back roads walking tours

9 Best Travel Companies for Walking Tours and Hiking Tours in 2024

Enjoy some of the world's most beautiful landscapes at the speed of your own two feet..

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There’s something extra special about seeing someplace on foot the way you do on a walking tour, hiking tour, or guided trek. Maybe it’s the slower pace and the ability to actually admire sights you might just zip by in a car, bus, or train. Maybe it’s the easy opportunity for connections and conversations with local people. Or maybe it’s being out in the fresh air, enjoying and appreciating the natural setting of the location you’re visiting.

It’s probably some combination of all three that make walking tours, trekking tours, and hiking tours a popular way to travel. Whether you prefer an easygoing amble, a moderate hike, or a challenging summit, there are some great foot-fueled tours from hiking tour companies that explore famous locales and off-the-beaten-path spots all over the world. Here are my picks for the nine best travel companies offering walking tours and guided hiking trips.

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1. G Adventures

Small group tour specialist G Adventures  places a special focus on creating guided trips that benefit the destinations visited. The company offers a big range of hiking and trekking tours that let you experience iconic destinations in an active way . Many of these trips are physically challenging excursions, like the  Trans Bhutan Trail and trekking tours in places like  Nepal , Patagonia , and the  Alps . Hiking tours with G Adventures take you all over the world, too, from  Southern Iceland  and  Northern Greece  to  Alaska  and U.S. national parks.

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Tour descriptions feature a handy “Is this tour for me?” section that includes the physical rating, service level of accommodations, and visa requirements. Hiking and trekking tours can be filtered by budget, destination, and service and physical levels. And if this kind of travel is new to you, the G Adventures website has answers to commonly asked questions about its hiking and trekking tours, like the effects of altitude and where and how you’ll sleep. 

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size: 10 to 12 people.
• Price range: Pricing varies, with most tours in the $1,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included:  Accommodations, some meals, staff and guides.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals.
• Primary audience: Standard tours are open to adults and children ages 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent. Family Adventures are open to families with children between six and 17 years of age. The company also offers tours just for  18-to-30-somethings .
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

2. Explore Worldwide

Adventure travel company Explore Worldwide  has four decades of experience leading immersive, once-in-a-lifetime trips featuring well-crafted itineraries, top local guides, small group sizes, and a commitment to responsible travel. More than 400 tour options take you to 120 countries on all seven continents. Explore offers a range of small-group guided walking tours and trekking tours in locations around the world . Expert guides lead the walks along the planned-out routes, and Explore takes care of elements like accommodations and luggage transfers.

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Walking tours are available at different activity levels so you can choose one that best matches your interests and physical abilities. Easy to moderate options in 2024 include a walking and wine tasting tour of Spain and Portugal , a walking holiday on the Amalfi Coast , and a walking tour of Jordan’s Spice Trails . More challenging treks and bucket-list-types of trips include  Kilimanjaro  and  Mont Blanc  trips. 

In addition to detailed information included in the description for each tour (activity level, information on accommodations and meals, daily itineraries, etc.), the active travel company also offers lots of insight about walking, trekking, and hiking tours in general on its website. You can find answers to  seven common questions about walking vacations and other advice and guidance. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Trekking Tours with Explore Worldwide

• Average guided tour group size: 12 guests.
• Price range: Explore’s walking tours and trekking tours start at $530 per person and go up to $7,650, with most in the $2,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included: Accommodations, meals (number of meals vary by tour), tour excursions, leaders and guides.
• What’s not included: Flights to and from tour start/end points (there is an option to purchase them through Explore), some meals, gratuities, and optional excursions
• Primary audience: Solo travelers, couples, and friends who like small group travel and active vacations. Explore guests tend to range from 40 to 70 years of age; about 65% of attendees are female and about 65% are solo travelers.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

3. Intrepid Travel

In its more than 30 years in business,  Intrepid Travel  has taken guests on thousands of trips to all seven continents with a commitment to responsible travel. That means focusing on things like community-based tourism, animal welfare, diversity and inclusion, and climate change when planning trips and itineraries.

The company offers a range of walking tours that allow you to explore destinations on foot in a way that works best for you, e.g., walking, hiking, or trekking. Walking tours travel on defined tracks and smooth surfaces, and you don’t need any special equipment or preparation. Hiking tours take to trails, mountainsides, and other rugged terrain and make for a great in-between option. Trekking tours travel to remote destinations on challenging terrain that requires both specialized equipment and the ability to rough it. 

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Intrepid also offers creative alternatives to overcrowded trekking routes. For example, the 12-day Great Inca Road  trek avoids the highly popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and brings tourism to new communities along a less-traveled trekking route in Peru. Other good options for walkers, hikers, and trekkers include the company’s tours along  Camino de Santiago , treks to  Everest Base Camp  and  Kilimanjaro , and hiking tours of  U.S. national parks .

You can search trips by region and activity types, and tour descriptions include info on itineraries and inclusions as well as helpful sections labeled “Is this trip right for you?” and “Why you’ll love this trip” to assist with choosing the right adventure. There’s also a  FAQs section  that answers common questions about these kinds of tours and lots of  reviews  for firsthand traveler insight.

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with Intrepid Travel

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• Price range: Prices vary widely; the average price for a 12-day tour is $3,000.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation during the tour, most meals, included activities, leaders and guides, and all hiking permits.
• What’s not included: Airfare and travelers’ insurance.
• Primary audience: Tours attract all audiences; there’s an age minimum of 15.
• Destinations: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East.

