Most Inspirational Moment
Walking through the beautiful, peaceful countryside to Greve on a bright sunny autumn day , with the vine leaves just turning and the wonderful light . Just as I imagined Tuscany to be .The 'local' market was something of a disapointment but watching the post -market clear- up (which revealed a very pretty square) was revelatory (you had to be there!). Apparently the wine- tasting in Greve was quite an experience (we stuck to a very long lunch......).San Gimignano was also truly lovely .Local guide gave us a good sense of its history and importance . Also had three great meals there.
Thoughts on Group Leader
He had apparently not done this trip before . Our visits to Siena and Volterra would have been much enhanced by having a local/experienced guide. We had one in San Gimignano on our first day, as he was indisposed, and it really made a difference. Any group really interested in the history/culture (as well as the wine/walking) might be advised to club together to engage a local guide in these circumstances .
Advice for Potential Travellers
If travelling in mid- Oct be prepared for the mornings and evenings to be quite cold . The wind at (hill- top) Volterra was also cutting . I had taken a fleece but I could have done with more long trousers. No problem with mosquitos or other insects, to my relief.