Travel

Item Description

Wine and Dine in Cortona, Tuscany, Italy (Europe) for Six Days & Five Nights in a Two-Bedroom Loft Apartment for Four, Including a Cooking Class and Lunch in a Winery (Land Only)

Escape to Cortona, one of Tuscany's oldest hill towns, where strolls down the narrow medieval streets reward you with glimpses of impressive churches and incredible views of the countryside. With accommodations in one of three contemporary private apartments, you're perfectly poised to explore the romance of the Italian countryside - with its breathtaking scenery, historic cities, medieval art, impeccable wines, and divine cuisine, not to mention enviable proximity to Florence and Rome! The region is a true feast for your senses and speaking of feasts, you'll participate in a cooking class, and savor lunch in a winery after a tour!

Tuscany is possibly the greatest repository of art in the world, from extraordinary paintings and sculptures to frescoes and architectural masterpieces. Cortona, with its medieval walls still intact, sits in a strategic position overlooking the valley that leads south into Umbria and towards Rome. Spend some time exploring the landmarks of this historic city, such as the Piazza della Republica, the 13th-century town hall and clock tower that is now one of Cortona's main plazas, or the Duomo, the Renaissance cathedral featuring an 11th-century facade and gorgeous 16th and 17th-century paintings inside.

Immerse yourself in the Tuscan lifestyle during your stay in a recently renovated two-bedroom apartment set in the center of Cortona. Enjoy the stylish residences, which feature modern comforts and contemporary flair, from open sitting areas to fully-equipped kitchens, views to central air-conditioning and heating. Your Tuscan home away from home is in an exceptional location within walking distance from the main squares and attractions, in addition to various restaurants, bars, and shops.

Then it is time to say buon appetito! You will participate in a cooking class at a restaurant just a few steps from your apartment, where you'll learn about the culinary traditions and techniques as two courses are explained and prepared. Afterward, you can feast on the fruits of your labor!

You'll love your tour and lunch at La Braccesca Estate! Just a few miles away from the city of Montepulciano, near the border between Tuscany and neighboring Umbria, La Braccesca Estate is immersed in a pristine environment that is greatly loved and admired by travelers from all over the world. The land owned by La Braccesca is situated in two very close, but entirely different, zones: Montepulciano, the classic and prestigious area of "Vino Nobile", and Cortona, which has made a name for itself in world markets with international grape varieties, specifically syrah. These two different "souls", the essential spirit of the different terroirs, represent La Braccesca's style - a synergy of its professional mastery and its passion for quality. Then dine on a delectable lunch comprised of a Tuscan appetizer, a main course, and dessert, all while tasting complimentary wines.

Your trip for four includes:
6 days/5 nights accommodations at a two-bedroom, two-bath loft apartment
A cooking class and dinner at a local restaurant
A tour of La Braccesca Winery, including lunch and wine tasting
All room-related taxes


Terms and Conditions
Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Passport required for travel outside the U.S. Loft may be substituted with equal or similar accommodations. A minimum 45 day advance reservation is required. Please email us (auction@stmaryhs.org) to find out deadline to travel.

Cancellation prior to arrival will be subject to forfeiture of reservations and funds.