4. The Natural Adventure Company

Founded in the United Kingdom in 2009 by a pair of avid adventurers and explorers,  The Natural Adventure Company  aims to make walking holidays and cycling vacations financially accessible for travelers interested in exploring areas in a nature-focused way. Most of its tours are self-guided, with itineraries that include stays in small, locally owned accommodations and an emphasis on responsible tourism.

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Popular 2024 walking tours from the company include a self-guided tour of the  trails of the Albanian Alps , a self-guided journey along  Portugal’s coastal Fishermen’s Trail , and a privately guided walking holiday in Morocco . Newer offerings for folks who like to travel by foot range from self-guided walking tours in  the Balkans  and the  Swiss and Italian Alps  to a two-week guided tour of the  Corsica GR20 long-distance walking trail . 

Online tour descriptions include a day-by-day itinerary and information on what to expect in terms of everything from accommodations and meals to level of difficulty, terrain, and weather conditions. Reviews from past travelers and photo galleries provide further insight on the trips. You can search tours by destination or holiday type, then further filter by difficulty grade. All walking tours include accommodations, transport, luggage transfers, support from the tour company, and suggestions for food and activities. Some tours also include meals.

Quick Facts about Walking and Hiking Tours with The Natural Adventure Company

• Average guided tour group size: Most tours are self-guided. Guided tours tend to range from eight to 10 guests.
• Price range: Tour prices start at around $300 and average about $1,200.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transport, luggage transfers (as per itinerary), 24/7 phone support. Some tours also include meals.
• What’s not included: Air, train, or bus fare to the destination; connecting transfers; meals not mentioned in itinerary; travel insurance (required); and local tourist taxes.
• Primary audience: Participants on these tours tend to be active and outdoorsy, digitally savvy, and in their 40s and up. Most travel with a partner, but some travel with a family member, friend, or solo.
• Destinations: The majority of the company’s tours are in Europe, but it also offers tours in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. 

5. Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels  led some of the first group trekking trips through the Nepalese Himalaya more than 45 years ago, and today that legacy lives on. The company offers a range of walking and trekking tours  around the world led by experienced trekkers and local guides. Exodus operates in more than 100 countries and focuses on low-impact tourism and contributing to local communities. Walking and trekking tours are available at several different activity levels, from leisurely and moderate trips to challenging and extremely difficult treks.

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Tour groups often stay in locally owned accommodations, and the company’s guided (and self-guided) walking tours allow you to really connect with a destination at your own pace and with a low carbon footprint. Popular tour options include a walking tour of Italy’s Prosecco Hills , a classic trek along Peru’s Inca Trail , and an  Everest Base Camp trek . Newer walking and trekking tour offerings include a coastal walking tour in the French Riviera , a self-guided walking tour on Malta , and a walking excursion on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast . 

Tour descriptions detail daily itineraries and distances traveled each day, information about the local weather and terrain, and reviews from past participants. In addition to filtering the company’s walking and trekking tours by activity level, you can search trips by types of adventure (summits, coastal walks, etc.), price range, and destination. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Exodus Travels

• Average guided tour group size: Four to 16 guests.
• Price range: Tours average $2,000 to $4,000 per person.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, airport transfers in destination, services of a local guide, some gratuities, admission to any sites on the itinerary, and any specialized gear needed.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals, and some gratuities.
• Primary audience: Travelers who like to move. Tours with an activity level of one (leisurely) just require that you be healthy enough for a standard weekend walk. Moderate trips require a basic fitness level since there will be some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days. Challenging and tough tours require a high level of fitness and often previous experience. 

6. Boundless Journeys

When  Boundless Journeys  puts together its small-group travel tours, it aims to create trips featuring active itineraries, cultural encounters, and authentic experiences. Local guides bring destination-specific knowledge and insight to the tours, and the company has appeared multiple times among the Top 10 World’s Best Tour Operators in  Travel + Leisure ’s World’s Best Awards. The company’s hiking and walking tours allow you to immerse yourself in a destination by seeing it on foot. Local guides take you to the best trails and walking routes in the region. Accommodations are locally run hotels and inns, mountain lodges, and seaside resorts.

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The  Tour du Mont Blanc adventure rates as the company’s most-popular waking and hiking tour, taking you through the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps and stopping to admire sweeping vistas and small Alpine villages along the way. Other options include a walking tour of the lesser-known villages and coastline of  Italy’s Puglia region  and a tour that includes hiking along Japan’s Nakasendo Trail  (a historic inn-to-inn walking route linking Kyoto and Tokyo). Trekking tours are also available for a more challenging experience . 

Walking tour descriptions include detailed itineraries, the activity level of each trip, and a “What to Expect” section with a range of information about the destination and the tour. Tours range in duration from seven to 13 days and extensions are offered in certain destinations.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Boundless Journeys

• Average guided tour group size: Eight to 10 people.
• Price range: Depending on the length of the tour, location, and the type of tour, prices range from $4,895 per person based on double occupancy to $9,895. 
• What’s included: Accommodations, guides, all on-tour transportation, all activities noted in the itinerary, entrance fees, all or most meals.
• What’s not included: International flights to and from destinations, optional meals and activities.
• Primary audience: Boundless Journeys guests tend to be well-educated, well-traveled, active individuals; generally hail from North America; and range in age from 40s to 70s.
• Destinations: Asia, Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, and North America.

7. Backroads

Active travel outfitter Backroads  has been a force in adventure travel since 1979, leading walking tours, hiking tours, biking tours, and multi-adventure tours all around the world. The company offers more than 130 walking and hiking trip itineraries  that take you through rugged spots like  Alaska  and  Patagonia  and scenic locales like  Cinque Terre  and the  Cotswolds . Walking and hiking tours are offered at many different activity levels and for different kinds of travelers.

