Dear valued guest,
Thank you very much for choosing Keyrow Tours, a family company specializing in small group travel for over 20 years.
Our aim is to provide a unique and authentic experience of Italy, that exceeds personal hopes and expectations. We believe that we achieve that goal by focusing on immersive cultural experiences, such as local food and wine tastings, hands-on cooking classes, guided tours of historical sites, and interactions with locals. Of course we will visit the main attractions on each of our trips, but we especially love to explore off-the-beaten-path places that truly capture the essence of Italy.
Thank you again for choosing Keyrow Tours. We are delighted to host this extraordinary trip with you. Our time together will be recreational, educational, and experiential…with memories to last a lifetime. Please contact us with any questions, and know that we remain at your service. "Andiamo!" ("Let's Go!")
With kind regards,
Paolo C. Carman, Founder
Prior to your trip, each guest will receive an email invitation to download our digital itinerary onto your smartphones or computers. That version of the itinerary will be more detailed than the website version that you are viewing at this time. It will eventually include flight information, departure times, meeting points, helpful tips on what to pack, information about money, hotel contact information, and more.
Welcome to our family...
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
The cultural etiquette and modesty standards for visiting churches in Europe includes not carrying backpacks or large purses, not wearing sleeveless tops, and not wearing shorts or dresses that do not cover the knees. Sleeveless tops may be covered with a lightweight scarf.
Plan ahead:
Pack an appropriate clothing option like trousers or skirts that cover the knees and tops that cover the shoulders for days we may enter a church.
Bring a cover-up:
If you're unsure, bring a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders and/or knees when you enter the attractions.
Consider the heat:
While it's hot, please know that the dress codes remains strict.
Centrally located historic hotels (double room occupancy)
All ground and sea transportation
to museums and special events such as cooking classes and wine tastings
Daily
daily exquisite traditional main meals with local wine
with your personal Keyrow host
optional
“What is the fatal charm of Italy? What do we find there that can be found nowhere else? I believe it is a certain permission to be human, which other places, other countries, lost long ago.”
Erica Jong
Flight not included. We recommending flying into Florence with one international connection, or into Rome with a 3 hours transfer to our Tuscan villas.
Dale Whittaker is a graduate of Cornell University and has worked in the luxury hospitality field for over a decade. He hails from Central New York and has previously lived in Paris (France). A member of the Keyrow family since 2017, Dale is delighted to bring people and places together in small group settings. His extensive experiences as a host and world traveler have culminated in specializing as a Keyrow tour director for Italy and Scotland/Ireland.
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow”
– Anita Desai
5 minivans
Welcome to the glorious hills and countryside of the Tuscany Region, where simple pleasures are elevated to an art form. Our home for the next six nights is a beautiful private Tuscan villa, situated in a charming and secluded setting. Our villa will be an oasis as we explore, celebrate and enjoy the bounty of Tuscany.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Traveling forces you to lose sight of all the familiar comforts of home. Nothing is yours except the essential things – air, sleep, dreams, the sea, the sky – all things tending towards the eternal or what we imagine of it.”
Cesare Pavese
The historic center of Siena has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. It is one of the nation's most visited attractions, and is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, medieval cityscape and the Palio, a horse race that is held twice a year.
Siena, like other Tuscan hill towns, was first settled in the time of the Etruscans (c. 900– 400 BC).
According to local legend, Siena was founded by Senius and Aschius, two sons of Remus and thus the nephews of Romulus, after whom Rome was named. Legend has it that after their father was murdered by Romulus, they fled Rome, taking with them the statue of the she-wolf suckling the infants and appropriating that symbol for the town.
