Any group visiting Tuscany, in the northern part of Italy, will want to be sure to incorporate its local culture and centuries of history into their trip. But planners can rest assured that they will also be able to find top-notch meeting facilities and activities, whatever their needs.
"We know how many options corporate event planners have across the world, particularly with the nearby major cities," says Georges Midleje, general manager of the 180-room Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. "It's here that groups can enjoy the real Italy, and with all the conveniences and benefits of the Marriott brand -- including extensive indoor and outdoor meeting space options."
Groups meeting at the resort can participate in group cooking classes that range from a simple cupcake-making lesson to a full-day experience with the resort's chef in which attendees join in every step of creating a meal -- from visiting the local market to buying the ingredients to preparing the meal in the kitchen.
Tuscany is dotted with memorable cities, each of which boasts its own centuries of unique history, culture, and cuisine. A visit to Pisa and its famed leaning tower or to Lucca -- with its stunning clock towers and trendy shopping options -- make for ideal group day trips or stops while traveling to the next meeting venue. The city of Siena offers meeting spaces like the Certoso di Pontignano, the official conference center of the University of Siena.
Those seeking a more urban experience can head two hours southeast to the city of Florence. The birthplace of the Renaissance and home to the stunning Florence Duomo, the city offers no shortage of rich culture and art that make for terrific outings.
But groups looking to get down to business might want to consider staying outside the main city, at a property such as Il Salviatino. The hand-restored 15th-century villa is set on 12 acres of gardens, with an expansive outdoor terrace from which travelers can see the Florence cityscape, just a few minutes' drive away. With just 45 rooms, the property is ideal for a buyout or executive retreat, and its service ambassadors can arrange a wide variety of outings and teambuilding activities, including on-property truffle hunting, Vespa tours, and hot-air balloon rides.
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This article appears in the July 2016 issue of Successful Meetings.