Tuscan Adventures: A Photo Montage

We’re back from Italy! The week we spent was no less than blissful; we slept in late, whiled away afternoons wandering ancient cobblestone streets, driving through postcard-like scenery, drinking some of the best wine in the world and eating. Actually, eating probably isn’t the right word. It was more like savoring; discovering; cherishing each bite.

I will share more detailed posts on the food, some recipes I learned, travel discoveries and our zany adventures once I’ve had some time to organize my thoughts and thoroughly review the AMAZING collection of pictures that JiT is putting together for an album (one I suspect he could probably publish as an art book).

For now, here is a taste of what’s to come. These pictures were all taken in or around the villa we stayed at in Tuscany.

Villa Bordoni is an ancient estate located high on the hillside just outside of the village of Greve in Chianti. The villa is surrounded by its own olive groves and wine fields, which are used to make their own olive oil and chianti classico (both outstanding). The villa was purchased from the Bordoni family back in 2006 and it took them three years to completely restore the place before opening the 13-room inn. It is absolutely incredible!

We felt like royalty staying in a castle…the place was gorgeous and the food was incredible. Each morning, we enjoyed complimentary European breakfast….fresh baked French rolls with homemade strawberry jam and fresh churned butter. Muesli with fresh fruit and whole milk. Local cheeses, fresh squeezed juice and the world’s best cappuccino. Each night we munch olives, crostini and local, artisan pecorino cheese at the bar while sipping the villa’s wine. Then enjoyed dinner in the dining room or room service served on the upstairs floor of our room.

In between meals, we walked and walked and walked. Exploring the Tuscan hillside around the villa, heading to nearby ancient towns to wander the cobblestone streets, visiting museums and churches. Everyplace we went we were overwhelmed by the beauty around us and the warm, welcoming smiles of the people we met.

And that was just Tuscany! After four blissful days there, we took the train to Rome for adventures at a faster pace but just as incredible.

There will certainly be several additional posts on the topic, once I’ve recovered some of my ability or organize (much wine and total bliss have left me feeling lazy and scattered for today). In the meantime, I’ll simply share my well wishes and good hopes that everyone is well! Looking forward to reconnecting now that we’re back.