Our Italian language courses are supplemented by a program of excursions that allow participants to explore both the past and the present of the region. Participation in the excursions is optional and the cost is not included in the price of the course. Here are some examples:
Tour of Montepulciano
On a guided walk through the town, we'll discover Montepulciano's history and artistic beauty while getting to know the place that'll be our home for the next few weeks. In the historic centre there are churches and palazzi that illustrate the history of architecture from the Middle Ages forward, with a particular emphasis on the Renaissance period. But there are also architectural evidence of the Etruscans and the Romans, baroque churches and the 18th century Poliziano Theatre.
Hot Springs of Bagno Vignoni
Bagno Vignoni is a highly prized hot springs, known and appreciated throughout the world for its exquisite location in the heart of the Natural Artistic and Cultural Park of the Val d'Orcia. People have availed themselves of Bagno Vignoni's thermal waters since the time of the Roman Empire. After our lessons let's escape and take a relaxing bath in this splendid setting!
Excursions to Montalcino and Sant'Antimo
Perched on a hill, the village of Montalcino - famous worldwide for its Brunello wine - dominates the surrounding countryside. Its most distinguishing monument is the 14th century fortress from whose towers one can enjoy a breathtaking panorama that stretches, on clear days, beyond the boundary of Southern Tuscany into the province of Lazio.
Amid artisans' studios, small cafes and shops selling typical, local products are the many historical sites of Montalcino. These include the beautiful Town Hall, the Bishops' Palace, which hosts the Combined Museums, the historic cross of Sant'Antimo, and the churches of Saint Augustine, Saint Egidio and Saint Francis, all constructed between the 13h and the 14th centuries. The Monastery of Sant'Antimo, well known for the Gregorian chant still sung by its monks today, is one of the most beautiful Romanesque churches in Tuscany.
Wine Tasting at the Cantina Crociani
The wine tasting and tour of the Crociani wine cellars has become an Il Sasso classic and is one of our students' favorite activities. Visitors to Crociani are enchanted by the setting - a place in which time seems to have stood still. They are willingly seduced by the extraordinary Tuscan hospitality, and the tantalizing flavour of the wines, which are combined to perfection with typical local products. A visit to the Cellar provides wonderful surprises, such as the long underground tunnel, recently discovered and partially restored. This could have been part of an ancient Etruscan tomb, or perhaps it was part of the system of tunnels that led outside the town and provided an escape route during sieges.
Cheese Tasting at the Cugusi Dairy
In addition to wine, pecorino cheese is one of the high quality products of our region. With a visit to Cugusi, located just outside Montepulciano, we offer an opportunity to learn something about the production of pecorino cheese and to taste the different types at the dairy in which it's produced.
Culinary Evening
What a great idea to learn the language and the cuisine together! This evening offers you the chance to prepare and eat a typical Italian meal, following the instructions of an expert cook, while chatting in Italian. The menu consists of a choice of antipasti, first and second course dishes, vegetable side dishes and desserts, prepared from fresh, seasonally available ingredients and savoured together at the end of the evening. A sample menu - bruschetta, crostini, pici (a local, homemade pasta that's like thick spaghetti), gnocchi, lemon chicken, lasagna, tiramisu…that should be enough to make your mouth water!
Country Walks
There's nothing better to help you experience the famous Tuscan countryside than a good walk in the country. Let's rest our minds for a change and put our muscles to work as we walk through vineyards and across cultivated fields from Montepulciano to Montefollonico or Montichiello.
Today - Shopping!
Are you a fan of Italian style but find there's not enough in the shops of Montepulciano to satisfy your shopping needs? We've got the solution - Outlet Shopping! Let's go to Foiano, a large shopping mall in which you'll find Italian designer fashions, shoes and accessories. And if you need a pause between stores, we can stop for a coffee or something to eat...
Arrivederci a presto!!!
The course is over. Let's exchange addresses and go to lunch together at our favourite restaurant, the Trattoria di Cagnano, to say our goodbyes in Italian!
