If there's one event not to be
missed it's this one. The Palio in Siena. Entire
communities (contradas) rally behind their chosen
horse and jockey. Cries of jubilation echo throughout
the crowd while cursed promises of "next
year" are muttered throughout the vanquished.
This is the most fun event in Italy. Come and
join us enjoying that fun.
Welcome to Tuscany and the August 16th Palio!
Day 1
12 August
After meeting in Florence
we'll be heading directly to San Gemignano to
view this spectacular Tuscan tower town. After
lunch and a brief stop in Montirigioni, we'll
be heading to our fabulous home for the next
five days, the fantastic Certosa
di Maggiano located just outside Siena.
That night over welcome drinks you'll learn
the history of the Palio by our very own Palio
specialist Mario.
Day 2
13
August
We'll be having an early start
this morning as we'll be attending the selection
of the horses in the main Piazza del Campo.
Following the horse selection, our day will
be spent in touring the historical city of Siena
before our daily afternoon siesta. That evening
will be our first trial race of the Palio, which
we'll be watching while eating pistachio gelato.
Day 3
14 August
Today we'll be heading south
into the Orcia valley to visit the historic
Abbey de Monti Oliveto. After our stop we'll
be heading into Montalcino for a private tour
of that city. Hopefully you will have read the
book Vanilla Beans and Brodo by Isabella Dusi
which we will be sending you prior to your trip.
We love this town. That evening we'll be heading
back into town to witness another trial race
of the Palio.
Day 4
15 August
Today we will visit the Chianti
region of Tuscany visiting the town of Gaolle
in Chianti among others. To get back to Siena
we've got bikes for those who want them as the
ride is almost entirely downhill. That evening
after another trial session we'll be dining
in one of the contradas (communities) of Siena
which will be wishing their rider and horse
"good luck" prior to the race the
next day.
Day 5
16 August
Palio Day! Are you excited? We are!
There's going to be a big push to ensure that everyone
is well rested before the big event. We will attend
the final trial race in the morning prior to a morning
of free time. That afternoon, after your siesta, we'll
be arriving at the Piazza del Campo for the historic
procession before the big race. After the race, for
those who wish, you can run with a guide to catch
the blessing of the winning horse in the cathedral.
Our final night dinner will be in Siena. Afterwards
we'll join the winning contrada to see their museum
where the Palio (flag) will be held for the rest of
our lifetimes. This is a truly world class event!
Day 6
17 August
All great things must come
to an end. We'll drop you off in Florence for
your next great adventure!
