Begin with a hotel pickup in Florence, and head south through Tuscany to the pretty stone town of Colle Val d’Elsa, famous for its crystal glass production.
Soak up the town's lovely setting, and if you wish, participate in a craft workshop to experience the masterly skills needed to create and engrave its heavy crystal glass.
Then, travel onward to Volterra, a picture-perfect Tuscan hill town ringed by medieval walls and known for its alabaster production. More than 2,000 years ago, the town was a key Etruscan trading center with around 25,000 residents, and massive walls double the size of those standing now.
Wander the winding cobbled streets past honey-stoned townhouses and Roman archaeological relics. As you explore, learn about Volterra’s alabaster crafting heritage, and how the town is now linked with the popular Twilight books and movies, with part of the second film, New Moon, being set here.
Pause for photos at the 12th-century Cathedral and admire the rich chapels and wooden religious sculptures that adorn the interior. See other landmarks such as the Town Hall (Palazzo dei Priori) and Volterra’s crowning glory — its massive hilltop Medici fortress, built by the Florentines in the 15th century.
Admire the sweeping views over Tuscany from here, and, if you wish, visit the Etruscan Museum (additional cost) to see the collections of age-old artifacts and jewelry.
Delve into the countryside for a delicious lunch at a small organic farm. Savor the delicate Tuscan specialities served with wine and water, and see first-hand how the farm still follows production techniques that originated centuries ago. Afterward, make a last stop at an organic winery. Learn how the vines are grown and harvested, and sample some of the fruity vintages.
From here, ride back to Florance, where your tour ends with a hotel drop-off.
