If you’re thinking of escaping to the Italian countryside, Easter is a fabulous time to do so as all the hilltop villages and hamlets come alive with a fabulous week-long celebration that embraces this time-honoured tradition – with a touch of dramatic Tuscan flair!
The weather in Tuscany is at its most enjoyable at this time of year, with highs of around 14°C. The countryside is bursting into life with clouds of almond blossom, vivid yellow mimosa blooms, and the purple spires of the classic Florentine iris.
For those seeking a slower pace of life in elegant, yet understated surroundings then, why not indulge in a stay at the utterly charming country estate of Relais La Corte dei Papi?
Located near the famous medieval town of Cortona, you’ll find a warm welcome and highly personalised service from your host, David Papi and his mother Gabriella, who will help you navigate the festivities, and ensure guests of all ages are catered for.
“Easter is an important celebration for the region’s rural communities that takes place over five days,” explains Relais La Corte dei Papi’s owner David Papi. “It’s a wonderful time to better understand Tuscan traditions through unusual and unique events, and you can tuck into heritage dishes that are as delicious as they are symbolic.”
With springtime thoroughly in bloom, Relais La Corte dei Papi is the ideal base from which to explore. You can rent a car or arrange a private driver for a stress-free day of exploration and discovery.
The celebrations begin on Holy Thursday, which takes place this year on 28th March. All the local churches get decorated with fresh flowers and throw open their doors to visitors. In Radicofani, about an hour’s drive away, you’ll find an evening procession around the village.
“Roam around and discover village bakeries and chocolate shops selling the most exquisitely decorated hand-painted chocolate eggs, and home-baked Easter treats,” suggests David.
“You will come across pasticceria (pastry shops) selling cakes called colomba,which are dove-shaped and filled with candied fruits and nuts, before being iced. These symbolise peace and love alongside the typical eggs that represent rebirth and the Resurrection.”
You may also find Schiacciata di Pasqua, a dome-shaped aromatic Easter cake that’s made with many eggs, sugar, and liqueur, and letter-shaped biscuits known as quaresimali.
On Good Friday, you will get to witness epic religious processions through the streets, as villagers don historic outfits and carry statues of both the Virgin Mary and Jesus. “In the spa town of Chianciano Terme, a 45-minute drive away, the locals really get into the spirit,” says David. “You’ll even find ‘Roman soldiers’ on horseback, a custom that has been taking place for over 30 years!”
On Easter Sunday, you’ll find an Easter Mass celebration taking place in the duomo (cathedral) of Siena, about an hour’s drive from the property, which is interesting to experience even if you’re not religious. You can return to Cortona in time for lunch or spend some time exploring Siena’s enticing medieval streets and of course the famous Piazzo del Campo.
“For your festive Easter Feast, our head chef Giuseppe Masciopinto has created an inspiring menu that celebrates many of the region’s seasonal dishes, such as local organic lamb cooked with vinsanto,” adds David.
“At this time of year, chef Giuseppe’s menus are filled with the most delicious fresh local produce such as broad beans, asparagus, and artichokes. You might like to try a classic savoury Easter pie that features ricotta cheese and the spring greens of agretti, also known as monk’s beard, which tastes like spinach.”
The last day of the Easter celebration is Pasquetta, or Easter Monday, in which families come together to celebrate the Resurrection. It’s common on this day for families to find an idyllic spot in the countryside to tuck into a picnic. David and the team at Relais La Corte dei Papi can pack a gourmet picnic basket for you filled with pecorino cheese, prosciutto, olives, bread, and the local wine so you can join in this memorable custom.
Despite it being a national holiday, shops are open – you could head into Cortona for a coffee or gelato, or a little further to Arezzo to explore a fairytale castle or artisan studio, or if you have a sweet tooth, then search out the handmade cioccolato shops in the nearby Umbrian city of Perugia, both less than an hour’s drive away.
Of course, there is much to do in Tuscany over the Easter period but if it’s true escapism you are after them why not simply spend a few leisurely days at Relais La Corte dei Papi soaking up some Spring sunshine? Lounge around the swimming pool and beautiful Tuscan gardens or book a wine-tour or cooking class for an insight into the flavours of the region.
Unique to the property, Relais La Corte dei Papi boasts several spacious spa suites and cottages where you can enjoy a Turkish bath, multi-sensory showers with aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and music therapy, as well as large Jacuzzi® hydromassage tubs.
Private spa treatments, including massages, reflexology, and facials can also be arranged for you to unwind in the comfort of your room.
Escaping to Relais La Corte dei Papi with your family this Easter is uncomplicated with regular flights into Rome, Florence and Perugia, all of which are a simple drive of less than two hours.