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Dolce Tempo tours  move at a more leisurely pace and are well-suited for novices to active travel. Some walking and hiking tours are available for families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s, while others are best suited for adults with a strong fitness level. Tours include almost everything, and accommodations range from casual hotels to more luxurious lodging options. Small group sizes make for a more intimate experience and guides help travelers find the best views and special spots along the way.

Quick Facts about Active Tours with Backroads

• Average guided tour group size:  Backroads hiking and walking trips average 16 guests with a maximum of 20 in the U.S.
• Price range: Prices vary depending on destination and trip length, starting around $2,999 per person double occupancy four a four-day trip.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, trip leaders and guides, private guided tours at some sites, all gratuities at hotels and restaurants, special events (like wine tastings) mentioned in the tour itinerary, park and other entry fees, transportation during the tour, and baggage transfers and porterage.
• What’s not included: Airfare, alcohol, and trip leader gratuity.
• Primary audience: Participants range from couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers to families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America.

8. Country Walkers

Walking tour company Country Walkers  took its first steps as a tour operator out of an old barn in Vermont in 1979. Today the company helps travelers explore the world on foot in destinations near and far, with a focus on authentic travel and local engagement. The company offers two types of experiences for travelers. Small-group guided walking tours take you beyond just the usual spots for hands-on experiences and connections with members of the local community. For self-guided walking tours, Country Walkers takes care of all the logistics and planning so you can explore at your own pace. 

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Local restaurants and small, family-owned or locally based accommodations are part of the equation no matter which option you choose, part of the company’s commitment to sustainable travel, responsible tourism, and the slow food movement. Tours are classified by activity level and range from anyone-can-do-it easy walking tours to challenging excursions where you’ll walk for miles each day, sometimes at high elevations. Each tour description includes information on daily mileage as well as reviews from past travelers to help guests choose the best fit for them.

Options in 2024 include self-guided tours of the  Portugal coast  and  England’s Cotswolds region  and guided walking excursions of  Italy’s Puglia coast ,  Greece , and  Norway’s fjords . Country Walkers offers a number of guest benefits, from the option to book air travel along with the tour to a referral program, plus options for solo travelers.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours with Country Walkers

• Average guided tour group size: About 18 people.
• Price range: Tours range from $2,098 to $8,798 per person, double occupancy.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, and guides or access to assistance for self-guided tours.
• What’s not included: Airfare to and from the destination, airport car service. (You can choose to book a flight-tour combo through Country Walkers to get these and other add-ons.)
• Primary audience: Country Walkers’ main demographic is travelers ages 55 to 80. But the company also welcomes people traveling with their adult children and/or teenage grandchildren. 
• Destinations: Africa, Asia and South Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

9. World Expeditions

World Expeditions  took its first group of trekkers to Nepal in 1975. Since then, it’s become a go-to operator for travelers interested in small-group active tours, responsible tourism, and “taking the path less traveled.” World Expeditions was the first operator to offer cycling holidays in India (1977) and China (1978) and trekking trips in Mongolia (1980), Tibet (1981), and Japan (1999), and is also the first to offer fully supported commercial treks along the entire length of the  Nepal section of the Great Himalaya Trail .

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The company believes that active outdoor travel helps people better experience a destination, no matter the activity level of a trip or age of a participant, and offers both  guided  and  self-guided  walking and trekking tours. On the guided excursions, expert local guides and adventurers enhance the trips with knowledge and expertise. Tours range in difficulty from introductory treks to highly challenging trips. Tour prices include the cost of accommodations, most food, and transport.

Among the company’s unique offerings are tours that help you explore the  Armenia Transcaucasian Trail and  Georgian Transcaucasian Trail  in the Caucasus Mountains. World Expeditions is one of the first operators to offer the option to trek selected sections of the long-distance Transcaucasian Trail in both countries, and you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking vistas and cultural sites along the way.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours ands Trekking Tours with World Expeditions

• Average guided tour group size:  8 to 10 people (maximum of 16).
• Price range:  Upscale, price varies greatly (World Expeditions offers hundreds of itineraries ranging from a few of days to 150 days). 
• What’s included:  Services of an expert local guide, accommodations, private transportation, most meals, sightseeing and national park fees.
• What’s not included:  International flights, alcoholic beverages, tips and gratuities, and travel insurance.
• Primary audience:  Active travelers ages 40 to 65 and older.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

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Age Range:  50+

Average Tour Price:    $2,000-$4,000

Average Tour Duration:  8-13 days

Group size:  Small groups for immersive experiences

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Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her hus...

We just completed the biking/hiking trip in Maine

We just completed the biking/hiking trip in Maine. Our trip leaders Liz, Mariah, and Josh provided exceptional service for us. They were well versed on the histor...

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My whole life is changed because of this experience

My whole life is changed because of this experience. I've just been home for an hour or so, and have already emailed everyone I know to tell them to get on the Backr...

insanely good

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This has been a wonderful, memorable experience

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Back-roads quick facts.

Age Range: 50+

Average Tour Price:   $2,000-$4,000

Average Tour Duration: 8-13 days

Group size: Small groups for immersive experiences

Travel Style : Focused on cultural immersion and sightseeing

Back-Roads Touring, rebranded as Blue-Roads in November 2018 for the North American market. They are dedicated to providing off the beaten path experiences for true cultural immersion .

