Pieve a Castello 2019 programme

PIEVE A CASTELLO

2019 PROGRAMME

5th century BC alabaster bust of a goddess excavated during building works. The site is believed to have been an Etruscan temple.

The large, isolated ecclesiastical buildings, an Augustinian canonry, were constructed to accommodate the high volume of early medieval pilgrims and other travellers on their way to and from Rome.

Manuscript of the route of the Via Francigena, recorded in 990 AD by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury and Chancellor of England, during his return journey from Rome.

Nicholas Breakspear, an Augustinian Canon and the only English Pope (Adrian IV 1154-1159), was among the canonry’s benefactors.

Before 20 years of restoration….

Christopher Whinney receiving the Conservation International and National Geographic ‘World Legacy Award’ for Heritage Tourism from Queen Noor of Jordan, at National Geographic, Washington DC.

PIEVE

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RELAX & ENJOY... …staying as a ‘house guest’ at a fully restored 8th century Augustinian canonry in idyllic country between Siena and Florence. …having everything included – services of friendly, professional staff, all meals, wines, drinks, snacks etc. …your room. The 10 bedrooms, each one different (in a 1,300 year old building!), have views of the central courtyard and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. All have en-suite facilities, sofa, fridge-bar, writing table, cupboard with drawers and safe, TV, Wi-Fi. …comfortable areas for sitting including shaded terraces. There is a well-stocked library. The large proto-Romanesque church has a Bosendorfer concert grand piano and perfected acoustics for weekly concerts and the arcaded octagonal former baptistery offers dining in style. …the travertine-lined pool (50x26 ft), which has salt filtration.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

The buildings, on an ancient fortified site, were, for 700 years, home to an Augustinian canonry, that provided hospitality to countless travellers on the ‘main road to Rome’.

Besieged by a Guelf army in 1400AD, the canons fled. The buildings gradually became derelict – although their ancient structure, 8th century church and baptistery remained intact.

CASTELLO …gourmet dinners of classic Tuscan and traditional regional cuisine, prepared by the chef, using organic produce fresh from Pieve a Castello’s gardens, and local farms, with game, funghi including truffles from the forests. …fine wines from some of Italy’s most prestigious and interesting vineyards (some weeks include visits to wine estates and tastings). …excellent walking – through vineyards, olive groves, meadows and forest – along ancient paths and tracks fanning out from Pieve a Castello, to picturesque medieval villages, San Gimignano and Siena. There are daily guided walks, and also over 200 miles of self-guided walks in a high-quality ATG route book. …themed weeks – with daily excursions, by road and on foot, to places of outstanding interest, with introductory evening presentations, so that you can discover more about the area’s ‘World Class’ features – and whether you would like to join the next day’s options.

Today, fully restored, there are 10 en-suite bedrooms, rooms and shaded terraces to sit and relax, a library, church for weekly concerts, spectacular dining area, and idyllic pool.

Guests are welcomed by experienced staff.

Gourmet meals, served with fine wines, are prepared by the chef, using fresh produce from organic gardens.

This idyllic location, between Florence and Siena, is ‘perfect’ for discovering Tuscany’s legacy to Western Civilisation – from prehistory to Renaissance, Art to cuisine….

‘Pieve a Castello’ cannot be found on hotel marketing sites. It remains exclusive – a totally unique, high quality travel experience…and people tell their friends…!

For itineraries see pages 2-9 For 2019 dates and prices see back page

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

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Pieve a Castello, situated in idyllic countryside between Florence and Siena, is a former Augustinian canonry that, from 7001400AD, provided hospitality to travellers on the Via Francigena, the ‘main road to Rome’.

PIEVE: AS YOu LIkE It ItINERARY 1 Stay at one of the oldest, most perfectly preserved, early medieval buildings in Europe, surrounded by idyllic countryside, with the

Idyllic countryside of meadows, olive groves, vineyards and south towards Siena; extensively forested hills, the Montagnola, where the tracks and paths display clear evidence of their origins as ancient roads.

Monteriggioni, with its 84 inhabitants, high walls and 14 watchtowers – described in the ‘Divine Comedy’ by Dante, who arrived on a foggy morning in 1300, as appearing like ‘giants in the mist’.

Medieval Siena, still wonderfully preserved, was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe, and its heritage includes works by outstanding artists of the period, now icons of Western Art…

We walk to explore the 'green lungs' of Florence – the renowned Boboli, and lesser-known Bardini Gardens, offering wonderful views across the city.

For those who want to relax and enjoy being at Pieve a Castello there is a library, music system, an excellent pool and over 200 miles of Footloosestyle walking.

leisure to explore the area’s incomparably rich cultural Heritage. (Walking: Easy to moderate) Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings. Evening presentation: Tuscan heritage.

Day 2 We walk through idyllic countryside to discover paths and tracks – once routes of the ancient ‘main road to Rome’. We return for lunch, and later enjoy a tour of the organic vegetable gardens, followed by a cooking demonstration. Evening presentation: Dante Alighieri, Guelfs and Ghibellines.

Day 3 We walk through forests of the Montagnola following early medieval paths, to the fortified, hill-top village of Monteriggioni, with its 14 watch towers, described in Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’. Evening presentation: Good & Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti.

