Secret Tuscany Walk

Location: Tuscany, Italy. Holiday type: Independent walking, single centre. Managed locally by hotelier. Activity level: 2 boots Duration: 8 days (7 nights) Hotels: Mid range/good value. Meals: Continental breakfast, 6 picnics and all evening meals. Prices from: Please call. Departs: Saturdays from 5 May '12 to 22 Sep '12   JFMAMJJASOND

Highlights Tucked away in the most northern corner of Tuscany are the beautiful wooded hills of the Alto Mugello where our walking takes place. Staying in a pretty mountaijn villagem, in a tiny 8-room hotel, you'll really get a grass-roots insight into life in the Italian mountains - it's like staying with old friends!

Day-by-day itinerary

Saturday - Arrive in Palazzuolo

You arrive at your hotel, in the heart of the pretty mediaeval village of Palazzuolo, in time for dinner.

Sunday - Monte Prevaglio& Piane Valley 14km/9mi/4.5hr

Start your holiday with a great circular walk direct from the hotel passing the ruined Medici tower to the summit of Monte Prevaligo at 956m. There's a super shaded picnic spot from where you can drink in the tremendous views of valleys and dramatic mountain ridges before a gentle stroll through wild fennel and juniper back down the lovely Piane Valley.

Monday - TheMantigno Valley 17km/10mi/5.5hr or 20km/12mi/6.5hr

You have a choice to make today after walking up the lush valley to the ancient farming hamlet of Mantigno (C13 castle). Either take the lower walk through sunny meadows past atmospheric abandoned farmhouses and old terracing where generations of labourers tilled the soil. Or, if you are feeling more energetic, climb to the ridge of Blacksmith's Mountain for glorious views.

Tuesday - The Traders' Trail 14km/9mi/5hr

A lift to Marradi (15mins) where you pick up the old traders' trail - a route trodden by the likes of Machiavelli and Garibaldi in times gone by. Your initial steady climb is rewarded with glorious views to the north-east up the Lamone valley. After striding crests, your path descends across meadows bright with broom, angelica and wild mint. In the late afternoon, Ercole and Roberta invite you into the kitchen to learn some traditional Tuscan recipes - don't forget your notebook!

Wednesday - Cappella del Grillo 9km/5.5mi/3hr or 13km/8mi/5hr

Today's walk takes you across high meadows - splendid views over Palazzuolo - and on to the strangely named Chapel of the Cricket (Cappella del Grillo). After descending through giant chestnut forests it's back to the hotel for an optional well-being session (jacuzzi, sauna, massages etc).

Thursday - Lozzole& Lamone Valley 12km/7.5mi/3.5hr or 19km/12mi/6hr

All walkers will be taken over the mountain to the abandoned village of Lozzole, renowned in days gone by for silk production. Those choosing the shorter route hop out at Villa Fantino and return via the Strada Maestra. This ancient road from Florence is a lovely balcony walk. The longer route is an exhilarating hike along three ridges with contrasting panoramas, terrains and spectacular views stretching up to 70km in the distance. Tonight you enjoy a tasting of local wines and olive oils.

Friday - Tuscany& Emilia-Romagna 12km/7.5mi/3.5hr

It's downhill nearly all day today as you explore the Senio and Santerno valleys, on the Tuscan/ Emilia Romagna border. Passing first the ruins of a former customs house, your path winds down through oak and beech trees to the grassy plateau of Prati Piani - great views of the surrounding hills. You continue through fields dotted with wild basil, sage and caraway to the mediaeval hamlet of Visano before your final descent to Palazzuolo.

Saturday - Return home