Hike & Wine Tour

Explore Tuscany’s Countryside with a Guided Hike and Wine Tasting

The Hike & Wine Tour in Florence offers a charming way to experience Tuscany’s natural beauty and authentic flavors in just around 3 hours. Priced at $137.13 per person, this tour combines an active outdoor walk through the Mugello hills with visits to a family-run organic estate. The tour is designed for those who want a balanced mix of nature, local history, and delicious food and drinks.

A key strength of this experience is its small group size, capped at 15 travelers, which ensures personalized attention from the professional guide licensed by the Tuscany Region. This tour is perfect for visitors seeking an engaging, authentic day outside Florence, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity. While it does not include hotel pickup, its meeting point at Piazza Giotto makes it accessible for most travelers.

Key Points

• Guided hike through vineyards and olive groves near Florence in the Mugello area
• Wine and olive oil tastings at a family-run estate
• Savor a light Tuscan lunch featuring local specialties
• Led by a licensed professional guide who shares insights about local traditions and viticulture
• Tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with a maximum of 15 guests
• Does not include hotel pickup, meeting at Piazza Giotto, Vicchio

Starting Point in Vicchio for an Authentic Tuscany Arrival

The tour begins at Piazza Giotto in Vicchio, a small village of medieval origin at the foot of the Tuscan Apennines. The location offers a scenic entry point into the region’s countryside. After a brief walk through the charming streets, the group heads out to the hills for the hike.

The starting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for visitors coming from Florence or nearby towns. The village’s historic atmosphere adds an extra layer of charm to the experience right from the start.

Scenic Hike Through Mugello’s Vineyards and Olive Groves

The core of the tour involves active hiking along secret trails through the Mugello hills, which are known for their lush vineyards and olive groves. The paths are set in a picturesque landscape that showcases Tuscany’s natural beauty. While the hike is described as strenuous, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

As you walk, the guide shares stories about the land, traditional farming practices, and the history of the local area. The terrain offers gentle inclines and scenic viewpoints, making it a rewarding walk for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to escape the city bustle.

Visit to a Family-Run Organic Estate and Winery

The highlight for many is the visit to a small, family-operated estate that practices organic farming. Here, the tour includes wine and extra-virgin olive oil tastings, showcasing products made on-site. The estate’s setting provides a authentic backdrop for appreciating Tuscany’s winemaking traditions.

Guests enjoy sampling locally produced wines that are praised for their quality, along with incredible olive oil. The guide explains the production process and the estate’s commitment to organic practices, adding educational value to the tasting experience.

Tasting Local Wines and Olive Oil

The wine tasting features three different Chianti wines from the estate, offering a taste of Tuscany’s famous varietals. The olive oil tasting allows visitors to appreciate the nuances of extra-virgin oils crafted on the farm. These tastings are complemented by local charcuterie and cheeses, providing a true taste of Tuscan cuisine.

Guests often comment that the quality of the wine and olive oil surpasses expectations, making this part of the tour a highlight. The guide’s stories about the vineyard’s history and the family’s traditions deepen the appreciation of each sip and bite.

Enjoy a Light Tuscan Lunch with Local Flavors

After the tastings, the tour concludes with a light Tuscany-style lunch featuring local specialties. The meal is designed to be satisfying but not heavy, allowing time to enjoy the scenic surroundings. The inclusion of snacks and alcoholic beverages enhances the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

The lunch offers a chance to soak in the countryside views and connect with the local way of life. Vegetarian options are available if specified at booking, ensuring dietary needs are accommodated.

The Expertise and Warmth of the Guide

Throughout the experience, the licensed guide — described as professional, friendly, and full of interesting information — leads the group with enthusiasm. The guide’s knowledge about vineyards, wine production, and local traditions enriches the tour, making it engaging without feeling rushed.

Guests appreciate the guide’s storytelling style, which blends education with personal anecdotes. The small group size fosters a more intimate learning environment, allowing questions and conversations to flourish.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour requires moderate physical fitness and is designed for small groups of up to 15 people. It does not include hotel pickup, but the meeting point at Piazza Giotto is accessible via public transportation. The tour’s duration of 3 hours is ideal for a half-day activity, fitting well into a day exploring Florence or surrounding areas.

A mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and confirmation is received immediately. The tour is available year-round, with a full refund available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance due to weather or other reasons.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

What makes this Hike & Wine Tour stand out is its authentic focus on local family-run estates and the combination of active outdoor adventure with genuine tastings. Unlike larger, more commercial options, this experience provides a personalized look at Tuscany’s agriculture and winemaking.

The scenic trails and the quality of products offered, paired with the warm, knowledgeable guide, create an experience that feels both enriching and relaxing. The light Tuscan lunch and the small group setting add to the sense of intimacy and authenticity.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour appeals to active travelers who enjoy moderate hiking and want to learn about Tuscany’s wine and olive oil production firsthand. It suits those interested in local traditions and small-scale farming, as well as anyone eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots around Florence.

While the hike is strenuous at times, the payoff is a deeper connection to the Tuscan landscape, culture, and cuisine. It’s ideal for adventurous food and wine lovers who appreciate engaging guides and authentic experiences.

Final Thoughts on the Hike & Wine Tour in Florence

The Hike & Wine Tour offers an authentic taste of Tuscany in a compact, well-organized package. Its blend of scenic outdoor walking, expert tastings, and a light lunch makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a meaningful half-day excursion.

The small group size and professional guidance ensure a comfortable and informative experience. The tour’s focus on local, organic products and cultural storytelling deeply enriches the visit.

While it requires moderate physical effort, the beautiful scenery and high-quality tastings make the journey rewarding. This tour is best suited for active travelers or wine enthusiasts seeking a genuine taste of Tuscany’s countryside near Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup is not included. The meeting point at Piazza Giotto in Vicchio is accessible via public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is the physical difficulty level?
The hike involves moderate physical effort and is considered strenuous, suitable for those with moderate fitness.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be provided if advised at the time of booking.

What products are tasted during the estate visit?
Guests sample local wines (including three Chianti varieties) and extra-virgin olive oil, along with some local charcuterie and cheeses.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates year-round, weather permitting.

What is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible more than 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Who leads the tour?
A professional guide licensed by the Tuscany Region leads the experience, sharing detailed stories and insights.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s physical nature and duration suggest it’s better suited for adults or older children comfortable with moderate hiking.

Where does the tour end?
The activity concludes back at the meeting point in Vicchio.