The most famous daughter of this important medieval city is Saint Catherine of Siena: a medieval mystic, poet and feminist-figure of her time. We will learn about Saint Catherine over lunch… and why she referred to God as an “inebriated lover.” Cheers!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the most pleasant sensations in the world. You are surrounded by adventure”
– Freya Stark
Adriana (Adri) Faust Bianchi was born to American and Italian parents in Florence, Italy. Early in her in career, she taught English and Italian for extended periods of time in Sweden and in Great Britain, where she feels very much at home. Adri has worked extensively in the luxury travel industry. She currently resides in Florence, and operates a successful business as a licensed tour guide in the Tuscan region, welcoming visitors from all over the world. A proud mother of two young adult daughters, Adri's passions include travel, hiking, horses, photography, Renaissance art and her beloved city of Florence. Adri has worked for Keyrow Tours for over a decade, making the enchanted vistas of Florence come alive for Keyrow guests. She looks forward to expanding her role to include hosting new adventures beyond the Tuscan sun.
Ponte Vecchio, translated, means “The Old Bridge.” This historic bridge that crosses the Arno River is laden with gold and diamond shops. Conveniently located just around the corner from our hotel, shoppers…this one’s for you!
This is Florence’s central square. See the Palazzo Signoria (Florence’s City Hall since the reign of the Medicis), the outdoor Loggia contains ancient Roman, Greek and Renaissance statuary, including Celini’s famous bronze of Persius holding Medusa’s severed head.
Enjoy incredible Renaissance artwork including Michelangelo’s monolithic statue of David and his famous series of “Prisoners” designed for Pope Julius II’s tomb in Rome.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“As with circling round of turrets, Monteriggioni crowns his walls; E’en thus the shore, encompassing the abyss, Was turreted with giants, half their length Uprearing, horrible, whom Jove from heaven Yet threatens, when his muttering thunder rolls.”
Dante Alighieri, Hell, canto XXXI, lines 40-45
Just outside Florence, we will offer our respects to over 4,000 American service men and women who paid the ultimate price during the Second World War.
Tenuta Torciano has been producing wine and olive oil since 1720, a tradition passed down through generations of the Giachi family. With its panoramic views of rolling hillsides, vineyards, and olive groves, this estate offers an idyllic setting. A family member will guide us through the art of wine making and the science of wine tasting and pairing. Enjoy a sumptuous luncheon featuring local, organic ingredients, offering a true taste of Tuscany’s culinary heritage. Buon appetito...
San Gimignano is known as the “Manhattan of Tuscany” because of its many medieval towers that look like skyscrapers from a distance. 15 minutes from Tenuta Torciano, this is a charming town. Visit its central square, stroll into numerous shops, or dare to walk into the Medieval Torture Museum…we will have about two hours to enjoy this gem in the heart of Tuscany. Sample some wild boar meat while you’re here!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
Pisa is a legendary city and one of the most famous in this region of Italy. Located on the western coast of Italy, Pisa is only 20 minutes from the Ligurian Sea and has great transport links to Florence, Livorno and La Spezia.
During the 11th century and onwards Pisa rose to prominence and became one of the major maritime republics of Italy. During the Middle Ages Pisa was involved in various battles and played an important role in the wars and feuds. Today the city still maintains its ports and this accounts for much of its economy. Enjoy historic buildings such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa as well as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta…
Pisa is a legendary city and one of the most famous in this region of Italy. Located on the western coast of Italy, Pisa is only 20 minutes from the Ligurian Sea and has great transport links to Florence, Livorno and La Spezia.
During the 11th century and onwards Pisa rose to prominence and became one of the major maritime republics of Italy. During the Middle Ages Pisa was involved in various battles and played an important role in the wars and feuds. Today the city still maintains its ports and this accounts for much of its economy. Enjoy historic buildings such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa as well as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta…
Lucca is one of the cities most loved all of Tuscany. Located on a plain at the foot of the Apuan Alps and is less than half an hour from the coast of Versilia. Since it isn't a hilltop village, it is ideal for anyone with mobility issues as well as for anyone wishing to take a break from climbing…
Most of the attractions in Lucca today show its ancient history: from traces of the Roman amphiteater that can be seen in the shape of the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, to the various towers and villas from the 12th to 16th centuries.
The walls that surrounded the old town were maintained eventually lost their military importance… but today serve as a scenic pedestrian promenade, today one of Lucca's main attractions.
