Under the Tuscan Sun
Florence. Pisa. Montepulciano. These are some of the most popular cities in Tuscany for tourists, but you can avoid the crowds by venturing off the beaten path to smaller and lesser known, yet equally enchanting locales.Less than an hour and a half from the Florence airport you’ll find the expansive Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spaoverlooking the medieval city of Barga. Here you can explore the cobblestone streets, wind your way to the hilltop Collegiata di San Cristoforo cathedral, and pop inside the Red Telephone Box, a snug book-crossing library almost as charming as the town it resides in.
Bring comfortable walking shoes so you can wind your way through the narrow roads of the city and explore the provincial charm found amidst exposed brick homes and hidden gardens. Delight in the local cuisine at Scacciaguai, named after the carved face along its outer wall said to ward off evil, where rustic allure pairs beautifully with traditional and original Italian dishes that rotate year-round.Nearby, the resort boasts one of the most stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. Indulge in the Renaissance’s on-site spa, both their indoor and outdoor pools, two restaurants, and 1,700 acres of countryside wonderment. One of the best experiences the resort offers are on-site cooking classes with Chef Lorenzo Venanzi. Get your hands dirty making authentic Italian pasta from scratch and enjoy the fruits of your labor on a private balcony overlooking the mountains.If you're looking to explore the surrounding area, there's plenty of historical folklore, natural wonders, and dazzling views to behold. The nearby town of Borgo a Mozzano is host to the perplexing Ponte della Maddalena, also known as the Devil's Bridge. Variations of the legend of the bridge are plentiful, but according to our knowledgable tour guide from Turislucca, the builder, struggling to complete the bridge, made a deal with the devil to help finish it. In return for finishing the bridge, the devil required the soul of the first person to cross it. Instead, a dog was the first being to cross the bridge, and the devil become furious, and legend states the bridge now takes the shape of the devil's back, which is why it is so odd looking.A breathtaking drive through the countryside will take you uphill to the Grotta del Vento, or wind cave, which any nature lover will take splendor in. Filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal lakes, this cave system offers an array of guided tours that allow visitors to learn about the history and science behind this natural wonder.Kill two birds with one stone by taking in the stunning views of the countryside while getting your steps in. A morning spent with Agriturismo Pian di Fiume, a family-run farm, begins in their small village and takes hikers up through the Cinque Borghi -or five towns - spanning throughout the mountainside forest. The hike will take you through the towns of Guzzano, Pieve di Controne, Gombereto, and San Gemignano di Controne, where you'll see nary a person, but plenty of olive trees, an old stone laundry, and maybe even porcini mushrooms along the trail if you're lucky. The hike will end back at Pian di Fiume, where you can indulge in local wines with a view, along with fresh charcuterie and cheeses.Mosey back toward Florence and you’ll find yourself in the historic city of Lucca. Encircling the metropolis are 17th century medieval city walls constructed for military, now used as a pedestrian promenade and public park. The Grand Universe Lucca Autograph Collection offers bicycle rentals that you can cruise the city walls with—better yet, opt for the hotel’s Bikes & Bites package, which includes a day-long bike rental along with a picnic basket for you to enjoy at your leisure (personal-sized bottle of wine included!).Most notably, however, is the hotel’s renowned “Prelude of Existence” experience. Lucca, birthplace of many illustrious composers (Giacomo Puccini included), has long been entrenched in music. The hotel honors this branch of the city’s history with a one-of-a-kind experience. Guests can book a private session with a composer, who will create a personalized prelude inspired by your personality. The written composition keepsake serves as a precious memento of your stay.Save ample time to stroll the city streets and pop into all of the shops and weekend markets to take home souvenirs. Make the trek up all 230 stairs to the top of Guigini Tower, which provides a dazzling vantage point overlooking the entire city. Here, you'll come face to face with the ancient Holm oak trees that peek out through the top of the tower. Stop in to Magellano, a local cocktail bar, for an inventive nightcap. And whatever you do, don't forget to get your fix of gelato at Caniparoli Cioccolateria.Merging both old and new, the city of Lucca offers visitors plenty of shopping, immersive museums, endless bars and restaurants, and no shortage of history for your daily dose of culture.
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