Q Magazine - Winter 2018/19

States of Independence The cities of Lucca and Siena are splendid focal points to plan a two-centre tour of Tuscany O ne of Italy's most popular regions, Tuscany is a timeless masterpiece of rolling vineyards, winding roads lined by elegant cypress trees and iconic hilltop towns with a rich cultural heritage. Take to the road and you will be rewarded with days filled with exciting sightseeing, hilltop panoramas that are breathtaking and culinary extravaganzas washed down with the superlative wines of the region. Leave Florence for its own visit but rather make the cities of Lucca and Siena your focal points for northern and central Tuscany respectively. If arriving by air why not fly into Pisa and return home via Rome (2hrs 30 mins from Siena). Lucca , in the north west, is a Renaissance marvel, encircled by massive 16th-century walls now used as a 4-mile elevated footpath. From soaring ancient towers to white- marble churches, Lucca combines some of the best aspects of Tuscany. For a panoramic view across the sea of terracotta rooftops of the old city, you should climb the 200-plus steps that run up the Guinigi Tower. Bizarrely, oak trees crown this medieval lookout! Lovers of opera flock to nearby Torre del Lago for the annual Puccini Festival, celebrating the music of Lucca’s most famous musical son. In close proximity to Lucca lies Pisa with the famous leaning tower as well as the stylish beach town of Viareggio , renowned for its annual carnival and favoured by Italians for a summer break to the Mediterranean. Viareggio would make a good summer base for exploring Lucca and the surrounding area. A Princely Place Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, Viareggio Built in the early 1920s, the renovated Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a grand and prestigious 5 star hotel facing Viareggio's immaculate beachfront. Boasting a michelin star restaurant the hotel also has a spectacular rooftop, heated pool (during colder seasons), fromwhich you can take in the stunning vistas of the Tyrrhenian Sea. 4