Tuscan Legends Tour: "The Sword in the rock" & the "Black Rooster of Chianti"

(Private Tour From: Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo)

Book Now
  • 8 Hours
  • Easy
  • Private

Overview

A Day Among Legends and Rolling Hills: Medieval Chianti and Its Timeless Stories

Embark on a journey where history, legend, and the beauty of Tuscany intertwine. 🌄🍷🏰
From ancient abbeys and ghostly tales to fine wines and medieval towers, this enchanting tour will ignite your imagination and delight your senses.

Tour Highlights

1. Morning: Mysteries and Legends

  • Abbey of San Galgano: Start your day at this roofless Gothic masterpiece, a hauntingly beautiful site rich with history. 🌿

    • Visit the nearby Eremo of Montesiepi, home to the legendary “Sword in the Stone”, linked to Saint Galgano Guidotti. Could this be the inspiration behind King Arthur’s Excalibur? 🗡️
    • Fun Fact: Modern research suggests the sword may date back to the 12th century, adding an air of authenticity to the legend.

  • Monteriggioni: Step into this perfectly preserved medieval fortress, surrounded by ancient walls and steeped in mystery.

    • Hear the tragic tale of Captain Giovannino Zeti, whose betrayal of Monteriggioni to the Florentines is said to have condemned his spirit to wander the fortress as a ghostly figure. đź‘»
    • Stroll through its cobbled streets and take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

2. Lunch: The Black Rooster and Tuscan Flavors

  • Enjoy a sumptuous Tuscan lunch at a traditional farm amidst the rolling hills of Chianti. 🍇
    • Wine Tasting: Savor eight premium wines, including robust Chianti Classico and refined Super Tuscans. 🍷
    • Culinary Delights: Relish a feast featuring local specialties like handmade pasta, Pecorino cheese, and fresh seasonal dishes.
    • Discover the clever legend of the Black Rooster, whose role in resolving a centuries-old rivalry between Florence and Siena is still celebrated today as the emblem of the Chianti region.

3. Afternoon: Medieval Charm and Towering Legends

  • San Gimignano: Wander through the picturesque streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the “Town of Fine Towers.”
    • Climb the towering Rognosa Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Tuscany. 🏞️
    • Uncover the chilling legend of the “Devil’s Tower”, said to be cursed by a sinister force. 🕸️
    • Sweet Treat: Indulge in the world’s best gelato, a perfect ending to your visit. 🍦
    • Deepen your connection with the Black Rooster legend, as this symbol of Chianti ties together the history and spirit of the region.

Why Choose This Tour?

  • Immersive Experience: Explore Tuscany’s hidden gems, combining history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
  • Rich Storytelling: Discover captivating tales of knights, ghosts, and medieval rivalries.
  • Authentic Flavors: Relish exquisite wines and traditional Tuscan cuisine in the heart of Chianti.
  • Comfort and Ease: Enjoy private transportation and expert guidance throughout the day.

💫 Step into Tuscany’s past, where every corner tells a tale and every sip of wine carries centuries of tradition. 💫
🌟 Book your private tour today for an extraordinary adventure through Chianti’s legends and landscapes! 🌍

What's Included

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Private transportation
  • 5 Wine tastings
  • Bottled water
  • English speaking driver
  • 3 courses lunch in winery farm

Please Note

  • Pick up at your Hotel or private flat and B&B with confortable Mercedes Minivan or similar.
  • Welcome sign PEK TUSCANY IN LIMO + your name.
  • English speaking driver.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We can also pick up and drop off customers at private addresses, apartments or B & B, without extra charge. It is only necessary to indicate the correct address in the notes.

What To Expect:

Stop At: Abbazia di San Galgano and Moteriggioni Castle🏰 🏛️

Your journey begins with our driver picking you up at your location (hotel, B&B, or private apartment) for a scenic drive through the gentle Tuscan hills.

Our first stop is the Abbey of Saint Galgano, nestled between the towns of Chiusdino and Monticiano. This fascinating roofless abbey, dating back to the 12th century, exudes incredible charm and mystery. Nearby, visit the Eremo of Montesiepi, believed to house the tomb of Saint Galgano. Here, you’ll see the legendary Sword in the Stone, said to have been driven into the rock by the knight-turned-saint as a symbol of his devotion to God. Modern analysis of the sword confirms its compatibility with the era of the legend.

Duration: 1,5 hours

Stop At: Monteriggioni

Next, we visit the enchanting medieval village of Monteriggioni, a perfectly preserved fortress town that appears frozen in time. Surrounded by intact walls and 14 watchtowers, Monteriggioni was built by the Sienese in the 13th century to defend against Florentine attacks. Stroll its cobbled streets, enjoy the panoramic views, and imagine life during medieval times.

Duration: 30 min

Lunch At: Podere La Marronaia Family run winery-farm🍇 🍝🍷 🌿

Following Monteriggioni, enjoy a delightful stop at a family-run organic farm and winery, where you’ll indulge in a delicious Tuscan lunch paired with a wine tasting experience.

  • Tuscan Lunch: Treat yourself to bruschetta, lasagna or homemade pasta, cured meats, pecorino cheese, and dessert.
  • Wine Tasting: Sample a variety of wines, including Chianti, Chianti Riserva, Sangiovese, and Vernaccia.
  • Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Tastings: Enjoy flavored olive oils like truffle oil and the finest balsamic vinegar.

This unforgettable experience provides insights into Tuscan cuisine and winemaking traditions.
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Pass By: Chianti Road🍇

After lunch, we’ll travel along the scenic Chianti Wine Road, dotted with vineyards and rolling hills. You’ll hear the story of the famous Black Rooster legend, a symbol of Chianti wine, and its historical significance in defining the borders between Florence and Siena.

Stop At: San Gimignano🏰 🌻

Our next stop is San Gimignano, known as the “Town of Fine Towers”. During the Middle Ages, the town boasted over 70 towers, of which 13 still stand today. Stroll through the charming medieval streets, admire craftsmen’s work, and savor the best gelato in the world at Gelateria Dondoli in the main square. The town is also famous for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine and unique saffron products. Don’t miss the legend of the Tower of the Devil and the Twins Tower, a tale that adds an air of mystery to this beautiful hilltop town.

Duration: 1 hour

The return is scheduled for 6.00 PM

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Infant seats available
  • Near Public Transportation
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Please Note:

Inform us about any food allergies or intollerances you might have in advance during your booking procedure.

Book Now!