October 10-18, 2026
Experience the magic of Tuscany without compromise on this thoughtfully curated gluten-free journey. Designed exclusively for gluten-free travelers, this immersive itinerary blends authentic culinary experiences with complete peace of mind—from hands-on cooking classes using traditional gluten-free techniques to guided winery visits, a behind-the-scenes look at a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, and unforgettable truffle hunting in the Tuscan countryside. Savor every moment knowing each experience is carefully vetted, allowing you to indulge in Italy’s rich food culture safely, deliciously, and without limitation.
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*This tour requires a minimum of 20 guests to operate. Group Air is available for purchase. Please do not commit to non-refundable airline tickets until you have been notified that the trip is guaranteed.
DAY 1 - October 10, 2026
Departure Day
Your journey begins as you depart for Tuscany, where a refined, gluten-free culinary experience awaits—crafted with care, authenticity, and attention to every detail.
DAY 2 - October 11, 2026
Arrival in Florence & Transfer to Viareggio
Arrive in Florence and enjoy a seamless private transfer to Viareggio, an elegant seaside retreat along the Tuscan coast. Settle into your accommodations and unwind before gathering for a beautifully curated welcome dinner, setting the tone for the days ahead. (D)
DAY 3 - October 12, 2026
Parma Food Experience
Journey to Parma, a destination synonymous with Italian culinary excellence. Enjoy exclusive visits to artisanal producers of Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and traditional balsamic vinegar. Each experience offers a deeper understanding of heritage craftsmanship, complemented by exceptional tastings in refined settings. (B, L)
DAY 4 - October 13, 2026
Lucca & Winery Experience
Discover the timeless charm of Lucca, where cobblestone streets and Renaissance walls create an atmosphere of quiet elegance. After time at leisure, continue to a boutique winery for a guided tasting and leisurely lunch, thoughtfully prepared with gluten-free considerations and perfectly paired wines. (B, L)
DAY 5 - October 14, 2026
Truffle Hunting in San Miniato
Venture into the countryside near San Miniato for a private truffle hunting experience led by expert hunters and their trained dogs. Explore the serene woodland landscape while learning the traditions behind this prized delicacy. Conclude with an intimate tasting of truffle-inspired specialties paired with local wines.(B, L)
DAY 6 - October 15, 2026
San Gimignano & Winery Culinary Experience
Begin your day with a visit to San Gimignano, a UNESCO-listed hilltop town known for its iconic medieval towers and sweeping countryside views. Enjoy time at leisure to explore its charming streets and local shops.
Continue to a Tuscan estate winery for an immersive culinary experience. Take part in a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients—expertly adapted for a gluten-free lifestyle. Along the way, enjoy an olive oil tasting and a guided wine experience. Sit down to savor the meal you’ve created, paired with estate wines, before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
DAY 7 - October 16, 2026
Florence & Private Cooking Experience
Return to Florence and settle into your accommodations in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, enjoy a hands-on gluten-free cooking experience led by a skilled chef. Learn the art of crafting fresh pasta and traditional tiramisu, followed by a leisurely meal featuring your creations, paired with carefully selected local wines. (B, D)
DAY 8 - October 17, 2026
Florence Cultural Discovery & Farewell Dinner
Experience Florence through a guided walking tour that brings its rich history and artistry to life, including visits to Piazza della Signoria and the Accademia Gallery. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before concluding your journey with a memorable farewell dinner in an elegant setting. (B, D)
DAY 9 - October 18, 2026
Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your return journey, departing with a collection of unforgettable moments and a deeper connection to Tuscany’s culinary and cultural traditions. (B)
OPTIONAL ROME EXTENSION
Day 9 - October 18, 2026
Florence to Rome
Depart Florence this morning and travel by high-speed train to Rome, enjoying a comfortable journey through the Italian countryside. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring the Eternal City at your own pace.(B)
DAY 10 - October 19, 2026
Vatican City Experience
After breakfast, meet your driver and depart for Vatican City. With an expert guide, explore the renowned Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of art and history. Continue to the Sistine Chapel, followed by a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most iconic churches in the world. After your tour, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Please note: Access to St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to Vatican scheduling. (B)
DAY 11 - October 20, 2026
Ancient Rome & Colosseum
Discover the highlights of ancient Rome on a guided experience through the city’s most storied landmarks. Explore sites such as the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus before arriving at the iconic Colosseum. With your guide, gain insight into the history and significance of this remarkable monument. Following the tour, enjoy time at leisure.(B)
DAY 12 - October 21, 2026
Departure
After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your departure. Depart with lasting memories of your time in Italy. (B)
Land Tour Package Includes:
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One group Arrival Transfer from Florence Airport to the hotel in Viareggio
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Professional English-Speaking Tour Escort
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7 nights in 4-stars accommodations in Tuscany and Florence with daily breakfast
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Private motor-coach as per itinerary
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2 welcome/farewell dinners at the Hotel or walking distance local restaurant
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Full Day Gastronomic Parma tour with 3 factories visits and tastings
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Stops with free time in Pisa and Lucca
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Wine Tasting and Lunch in Lucca Area Winery
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Truffle hunting experience with truffle tastings and light lunch
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Wine Tasting, Cooking Class with Lunch in San Gimignano Winery
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Free time in San Gimignano