What Makes Back-Roads (Blue-Roads) Stand Out?

• Slow travel
• Small group tours
• Expert guides

Blue-Roads strives to provide meaningful experiences that go deeper than the typical tourist routes to the heart of the destination. Travelers can expect to take their trip at their own pace so they can really see and experience all the destination has to offer. You’ll truly get the opportunity to talk with locals, taste traditional food and see the culture from an immersed point of view.

Group sizes stay small , no more than 18 travelers. These smaller groups allow for travelers to go on the paths less taken and have truly authentic experiences. Each group is led by a guide who has extensive local knowledge and connections. Touring with them is like visiting a good friend who can’t wait to show you the best hidden gems and introduce you to their culture and history .

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Back-Roads?

• Cultural enthusiasts
• History buffs

Back-Roads travelers are passionate about experiencing new and exciting cultures while they travel. These travelers want to feed their curiosity of a destination by going to places less traveled, talking with locals and trying new things. Learn traditions of the local people, hear stories, learn recipes and make lifelong memories.

Traveling with Back-Roads includes a lot of sightseeing. Travelers who enjoy seeing temples, historical buildings as well as iconic natural landmarks . You don’t mind riding in a car to get to each new destination because sightseeing and learning insider knowledge is what you love to do.

The age range often skews a bit older - catering to active and adventurous 50+ travelers eager for a relaxing yet invigorating trip. However travelers anywhere from the mid 30s and above will enjoy traveling with them. Especially if you’re the type of traveler for whom the more party-focused companies that serve the 18-30 range are not appealing.

Top Destinations

Back-Roads offers itineraries around the world, though they are especially well known for UK and Europe travel . You can find trips throughout the UK, Ireland , Europe - including the Nordic and Baltic countries . They also provide Asia tours , primarily in the southeast to Thailand , Vietnam , and Cambodia .

Back-Roads Travel Style

Tours take the form of small groups , and the activities range from easy walks or hikes to visits to cultural and historical sites . They offer a few broad themes, such as battlefield tours, culinary tours , sailing tours, history tours, and nature tours . 

Accommodations with Back-Roads are handpicked and generally in local and traditional hotels or guest houses. These usually have stairs, and are sometimes old buildings - you may encounter funky showers and not have the luxury of an elevator. They advise that you should be able to carry your luggage up and down flights of stairs. 

Back-Roads is perfect for you if you don’t mind forgoing a few luxuries if it means having more character and local charm to your accommodations.

When commuting from place to place, travelers have multiple options. They can travel in their own vehicle or ride in a Back-Road’s luxury mini-coach, yacht, barge, train, gulet boat or internal flight.

Why Back-Roads?

The small group tour experience is at its best with companies like Back-Roads. They provide top notch customer service and guides, dedicated to showing you the best of what a country has to offer. For travelers who want a chance to experience a new place through local eyes, as well as learn the history and enjoy good food and company - within a wide age range - Back-Roads is a great choice.

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About the company.

Discover the world of active vacations with Backroads. Backroads travel offers engaging trips from bike tours, walking tours and the best family vacations along the back roads. Find the perfect cycling holiday or hiking vacation at Backroads.com. Our Backroads tours range from Grand Canyon hiking to bike trips like Italy cycling trips to multisport vacations like our Costa Rica tours. Enjoy cultural exploration tours, adventures tours and family travel. Singles travel, solo trips and custom trips also available.

With an average tenure of 15 years, our trip designers have the ideal balance of passion, intuition and high-level expertise to create truly remarkable experiences that provide an overall sense of journey while leaving you free to add your own unique imprint. During the hundreds of behind-the-scenes hours that go into crafting each itinerary, we find the right blend of activities to showcase the best of a region, creating a rich tapestry that you can explore as fully as you wish.

Having all been Trip Leaders, they've seen firsthand what guests find most meaningful. Tom Hale works closely with each trip designer, scrutinizing the details to ensure each Backroads experience meets our gold standard for trip design.

A travel experience is not like purchasing a new bike—you can't give it a test ride. You have to be able to trust what the people providing that experience tell you. Unfortunately, we've seen too many examples of companies quietly subcontracting all aspects of their trips to others and seriously limiting the amount of control they have over trip quality.

Backroads Trips & Specials

Amalfi Coast Walking & Hiking Tour

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Iceland Multisport Tour

Easygoing Walking Tour Brittany & Normandy

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Quebec Walking & Hiking Tour

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Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

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We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

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2024 : Jun-Sep 2025 : Jun-Sep

Idyllic Quebec City & Historic French Canada

Immerse yourself in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, an enchanting landscape of lush forests and rolling hills along with fjords, headlands and bays. It’s here that the grand resort tradition of villégiature was born. Get to know quaint villages that have inspired artists for generations and savor the innovative farm-to-table cuisine that has redefined the area.

• Witness the old-world charm and European roots of Quebec City as you stroll down its cobblestone streets
• Scout for the elusive beluga whale and other marine mammals in the krill-rich waters of the St. Lawrence River
• Hike within the wondrous Charlevoix Crater, which spans 34 miles in diameter and was formed by a stray meteorite, and learn about the historic event that shaped the region
• Taste the agricultural bounty that fuels Charlevoix’s emerging farm-to-table movement

Start/End Quebec City

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). Another option is to fly into Montreal (YUL) and travel to and from Quebec City by train, bus or rental car.

