TUSCAN TREK

Montalcino's city gate opens onto the scenic Val d'Orcia.

Taking in the view from Il Marroneto's wine estate.

The winemaker introduces tastings of Brunello straight from the barrel.

Beautiful vistas on the walk to a medieval abbey.

Red poppies and yellow wild broom transform the Tuscan countryside in May and June.

The abbey of Sant' Antimo, founded by Charlemagne.

Ancient stones -- ancient cypress.

Inside Sant' Antimo, where we hear monks singing plainchants.

One of Sant' Antimo's resident monks scurries to the basilica for chants.

Heading to lunch at the hilltown of Montichiello.

Roadside attractions on the way to Montepulciano.

Authentic Tuscan cuisine at our lunch spot in Montichiello.

Working off those excellent biscotti!

... but not for too long.

The Medici coat of arms in the Renaissance town of Montepulciano.

Tuscan art treasures in Montepulciano's cathedral.

A Vino Nobile producer discusses his winemaking family's history at the Boscarelli estate.

Getting up close and personal with the grape vines.

The glorious countryside near Montepulciano.

Happy campers! The aftermath of a tasting.

Lining up the glasses at the National Enoteca in Siena.

The tour's second half spotlights San Gimignano, a perfectly-preserved medieval city.

Cypress lanes near San Gimignano.

Homemade bruschette complement the white wine in San Gimignano.

Eating lunch al fresco after a hike.

Here's to trekking in Tuscany!