Will I be fit enough for this adventure? 

While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are reasonably fit and willing to train. The Tuscany trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge, particularly with walking and stair training. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with lots of walking and aerobic exercise.

How do I train for this adventure? 

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

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

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.

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 are the toilets like? 

While trekking, basic public toilets are available, however cleanliness may vary. We suggest you always carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser with you in your daypack.What is the food like? 

Meals will vary from day to day, but you can expect a nourishing range of Italian and European foods. A typical day could include:

Breakfast: ​Coffee, juice, pastries, yoghurt, cold meats, eggs

Lunch / Picnic: Sandwiches (panino), snacks (crisps, nuts), fresh fruit

Dinner:

​Antipasti - Tuscan cold meats, canapés or cheese flan

​Primo - Pasta

​Secondo - Roast meat, roast potato, salads

​Dessert - Gelato or local cakes

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 and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You’re welcome to bring additional snacks such as protein balls, lollies, gluten free or vegan treats with you. 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.

Is there mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure.

Access to wifi will vary from hotel to hotel. You should be able to access the internet on most days, but expect lower quality in the more rural areas.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to electricity. Italy uses 220V/50Hz with outlet types C, F and L (C and F plug types have two round pins and L plug type has three round pins). We recommend you purchase a universal adaptor.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry mobile phones (and a satellite phone, if required) to be used if further assistance is needed.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

• Transfers as per itinerary
• Accommodation based on twin-share in 2 or 3-star hotels
• Local English-speaking guide(s)
• Meals as per itinerary
• Tour of Lucca

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

• Airfares
• Airport transfers
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visa, if applicable
• Compulsory city tax
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change? 

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

Upon registration, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - from a bespoke fundraising plan, fitness advice and travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow €30 (AU$45) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and there will be the opportunity to withdraw more money while away if you need.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping your local guide is customary, but not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is €25-40 (AU$40-65) to be given in the local currency at the end of the adventure. Tipping in restaurants and taxis is customary.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures 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.

Can I drink the water in Italy?

Tap water in Italy is safe to drink and we encourage you to bring refillable water bottles to use throughout the adventure to minimise plastic waste. On trekking days, you can fill up before the start of the day at the hotel and at cafés along the trek if needed.

What is the weather like in Tuscany?

Tuscany is typified by relatively mild weather, depending on which area you are in. The coast and valleys are usually hotter than the mountains or hills, with the coast benefiting from breezes off the sea.

The chilliest months in Tuscany are December, January and February with temperatures between 3-12°C. Spring and autumn temperatures are around 15-22°C. Temperatures begin to soar again in May, with July and August being the hottest months to visit Tuscany with an average daytime temperature of 30°C.

Please check local weather forecasts prior to departure for up-to-date information.