“A journey is best measured in friends, not in miles”
– Tim Cahill
The Medieval and Renaissance village of Montepulciano is one of the most attractive hills towns in Tuscany. It is built on the ridge of Monte Poliziano, and its main street stretches for 11.5 kilometers from the Porta al Prato to the Piazza Grande at the top of the hill. The cathedral was built in 1619, and the castle of Montepulciano was first mentioned as a fortified center in the year 715. Of course Montepulciano is famous for not just one, but two excellent wines: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano. For those who partake in the fruit of the vine, you will have the opportunity to try both!
Nestled between the towns of Montepulciano and Montalcino, this small village was rebuilt by Pope Pius II who was born there, as the ideal Renaissance city and as a retreat for the Pope from Rome. It produces some of the best Pecorino cheese in the world which we will sample! Pienza is known for its annual Pecorino tossing contest. Pass the Pecorino, per favore!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.”
Jack Kerouac
A picnic lunch will be provided on the minibuses...
Welcome to the village of Varenna! The shores of Lake Como will be our enchanting home for three nights. Each room s rich in charm and personality...
Como is a lake of glacial origin in Lombardy, Italy. It has an area of 146 km, making it the third largest lake in Italy. At over 400 m (1320 ft) deep, it is one of the deepest lakes in Europe. The bottom of the lake is more than 1300 feet deep. Lake Como is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy.
The lake is shaped much like the inverted character "Y". The northern branch begins at the town of Colico, while the towns of Como and Lecco sit at the ends of the southwestern and southeastern branches respectively. The small towns of Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna are situated at the intersection of the three branches of the lake: a triangular boat service operates among them. Many celebrities have or had homes on the shores of Lake Como… Matthew Bellamy, Madonna, George Clooney, Gianni Versace, Sylvester Stallone, Richard Branson, and Ben Spies.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Open my heart and you will see, Graved inside of it, Italy.”
Robert Browning
Lake Como has been a popular retreat for aristocrats and wealthy people since Roman times, and a popular tourist attraction with many artistic and cultural gems. It has many villas and palaces (such as Villa Olmo, Villa Serbelloni, and Villa Carlotta). Lake Como is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. After visiting Bellagio, explore our home-village of Varenna and enjoy the tranquility of the lake and Alps…
Bellagio is a comune (municipality) in the Italian region of Lombardy, located on Lake Como. It has long been famous for its setting at the intersection of the three branches of the Y-shaped lake, which is also known as Lario. Bellagio is situated at the tip of the peninsula separating the lake’s two southern arms, with the Alps visible across the lake to the north. The medium temperature during winter is never below 6-7 C°, while during summer it is around 25-30 C°, mitigated during the afternoon by the characteristic breva, the gentle breeze of the Lake Como.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“What a wonder it is! So grand, so solemn, so vast! And yet so delicate, so airy, so graceful! A varied world of solid weight, and yet is seems…a delusion of frostwork that might vanish with a breath!”
Mark Twain, describing the Cathedral of Milan
Tirano, situated at the foothills of the Alps. Pass mountain streams and forested hills against a backdrop of steep, snow-capped peaks. When we arrive in Tirano, we will enjoy lunch before boarding the train.
Our rail journey starts amid the palms and oleanders of northern Italy, taking us over the spiraling viaduct at Brusio and through the Bernina Pass into Engadin, arriving in St Moritz 2.5 hours later.
Along the way we will pass wild gorges and icy glaciers, cross soaring bridges and shoot through loop tunnels. This north-south alpine crossing offers eye-catching vistas of stunning scenery from our rail car. Capture photographic views of the Alps and its glacial lakes, and look out your window to watch the bright red train curve against a snow-speckled landscape. You’ll see impressive alpine valleys, lakes and waterfalls at almost every turn!
When we arrive at the exclusive resort of St Moritz, disembark the train and enjoy personal time for exploring the town’s elegance, charm, and of course please visit a chocolatier!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
“Travel does what good novelists also do to the life of the everyday, placing it like a picture in a frame or a gem in its setting, so that the intrinsic qualities are made more clear. Travel does this with the very stuff that everyday life is made of, giving to it the sharp contour and meaning of art.”
Freya Stark