Day 4 We spend the morning in Siena, visiting the Palazzo Pubblico and enjoying iconic, early Renaissance works of art including the Lorenzetti's renowned frescoes. We return for lunch and time to relax, before a leisurely early evening stroll ('la passeggiata') leads to a local restaurant in the ancient village of Casole d’Elsa (whose twinkling lights are visible at night from Pieve a Castello).

Day 5 We drive (45 mins) to hills overlooking Florence, and walk to visit the magnificent church of San Miniato al Monte, before exploring other nearby ‘gems’. Evening concert in the church before dinner.

Day 6 We drive (1 hour 10 mins) to Montalcino, south of Siena, centre of the famous Brunello wine-producing area, then walk through vineyards to the exquisite Abbey church of Sant’ Antimo, built of alabaster and onyx.

Evening presentation and wine tasting: Chianti!

Day 7 We drive (25 minutes) to Villa Vicobello, and visit the fine Renaissance garden built by Baldassare Peruzzi for the Chigi family in the 16th century. After returning for lunch there is the option of a walk following the ancient Via Francigena to a frescoed church and hermitage. Evening: gala dinner.

Day 8 Departure day.

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PIEVE: AS YOu LIkE It ItINERARY 2 Whilst the diversity of sightseeing opportunities, based at Pieve a Castello, is of

Medieval Colle di Val d'Elsa, with its fascinating, tunnel streets in the high part of town; the lower town with a network of ancient water channels providing power for dozens of old mills.

an incomparably high standard – so, too, are the opportunities for exploring the area on foot. (Walking: Easy to moderate)

Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings. Evening presentation: The Augustinian Canonry.

Day 2 We walk, following routes used by early medieval travellers between Pieve a Castello’s 22 small, dependent canonries. We return for lunch, and later enjoy a tour of the organic vegetable gardens, followed by a cooking demonstration. Evening presentation: Renewable medieval energy.

Day 3 We walk from Pieve a Castello following ancient tracks to nearby Colle Val d’Elsa where we visit the fortified, medieval ‘colle alta’ and its tunnel streets, and lower town with ‘le gore’ – an ancient water system powering this ‘town of mills’. Evening presentation: The Anti-chamber of Paradise.

Day 4 We spend the morning in Siena, discovering the history and outstanding art and architecture of the Cathedral complex. A leisurely early evening stroll ('la passeggiata') takes us up to iconic Monteriggioni, with its high walls, 14 watch towers and 85 inhabitants, and to dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5 We drive (20 mins), then walk up a track with panoramic views of San Gimignano, the ‘medieval Manhattan', surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

After walking through the town, we continue down into the scenic hills to the Elsa Valley to visit the fortified village of Certaldo, birthplace of Boccaccio. We return to Pieve a Castello for a concert in the church before dinner.

Day 6 We drive (1 hour) to visit the great Benedictine abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, where amongst other delights, is a cloister with frescoes by Signorelli and Sodoma. We walk through the surrounding landscape of picturesquely eroded hills. Evening presentation and wine tasting: Chianti!

Day 7 We drive (35 mins) to visit Villa Geggiano, just outside Siena, with its elegant gardens, theatre and wonderful views over the city. After returning for lunch there is the option of a walk following the ancient Via Francigena through forests of the Montagnola to a frescoed church and hermitage. Evening: gala dinner.

Siena’s beautiful Gothic cathedral, with its outstanding architecture, mosaic floors, Piccolomini Library and exquisite works of Art.

Excursions? Pieve a Castello: A rare survival from the 8th century in idyllic surroundings.

Historically and architecturally unique; fascinating, amazing to be staying there!

Certaldo, where Boccaccio was born, wrote the ‘Decameron’, and with his friend Petrarch developed Dante’s use of the vernacular – to form what is effectively the modern Italian language.

The 14th century Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, its cloister decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St Benedict by Signorelli and Sodoma.

Villa di Geggiano, with its carefully restored 18C gardens and wonderful views across the Chianti Classico region, is a National Heritage site of outstanding beauty.

Day 8 Departure day.

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Pieve's organic garden supplies the kitchen – with abundant fruits, salads and vegetables. Freezing and bottling of produce means a continuous supply of delicious ingredients, even in less productive months.

PIEVE: AS YOu LIkE It ItINERARY 3 Stay at an exclusive, private residence – an award-winning conservation project – hidden away in unspoilt countryside. Each day

Siena, 'the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe’, retains a rich and evocative legacy.

Artefacts include evidence of Etruscan occupation (possibly as a temple) and links with the great Etruscan city of Volterra, where there are fascinating insights into the ancient civilisation.

Excursions? Or enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the 8th century courtyard, swim in the travertine pool, lunch on a shaded terrace, an evening stroll with idyllic views.

Castello di Celsa, a fairytale castle restored by architect Peruzzi in the 16th century, surrounded by enchanting gardens, with wonderful views over the Tuscan countryside.

Tuscan treasures: We visit the unassuming, yet atmospheric, roofless Cistercian Abbey of San Galgano, and its small church housing the original 'Sword in the Stone'.

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explores a different aspect of tuscany’s fascinating history, art, architecture and landscape. (Walking: Easy to moderate) Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings. Evening presentation: ‘The Via Francigena’.

