The Palio di Siena

The Palio di Siena is one of Italy’s longest held traditions and a spectacular showcase of Siena’s distinctive and passionate heritage. This exclusive week-long journey centers around the annual festivities of the Palio di Siena to reveal the fairytale romance of Tuscany, from its exquisite food and wine to its centuries-old festivals and pastimes.

Suggested Itinerary-at-a-glance:

• Day 1: Arrive Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (L,D)
• Day 2: Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (B,L,D)
• Day 3: Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (B,L)
• Day 4: Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (B,L,D)
• Day 5: Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (B,L)
• Day 6: Siena / Borgo Santo Pietro (B,L)
• Day 7: Siena / Departure (B)

Itinerary Description:

Your exclusive Tuscany escape will not only lead you through the beautiful sights of Florence and Tuscany, but it will also introduce you to one of the most illustrious festivals and horse races in the country, the Palio di Siena. Held twice a year, on July 2nd and August 16th, the entire Piazza del Campo in Siena is covered in sand to prepare for the race and its various celebratory parades and activities. Before partaking in the festivities of the Palio di Siena, take some time to delight in the Tuscan countryside and its many diversions.

Your residence during your time in Siena is the exclusive Borgo Santo Pietro, a 13th century Tuscan villa lovingly restored into an idyllic country estate. From here, you will be introduced to all of the pleasures of the region, including wine tastings at the infamous Castello Banfi, handmade pasta at Meo Modo, private archery lessons and guided truffle collecting excursions on the estate, and romantic horseback rides through the Tuscan countryside. Wake up each morning with yoga in the cypress-dotted gardens and retreat every afternoon to the 800-year-old spa building for pampering at the hand of expert therapists.

The astonishing art and architecture of the region are also inescapable. Explore some of Italy’s masterpieces on a day trip to the art lover’s paradise of Florence, visiting the Uffizi and Accademia galleries for first-hand encounters with the visionary works of Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli, including the iconic statue of David. You will also have the chance to experience some of the wonders of the Siena city center, such as the beautiful Piccolomini library and the majestic Cathedral of Siena.

Conclude your time in Tuscany with one of the most beautiful festivals in all of Italy, the Palio di Siena. From your private apartment on the Piazza del Campo, witness the historic parade of horses, knights, heralds, musicians, and flag flyers, marvel at the Victory Flag Show presentation of the 17 contradas, and jump at the sound of cannon fire as the horses take off toward victory. The folklore and the passion of the local people will be on full display and there is no better way to soak it all in than to enjoy a wonderful post-race dinner in Siena among locals, celebrating the day’s conviviality among those ingrained in its glory.
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SOURCE:  K&D

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Donna

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