About a half hour from Gargonza, we will pay a visit to Salvadori family, who run a superb agriturismo adored, among others, by the author Frances Mayes.  In fact, Frances Mayes features the family’s father, Lapo, in Under the Tuscan Sun and stayed with them while her house was being renovated.  The family has its own flock of sheep, from which they make their own cheese.  Here on their farm, you will learn how the delicious Tuscan pecorino and other traditional cheeses are born.  And you will even get to make your own cheese!  Enjoy a delicious traditional Tuscan lunch made with their farm fresh ingredients and prepared by Lapo and his family: Paola (mom), Lapo (dad), Laura (daughter) and Ilaria (daughter). 

This afternoon will make our way to Cortona and en route make a stop at the Celle Hermitage founded by St. Francis of Assisi in 1211 and pass the Villa Bramasole, protagonist of Under the Tuscan Sun.  Once in Cortona, our guide will lead us though the town’s many picturesque narrow alleyways and point out the town’s cultural and architectural gems.  We will also visit the Diocesan Museum (highlights include works by Fra Angelico & Luca Signorelli) and the MAEC museum (known for its Etruscan collection).   

GARGONZA (B, L, D)