Day 2 We walk, following ancient routes of the Via Francigena, the early medieval 'main Road to Rome', through idyllic countryside to the Benedictine Abbey of Isola. We return for lunch, and later enjoy a tour of the organic vegetable gardens, followed by a cooking demonstration. Evening presentation: The Medieval Traveller.

Day 3 We walk through open country of the upper Elsa Valley before following paths up through olive groves to the medieval hill village of Casole d’Elsa – built on Etruscan foundations. Evening presentation: Contrada Tradition.

Day 4 We spend the morning in Siena, where we visit lesser-known areas of ‘the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe’ and its ancient, but still vibrant ‘contrada culture’. A leisurely evening stroll ('la passeggiata') takes us to explore the fortified, medieval Colle di Val d'Elsa 'Alta', before dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5 We drive (1 hour) across scenic hills, then walk to explore the great Etruscan city of Volterra, visiting Etruscan tombs, walls and gateways and the fine Etruscan museum. We return to Pieve a Castello (built on Etruscan foundations!) for an evening concert in the church.

Day 6 We drive (40 mins) to the village of Chiusidino and visit its small museum. We then walk to the spectacular, ruined Cistercian abbey of San Galgano; and nearby small, domed Romanesque church – still with the 'Sword in the Stone’ (of San Galgano), from which the fable originates.

Evening presentation: Chianti: Great Reds.

Day 7 We drive (20 mins) to Castello di Celsa – high in the Montagnola (wonderful views!), and visit its fine 16th century gardens. There is a delightful (optional) walk part of the way back to Pieve a Castello. Evening: gala dinner.

Day 8 Departure day.

GREAt WALkS! A legacy of centuries when the bustling Via Francigena carried thousands of travellers daily

Whilst the diversity of sightseeing opportunities in the area is of an incomparably high standard, so too are the opportunities for exploring the area on foot.

to and from Rome, is a network of ancient routes that fan out from Pieve a Castello. these routes are now paths and tracks, ideal for walking! (Walking: Moderate to challenging) Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings.

Day 2 We walk through idyllic countryside, climbing to the top of the Monte Maggio, the highest point in the area (671m), crowned with an Etruscan beacon and medieval watchtower (10 miles, 5 hours). After lunch, optional afternoon walk in the surrounding countryside (3.4 miles, 1.5 hours).

Day 3 We walk through forests of the Montagnola – the forested hills around Pieve – to the medieval hilltop village of Monteriggioni (7.6 miles, 3.5 hours). Return on foot or by minibus, stopping to visit the 10C Benedictine monastery Abbadia Isola.

Day 4 We follow picturesque farmland, rising onto a ridge with wonderful views, and continue across undulating country, climbing to Casole d’Elsa, the village you see in the distance from Pieve a Castello (9.8 miles, 4 hours). Optional afternoon walk to Roman baths used by travellers on the Via Francigena (4.2 miles, 2.5 hours). In the evening we enjoy a leisurely stroll (‘la passegiata’), and dinner at a traditional local restaurant.

Day 5 We follow the Via Francigena to Siena, the ‘bestpreserved great medieval city in Europe’ (14.9 miles, 7.5 hours). At the half-way point, there is the option to continue by minibus to allow more time to explore the city. We return to Pieve a Castello for a concert in the church before dinner.

Day 6 We follow the route of the early medieval Via Francigena, passing several pilgrim ‘stations’, to ‘Castello del Bosco’ – now San Gimignano – with its famous towers (15 miles, 8 hours). Time to explore (or shop!) before returning by minibus.

Day 7 A varied walk across farmland, through vineyards, olive groves and woods takes us to the hilltop town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, with its fascinating tunnel streets (6.6 miles, 3 hours). Return on foot, or by minibus to enjoy more time at Pieve a Castello. Evening: gala dinner.

This trip is for those who consider plenty of (moderately challenging) walking through wonderful countryside to be a key factor in the enjoyment of their holiday.

In the surrounding countryside, there is much interesting wildlife, including deer (shy!), wild boar, porcupines, hares, polecats and tortoises; and over 60 species of birds.

Pieve a Castello carries a carefully selected stock of the area’s best wines – among the best in Europe – with at least three different wines served each evening.

We follow pilgrim paths to 'Castello del Bosco’ (castle of the woods) – now San Gimignano – with its famous towers.

If you feel like taking a rest from the itinerary, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor seating areas to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere – an ideal place to relax.

Day 8 Departure day.

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Long views over timeless, unspoilt countryside, unchanged for millennia.

PAINtING tuSCANY new Spend each morning painting in an idyllic spot at or near Pieve a Castello, with views over the timeless tuscan countryside. Afternoons

The organic garden, tended by our chef, supplies the kitchen year-round.

include optional walks and sightseeing – and/or free time to paint. this tour will be lead by a renowned painter specialising in tuscan landscapes. (Walking: Easy to moderate)

In June the (50 x 26 ft) pool, lined with travertine marble, is ‘in full swing’, and fireflies flash in the cool night air.

In early summer there are still plenty of flowers in bloom, colouring the stillgreen landscape before the heat of high summer.

There are plenty of tranquil, picturesque spots at Pieve to paint …or to simply sit and enjoy.

Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings. Pre-dinner presentation of the tour leader's approach to the week.

Day 2 Morning painting session in the grounds of Pieve a Castello. After lunch, an optional afternoon walk explores the surrounding countryside (1-2 hours), before returning for afternoon tea. Time to relax – or paint – before dinner.

