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TUSCANY DAY TRIPS - CHIANTI

Tuesday, 20 March 2012 12:18
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In this series of blogs we will highlight some of our favourite day trip destinations in Tuscany.

CHIANTI

When we think of Tuscany, it is often the rolling hills, valleys and vineyards of the Chianti region that come to mind and deservedly so. The region's winding roads, small towns, beautiful scenery and rows and rows of grape vines make it one of our top destinations in Tuscany. There are four main towns to visit, and two small hamlets. You will need to allow at least one full day to explore this region. A full week would be ideal...

GREVE IN CHIANTI

The oldest town of the region, Greve has a lively piazza surrounded by porticoed shops - including a bakery, deli, café, restaurant and a butcher that has been on the site since the late 1700’s! There is a traditional street market every Saturday. (A tip for visiting - come early on market day.)

PANZANO IN CHIANTI

A small hamlet close to Greve, it has a lovely church with medieval artworks. There is a well-known butcher in the town that serves his customers while reciting Dante’s Divine Comedy! Read about Dario in our blog: DARIO, A PASSIONATE BUTCHER IN CHIANTI

LAMOLE IN CHIANTI

This is a small hamlet accessed from a turn off between Greve and Panzano, with one of the region’s best restaurants “with a view”. It is a scenic drive into the town, and the main piazza has beautiful views. In summer, classical music concert are held in the church.

CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI

This town has an impressive castle and underground tunnel around the city. It has winding streets and lovely views.

RADDA IN CHIANTI

Radda is a beautiful medieval hill-top town with defensive walls. It has small artisan shops, particularly ceramics. This is one of Passion For Italy's favourite Chianti towns.

GAIOLE IN CHIANTI

Mostly visited for the castles and wineries surrounding the town.

So, where is the Chianti region?

Approximately 40 kilometres north of Siena, 60 kilometres south of Florence - not easily explored by public transport (there are buses leaving from Florence and Siena but with limited frequency and routes particularly on Sundays and holidays), so a car is essential. Many of the towns are pedestrian-only, car parks will be signposted outside the entrances to the towns.

Where to stay?

In Chianti we recommend you stay for week in our Beautiful Wine and Olive Estate Apartments with a large famous villa of the 16th Century, half way between Florence and Siena. The apartments are situated on the hill with a classic Tuscan panorama, surrounded by the hills of Chianti which cultivates vineyards and olive groves.

These charming and beautifully decorated apartments with pool are an ideal spot to explore the wine region of Chianti in Tuscany. The apartments are in a building separate to the main villa offering privacy and a peaceful holiday. Charming hosts to care for you, this is a lovely place to stay.

Or if you are looking for something very special, stay in our Magnificent Grand Estate Villas with private walking paths, swimming pools and parklands. A place of peace and serenity, the Fourteenth Century buildings have been renovated with great care, beautiful decor and printed silks. Only twenty minutes south of Florence.

Stay tuned for our next day trip destination in Tuscany... San Gimignano.

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