Tuscany, Italy: A Digital Experience

With Ubisoft’s release of Assassin’s Creed Two many gamers are getting their first look at Tuscany. The game is full of gorgeous scenery complete with sprawling vineyards, classic Italian architecture, medieval castles, and enchanted villas. Visitors to Tuscany marvel at how accurate and lifelike the landscapes of Assassin’s Creed Two are. With that said, the only way to truly experience Tuscany as a native does is to travel their and experience it for oneself. While the adventures of Ezio Auditore da Firenze in Renaissance Italy on the XBOX 360 or PS3 are fun, they are nothing compared to the real thing.

Tuscany, generally considered the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, has a legendary artistic heritage. Visitors can see one of a kind architecture, sculptures, and paintings throughout Florence and the surrounding areas. Perhaps the best known museums in Tuscany include the Uffizi, the Academia, and the Bargello. And yes, you can even visit the very street where Leonardo da Vinci turns Ezio’s codex pages into new weaponry.

While traveling from city to city it is a shame that Ezio doesn’t stop to enjoy a glass, or three, of wine. The sprawling landscapes he traverses are home to some of the finest vineyards on the planet. Guests who opt for a wine tour through Tuscan Way are in for a real treat. A stay at Villa Poggiarello with hosts Romeo and Federica allows guests to become a member of the family, enjoying Tuscan tales late into the evening. Romeo’s focus on “La Cucina Povera Toscana” (Tuscan Country Cooking) ensures travelers leave with full stomachs and smiling faces. On the 100 hectare property guests even sip wine in the very vineyard in which it was grown.

For a taste of village life look no further than Casa Innocenti. Carlo Innocenti has been gracious enough to open his home to Tuscan Way’s guests. Perched on a hill next to the village castle, Casa Innocenti is a four story medieval home complete with 20 rooms, a large wine cellar, and private garden. During their stay, guests are let in on some of the tightest held secrets in Italy. They don’t involve hidden Medici gold, but rather Tuscan culinary recipes passed down from generation to generation. As a Master Chef, Carlo has the ability to not only prepare some of the best food Tuscany has to offer, but also pair dishes with the perfect wine.

Assassin’s Creed Two is a great game, but the beauty and majesty of Tuscany can only be fully enjoyed by traveling there and sampling the wine, food, and culture that your hosts provide. Tuscan Way has the villas, connections, and experience to offer a truly transcendental experience that will be treasured for years to come.

For a meaningful vacation or food and wine tour to Tuscany contact Tuscan Way. They can be reached by calling 800-766-2390 or on the web at www.TuscanWay.com.