You will meet your driver and tour leader at the pier and travel to the charming town of Massa Marittima. Upon arrival, your English-speaking guide will introduce you to this historic gem.

Massa Marittima, the historic capital of the mining region known as the Metalliferous Hills in Alta Maremma, is located just a few kilometers from the sea. At the heart of the town is the lovely Piazza Garibaldi, where elegant buildings such as the Cathedral and Palazzo Comunale stand as symbols of its rich history.

The Cathedral of Massa Marittima, constructed between 1287 and 1304, is a stunning example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Perched on a raised platform with grand stairs, its design is uniquely diagonal in relation to the square. Inside, the cathedral's three apses are supported by travertine columns with finely carved Corinthian capitals. Dedicated to Saint Cerbone, the Cathedral exudes harmony and timeless grace as it dominates the square.

In front of the Cathedral, you'll find the impressive Praetorian Palace, built in 1225. This Romanesque structure once served as the residence of local authorities and still showcases numerous historic coats of arms. Though today it functions as the Archaeological Museum of Massa Marittima (external visit only), it remains a significant piece of the town's medieval history. Nearby is the striking Town Hall, dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, created through the fusion of several medieval tower houses.

After your guided tour, you'll have time to explore the town at your own pace, soaking in its medieval charm.

Next, you will reboard the coach and head to a breathtaking location for a private wine-tasting experience and lunch. At the renowned Rocca di Frassinello winery, a dedicated sommelier will guide you through a tasting of exceptional wines, explaining what makes these vintages extraordinary. This will be followed by a tour of the winery's cellars, which even house an ancient Etruscan center on site.

Rocca di Frassinello is the product of a unique French-Italian partnership between Castellare and Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), one of the world's leading wine brands. This ambitious venture combines the expertise of Tuscany's traditional Sangioveto and Vermentino varieties with Lafite's mastery of classical French vines like Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Shiraz. The winery itself is a masterpiece, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano. His vision transformed the space into a functional yet striking work of art, focusing on the essence of winemaking.

The highlight of the winery is its barrel room, set in a central underground location that naturally maintains ideal humidity and temperature for aging wine. This vast, column-free space is surrounded by the various stages of the winemaking process, all expertly laid out to maximize efficiency. Above the cellar, an expansive work area allows for the gentle handling of grapes, ensuring that every step of the process preserves the quality of the wine.

After this unforgettable visit, you will return to the port, reflecting on a day filled with history, culture, and fine wine.

Civitavecchia (Rome)

Civitavecchia (Rome)

THE MEDITERRANEAN