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Explore Extraordinary Tuscany in Cortona, Italy (Europe) for Eight Days & Seven Nights at Either Villa il Nido, Villa Le Corchie, or Villa Bellora for Up to Four People, Including a Cooking Class and Dinner in the Villa, a Wine Tour and a Private Driver (Land Only)

An extraordinary countryside, beautiful art, rolling hills, sensational cuisine, fine wine - yes, we're talking about Tuscany, Italy! Escape to one of three charming Tuscan villas, and immerse yourself in the desirable life of sipping espressos at sidewalk bistros, enjoying aperitifs as you look out over the landscape, and shopping in the open-air markets for fresh produce. The only things that can possibly make this amazing vacation any better are a private driver for the duration of your stay, a cooking class and dinner at your villa, as well as a wine tour - buon appetito!

After a day of exploring the hilly towns of Tuscany, all you'll want to do is unwind in your own spacious villa. Feel the magic of Tuscany during a stay in Villa il Nido, formerly a typical Tuscan farmhouse that has been lovingly restored to showcase its rustic, charming heart alongside modern comfort. Take a dip in the private pool, explore the property's five hectares of olive trees, and savor the spectacular views of the Valdichiana countryside. The old country house known as Villa Le Corchie dates back to the 15th century, and boasts panoramic views of the hills surrounding Cortona. Rosemary, lavender and cypress bushes line the entrance to the charming brick Villa Bellora, located near the oasis-like Lake of Montepulciano. Set on one hectare of lawn-covered land, you can relax and recharge with aperitivos and alfresco meals under the pergola. These villas are the ideal private getaway, immersing you in nature, yet still keeping you within a short distance of the vivacious Tuscan town life and medieval town walls of Cortona, and the beauties of ancient Etruscan History.

Swirl, sniff and sip the wines of Tuscany on a wine tour through the countryside of Montepulciano, including a visit and tastings in two exclusive wineries and free time to explore the medieval town. You can also look forward to a cooking class and dinner in your villa, the perfect opportunity to relish the passion and art behind Italian cuisine.

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. Fra' Angelico lived and worked in Cortona during the late 14th century, and artists Luca Signorelli and Pietro da Cortona were both born within the city's walls. You can now find all three artists' works in the Museo Diocesano. Explore other parts of the countryside with your private driver, who can take you to Siena, San Gimignano, Florence, Assisi, Perugia, Pienza, Montalcino and Montepulciano, just to name a few destinations!

Your trip for four includes:

8 days/7 nights accommodations at Either Villa il Nido, Villa Le Corchie, or Villa Bellora
Daily complimentary breakfast
Daily maid service
A cooking class and dinner in the villa with private chef
(1) Wine tour, including two wineries and lunch
Utilities, midweek and final cleaning
Private driver service
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. Villa may be substituted with equal or similar accommodations. Check in and check out must occur on Saturday. A minimum 45 day advance reservation is required. Please email us at auction@stmaryhs.org to find out deadline to travel.

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