Day 3 We drive (10 mins) to a picturesque spot outside the hilltop village of Monteriggioni for our morning painting session. We then visit the village and nearby Abbadia Isola, then return to Pieve a Castello for lunch.

Time to relax, with optional late afternoon walk in the surrounding hills (1-2 hours).

Day 4 We drive (30 mins) to a viewpoint over classic Tuscan countryside. After our morning painting session we enjoy a picnic lunch 'with a view' – of medieval, iconic San Gimignano and its famous towers. Optional afternoon walk (1 hour) and visit to the town, or return to Pieve a Castello to paint or relax. Dinner at a traditional local restaurant.

Day 5 Morning visit to Siena (20-minute drive) to view some of the city's (and the world's!) most renowned works of art. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon in Siena, or an optional walk, following the route of the early medieval Via Francigena (up to 3 hours). We later enjoy a private concert in the church of Pieve a Castello before dinner.

Day 6 Morning painting session. In the afternoon we visit a nearby villa with Peruzzi gardens, with the option to walk part of the return journey (1 hour).

Each evening before dinner, relax and enjoy Prosecco and aperitivi, and the sunset from the terrace.

Day 7 We drive (15 mins) towards Colle di Val d’Elsa, with its ancient walls and fascinating, medieval tunnel streets.

After our painting session we stroll through the upper part of this picturesque town, returning to Pieve a Castello for lunch. Afternoon free, with optional lateafternoon walk (1-2 hours), before a gala dinner.

Day 8 Departure day.

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WALkING, LANGuAGE AND LIBREttO there is no language more beautiful than

We visit iconic, hilltop Monteriggioni, and walk along its ancient walls; with the option to return on foot via archetypal Tuscan countryside.

Italian. And we have yet to find a teacher more delightful or inspirational than Giancarla Bindi, who has been leading our language and Palio trips for many years. Her belief is that the enjoyment in learning a language lies in being able to immediately use what has been learned – providing

San Gimignano – ‘Castello di Bosco’ in the 8th century, when it, and Pieve a Castello (then ‘Santa Maria a Castello’), were successive overnight stops on the main Via Francigena.

insights into Italian culture and way of life: Immersion! Divided into groups according to knowledge of Italian, whether ‘none’, ‘a few words’ or ‘conversational’ – you will soon be speaking Italian! (Walking: Easy to moderate) Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax, a tour of the 8th century buildings is followed by a presentation of Giancarla’s approach to the week.

Day 2 Morning Italian lessons. After lunch at Pieve a Castello, an optional afternoon walk explores the surrounding countryside (2 hours), before returning for afternoon tea.

Day 3 Morning Italian lessons. After lunch we visit the nearby iconic, hilltop village of Monteriggioni, with an optional walk (3.5 hours) back to Pieve a Castello.

Day 4 Morning visit to Siena, visiting the astonishing 15th century frescoes in the Santa Maria della Scala hospital, followed by a guided tour (in Italian!) of the Duomo (cathedral) crypt. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon in Siena, or an optional walk, following the route of the early medieval Via Francigena (3 hours), back to Pieve a Castello.

Day 5 Morning Italian lessons. Afternoon walk and visit to San Gimignano , the 'medieval Manhattan', with its famous towers. We later enjoy a concert in the Pieve a Castello church before dinner.

Day 6 Morning Italian lessons, with visit to Colle Val d’Elsa, and exploration of the ancient town’s fascinating, medieval tunnel streets, returning for lunch. Afternoon free before dinner at a traditional local restaurant.

Day 7 Morning Italian lessons. Afternoon visit to a wellknown Chianti wine estate for a tasting of its interesting range of wines, with the option to walk part of the return journey (1 hour). Evening: gala dinner.

Siena’s Santa Maria della Scala, Europe’s first hospital (est. 10C) cared for pilgrims, the poor and orphans. It is now a museum hosting centuries of astonishing art.

Excursions? To supplement the language lessons we enjoy visits to local attractions and local walks – all optional. Or you can stay at Pieve a Castello and simply enjoy...

To supplement the various local wines we enjoy at dinner, we visit a nearby winery and enjoy a tasting while enjoying views over classic Tuscan landscapes.

Medieval Colle di Val d’Elsa, with its network of ancient, picturesque tunnel streets and impressive walls – which we follow via a path restored by the ATG Trust.

Day 8 Departure day.

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The splendid Piazza del Campo, renowned worldwide for its beauty and architectural integrity, provides the dramatic backdrop for the magnificent race.

SIENA & tHE PALIO this exclusive ‘immersion’ experience of one of the world’s greatest and most historic festivals provides unique insights into

Morning language lessons are in a relaxed, informal setting, taken in the library or other communal area.

Italian culture and enduring traditions of the medieval life and times. two hours of each morning (days 2-7) are spent in ‘immersion’ Italian language sessions, tailored to all levels of ability. Included, too, is one of the best views of the race from a private

Dinners at Pieve a Castello are enjoyed in its early 8th century, arcaded, octagonal baptistery, the largest and finest of only three buildings of this style and period remaining.

One of the world’s great spectacles: colourful, dramatic and steeped in tradition. A jockey wearing traditional dress representing one of the city’s 17 ancient contrade (districts).

