Optional Pre-Cruise Package: Tuscany (waitlisted)

July 6–10 // 2025

Plus, optional Rome: Rest & Recover Hotel Package on July 5

Join the Purdue President’s Council on a four-night pre-cruise package at the beautifully renovated 18th-century estate Poggio Alla Sala in the heart of Tuscany. Immerse yourself in the charm of hillside medieval villages, savor local Tuscan cuisine and wines, and delight in stunning landscapes. Explore enchanting Orvieto, the famous hilltop town Montepulciano, and enjoy a President’s Council Farewell Tuscan Cooking Class, plus free time for optional visits to Sienna and Pienza.

To view the full President’s Council Optional Pre-Cruise Package itinerary, please email info@presidentscounciltravel.com.

Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala Hotel

The 5-star Poggio Alla Sala, an 18th-century hilltop estate and villa, is a luxurious hotel nestled in the heart of Tuscany. Surrounded by centuries-old cypresses, picturesque vineyards, and olive groves, it offers a serene escape with elegant rooms and suites, fine dining experiences, and a relaxing spa. Outside, exotic gardens form a beautiful boundary, whilst inside, magnificent frescoes and vaulted ceilings distract you from the stunning Tuscan views seen through large windows.

Please note: all rooms have one king bed with no option for twin beds.

The hotel features 50 rooms and suites reflecting understated Tuscan aesthetic with modern amenities.  All rooms feature a king-size bed and bathroom with walk-in shower (some have bathtubs).  Rooms are located on the ground floor, first, and second floors. Due to the historic nature and unique design of this beautiful 18th-century estate, each room differs in size and layout. This adds to the charm and character of the property and provides a unique experience for each guest.  Please note: all rooms have one king bed with no option for twin beds.  Please be sure to share your accommodation preferences upon registration.

Optional Rome: Rest & Recover Hotel Package
July 5–6 // 2025

Arrive in Rome one day before our pre-cruise package for a refreshing night at the Hilton Rome Airport Hotel, conveniently connected to Rome Airport (FCO) with a ten-minute walk through a covered overpass with moving walkways. Flight arrivals can be anytime on this day allowing you flexibility with time to rest and recover before our adventure begins. Package includes accommodation, buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi, city tax, and group departure porterage.

Price: $396 per night per couple or $315 single

Inclusions:

• Four nights at the 5-star Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala Hotel with free Wi-Fi
• Buffet breakfast daily
• President’s Council Welcome Dinner at Poggio Alla Sala Hotel
• President’s Council Farewell Evening: Tuscan Cooking Class by a local chef, including a delicious dinner made from fresh, local ingredients
• Historic Orvieto Tour with a guided visit to the Cathedral
• Montepulciano Walking Tour
• Visit Talosa Underground Wine Cellar with wine tasting and a traditional Tuscan lunch
• Time at leisure at the hotel or choice of optional activities
• Optional visit to medieval Siena ($)
• Optional visit the charming village of Pienza ($)
• All sightseeing with experienced, English-speaking local guides and coach transportation
• Group transfer from Rome to the hotel and hotel to ship with luggage handling
• Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and included meals
• All service charges, taxes, and hotel porterage
• Assistance of Purdue President’s Council and Global Tracks pre-cruise staff

President’s Council Enrichment Fund: Please note if you elect to join only the Tuscany Tour without the Italian Splendors Cruise, a non-refundable Global Tracks administration fee of $100 per person and a $500-per-person, tax-deductible donation to the President’s Council Enrichment Fund will be added to the package price. This donation helps support ongoing adventures, events, and lifelong educational opportunities with the President’s Council family.

Note: The group program ends on July 10, 2025, at the Civitavecchia cruise pier. Private transfers from Tuscany to the Rome airport, Rome hotel, or other locations can be requested for an additional fee.

Optional Pre-Cruise Package Price:

This is, by design, an exclusive and customized luxury group program. Global Tracks and the President’s Council have confirmed the hotel and the sightseeing package with financial guarantees on behalf of the group. Therefore, to ensure your space, a $1,000 per person deposit is required and cancellation fees apply once the deposit is paid.

To view the full President’s Council Optional Pre-Cruise Package itinerary, please email info@presidentscounciltravel.com.

Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala Hotel Rooms and Upgrades:

Deluxe Room (min. 325 sq. ft.) | SOLD OUT!

King-size bed, sitting area, bathroom with a walk-in shower (some have bathtubs). Large windows provide plenty of natural light to enjoy the breathtaking views of the olive grove and the surrounding countryside. Simple, elegant decor with neutral hues and modern furnishings.

Located on the first and second floors.

Junior Suite (approx. 445 sq. ft.) | $1,090 Supplement per room (double or single for 4 nights) SOLD OUT!

King-size bed, separate bedroom and sitting area with safe and desk, bathroom with a walk-in shower (some have bathtubs). Relax on your furnished outdoor terrace to enjoy the breathtaking views of the olive grove and the surrounding countryside. Some junior suites are split-level.

Located on the ground, first, and second floors.

Classic Studio (approx. 250 sq. ft.) | SOLD OUT!

King-size bed, bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a furnished terrace with views over the Tuscan countryside. Simple, elegant decor with neutral hues and modern furnishings.

Large Studio (approx. 325 sq. ft.) | SOLD OUT!

King-size bed, bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a furnished terrace with views of the swimming pool, vineyards, or courtyard. Simple, elegant decor with neutral hues and modern furnishings.