Enter search criteria		Italian Gardens & Villas: Florence & Siena Start Date: September 29, 2010 End Date: October 08, 2010 Trip Status: Open The compellingly beautiful gardens of central Italy have been a source of inspiration for centuries—medieval and Renaissance designs in dark cypress and yew, fragrant herbs, shimmering pools, whimsical grottos, and enchanting sculpture—and the accompanying villas are similarly splendid. Begin with four nights in the treasure-filled city of Florence, where highlights include private visits to La Pietra, once the home and garden of Sir Harold Action, and the Villa Gamberaia, whose gardens were admired by Edith Wharton. Excursions are planned to several beautiful hill towns outside the city, and of course no stay in Florence would be complete without art. At the Uffizi, a special viewing is arranged of the Jacopo Ligozzi drawings. Then admire the lovely landscapes of Val d’Orcia as we travel to Siena, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval towns in all of Italy. During our four-night stay, see a beautiful example of Sienese architecture at the Villa Vicobello, and at La Foce, home of the writer Iris Origo, we are invited for lunch with her daughter Benedetta. A special treat awaits at the Benedictine Abbey of St. Anthimus’s, where we hope to experience ancient Gregorian chants. Grand Hotel, Florence Grand Hotel Continental, Siena Anna Pavord For more information, please contact info@arrangementsabroad.com Cost: $7,495
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