Author of "Under the Tuscan Sun" to Speak with Tauck Groups

Bestselling author Frances Mayes, author of "Under the Tuscan Sun," has teamed up with Tauck to share reflections of her 30 years in Italy with guests on more than a dozen 2023 and 2024 departures of the tour company's eight-day, small-group "A Week In… Tuscany and Umbria" itinerary.

She will join guests when they visit her adopted Tuscan town of Cortona, where the principal events of the book and its film adaption took place. While in Cortona, guests will also enjoy a guided walking tour in town and a lunch of local specialties prepared by a Michelin-starred chef who is also a close friend of Mayes.

"I was so pleased to welcome Tauck guests to my favorite town, Cortona," Mayes said after her first appearance, which took place earlier this year. "We gathered at Il Falconiere, a lovely inn nestled into vineyards, and got to know each other at lunch. And what a lunch, served at a long elegantly-set table and prepared by Michelin star chef, Silvia Baracchi… After my remarks, there was plenty of time for questions and conversation. I, and I think most of the guests, had a hard time leaving that special atmosphere."

Tauck's "A Week In… Tuscany and Umbria" includes two-night stays in Candeli at Villa La Massa, at The Park Hotel ai Cappuccini in Gubbio, and at Sina Brufani in Perugia, along with a one-night stay at the Hotel Indigo Rome. Along the way, guests will enjoy a hands-on cooking class, wine tastings, walking tours, and truffle-hunting.

Upcoming 2023 departures that feature Frances Mayes include September 6 and 13, and October 4 and 11. Dates in 2024 featuring the author are May 6, 13, 20 and 27; September 2, 11, and 23; and October 7.