We walk in picturesque country with forested hills giving way to vineyards, olive groves and walled villages amongst clustered cypress trees.

We enjoy the race itself from the window of a private room in a palazzo overlooking the Campo, whilst enjoying Prosecco and canapes.

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window on the Piazza del Campo.

(Walking: Easy…but with plenty of time on our feet for visits to Siena) Day 1 After arrival at Pieve a Castello and time to relax there will be a tour of this unique complex of early 8th century buildings.

Day 2 NB: Two hours of each morning of days 2–7 are spent in ‘immersion’ Italian language sessions, tailored to all levels of ability. After language session, we enjoy a presentation on the history, celebrations and traditions of the Palio. After lunch, enjoy a two-hour walk through the Tuscan countryside.

Day 3 After a relaxed morning at Pieve a Castello, we travel to Siena for the 'Tratta' – drawing lots to select the horses for the Palio and allotment of these horses to the 'contrade'. Lunch in Siena and time to explore.

Day 4 Morning and lunch at Pieve a Castello, followed by a walk to Monteriggioni (3 - 4 hours). Optional: Siena – early evening procession of the Votive Choir of the 'contrade'.

Day 5 In the afternoon we visit Siena for the 'Prova Generale' (fifth and final race trials) and we are privileged to join the ‘Cena Propriziatoria/Cena della Prova Generale’ (a very special dinner) – at a 'contrada'.

Day 6 The day of the Palio! In the afternoon we depart for Siena.

Day 7 Morning review of the previous day’s unforgettable events! Afternoon walk through the Montagnola Senese, followed by private concert and gala farewell dinner.

Day 8 Departure day.

tuSCAN GARDENS three great centres of Italian gardens – Lucca, Florence and Siena, with outstanding

Delightful Lucca, a perfectly preserved jewel of medieval architecture, renowned for its historic centre encircled by Renaissance walls, cobblestone streets, wonderful churches and piazzas.

tuscan gardens representing their development from the early Renaissance through to modern times. (Walking: Easy… but with plenty of time spent on your feet for garden visits)

The lemon garden at Villa Reale di Marlia has over 200 vases of citrus fruit, and a fish pond with two lounging statues representing the Arno and Serchio Rivers.

Day 1 From Pisa airport we travel by road (30 mins) to the delightful, walled city of Lucca.

Day 2 This morning we visit two historic properties: Villa Reale di Marlia, an historic garden that once belonged to Elisa Bonaparte; and Villa Torrigiani, an elaborate villa set in a simple, formal garden. After lunch, free time to explore Lucca.

Day 3 We drive (1.5 hours) to Florence and visit (subject to opening) one of the historic Medici properties to the north of the city, Villa di Castello or Villa Petraia. After lunch we visit the delightful garden of Villa Gamberaia, much appreciated by Edith Wharton, before continuing to Pieve a Castello (1 hour, 15 mins).

Day 4 We drive (35 mins) to visit Villa Geggiano, just outside Siena, with its elegant gardens, theatre and wonderful views over the city. Optional free afternoon in Siena, or return to Pieve.

Day 5 We follow scenic roads south to the villages of San Quirico (1.5 hours) and Pienza (25 mins), pausing in each to visit small, historic gardens. After lunch we continue (30 mins) to the superbly designed gardens of La Foce, creation and former home of writer Iris Origo. Return to Pieve (1 hour, 45 mins) for a concert in the church before dinner.

Day 6 We drive (25 minutes) to Villa Vicobello, and visit the fine Renaissance garden built by Baldassare Peruzzi for the Chigi family in the 16th century. Optional afternoon walk (1 hour).

Day 7 We drive (30 mins) into the wooded hills behind Pieve to visit the ‘Peruzzi’ gardens of the Castello di Celsa.

From here, we enjoy a scenic drive through the Montagnola, with an optional walk back to Pieve (1.5 hours). Afternoon free to enjoy Pieve a Castello, before a gala dinner.

Day 8 Transfer to Pisa airport by road (1.5 hours).

Edith Wharton described Villa Gamberaia – with wide views over Florence – as ‘probably the most perfect example of the art of producing a great effect on a small scale’.

Excursions? If you feel like opting out, Pieve a Castello is the perfect place to relax, with a library and music room; and terraces, a loggia and gardens to sit and enjoy the views.

The superbly structured gardens of Villa La Foce, situated on the Via Francigena, with sweeping views over southern Tuscany towards Monte Amiata.

Villa Vicobello, with its fine Renaissance garden built by Baldassare Peruzzi for the Chigi family in the 16th century, and wonderful views towards Siena.

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RELAX & ENJOY

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Room 1: Large, first-floor room with writing room, bath & shower (double/twin)

Room 3: Large, second-floor room with unique shower room (double/twin)

Room 4: ‘Cosy’ room on second floor with four-poster bed, bath & shower (double)

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Room 2: Large, second-floor room with writing room, bath & shower (double/twin)

ROOM WITH A VIEW

Room 5: Former dovecote on second floor with spacious shower (double)

Room 7: Courtyard room with bath, shower and side door to garden (double/twin)

Room 8: Courtyard room with bath, shower and side door to garden (double/twin)

There are 10 bedrooms, originally used for multiple-occupancy by early medieval travellers. In a protected building of this antiquity, every room is different, each with unique features. All bedrooms have private ensuite facilities (with bath/shower or shower), sofa, writing desk, fridge-bar, TV, cupboard with drawers and safe, and views of the central courtyard and open countryside.