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Sense the joie de vivre as we meet in historic Quebec City, then set our course for Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Reserve, where the plains and the mountains meet • Hit your stride as we follow trails and boardwalks through a landscape of coastal marshes and grasslands • Climb to stunning views of the St. Lawrence River • Climb aboard a private zodiac with a naturalist on an exciting whale-watching excursion • Get acquainted with boreal forest trails and arctic and alpine tundra along the winding Colline de L'Anse à la Barque Trail • Climb to the crest of a hill for views of Saguenay Fjord • Feel like royalty as you settle in at our historic French-style castle hotel.

Nestled majestically between sea and mountains, this "Castle on the Cliff" combines quiet countryside charm with five-star elegance. (pool, spa)

Find inspiration in Baie-St-Paul, the cultural and artistic hub of Charlevoix, where galleries, artists’ studios and boutiques line the narrow streets • Journey along the St. Lawrence Route, a scenic byway considered one of the most picturesque stretches of road in Quebec • Learn how the landscape of Charlevoix was shaped millions of years ago by a chance encounter with a rogue meteorite • At Parc des Grands Jardins, climb a beautifully maintained trail through forests of conifer and yellow birch to Lac Georges • Enjoy stunning views before continuing through a forest thick with evergreens to Mont du Lac des Cygnes • Delight in our stay at a modern and unique hotel envisioned by the co-founder of Cirque du Soleil.

Situated in the heart of Baie-Saint-Paul, the jewel of Charlevoix, this modern hotel features an eco-friendly design and décor that pays tribute to the surrounding landscape and the region's cultural heritage. (pool, spa)

Journey to the urban energy of Quebec City, so named for the Algonquin word kébec meaning “where the river narrows” • On a dynamic guided walking tour, learn historical highlights of the only North American walled city north of Mexico.

For more than a century, this luxurious landmark hotel's majestic setting, opulent lobby and magnificent common rooms have preserved the elegance and glamour of a bygone era. (pool)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

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What's Included

• All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

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We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

To access the very best hiking routes, we'll often start and end our routes with strategic shuttles via bus, van, boat or train. Expect shuttle times of 1–2 hours most days.

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The Best Walking Tours in Bologna

Located in Northern Italy, Bologna is considered one of the food capitals of Italy . And given Italy’s culinary reputation, that must be saying something.

Food is what draws most visitors here ( it’s what drew me there ). I had heard it’s the place for foodies in Italy and I was not disappointed.

Unsurprisingly, there are lots of amazing food tours here that allow you to eat your way around town while learning about the region’s traditional cuisine. There are also wine tours galore plus plenty of history-oriented tours to ensure you learn about this food-centric city’s past.

In short, Bologna is the perfect place to take a walking tour. And, since I love walking tours of all kind, I took a bunch while I was in town. Some were great, some were ok, some where terrible . Here’s the best walking tours I took in Bologna to help you plan your visit:

Best Overall Tour

Take Walks is my go-to tour company in Italy, offering access to places that no other gets and featuring incredibly knowledgeable guides. I always have fun and learn a lot on these tours. I can’t recommend them enough.

Their Tastes & Traditions tour lasts 3.5 hours and includes nine mouth-watering offerings (plus coffee and wine). You’ll get to visit markets, sample artisan fare, and learn all about traditional cuisine. If you only do one tour here, make it this one.

Best Free Tour

Free Walking Tour Bologna

Offered daily, this is the best (and most popular) free tour in town and a good introduction to Bologna. It lasts two hours and covers all the highlights, including Piazza Nettuno, the Jewish Ghetto, Piazza Maggiore, and more. It’s informative without being boring and perfect primer for first-time visitors. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

While those are my favorite paid and free tour operators in town, Bologna as a lot more to offer walking tour companies. Here are three other companies I like a lot:

1. Do Eat Better

If you’ve still got an appetite, join Do Eat Better’s Traditional Food Tour . Led by an expert local guide, this 3.5-hour tour makes stops at four hand-picked eateries, where you can try fresh pasta, artisanal ice cream, locally sourced meats, and more (you’ll definitely leave full). I especially like that you not only get to try some amazing traditional food but get off the tourist trail and beat the crowds. It’s a must-do tour for foodies.

Tours start at 90 EUR.

Book here!  

2. Bologna Wine

If you’re like me and love vino, you’re going to want to book this guided wine tour . It’s led by a sommelier and features a wide variety of wines from around Bologna. You’ll visit lesser-known spots, try some unique vintages, and develop a deeper appreciation for the region’s wines. You’ll also get to stop at the city’s oldest tavern, which I think is really neat. Tours last 2-3 hours (depending on which you book) and include 2-5 glasses of wine (again, depending on the tour). The guides really know their stuff, so you’ll learn a ton on this tour.

Tours start at 69 EUR.

3. Travelhoo

To burn off all the amazing food you’ve been enjoying, take a guided bike tour with Travelhoo. Over the course of 2.5 hours, you’ll learn about Bologna’s long history and visit its main sights, such as Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, and the Neptune Fountain. It’s a solid introduction to the city and how it came to be the food and wine hub that it is today.

While this is an active tour, the guide leads you at a leisurely pace, so you don’t need to be super fit to enjoy it.

Tours start at 75 EUR.

Bologna may not get the attention that Rome or Venice do, but when it comes to food, it holds its own. Take one of the walking tours above and learn about its history and culture and feast on the amazing eats that have put the city on the map for centuries!

And while these are my favourite tours in the city, the website GetYourGuide has lots more options so check them out if you’re looking for additional tours!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Want to bike L.A.’s coast? Try these six must-see stops

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Few experiences exemplify California living more than a bike ride on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail . Also known as the Strand, the 22-mile oceanfront path between Pacific Palisades and Torrance winds past five piers, two marinas, volleyball games, hang gliders, street performers and skate parks. Much of it is accompanied by views of the Pacific Ocean and Southern California’s famously wide beaches.