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Gluten Free Market Tour and Cooking Class in Florence
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4h guided walking tour of Florence with entrance tickets to the Accademia Gallery
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Mandatory hotel city tax
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Luggage Handling at the hotel - one bag per person
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Headsets where needed
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One group departure transfer from Florence hotel to Florence Airport
Land Tour Package Excludes:
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Flight to and from Italy (optional Group Air available for purchase)
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Gratuities to the local guides and driver
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Anything not clearly mentioned in the itinerary
Pricing:
Pricing is based on a minimum of 20 guests. Should interest fall below 20, the tour may not operate or will have to be re-priced. Please wait for confirmation before purchasing non-refundable airline tickets
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Double Occupancy: $4725pp
Single Occupancy: $5500pp
Rome Extension Tour Package Includes:
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1st class high speed train from Florence to Rome
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3 nights in 4-star centrally located accommodation in Rome
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Private transfer from Rome railway station to the hotel
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Half Day Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter Basilica – small group tour
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Half Day Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour – Small Group Tour
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Private transfer from Rome hotel to FCO Airport
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Mandatory hotel city tax
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Headsets where needed
Rome Extension Tour Package Excludes:
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Flight to and from Italy
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Luggage Handling at the hotel - one bag per person
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English Speaking Tour Manager
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Gratuities to the local guides and driver
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Anything not clearly mentioned in the itinerary
Pricing:
​Double Occupancy: $1100pp
Single Occupancy: $1650pp
About Your Host: Dan Hurlbut
Dan Hurlbut is a chef, teacher, and culinary leader with over 20 years of experience across high-end restaurants, hotels, and corporate dining. Today, he leads the Culinary program at Honest Weight Food Co-op in Albany, NY, guiding a team of 50+ while championing local sourcing, sustainability, and food done right.
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Diagnosed with celiac disease, Dan turned a challenge into a calling—reworking the foods he loves into bold, from-scratch gluten-free dishes that actually deliver. Through his growing No Forkin’ Gluten platform, he teaches home cooks how to build real confidence in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or tradition.
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At his core, Dan is a family-first cook. Many of his best dishes were shaped alongside his two daughters, who grew up at the counter with him—learning, laughing, and creating. That same spirit shows up in everything he does: honest food, shared experiences, and bringing people together through cooking.
Our Approach to Gluten-Free Travel
While no food environment can ever be entirely risk-free, every aspect of this journey is designed to minimize exposure and allow you to travel with confidence.
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Our role is to thoughtfully manage that risk through careful planning, trusted partnerships, and clear communication—so you can relax and fully enjoy each experience.
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Every dining and tasting experience is intentionally selected. Each venue is either:
• entirely gluten-free, or
• equipped with a dedicated kitchen and strict preparation practices that keep gluten-free meals separate
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We do not include venues that cannot demonstrate proper gluten-free protocols.
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To support your safety and peace of mind, we:
• partner with trusted establishments experienced in gluten-free service
• communicate dietary needs clearly in advance
• tailor experiences when needed to accommodate the group
The result is a seamless experience where safety is built in—allowing you to focus on enjoying the food, the culture, and the journey itself.
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Important Notes:
Our experiences are designed to be celiac-safe and gluten-free, using carefully selected venues, dedicated kitchens, or fully gluten-free environments.
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However, as with any food-related activity, we cannot guarantee a completely zero-risk environment. By participating, guests acknowledge that a minimal residual risk of cross-contamination may exist.
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Our commitment is to reduce that risk as much as reasonably possible, communicate transparently, and provide a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests.
All deposits are non-refundable.
Travel Insurance is highly recommended. Trawick Insurance is now offered during the booking process. Travel insurance in also offered through Chubb and Allianz Insurance companies. Quotes may be generated here: Chubb Allianz
Group Air is available for purchase. Should you wish to add the group air that is offered, roundtrip transportation to/from JFK from the Capital Region is included in the price.
Room Occupancy & Invoicing
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Double Room: Two travelers in one room, booking together, on one invoice. Price is total for 2 guests.
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Double Share: Price is per person when two travelers share one hotel room (two beds or one bed). Travelers sharing a room may pay separately; each person will receive their own invoice if requested. If booking double share with separate payments, please provide the full name of your roommate when available to ensure proper room assignment.
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Single: Price is per person for one traveler occupying a room alone. A single supplement applies due to hotel pricing.
If a roommate name is not provided, a single supplement may be applied.