Room 9: Charming, corner courtyard room with shower (single room, French-sized double bed)

Room 10: Cosy courtyard room with shower (single room with single bed)

Room 11: Courtyard room – with writing niche, shower and 8th century apse (!) (double)

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Booking Conditions Booking Conditions Unless otherwise stated In these booking conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on your booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) or any of them as the context requires. “We”, “us” and “our” means ATG Oxford.

Making your booking Please telephone or e-mail us or check our website to confirm availability on your chosen trip. To secure a reservation a deposit of 10% of the published trip price is required for each person travelling. A binding contract between us comes into existence on receipt of the deposit.

Where a deposit is received by credit or debit card, the final balance, when due, will be charged to this card unless you otherwise notify us. The balance is due 60 days before departure. When a booking is made within 60 days before departure, the total holiday cost must be paid at the time of booking. If we do not receive all payments due in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or payments due at that date.

Please check our confirmation invoice as soon as you receive it. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the invoice or any other document is incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later.

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All changes are subject to availability, and if we are able to make the change, you will be liable to pay any costs which result, for example any amendment or cancellation charges imposed by any relevant supplier. Some suppliers, for example, may treat a change of name as a cancellation and subsequent rebooking. Airlines usually do so after tickets have been issued. For any change of trip or trip date less than 61 days prior to departure, cancellation charges will apply (see If you cancel your booking).

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as reasonably possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:(a) Accepting the changed arrangements or (b) Purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. We will endeavour to offer you an alternative of equivalent or higher standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact of a lower price than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is lower priced or (c) Cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us (other than any previously incurred amendment or travel charges).

If we have to make a significant change or cancel after departure we will, where appropriate, pay you reasonable compensation depending on the nature and extent of the significant change and the circumstances, subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care. No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel your booking as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time).

name for Alternative Travel Group Ltd.

sometimes the standard, of accommodation may vary from place to place, and in some areas, hotels may be of a generally lower standard in relation to their ‘star ratings’.

Suppliers’ Conditions Suppliers such as accommodation and transport providers have their own booking conditions or conditions of carriage and you will be bound by these so far as the relevant supplier is concerned. Some of these conditions may limit or exclude liability on the part of the relevant supplier sometimes in accordance with international convention. Where relevant, copies of such conditions may be available for inspection at the offices of the relevant supplier.

Flights If purchasing flights independently we cannot make any refund in the event of the cancellation of a trip, or pay compensation for any additional costs involved as a result of changes in published flight times or routes. For those who have requested reservations with ATG inclusive of return scheduled flights from the UK, in the event of airlines changing or withdrawing their schedules or services, we will make every effort to arrange suitable alternative flights as close as possible to those advertised. All flights we arrange are subject to the airline’s conditions of carriage which limit and exclude the airline’s liabilities in accordance with international convention / EU regulation.

In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “list” which contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The list is available for inspection at http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm.

In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking.

Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative “If we alter or cancel your booking” above will apply.

When you have been advised of an alteration prior to departure, and elect to continue with the trip, this will be deemed to be acceptance of the change(s) and, apart from any compensation offered prior to departure, no further compensation will be paid.

We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. The flight timings shown in our pre-trip information are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions, potential technical problems and the ability of passengers to check in on time.

The person to whom the trip place is transferred must meet any conditions which apply to it. The right to transfer is subject to payment of an administration fee of £30/$60 per person, together with all additional charges of whatever sort imposed by suppliers providing the component parts of the trip. Any overdue balance payment must also be received.

For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight at the then applicable price as the airline will treat the original booking as cancelled and levy 100% cancellation charges.

ATG reserves the right to change any aspect of any itinerary prior to or after departure in the interests of clients’ safety, wellbeing, comfort or the successful operation of the trip in altered circumstances, or in the light of UK Foreign Office or/and US State Department advice. Payment of compensation, if appropriate, will be limited to any overall cost saving to ATG Oxford, generated by necessary changes made in the interests of clients.

Specific instructions relating to departure and travel arrangements will be sent with your air or other travel tickets approximately 2 weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched - we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs.

Very rarely, we may be forced by force majeure (see below) to change or terminate your holiday immediately prior to, or during, your holiday/scheduled time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result.

Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions.

If you cancel your booking Cancellation of booking will become effective upon receipt of written notification from you, and the following cancellation charges will be due: Up to 61 days before departure: deposit only.

Cancellation 60-43 days before departure: 30% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 42-29 days before departure: 45% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 28-15 days before departure: 60% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 14-8 days before departure: 80% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 7 days or less before, or after departure: 100% of invoice total.

Guaranteed Departures The departure of Escorted trips with six or more participants is guaranteed, unless cancelled because of force majeure (see below). The maximum number of participants on a trip is 16, and the average number of people on an ATG Escorted trip is 12, but on occasion numbers will be lower. Bookings are made, transferred and occasionally cancelled by clients up to the day of a trip’s departure. If, at any time after 30 days before the trip's departure, group numbers fall to less than six, we will make every effort to contact you and offer you the options of either: transferring to another departure, and receiving a refund for non-refundable flights and/or ATG extension hotel reservations directly related to the trip; or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid to ATG related to the trip.