I started biking the Strand more than 20 years ago when I lived an easy ride away from it in Marina del Rey. The more I traverse it (now with my husband and kids), the more I realize that it’s not just an extraordinarily scenic exercise path. It boasts historic landmarks, old-growth trees and native plants. It’s also home to many delicious restaurants and food stands that go beyond typical boardwalk fare.

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Now that temperatures are finally rising, it’s a perfect time to take advantage of one of our most prized assets: the beach. Whether you cover the whole bike path in either direction or stick with a section closest to home, here are six easy-to-overlook spots that are worth a stop. Each one celebrates L.A.’s signature coastal scene in its own way.

The Original Muscle Beach It’s easy to confuse this sprawling outdoor gym with the smaller membership-based weightlifting one in Venice. Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach was a top fitness spot from 1938 until 1958, when out-of-control crowds and onlookers led the city to shut it down. It was restored in 1999, and it’s now filled with kids and adults enjoying its swing sets, rings and ropes course and parallel bars. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the action of the Santa Monica Pier from a distance.

The Venice Canals Bikes aren’t allowed on the canal paths, but you can lock up your wheels and take a walking tour of the miniature Italy-inspired community built by Abbott Kinney in 1905. It’s a surprisingly peaceful experience right off a busy stretch of the trail that parallels Washington Boulevard. The lively patio at nearby Baja Cantina makes a nice pit stop for weekday happy-hour deals from 3 to 6 p.m., including $10 margaritas and $4.50 birria tacos.

Oxford Basin Nature Loop In 2016, a contaminated flood control basin in Marina del Rey was turned into a park filled with native plants and trees. The Strand winds right through this shady oasis with benches and birdwatching opportunities. Just south of the park is a sleek new shopping center called the Boardwalk, with tiered outdoor seating areas and primo daytime views of the small-craft harbor.

Bruce’s Beach Before enjoying the outstanding views of this Manhattan Beach park, learn about its incredible history as a popular resort catering to Black families in the 1900s. The land below the park, where the Los Angeles County Lifeguard Training Center now sits, was improperly seized from owners Willa and Charles Bruce and demolished by the town in the 1920s; the county-owned portion of the land was eventually returned to the Bruce family’s descendants, who sold it back to the county in 2023.

Its grassy hillsides sit just above the Strand, featuring basketball hoops, shade trees and benches perfectly positioned for a reflective moment by the ocean.

Hermosa Beach Pier This is one of the more congested areas of the Strand, and you will be required to walk your bike through it on peak summer days. But if you time it right, you can snag a bench on the pier and watch early morning surfers (with coffee in hand, it makes a soothing start to the day.) Or stroll it as the sun sets and fishermen cast their lines for corbina and mackerel. You may recognize it as the setting in “La La Land” where Ryan Gosling sings and dances to “City of Stars.”

Moonstone Park Head west at King Harbor on Marina Way from the Strand and follow it to the end. There, you’ll find Moonstone Park, which is little more than a patch of grass and a picnic table, but a rarely crowded one with waterfront views. Pick up a burger with griddled onions ($10) at Proudly Serving in southern Hermosa Beach or a swordfish sandwich ($15) from Captain Kidd’s and enjoy it while watching sea lions and stand-up paddle boarders. If you happen to be here on a Thursday morning, the farmers market at nearby Veterans Park is also a worthy stop for its ocean views and wide selection of prepared foods and produce.

Before setting off on the bike trail, make sure you’re aware of state and local biking laws. All riders under age 18 are required to wear helmets. In Hermosa Beach, e-bikes must be pedaled manually, and there’s a speed limit of eight miles per hour. In Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach, cyclists are required to walk their bikes in busy areas near the piers.

Need to rent a bike? Perry’s has nine Strand locations between Santa Monica and Venice ($14 an hour; $45 a day). In Hermosa Beach, Hermosa Cyclery near Pier Plaza rents cruisers for $12 an hour or $35 a day and has three free air stations.

3 things to do

1. See Shakespeare under the stars in Topanga Canyon Theatricum Botanicum, the open-air theater founded by Will Geer in the 1970s, is kicking off its repertory season with “The Winter’s Tale” on Saturday and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” on Sunday. Other shows of the season, which runs through October 20, include “Wendy’s Peter Pan,” “Tartuffe: Born Again” and “The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote.” Guests are welcome to come early and enjoy a picnic in the garden, which features specimens of plants and flowers referenced in the Bard’s works. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatricum.com .

2. Explore wetlands in Long Beach Long Beach Utilities is partnering with Friends of the L.A. River and other community and environmental groups to host an outdoor educational event Saturday in one of the city’s newest parks. Activities include making seed balls, painting terra cotta pots, live music, free milkweed giveaways and tours of the park’s freshwater wetlands and wildlife habitats. It’s free and runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information is available at www.folar.org .

3. Take a hike along the Arroyo Seco in Pasadena Join the Sierra Club on an easy evening hike along the southern section of the Arroyo Seco trail and learn about its important place in the natural and Indigenous history of Pasadena. The three-mile hike begins at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday by San Pasqual Stables in South Pasadena and ends around 9 p.m. Dogs are not allowed on this hike. For more details and to sign up, visit angeles.sierraclub.org .

