Accommodation:
We stay at the 4 star  Garden Hotel Siena. The hotel is in a quiet location a kilometre outside the fabled town of Siena (with a frequent bus service into the town centre).  Set amid extensive gardens, the hotel is an original 17th century villa that was once home to a noble family. Three modern additions have been added and the rooms are modern and comfortable.  The original villa retains its original elegance with frescoed walls in the salon and reception area. The vine-clad terrace is a lovely spot for breakfast or for a quiet drink. There is a large outdoor swimming pool.

Air conditioned rooms are modern and comfortable with twin or queen beds, TV with satellite channels, minibar, safe, free Wifi, private bathroom with hairdryer.

Eating and Drinking:
Food is important in Italy. Breakfast is a substantial hot and cold buffet featuring a variety of the pastry chef's special home-made cakes and pastries.

Lunches are either picnics or sometimes we are in a village where it is possible to sample local food at a cafe or pizzeria. (lunches not included)

Some nights we dine in the hotel's Limonaia Restaurant or on the terrace (weather permitting) where the menus include traditional Tuscan specialties.  For variety, some nights we have dinner in nearby restaurants. Table wine is included.  One can eat, drink and enjoy... after walking you deserve it and in Italy it is expected.

Vegetarian options are available.

During our walks there are opportunities to stop for a gelato ice-cream. Be sure to try blood orange or lemon-basil flavours.

Most Tuscan towns have opportunities for wine-tasting. Many of the local vine-yards have their products displayed in the shops and in the Medici fortress in Siena you will find the Enoteca where the famous wines of all Italy are on display.