While visiting Montecatini in March 2001, I had the opportunity to go on a tour with Marcello Grandini from Driving Guide Tours. He will take you anyplace you want to go in Tuscany. You can go by van, sedan or he can arrange for a bus if you are in a large group. The vans can go on all of the small back roads and to places that busses can't go. If you are interested in reasonable prices, a very professional and interesting tour guide visit www.masternet.it/IITT to see some of the places and prices available. I would highly recommend him and the company.

Barbara, can you give us an idea of what you paid, where you went, how long, etc. Thanks. Gig

Hi Sally,<BR>What about Montecatini? We at one point in planning our Italy itinerary thought of that as a base to visit Lucca and Florence and the surrounding areas. Now we are thinking of staying near San Gimignano and seeing that area and then closer to Florence (just outside) from which to do a day trip to Lucca. How far from Montecatini to F or L? Thanks, Sally<BR>

topping for Barbara. Thanks

Tried to go on their website, but it was all in italian - do they have a site or a way to read it in English? What are the rates?

We had Marcello as well--He made our trip for us. We were with him from 9:30am-11:30pm It was $235.00 USD for the whole day. Considering the bus tour was 170.00 it was a steal!!!. He picked us up in a Mercedes and we went to a winery, Siena, or any where you want. We felt like rock stars!!!

If you want to stay in a beautiful place on the Tuscan coast, I would suggest Monte Argentario. It is in the southern part of Tuscany just in front of Giglio and Giannutri islands and close to many of the most interesting sites in Tuscany (Saturnia, Montalcino, Capalbio ect). Take a look at this site for accommodation and more information: http://www.villalacornovaglia.com