Secret Tuscany Walk

Itinerary

Hills are cloaked in thick oak, beech and chestnut forest and valleys are a profusion of wild fruits and herbs. Expect to taste mulberries, cherries, sage, tarragon, basil and rosemary straight from the hotel gardens.

The walks follow old mule trails and forest tracks, past bubbling mountain streams, deserted stone farmhouses and along panoramic ridges which form the border with neighbouring Emilia Romagna.

Our hotel here, run by Ercole and Roberta, lies in the heart of the pretty mediaeval mountain village of Palazzuolo sul Senio. You'll enjoy strolling through its narrow cobbled lanes and ancient stone archways, or maybe along the river bank before dinner. At 500m, the village escapes the worst of the summer heat, making it the ideal climate for walking. The comfortable en suite rooms are traditionally decorated (well almost, they have TV with CNN!), and each is named after a local herb. The hotel has recently opened its own 'spa' including small outdoor pool, sun terrace, jacuzzi and sauna. Perfect for resting those weary leg muscles!

What's most important about Locanda Senio is its gastronomic restaurant which enjoys an international reputation (not least amongst Headwater guests!). The menu offers the best seasonal produce available, and reflects the gastronomic traditions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. Even breakfast is a lavish affair, noteworthy for freshly-made fruit juices and delicious home-made cakes.

• Day 1: Arrive in Palazzuolo

  You arrive at your hotel, in the heart of the pretty mediaeval village of Palazzuolo, in time for dinner.

• Day 2: Sunday Monte Prevaglio & Piane Valley 14km/9mi/4.5hr

  Start your holiday with a great circular walk direct from the hotel passing the ruined Medici tower to the summit of Monte Prevaligo at 956m. There's a super shaded picnic spot from where you can drink in the tremendous views of valleys and dramatic mountain ridges before a gentle stoll through wild fennel and juniper back down the lovely Piane Valley.

• Day 3: Monday The Mantigno Valley 17km/10mi/5.5hr or 20km/12mi/6.5hr

  You have a choice to make today after walking up the lush valley to the ancient farming hamlet of Mantigno (C13 castle). Either take the lower walk through sunny meadows past atmospheric abandoned farmhouses and old terracing where generations of labourers tilled the soil. Or, if you are feeling more energetic, climb to the ridge of Blacksmith's Mountain for glorious views.

• Day 4: Tuesday The Traders' Trail 14km/9mi/5hr

  A lift to Marradi (15mins) where you pick up the old traders' trail - a route trodden by the likes of Machiavelli and Garibaldi in times gone by. Your initial steady climb is rewarded with glorious views to the north-east up the Lamone valley. After striding crests, your path descends across meadows bright with broom, angelica and wild mint. In the late afternoon, Ercole and Roberta invite you into the kitchen to learn some traditional Tuscan recipes - don't forget your notebook!

• Day 5: Wednesday Capello del Grillo 9km/5.5mi/3hr or 13km/8mi/5hr

  Today's walk takes you across high meadows - splendid views over Palazzuolo - and on to the strangely named Chapel of the Cricket (Capello del Grillo). After descending through giant chestnut forests, it's off to English-speaking Marco's medieval farm where you can learn all about the local history, customs, animals and culture.

• Day 6: Thursday Lozzole & Lamone Valley 12km/7.5mi/3.5hr or 19km/12mi/6hr

  All walkers will be taken over the mountain to the abandoned village of Lozzole, renowned in days gone by for silk production. Those choosing the shorter route hop out at Villa Fantino and return via the Strada Maestra. This ancient road from Florence is a lovely balcony walk. The longer route is an exhilarating hike along three ridges with contrasting panoramas, terrains and spectacular views stretching up to 70km in the distance. Tonight you enjoy a tasting of local wines and olive oils.

• Day 7: Friday Tuscany & Emilia-Romagna 12km/7.5mi/3.5hr

  It's downhill nearly all day today as you explore the Senio and Santerno valleys, on the Tuscan/ Emilia- Romagna border. Passing first the ruins of a former customs house, your path winds down through oak and beech trees to the grassy plateau of Prati Piani - great views of the surrounding hills. You continue through fields dotted with wild basil, sage and caraway to the mediaeval hamlet of Visano before your final descent to Palazzuolo.

• Day 8: Saturday Depart Palazzulol

* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share. Click here to see full Terms & Conditions.