Etruscan New Year
A tour of Etruscan Tuscany with walks, thermal baths, and wine tasting. December 29–January 2, Tuscany, Italy.
Long ago, the Etruscan people came to lands rich in hot springs and fertile soil. The country of this people was called Etruria. Today, these places are known to us as Tuscany—one of Italy’s regions.
Usually, when we think of Tuscany, we talk about winemaking, endless vineyards, beautiful cities, and picturesque parks.
But Tuscany, like all of Italy, holds many surprises hidden from tourists’ eyes. That is exactly where we are going. We will visit little-known towns included on the list of Italy’s most beautiful villages. We will follow scenic trails, enjoying nature and exploring the remains of Etruscan roads and tombs. One trail will lead us to a “ghost town,” while another will take us to a mountain considered a place of power. We will enjoy hot sulfur springs and taste local wine and Italian cuisine.
Itinerary
December 29
In the evening, we arrive at Rome Airport. Overnight near the airport.
December 30
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore the Etruscan civilization.
We hike along the forest trails of the open-air Vie Cave Archaeological Park. The route is 6 kilometers long.
The trail leads us to Pitigliano. This town is known as Little Jerusalem because it was historically home to a large Jewish community. We visit the Jewish Heritage Museum and synagogue and learn about the town’s history.
After lunch, we head to a hotel near the town of Saturnia. This is an agriturismo—a country-style hotel.
After checking in, we go to the Saturnia hot springs. We can swim or simply enjoy the views.
After dark, we stroll through the beautifully illuminated village of Montemerano.
December 31
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on an excursion.
We hike along the forest trails of the open-air Vie Cave Archaeological Park. There will be several short routes, with a total length of 8 kilometers.
We stroll through the beautiful village of Sovana, visit a winery, and taste traditional Tuscan wines.
We admire the view of the village of Sorano.
In the evening, we return to the hotel, where a New Year’s Eve party will be waiting for us.
January 1
After breakfast, we head toward Monte Labbro.
We climb Mount Labbro, which is considered a place of power and a spiritual center of the community of David Lazzaretti.
We enjoy panoramic views and complete a 5-kilometer route, with an elevation gain of 150 meters. We stroll through the charming village of Santa Fiora.
We head to the San Filippo hot springs, where we can enjoy natural hot springs and a walk along the river.
In the evening, we return to the hotel.
January 2
After breakfast, we leave the hotel and head toward Rome.
We walk through the Monterano Nature Reserve, admiring the Diosilla waterfalls and thermal springs. We explore the “ghost town” and an ancient Etruscan road. The route is 5 kilometers long, with an elevation gain of 70 meters.
In the evening, we fly to Tel Aviv.
This trip is suitable for you if:
- you love nature, outdoor walks, and hiking;
- you are interested in exploring places away from tourist routes;
- you are fascinated by the history of ancient civilizations;
- you love outdoor thermal springs.
The trip is for a small group of up to 8 people.
The cost of the trip is €850 per person, based on double occupancy. The supplement for single occupancy is €150. The New Year’s Eve party is paid for separately.
Included:
- 4 nights at a hotel with breakfast;
- transportation throughout the entire itinerary;
- admission tickets along the route;
- a winery tasting.
Not included:
- flights;
- insurance;
- lunches and dinners.
Photos from a previous trip
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