£2,320 (deposit £250). This includes: air travel (economy class) on scheduled British Airways flights (Airbus 320); travel by private coach; accommodation as described below; breakfasts, 1 lunch and 5 dinners with wine, water and coffee; 2 wine tastings; all admissions; all tips for restaurant staff and drivers; all taxes; the services of the lecturer and tour manager. Single supplement £380 (double room for sole use). Price without flights £2,170.

In Pienza (4 nights): a former convent dating to the 15th century close to the main square; bedrooms vary in size and are simply decorated; terrace with formal gardens and impressive view and restaurant serving good Tuscan cooking. In Radda (3 nights): a 17th-century manor house with historical links to Chianti wine production; several lounges, terrace with valley view, restaurant and outdoor pool; rooms vary in size.

This tour should only be considered by those who are used to regular country walking, with some uphill content. Strong knees and ankles are essential, as are a pair of well-worn hiking boots with good ankle support. Walks have been carefully selected but some steep rises and falls are unavoidable and terrain can be loose under foot, particularly in wet weather. There are five walks of between 4 and 6 miles. Average distance by coach per day: 44 miles. We regret that applications from people aged 81 or over at the time of the tour will not be accepted.