Camelia magic in Tuscany

When spring arrives in Tuscany, thousands of camellias transform the gentle hills and historic gardens into a colorful sea of blossoms. Amidst elegant villas, enchanted parks, and Italy's mild climate, a natural spectacle of exceptional beauty unfolds. Experience the camellia bloom up close, stroll through gardens, and discover Tuscany at its most blooming.

Day 1 | Overnight Stay near Milan

Departure in the morning and drive to the overnight stay in the area of Milan. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 | Milan – Montecatini Terme

After breakfast, you will continue your journey to Montecatini Terme. Here, you will be warmly welcomed at the hotel. Perhaps you will use the time until dinner for an initial individual exploration of Montecatini Terme.

Day 3 | Camellia Bloom in Sant'Andrea di Compito – Lucca

Today's excursion first takes you to Sant'Andrea di Compito. Nestled between gentle hills and ancient olive groves, the charming village is known for its extraordinary collection of historical camellias. Especially during the blooming season, the place transforms into a colorful paradise. During a walk through the lovingly designed gardens and the famous camellia park with its more than 1000 camellia varieties, you will experience the diversity and beauty of this noble flower. Afterwards, we invite you to a tasting of local olive oil as well as a small lunch snack. You will spend the afternoon in Lucca – the "City of 100 Churches". The charming city, surrounded by a completely preserved Renaissance city wall, delights with its unique historical flair. Narrow streets, elegant squares, and magnificent churches tell of a rich past.

Day 4 | Siena

Drive to Siena, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. The highlight of this significant art city is the Piazza del Campo, the shell-shaped square where the famous horse race "Palio" takes place every year. Surrounded by historic palaces and the imposing Palazzo Pubblico, a very special atmosphere unfolds here. Another famous sight is the magnificent cathedral, whose artistically designed facade and richly decorated interior are among the most significant works of Italian Gothic architecture. Let yourself be enchanted by the unique flair of Siena and enjoy the perfect combination of culture, history, and Italian lifestyle. For a snack, there is Sienese pastry. With some free time, you can explore the small shops and cozy cafes.

Day 5 | Villa Reale di Marlia – Hesperidarium

After breakfast, you will drive to the Villa Reale di Marlia and its magnificent garden, where 200-year-old camellia trees grow. The impressive estate, which once served as the residence of Elisa Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister, has preserved its aristocratic charm to this day. The extensive park landscape harmoniously combines Italian and English garden art. Continue to the nursery "Hesperidarium," which takes you into a fascinating world of historical citrus plants and botanical diversity. Here, everything revolves around the cultivation and care of old citrus varieties. After a leisurely lunch, you will learn interesting facts about the cultivation, grafting, and history of citrus plants during a tour.

Day 6 | Return Journey

• Travel by modern coach
• 1x overnight stay including half board in a 4-star hotel in the area of
  Milan (local category)
• 4x overnight stays including half board at the 4-star Hotel Ariston in Montecatini
  Terme (local category)
• Full-day guided tour on the excursion
  "Camellia Blossom in Sant'Andrea di Compito – Lucca"
• Admission to the Camellia Park in Sant'Andrea di Compito
• Tasting of olive oil
• Light lunch in the area of Lucca
• Admission to the Cathedral in Lucca
• Full-day guided tour on the excursion
  "Siena"
• Admission to the Cathedral in Siena
• Tasting of Sienese pastries
• Full-day guided tour on the excursion
  "Villa Reale di Marlia – Hesperidarium"
• Visit to the garden of the Villa Reale di Marlia
• Admission and guided tour of the Hesperidarium nursery
• Lunch at the Hesperidarium nursery
• Tourist tax
• Audio guides for the entire duration of the trip
• Continuous BOHR travel accompaniment

The 4-star hotel (local category) is centrally located in the heart of Montecatini Terme. The hotel impresses with its classic and elegant style as well as its family atmosphere. Each room is individually decorated and features a bathtub or shower, toilet, TV, telephone, air conditioning, and minibar.