I did exactly that last year. I flew at the Aeroclub de Sisteron (email: ). Flew for about 1.5 hours with an instructor over the lower alps in the area - it was very nice in the front seat of a Duo Discus. It cost 105 euros about $150 - the instructor took tow and final and I did the rest. We had the Mistral wind which gave us good ridge lift which combined with a thermal took us above the clouds at about 12k feet. A great experience and I would highly recommend the club based on my experience there.

We then went onto Tuscany - if you want a good B&B (about $60/night/couple) south of Florence try Casa Di Laura in Tavernuzze or www.casadilaura.it) - there's a great restaurant/pizzeria just down the street - can't remember the name but it is the only one thats close. From there you can take the bus into Florence - don't drive - and you are ten minutes from the Chianti region and 45 minutes from Sienna.

Hope this helps. Allan.