For many of us, Tuscany is the essence of Italy. Over the centuries travellers have come here to visit the cities of Florence, Siena and Arezzo, as well as the charming hill towns of Montalcino and San Gimignano. Our rides take you through the beautiful countryside, with terraced vineyards, cypress avenues and extensive woodland. As riders you are especially privileged, able to ride off the beaten track to explore the world of Dante, Galileo and Leonardo da Vinci. Alternatively forget culture and simply bask in the beauty of it all.

The climate in Tuscany is very mild and the seasons each have their merits. Spring is a delightful time to visit when the trees and flowers are blooming, the air is warm and the nightingales are singing day and night. Autumn brings glorious colours and an increase in activity as the farmers prepare for the olive and grape harvests.

Your base is Rendola, a charming seventeenth century farmhouse with spectacular views and the friendly atmosphere of a family home. The seven comfortable bedrooms are small but pretty and each has its own shower and loo. Most of the food, including the olive oil, is produced on the farm and Jenny's friend Pietro has been cooking for her for many years. His recipes are Tuscan cooking at its best and a book of Pietro's Recipes is available to buy at Rendola.

DISCOVER TUSCANY RIDE
The Discover Tuscany ride is based at the farmhouse. Three half day rides and two whole day rides alternate with a variety of activities: from a lesson in Italian to shopping at the local market, from lunch at a gourmet restaurant to a guided visit of the frescoes of Piero della Francesca.

A TASTE OF TUSCANY
This ride is a four night stay at Rendola with half day and full day rides together with some guided sightseeing. If beginners or novice riders wish to participate in this holiday a special programme will be devised for them, combining lessons with leisurely rides out.