The must-read

The Sutter Buttes are a central core of volcanic domes sheltering an oasis of verdant hills and wildlife about 60 miles north of Sacramento. I had never heard of them until reading The Times article by Jessica Garrison about the bitter, decades-long debate over public access to them. California bought about 1,800 acres on the northern side of the buttes and declared them a state park in 2005. But because all the roads leading to the park are privately owned, Garrison reports, there’s no way for the public to access the state-owned land. The impasse is going on its 20th year. Whatever happens, everyone seems to agree that the Sutter Buttes encompass “some of the most magical and otherworldly terrain in California.”

Happy adventuring,

Abalone Cove in Palos Verdes is home to the black sea hare, a slug that grows from microscopic at birth to the size of a basketball. I learned this and other fascinating facts about the California coast while listening to KCRW’s Madeleine Brand interview marine biologist and Cal State L.A. professor Patrick Krug. His new book, “Between the Tides in California: Exploring Beaches and Tidepools,” explains why creatures such as the black sea hare live where they do and offers tips on how to spot them.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

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We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Laura Randall is a Los Angeles-based writer and author of several Southern California hiking guides. She has written about hiking and travel for a variety of newspapers and magazines and is the author of “60 Hikes 60 Miles: Los Angeles” and the Wilderness Press guide to the Pacific Crest Trail in Southern California. When she’s not hiking, she can usually be found reading L.A. noir novels at the beach or being walked by a headstrong golden retriever named Boris.

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The ultimate tuscan road trip for wine lovers.

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Green countryside near the medieval town of Volterra (province of Pisa) Tuscany

Pisa attracts more than five million tourists yearly to see its world-famous Leaning Tower. But few realize this proverbial “half-day city” is the gateway to Terre di Pisa, one of Italy's newest and most exciting DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) wine appellations.

This up-and-coming wine region offers an unforgettable experience for wine lovers who want to travel slowly and escape the crowds pervasive in many Italian cities.

Imagine rolling Tuscan hills, vineyards stretching toward the horizon, and passionate winemakers eager to share their craft and explain how their wines are shaped by the contours of the land and centuries of history.

Throughout the province, wine lovers can sip regional wines and savor local food products and dishes, creating a truly Tuscan culinary adventure.

The Wines Of Terre di Pisa: A World of Varietals Awaits

Logo of Terre di Pisa

The Terre di Pisa DOC appellation was established in 2011, attesting to the unique character of the wines.

In 2018, 10 producers formed the Terre di Pisa Wine Consortium to raise awareness and promote the quality of these regional wines; the number has now grown to 19 in 2024.

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Terre di Pisa wines offer a symphony of flavors. The carefully controlled Terre di Pisa DOC appellation includes Terre di Pisa Bianco, Terre di Pisa Vermentino, Terre di Pisa Rosato, Terre di Pisa Rosso, and Terre di Pisa Sangiovese.

Visitors can explore reds like Sangiovese, the king grape of the region, or whites like Vermentino. They can also indulge in rosės and sparkling wines.

Most high-quality wines with the Terre di Pisa DOC label are reds with at least 95% Sangiovese grapes. Winemakers rely on these and other indigenous grapes to produce interesting blends with international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

This unique hyper-local terroir is blessed with sandy soil rich in limestone and clay. Millions of years ago, the land was part of the ocean, so seeing whole seashells as you walk among the vineyards is common. Some winemakers even find marine fossils under the soil dating back to this heritage.

The hills and valleys of Terre di Pisa are conducive to viniculture because of the area’s temperate climate, which has warm days, cool nights, moderate rainfall, and ocean breezes from the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea year-round. The wines offer minerality and salinity.

Beyond the Leaning Tower: Getting There and Where To Stay

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Pisa is both the name of this province and its better-known capital city. While wine (along with the tilted tower) takes center stage, Terre di Pisa offers many diverse experiences.

Tourists can meander the two-lane roads traversing the countryside by car and discover this less-traveled province’s cultural, historical, and epicurean riches.

Terre di Pisa wineries are committed to sustainable practices, ensuring the land thrives for future generations. So, it’s not surprising that their farm stays offer a chance to unplug, reconnect with nature, and experience the simple pleasures of rural life.

Instead of large cookie-cutter hotels, many wineries offer rustic Tuscan farm-like accommodations. These small agriturismos can serve as a base for visiting some of the more than 40 wineries in the region or excursions to interesting towns and small villages nearby.

San Miniato, perched on three small hills, is best known for its white truffles, celebrated at a National White Truffle Festival held each November. Pontedera is the birthplace of the iconic Vespa motor scooter and the locale of its historic Piaggio factory and museum. The colorful art city of Peccioli was named the most beautiful village ( borgo) in Italy in 2024.

A few more of the many places worthy of visits include the architecturally stunning landscape of Teatro del Silenzio in Lajatico, the hometown of tenor Andrea Bocelli; the Roman Theater and Baths in Volterra; and the sandy beaches of Marina di Pisa.

10 Terre di Pisa Wineries That Host Guests

Vineyards of Merlot, Cabernet, and Sangiovese on the Pisan hills of Peccioli produce red, white, and ... [+] rosé wines.

Rural accommodations like those in the province of Pisa are generally restored rather than remodeled to preserve their Tuscan history and ambiance.

Coupled with direct sales from their wine shops, farm stays help provide a reliable income stream when nature compromises crops and creates unique opportunities for guests.

Here is a sampling of some Terre di Pisa wineries that host guests. In addition to finding a sense of place on-site, wine tourists typically visit other wineries and interesting towns nearby.