The above cancellation charges apply to the land cost only.

If air tickets have been issued, you will have to pay the full cost of those flights in addition. Any previously incurred amendment charges are non refundable. If the reason for the cancellation of your holiday falls within the terms of your insurance policy, then any such charges (less any applicable excess) may be refunded to you by your insurance company.

Force Majeure Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by force majeure or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions, force majeure means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, epidemics / pandemics, adverse weather conditions, fire, UK Foreign Office / US State Department advice against travel and all similar events outside our control / the control of the supplier concerned.

Even in the above cases, only if the amount of any increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges) will we levy a surcharge.

If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges), you will be entitled to cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies you have paid to us (except for any amendment charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday from us as referred to in “If we alter or cancel your booking”. Where applicable, you have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or purchase another holiday. If you do not tell us that you wish to choose either of these options within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you will pay the surcharge.

Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later.

Accommodation The cost of each trip is based upon accommodation in twinbedded or double rooms. Double rooms for single occupancy, booked on payment of a nominal fee, may sometimes be smaller than double rooms normally allocated to two people. All room types are subject to availability. The nature of accommodation on each trip is described in individual itineraries. Reservations are accepted on the understanding that, whilst each hotel is usually one of the most characteristic and comfortable available, you are fully aware that limitations imposed by some itineraries make it inevitable that the character, and

We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of departure. No refund will be payable during this period either.

We should emphasise that we cannot accept liability for any loss, damage or additional expense incurred by you as a result of choosing to make any change.

If you transfer your booking to another person If you are unavoidably prevented from travelling, you may transfer your place on the booking to another person, provided that this is done 28 days or more before departure.

If you cancel your booking no refund will be issued in the event of the cancelled places subsequently being filled.

Cancelled bookings do not count towards the ‘11th Trip Free’.

If we alter or cancel your booking We start planning the holidays we offer long in advance.

Occasionally, we have to update information in our brochures and other publications both before and after bookings have been confirmed. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so.

If we have to alter your trip before departure, any alteration will either be significant or minor. Where an alteration is minor, we will, if practicable, advise you before departure, but we are not obliged to do so, pay you compensation or allow you to cancel or transfer to another holiday without paying our normal charges. A minor alteration is any alteration apart from a significant alteration. A significant change is a change made before departure which, taking account of the information you give us at the time of

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booking and which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your holiday. Significant changes are likely to include the following changes when made before departure: a rescheduling of more than 15% of a published itinerary, a change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of outward departure time of your arrangements of 12 or more hours or a change of UK departure point to one which is more inconvenient for you.

All bookings are made and accepted in accordance with the terms set out in these conditions. ATG Oxford is a trading

Price of the trip Whilst the information in this brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at time of going to print, we reserve the right to change and correct errors in any of the prices, services or other particulars contained in this brochure at any time before we enter into a contract with you. If there is any change or error of which we are then aware, we will notify you before we enter into a contract with you.

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, we will only increase or decrease it in the following circumstances. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of any change in our transportation costs or in dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports or in the exchange rates which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday.

Holiday costs are based on the rates at which ATG Oxford has bought forward currency to stabilise the cost of trips in the event of fluctuations in exchange rates.

Details are available in conjunction with current published prices.

Health and Fitness Bookings are accepted on the understanding that all persons travelling are normally in good health and physically equal to the minimum demands of the chosen trip. If this is in doubt the Booking Form must be accompanied by a doctor's certificate stating that it is entirely safe for you to go on the particular holiday you have chosen. ATG reserves the right to decline to accept any persons not equal to the minimum demands of a trip where their continued participation adversely affects the enjoyment of other clients on the holiday. In such a situation we will have no further responsibility toward you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination.

Special requests and medical conditions / disabilities If you have any special request, you must advise us at the time of booking. Although we will endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee any request will be met. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing that a special request will be complied with (where it is possible to give this) where it is important to you.

We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, i.e. any booking which is specified to be conditional on the fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings will be treated as “standard” bookings subject to the above provisions on special requests.

If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or have any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs.

You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed.

Behaviour and damage When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or any member of your party.

Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be made direct to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier or to us as soon as possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known. If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costs incurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions. You should ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect you if this situation arises.

We expect all clients to have consideration for other people.

If in our reasonable opinion or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you behave in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to any third party or damage to property, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate your holiday. In this situation, you will be required to leave the accommodation or other service. We will have no further responsibility toward you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination.

Insurance, Passport, Visa and Health Requirements Please note that adequate travel insurance for all persons travelling (including medical, personal accident and repatriation in the event of illness, baggage, money and liability cover as well as loss of monies paid in the event of cancellation) is a condition of booking. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs.

You are responsible for arranging, and being in possession of, a valid, acceptable passport and any visas and vaccination certificates required for the duration of your holiday.

Information regarding passport and visa requirements is sent with our Confirmation of your booking. You are advised, however, that whilst the information is provided in good faith, requirements may change and it is your responsibility to check, in good time before departure, the up to date position with regard to passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel.

There are no compulsory health formalities for the countries we visit. It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Information on health is contained in the Department of Health leaflet T7.1 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from the Department of Health via its website www.dh.gov.uk and from most Post Offices. For holidays in the EU / EEA, EU citizens should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from the Department of Health (see leaflet T7.1 and the website www.dh.gov.uk). Health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure.

