Our unique sculling program in Tuscany highlights the expert coaching of Marlene Royle set on a private rowing basin formed by the River Arno that lies in the famous region identified by sparkling landscapes, renaissance culture and the rich soil that produces world famous wines and olive oils. A 12th century medieval city named San Miniato situated on the crest of one of the highest peaks between Florence and Pisa is our base for 7 days.

Off the water visit historic hill towns such as Vinci, San Gimignano, Volterra, Lucca, Pisa, and a train excursion to Florence with time for sightseeing, shopping and dining. Soak up the architecture and art while savoring the finest fresh home cooked Tuscan cuisine, locally grown produce, homemade pasta, pecorino, wild boar, fruity olive oils, flavorful Chianti and Sangiovese, topped off with gelato, fine Italian chocolates, biscotti and vin santo. Bask in the essence of Tuscan culture and beauty while having the rowing experience of a lifetime.

Rowing Program
Marlene’s sculling instruction will be focused on improving the technical skills of each sculler through one-on-one coaching, practicing drills, group exercises, video analysis, and dock demonstrations. Special attention will be given to stabilizing the hull, bladework, proper recovery rhythm, as well as, effective power application on the drive and learning to work with the boat. Marlene will help you learn the critical concepts of the stroke and then how to practice your skills. Sessions will be tailored to the needs and goals of the group. Instruction will be in single shells with some doubles available for use. Scullers should be able to row a racing single. Off the water, you will have time to talk to Marlene about training, physiology, flexibility, and any other aspects of sculling that interests you. Email Marlene with any questions.

In September the temperature ranges from a low of 55 to high in the mid 70’s so rowers should be prepared with tights and light rain jackets for cool mornings.

Optional Activities
San Miniato and its neighbors are rich in culture, history and sport. Numerous optional alternatives may be arranged for non rowing guests, such as bicycle rentals and group bike rides, cooking classes, hiking (guided or self guided), golfing, wine tasting, special excursions, museum or spa visits. Some of the optional activities may result in an additional charge for equipment rental, drivers or guides.

Accommodations
An immersion into Tuscan country living with 6 nights in a hilltop bed and breakfast a few meters from the center of San Miniato. Relax with a swim in the pool or sip vino rosso della casa on the patio surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. All rooms are large bright and airy with air conditioning, and en suite bathrooms with showers. Enjoy an Italian breakfast of cakes and coffee in the dining room with the family.

The cost of the trip is $2750 per person. This includes 6 nights double occupancy hotel accommodations (single supplement may be available on request), rowing sessions, video analysis and technique talks with Marlene Royle, boats, oars, breakfast plus either lunch or dinner each day (house wine or beer served with meals, other alcoholic beverages not included) all sightseeing arranged by the group leaders, transportation and entrances on group sightseeing trips, any wine or cheese tasting or other culinary or cultural event organized by the tour, airport transfer to and from Florence (FLR) (within designated timeframes). Costs are based on exchange rates as of December 7, 2009 and are subject to adjustment in the event of any major currency fluctuation. Cost does not include airfare, personal items, telephone, travel insurance, tips to guides and drivers. The number of rowing participants is limited so reserve now by making a deposit of $500 payable by check or credit card to Willett Travel. The balance of the trip cost is due June 15, 2010. All reservations are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the final due date. See the Trip Enrollment form for details and the cancellation policy.

Download a flyer and trip enrollment form for this trip or for more information, please email us pamela@callistotours.com.

CST# 2002558-10