Badia di Morrona

The 600-acre Badia di Morrona estate, located amidst sloping hills between Terricciola and Casciana Terme, is one of the oldest wineries in Tuscany. It offers tours, tastings of its wines and EVO olive oil (with light lunch), and visits to its historic Benedictine abbey, the summer residence of the Bishops of Volterra in the late 15th century.

Each of six fully-equipped restored farmhouses, divided into villas and apartments, has swimming pools and is surrounded by greenery.

Castelvecchio Socita’Agricola

Located in the town of Terricciola in the Pisan hills, the family-run Castelvecchio Societa’Agricola has 10 hectares of vineyards managed by women. The winery offers cellar visits and tastings paired with local cold cuts, cheeses, bruschetta, and other seasonal products, as well as lunch or dinner of local Tuscan cuisine.

Visitors can arrange stays in either a restored barn or a portion of the original farmhouse restored by the family that offers views of the hills.

Fattoria Varramista

The heart of the 400-acre Fattoria di Varramista in Montopoli is an ancient villa (purchased by the Piaggio-Agnelli family in 1953) once the residence of Enrico Piaggio, famous for the Vespa brand. Varramista offers tours of the villa, the Italian garden, the cellars and vineyards, and tastings of the estate’s wine and EVO olive oil accompanied by Tuscan products.

Three farmhouses on the estate have private pools surrounded by olive groves; another is in the park near the manor. Guests at these residences can also hire mountain bikes, participate in cooking classes, and hire private chefs and/or drivers.

Villa Cosmiana

Sited on a gentle hill in Peccioli, this 17th-century, neoclassical Villa Cosmiana became part of the Antinori family estate in 1783. Abandoned in 1933, its new owners recently meticulously restored it to preserve its rich historical and artistic legacy. An English park with Italianate gardens surrounds the villa, along with 15 vineyards on 11 hectares. Wine tastings begin with a tour of the villa and its winemaking facilities before a light lunch.

The estate has three suites in the villa and four in the Fattoria (farm) that can be booked with a tasting dinner or discovery day.

Villa Saletta

Although wine production on this 1,760-acre working estate can be traced back to 980 AD, Villa Saletta is a modern, boutique winery. Located in a medieval village with ancient farmhouses in Palaia, the family owners lovingly restored a property that had fallen into ruin. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, visits to the winery and cantina, or a guided tour of the magnificent borgo.

Three villas have been renovated using traditional techniques, materials from the region, and modern luxury. The largest can accommodate up to 14 guests.

Pieve de’ Pitti

Located in the hills of Terricola, Pieve de’ Pitti is named after the Florentine Pitti family, which owned the estate until the end of the 17th century. The winery offers tours of the cellar and vineyards, wine tasting, and creative cooking courses.

Guests can stay in one of the five rooms of the Villa (a single large farmhouse surrounded by vineyards) or in one of three self-catering apartments in the Il Poggetto country house. The property also hosts weddings and special occasion parties.

Tenuta di Ghizzano

Tenuta di Ghizzano is an organic and biodynamic farm of 280 hectares, 18 of which are vineyards. The winery is located in the town of Ghizzano, a small frazione of Peccioli with a population of just over 300 people. The estate has vineyards, olive trees, cereal crops, woods, and poplar groves and hosts a range of “experiences,” from tastings to tours to personalized visits.

The two-story Villa Ginevra, a contemporary farmhouse immersed in the countryside, is a beautifully appointed four-bedroom residence filled with art and antiques. It offers a balcony overlooking the scenic hills.

Le Palaie Farm is located on a 150-hectare estate in Peccioli surrounding a 17th-century manor house. In addition to olive groves, arable land has been set aside to preserve the fauna and insects that help repopulate the environment. The winery also hosts special events, including weddings, tastings, and cellar visits.

The recently renovated manor house has seven apartments of different sizes and accommodations in another four independent houses.

Fattoria di Fibbiano

Fattoria Fibbiano is located in Terricola between the hills of Pisa and Volterra. The Cantoni family purchased the farm in 1997. The house's foundation was built in 1707 and is surrounded by vineyards, some over 100 years old. The property is home to three generations of this family. In addition to tastings, tours of the vineyards, picnics, Vespa adventures, and cooking lessons, guests learn about the architectural features of the historic farm. During the harvest, guests can experience olive and grape picking.

Apartments are located in the same building where the family lives. A communal vaulted living room and beautiful pool with panoramic views bring people together for conversation.

Podere la Chiesa

Podere La Chiesa is an ultra-contemporary winery that might be mistaken for an art museum. Located in Terricciola, the winery is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by the Tuscan countryside. The one million-year-old soil is rich in limestone, sand, and clay. The winery offers guided tours and tastings. In September, guests can participate in the 50-year-old Grape and Wine Festival held in Terricciola.

The winery is close to the little town of Casanova, which has a small BnB and Michelin-starred restaurant.

Don’t Forget the Leaning Tower

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in Piazza dei Miracoli, along with the Cathedral and ... [+] Baptistery.

Visitors to Terre di Pisa will be treated to an unforgettable experience that blends rolling hills with exceptional wines and warm hospitality.

But a half-day dedicated to the iconic Leaning Tower and the Piazza dei Miracoli is a must for any visitor.

Getting There

Getting to Terre di Pisa is convenient. International and domestic travelers can arrive through Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport, named after the famous scientist born in Pisa).

Visitors also can arrive at the Pisa Centrale station from Florence via high-speed train in about 45 minutes. Auto rentals are available both at the airport and train station.

For more information:

• Terre di Pisa Tourism
• Consorzio Vini Terre de Pisa
• The Pisan Hills Wine Route

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