Time and again: Tuscany is a feast for all the senses. Landscape, towns, roads, wine, food ... right at the top of the list for "Paradise is here."

The outward and return trip also makes for a dream tour. Looking at the map, you're spoiled for choice.

This time we went over the Passo delle Radici and the Gafagnana to Lucca. Stops in Siena and Massa Marittima. Back over the mountains of Emilia-Romagna to Mantua. Like many other cities in or on the southern edge of the Po Valley, such as Parma and Modena, Mantua is often overlooked. One of those "passing-by cities."

It doesn't deserve it - the detour is worth it!