It is the responsibility of the person who makes the booking to ensure that all persons travelling are in possession of all necessary travel documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry all required documentation. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

Liability (1) We promise to make sure that the specified holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care have not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

(2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: – – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or – force majeure as defined above (3) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you.

(4) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract - and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable holiday-maker to refuse to take the holiday in question.

(5) Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £500 per person affected unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under this paragraph (5) or paragraph (6) below. You must ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your personal belongings.

For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under paragraph (6) below.

This maximum amount will only be payable where you have not received any benefit from your holiday.

(6) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier or hotelier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements or hotel stay in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail).

Please note: where a carrier or hotelier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question.

Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request.

(7) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any business losses.

Delay We regret we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at your outward or homeward point of departure. Any airline concerned may however provide refreshments etc. We cannot accept liability for any delay which is due to force majeure (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) on the flight who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). In addition, we will not be liable for any delay unless it has a significant effect on your holiday arrangements.

Complaints and Arbitration Any complaint should be communicated to our representative as soon as it arises. Any verbal complaint should be put in writing as soon as possible if not resolved straight away. If you are not satisfied with the response of our representative or our representative cannot be contacted for any reason, please contact us in the UK during your holiday.

If the issue is not resolved, then the complaint should be made in writing to ATG Oxford in the UK within 28 days of the end of your trip. Failure to notify our representative or us direct at the time so as to provide us with an opportunity to rectify the cause of the complaint may result in your loss of any legal rights in respect of the particular matter. Should the complaint still not be resolved, the AITO independent dispute service (for which application must be made within six months of the date of your return from holiday) will be available to EC residents. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to our contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (except as set out below). We both also agree that any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (and whether or not involving any personal injury) which arises between us which is not referred to the AITO dispute service must be dealt with by the Courts of England and Wales only.

Financial security ATG Oxford is a fully bonded and licensed tour operator.

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under ABTOT Combined and The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Alternative Travel Group Limited, ATOL number 2618, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages; 2. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the EEA, which are sold to customers outside of the EEA; and 3. flight inclusive packages, flight only and linked travel arrangements (LTAs) sold as a principal under ABTOT Combined.

ABTOT Combined cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if you are abroad.

Please note that bookings made by customers outside the EEA are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Alternative Travel Group Limited.

In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please call our 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.

You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Regulations 2018 here: Arrangements https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/contents/made All the flights and flight inclusive holidays [in this brochure] [on this website] are financially protected either by ABTOT Combined or the ATOL scheme. When you pay for something protected by the ATOL scheme you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate <http://www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate> In addition, ATG holds an IATA licence which enables the company to sell air tickets direct.

Foreign Office Advice The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.fco.gov.uk which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

Safety standards Please note, it is the requirements and standards of the country in which any services which make up your holiday are provided which apply to those services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, these requirements and standards will not be the same as the UK and may sometimes be lower.

Brochure / website / advertising material accuracy The information contained in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us or your travel agent at the time of booking.

Activities and general area information We may provide you with information (before departure and/or when you are on holiday) about activities which are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement in any such activities which are neither run, supervised nor controlled in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirely independent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us even where we suggest particular operators/other third parties and/or assist you in booking such activities or excursions in any way. We cannot accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities. We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to such activities or about the area you are visiting generally or that any particular activity which does not form part of our contract will take place as these services are not under our control.

All bookings are made and accepted in accordance with the terms set out in these conditions and on the understanding that clients have read information relevant to the trip made available to them by ATG Oxford. ATG Oxford is a trading name for Alternative Travel Group Ltd. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read and have read these booking conditions and agree to them.

These booking conditions only apply to the holiday arrangements which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract”, “tour” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated.

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Dates & Prices 2019 All trips run Tuesday-Tuesday, except Siena & the Palio.

March 26 Great Walks!

April 2 Walking, Language & Libretto 9 Great Walks!

16 As You Like it - 2 23 Tuscan Gardens 30 Walking, Language & Libretto May 7 As You Like it - 3 14 As You Like it - 3 21 As You Like it - 2 28 As You Like it - 1 June 4 Tuscan Gardens 11 Painting Tuscany nEW TRiP 18 As You Like it - 1 27 siena & the Palio (Thurs-Thurs) July 9 As You Like it - 3 16 As You Like it - 1 23 As You Like it - 2 August 11 siena & the Palio (sun-sun) 20 As You Like it - 1 27 As You Like it - 1 September 3 As You Like it - 3 10 As You Like it - 2 17 As You Like it - 3 24 Tuscan Gardens October 1 As You Like it - 1 8 As You Like it - 2 15 As You Like it - 3 22 Great Walks!

29 As You Like it - 1 November 5 Walking, Language & Libretto

Prices 2019 > Tuscan Gardens: > Painting Tuscany: > Language/Libretto: > siena & the Palio: > All other tours:

£2,795 £2,595 £2,695 £3,470 £2,495

Double-room-for-single supplement: £375

Alternative Travel Group Ltd., T/A ATG Oxford, 274 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DY, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1865 315678 • Fax: +44 (0)1865 315697 • Email: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com • Web: www.atg-oxford.com REGisTERED in EnGLAnD nUmBER 1449375 • VAT nUmBER 348 2372 47