13 - 21 May 2024

Departure Dates

$4,385

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

3/5

Challenge Grade

$3,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 20,000 Australians diagnosed every year.

Soberingly, over 3,200 Australians die from breast cancer each year - this equates to 9 lives lost every single day.

But there is hope.

Since our inception in 1994, death rates from breast cancer in Australia have improved by 43% thanks in large part to continued investment in world-class breast cancer research. Ongoing research is the only way we can improve our understanding of how breast cancer originates, grows and spreads, how we best treat and stop breast cancer progressing to end deaths from breast cancer.

All funds raised on NBCF’s Trek Towards Zero Deaths will go towards funding vital breast cancer research in reaching their vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.

We need you!

How it works

Book with Confidence

Pay only $475 upfront to secure your place and pay the remaining balance in flexible instalments.

Cancel up to 90 days before travel with no penalty. For more details, see our FAQs.

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1: Monday 13th May 2024, Arrive Florence

The adventure-of-a-lifetime will begin on this day as you touch down in Florence, Italy! Upon arrival at Amerigo Vespucci Airport, you will make your own way to your hotel. In the evening, we will meet for our first team dinner and briefing.

Meals: D

Accommodation: Hotel Boston or similar

Day 2: Tuesday 14th May 2024, Florence – Lucca

On this morning, we will wake to the beautiful sights and sounds of Florence. After breakfast, we will transfer by private vehicle to the charming town of Lucca. While your luggage is transferred to the hotel, we will be dropped at the city gate to enjoy the walk through the streets of Lucca to our accommodation. The afternoon will be free at leisure to explore this marvellous city before we meet for dinner.

Transfer time: 1.5 hours total

Meals: B D

Accommodation: Hotel Puccini or similar

Day 3: Wednesday 15th May 2024, Lucca – San Miniato

After breakfast, we will visit the main sights of this picturesque Tuscan town. Marvel at the imposing Renaissance walls, cobbled streets, and beautiful piazzas of Lucca. In the afternoon, we will head out for a walking tour to the famous Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, an originally oval-shaped piazza, Lucca’s City Wall built in the 16th and 17th centuries, the church of St Michael, and the shopping and café areas in the old town.

After the city tour, we will transfer by private vehicle to San Miniato, the starting point for our first day of walking tomorrow. With its beguiling mediaeval allure, San Miniato is your quintessential Italian dream. From stunning palaces and churches to delectable food and wine, San Miniato will lure you in with its eclectic and effervescent nature. The rest of the day is free at leisure, so why not train for your impending hike with a hike up to Torre di Frederico II? San Miniato is famous for this mediaeval fortress tower, with the panoramic view at the top a true sight to behold.

Transfer time: 1 hour

Meals: B

Accommodation: Hotel San Miniato or similar

Day 4: Thursday 16th May 2024, San Miniato to Gambassi Terme

This day, we will rise early for our first day of hiking. We will begin by walking a section of the Via Francigena, which follows a stunning trail through oak and chestnut woods, olive groves and vineyards. The trail is mostly an off-road track that follows a path over small rolling hills – a quintessential Tuscan landscape! En route, we pass the quaint town of Chianni, where we may stop to visit its beautiful church. We will then climb 300 metres up to Gambassi Terme, a hilltop town best known for its spa and hot springs, as well as glass manufacturing. Upon arrival, we will check-into our hotel before joining for a group meal.

Trekking Distance: 18-23km
Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Tenuta Sant’Ilario or similar

Day 5: Friday 17th May 2024, Gambassi Terme to San Gimignano

On this morning after breakfast, we will begin our walk descending from Gambassi Terme before reaching another steady climb. This day’s route will feature many undulating paths, however the stunning scenery as we walk past the world-famous Chianti vineyards will certainly make up for it. We will trek until we reach San Gimignano, an enchanting UNESCO-listed medieval town and our home for the night.

Trekking distance: 14km

Meals: B L

Accommodation: Hotel Leon Bianco or similar

Day 6: Saturday 18th May 2024, San Gimignano to Colle di Val d’Elsa

On this day, we will bid farewell to San Gimignano as our trek out of the town takes us through olive groves and cypress avenues up to the village of Montecchio. We will continue to trek through the ethereal Italian landscape until we reach Colle Val d’Elsa, where we can enjoy a nice meal in the central piazza.

Trekking distance: 13km

Meals: B L D

Accommodation: La Vecchia Cartiera or similar

Day 7: Sunday 19th May 2024, Colle di Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni

This morning after breakfast, we will head off from the piazza in Colle di Val d’Elsa, our route taking us along tree-lined roads before descending to Castel Pietraio and then up to the densely forested hill of Montagnole. Our path along the Via Francigena will take us up to the unique hilltop village of Monteriggioni, famous for the medieval wall that surrounds the town.

Trekking distances: 13km

Meals: B L D

Accommodation: Fattoria Il Casone or similar

Day 8: Monday 20th May 2024, Monteriggioni to Siena

On this day, we will leave Monteriggioni for our final day of trekking and make our way towards Siena. Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited cities in Italy, and for a good reason. It is world-famous for its art, medieval architecture, museums and cuisine and a stunning location to celebrate the end of our adventure together. Tonight, we will gather for our final group dinner to celebrate the friendships we have made and all that we have accomplished.

Trekking distance: 19-23km

Meals: B L D

Accommodation: Albergo Canon d’Oro or similar

Day 9: Tuesday 21st May 2024, Depart Siena

On this day, we will bid farewell to this adventure. After breakfast, you will make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: B

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation based on twin share • English speaking guides • Meals as per itinerary • Tour of Lucca • Water on trekking days • Luggage up to a max of 20kg

Doesn’t include: Airfares • Airport transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Compulsory city tax • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Why you'll love this adventure

Gaze upon the world-famous Chianti vineyards

Admire incredible sunsets with a plate of local gourmet cuisines of the finest ingredients

Visit Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Trek knowing that you’re funding world-class breast cancer research

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Tuscany trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 100 kilometres over 5 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

NBCF has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 7,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $45 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and NBCF, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3 star hotels and country cottages. Some of the hotels, particularly in small towns, are older buildings and may not have amenities like lifts. Hotels and cottages will have modern and clean amenities with toilet paper provided.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures Guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Payments, Cancellations and Refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The cost to participate in this adventure is $4,385 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

This excludes flights.

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for NBCF.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partner, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to NBCF?

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to NBCF. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for NBCF are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?

Australian passport holders do not require a visa to enter Italy. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonials

“Everything was bang on what I expected. Special thanks to our guide, Francesco who stepped up at the last minute and didn’t an amazing job. His local knowledge was fantastic. He was very patient & helpful. Very well-organised tour. Pretty much exactly as I imagined it. Already looking at doing another one in 2024!”

– Leslie Curnow, NBCF's Tuscany Trek 2022

“It was a great experience, with thanks to our very knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. And, our team worked well together to support each other through the challenge.”

– Cath Clark, NBCF Tuscany 2022

Find Out More

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