Hike & Wine Tour

Exploring Tuscany on Foot and Wine: A Closer Look at the Hike & Wine Tour from Florence

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Tuscany beyond the city hustle, the Hike & Wine Tour promises a charming blend of active adventure and delicious indulgence. Set just outside Florence in the peaceful Mugello area, this experience combines scenic walking trails, visits to a family-run organic farm, and plenty of wine and olive oil tastings—making it a compelling choice for lovers of nature and good food alike.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the dedication of the guides, like Simone, whose expertise and storytelling enrich every step of the journey. But as with any outdoor activity, you should be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike—a detail that might not suit everyone. This tour is ideal for those looking for a genuine, hands-on taste of Tuscany’s landscape and its culinary soul, especially if you enjoy combining physical activity with wine tasting.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided walk through vineyards and olive groves with insights from local experts.
• Delicious Tastings: Includes tastings of organic wine and extra-virgin olive oil from the estate.
• Cultural and Scenic: Starts in a medieval village and leads through the hills of Mugello, offering picturesque views.
• Upfront Value: Price of about $137 per person for roughly three hours of activity, with ample food and drink included.
• Small Group Feel: Maximum of 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Weather Dependent: The experience is subject to good weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds if canceled.

A Walk Through the Tuscan Countryside

The tour kicks off in a charming, medieval-origin village at the foot of the Tuscan Apennines. The narrow streets and historical vibe immediately draw you into the region’s timeless feel. From there, your guide, like Simone, who’s described as professional, cheerful, and full of useful knowledge, leads you out onto the countryside.

The hike is designed to be active but manageable; it’s labeled as moderately strenuous. Expect to walk along secret trails that wind through vineyards and olive groves, revealing the true essence of the Mugello landscape. Reviewers like Terry described the hike as “strenuous but worth it,” highlighting the effort involved but also emphasizing the rewarding views and the delicious winery destination that awaits at the end.

The Winery and Farm Visit: A Taste of Local Heritage

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to a family-run organic farm and estate. This is where the authentic charm of the experience shines. Guests learn about the history of the farm, often hearing personal stories like those shared by the host and her family—an aspect that many reviewers found memorable. Alexis shared, “What a beautiful story about how they got started,” which emphasizes the personal touch.

Simone and other guides ensure that guests get a real feel for how wine and olive oil are made, often offering multiple tastings. As Peter notes, the guide was “very professional, smiling, efficient, and full of interesting info,” making the educational part both engaging and accessible.

The tastings include three types of Chianti wine from the estate, along with locally sourced charcuterie and cheeses. Guests rave about the quality of the wine—Alexis called it “exquisite”—and the olive oil, often described as “incredible.” These tastings are thoughtfully paired with the picturesque surroundings, giving visitors a true taste of Tuscany’s culinary pride.

The Light Tuscan Lunch

After a morning of activity and tasting, the tour concludes with a typical Tuscan light lunch. Expect local specialties and snacks that complement the wine. Many reviewers found the food to be “great,” and the combination of flavors adds a satisfying finish to the experience. The inclusion of vegetarian options is available if requested, making it flexible for diverse diets.

The entire experience, including the meal, is designed to give guests a well-rounded taste of regional culture—simple, flavorful, and rooted in tradition.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

• Duration: Around 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure without feeling rushed.
• Price: About $137.13 per person, which offers excellent value considering the combined active, cultural, and culinary elements.
• Group Size: Max 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.
• Start/End Point: Begins at Piazza Giotto, Vicchio, and finishes back at the same spot—no need to worry about transportation.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate activity level is recommended, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions.

Authentic, Educative, and Delicious

Many who’ve participated in this experience highlight Simone’s guiding skills—his friendly demeanor, professionalism, and in-depth knowledge make a tangible difference. As Terry noted, “Simone grew up in Vicchio,” and his personal stories add a layer of authenticity that elevates the whole experience.

The scenic views of the Mugello hills, combined with the chance to taste locally produced wines and olive oils, create a sensory-rich journey. Visitors leave not just with photos but with a deeper understanding of Tuscany’s agricultural roots and culinary traditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to combine light exercise with cultural discovery. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about local production firsthand. Those interested in authentic Tuscan food and traditions will appreciate the family-run farm visit and the homemade-style lunch.

It’s particularly fitting for visitors who prefer small group tours that avoid large crowds, offering a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere. If you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to explore Tuscany beyond the city, this tour can provide a memorable and authentic slice of rural Italy.

Final Thoughts

The Hike & Wine Tour in Tuscany offers a wonderful balance of activity, culture, and culinary delight. It’s a chance to see a different side of Tuscany—its rolling hills, its family farms, and its age-old wine traditions—while getting some exercise and making personal connections with guides and fellow travelers.

The tour’s value lies in its combination of beautiful scenery, high-quality tastings, and engaging storytelling. It’s clear that guides like Simone make every moment count, turning a simple walk into a memorable journey into Tuscany’s heart.

If you’re seeking an experience that’s authentic, enriching, and deliciously satisfying, this tour makes a compelling choice. Just pack comfortable shoes, a curious mind, and an appetite for both adventure and good wine.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You meet at Piazza Giotto in Vicchio, which is accessible by public transport or car.

How physically demanding is the hike?
It’s classified as moderately strenuous, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. Expect to walk on secret trails through hills and vineyards.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a professional licensed guide, visit to the estate and winery, wine and olive oil tastings, a light Tuscan lunch, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested when booking, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical aspect suggests it’s best for older children or teens who can handle moderate activity.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 travelers, fostering a relaxed and personalized experience.

Can the tour be canceled or rescheduled?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund if canceled for weather or other reasons.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, good weather is important, so spring through early fall are likely ideal.

How do I book or contact the provider?
You can book via the linked Viator page or contact mugellove directly at +39 339 5897015 or [email protected] for additional questions.

In the end, the Hike & Wine Tour offers a genuine taste of Tuscany, combining active exploration with culinary delights. Perfect for those wanting to see the countryside, learn about local traditions, and enjoy some of Italy’s finest wines—all in a small, friendly group.