardens which features a Baroque staircase and an English garden. We then take a short walk to Boboli Gardens located behind the Pitti Palace. These gardens are a primate example of Italian Renaissance garden design and feature a vast variety of sculptures, fountains and grottos. After a group lunch at a local restaurant we visit Giardino delle Rose located in the Oltrarno district, with its 400 varieties of roses.

Day 8 Transfer to Pisa airport for return flight to Heathrow

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions, weather, garden openings and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 passengers.

Tour grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to time spent at attractions, and standing time for viewing. Some sites visited may not have lifts, and stairs may be uneven and steep. Gardens may have gravel uneven paths, with step access and no handrail. There may be limited places to sit in gardens visited. For more information, visit the mobility page of our website, or contact our team.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Pisa 
• Seven nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the four-star Albergo Celide, Lucca, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two dinners at local restaurants
• One lunch 
• Coach touring as per the itinerary
• Entrance fees as per the itinerary
• David Hurrion throughout

 NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £350
• Holiday insurance
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Albergo Celide, Lucca

The four-star Celide is located on the edge of Lucca’s historic centre, just outside the city walls. Offering a high standard of comfort and service, facilities include a bar, restaurant with outside terrace, small spa and comfortable bedrooms with all modern amenities including TV, telephone, hairdryer, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Hotel Website