If you were offered to drive along the Chianti wine road in search of a "drunk road", would you agree? So I had no reason to deny myself such an adventure. So what is behind this beautiful description What is this road famous for?

2. "Drunken road" - business card Tuscany, the Orci valley and the city of Montichiello to which it leads. Asphalt belt planted with cypresses, descending from the most picturesque hills, is included in the UNESCO heritage. Her images adorn magnets, spoons, postcards, stamps. Locals even sometimes pray for her. As a guide, I'll post a postcard. This is what we went for.

3. Traveling in Tuscany was given with great difficulty. Leaving Florence, we turned onto the Chianti wine road and headed for miracles. It would seem, what is so difficult? Go, you just have to go.

4. But the trouble is that the landscapes of Tuscany are insanely beautiful. And instead of the road, you want to look around, the speed drops to a minimum, cars honk behind you, you trudge like a stoned drug addict. In 30 minutes I drove only 20 kilometers, took a hundred photos and began to understand that we might not be in time. But I just didn't want to go any further. I could stop at every bush, stone, vineyard

5. The closer we got to the Val d'Orcia, the harder it was to step on the gas.

6. People who are in love with landscapes, romantic natures simply should not be allowed into Tuscany. There is a chance that the psyche will be disturbed, and they will not want to return to their native country.

7. At a certain moment, a thought came to me, but did the "drunken road" surrender to me at all? You might as well stay here. Enjoy the views, uncork a bottle of dry white and experience Zen.

8. There are no problems with bottles. There are local shops along the road, you can buy quality, homemade, Tuscan wine. How difficult it is to move on!

9. If you understand wine, then such cities as Montalcino and Montepulciano will be reflected in your ears with a gentle echo, your hands will reach for the glass themselves, and your lips will whisper I want.

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10. Oh, it’s not for nothing that this path is called the wine road, because 80% of the territory of Tuscany is covered with vineyards, and local wineries have received world fame and gold medals from all kinds of noble drink competitions.

11. Did I already say that it is very difficult to drive and not stop?

12. During the Renaissance, students of the Sienese art school honed their skills on local natural landscapes. The paintings still reflect the beauty of Tuscany. But how is it possible not to become an artist, a poet or a winemaker here?

13. Could not stand it. He abandoned the car and ran into the fields.

14. If there are beautiful landscapes, delicious wine, then you can live here. We must pay tribute to the Italians, not to spoil the beauty of these places, but even to embellish - art. Soon I will tell you about a couple of local towns. They deserve a separate story.

15. Almost arrived. There is little left. Here she is already drunk dear, only the view from above. Did you drive in vain?

16. But first, a couple more landscapes.

17. Almost finished postcard or magnet. I'm thinking of ordering for friends and giving them as gifts. Good idea give magnets of your own production with your photos. Or I'll collect a collection and give it to New Year all calendar.

18. I didn’t drive in vain. Oh, not in vain. He denied himself wine, swallowed saliva, hurried at stops. Not in vain.

The taste of Tuscany is the taste of wine, olive oil and other delicacies; A full acquaintance with these tastes means not only tasting the best examples, but also observing the nature, landscape and production, thanks to which they are born.

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The gastronomic tradition of the region is extremely rich: there are 42 EU-certified wines in Tuscany alone (DOC and DOCG categories). Also in Tuscany there are 19 farms with registered origin and as many as 455 traditional products. For those who want to learn more about the richness of the local gastronomic culture, there are specially designed routes.

Wine route Vino dei Colli di Candia (Lunigiana)

Spelled Garfagnana IGP © finedininglovers.it

The chief product of the Garfagnana region is the chestnut; for many years it has been a staple food. No less famous is the local spelled category IGP (patented geographical name), from which many soups are prepared. The neighboring area, Lunigiana, is best known for the lard from Colonnata (also of the IGP category). You should also definitely try “testaroli” - a kind of pancakes cooked on special “dough” disks made of cast iron or iron directly on a live fire, “zgabei” (fried dough strips) and “panigacci” (flat cakes made from water and flour that are baked in wood stove). In this corner of Tuscany, despite the mountainous landscape, two wines are produced under controlled origin (DOC): Candia dei Colli Apuani Doc and Colli di Luni Doc.

Lucca and Montecarlo: wine and olive oil

© comitatounplilucca.wordpress.com

Extra virgin olive oil from Lucca, DOP category, is produced from at least 70% Frantoio olives, as well as Leccino, Moraiolo and Pendolino. Specialties local cuisine- this is a soup "garmuja" from meat and vegetables, pies with artichokes, onions or potatoes, as well as trout with beets fried in a pan. The main dessert is a buccellato cake made from flour, butter and sugar with the addition of raisins and anise seeds. Wines from the Luccan hills (Colline Luccesi) and from Montecarlo (Montecarlo) have an extremely ancient history dating back to the Etruscan era.

Flavors and colors in the Apennines of Pistoia

Two traditional products for which the region is famous are the ornamental citrus fruits of Tuscany IGP and magnolia from Pistoia IGP. The local farmers are also proud of the beans from Sorana IGP: this variety, with white, small and slightly flattened, flat fruits, has a very delicate taste, which was appreciated by the composer Gioacchino Rossini. They also make pecorino cheese from raw sheep's milk from the mountains and valleys of Pistoia and sweet chestnut flour from the mountains of Pistoia.

"Chestnut Road from Mugello" in Marradi

Chestnuts from Mugello © teladoiofirenze.it

For a long time, the inhabitants of the town of Marradi have associated its history and name with chestnut: it is also called here " breadfruit”, because not so long ago for the inhabitants of the mountains, the chestnut tree was one of the few sources of food. Local culinary specialists have created a wide variety of recipes that will help you appreciate the main product of these forests; in October, a chestnut festival is held in his honor - Sagra delle Castagne. In addition, in this area they love and know how to cook mushrooms, polenta, tortelli, sausages, sauces and game main dishes.

Products of the Casentino Valley

Prosciutto from Casentino DOP © ilmangiaweb.it

Products from the Casentino Valley have been renowned for their quality for centuries. As in many other places in Italy, local producers try to use local products and raw materials to the maximum. Far beyond Casentino, the local ham (Dop category), pork salsiccia "Sanbudello", the meat of the white bulls of the Central Apennines of the Chianina breed (IGP), from which the famous Florentine steak is made, have become famous. Cheese "abbuccato" from Arezzo is not quite ordinary; Chetika is famous for its chestnuts, truffles and red potatoes. The latter is grown in the traditional way and is used to make tortelli (dumplings).

Route through the Tuscan part of the Tiber Valley (Valtiberina)

This valley is home to white Central Apennine Chianina gobies (IGP), whose meat is ideal for steaks, as well as roasting, stewing and boiling. “Pork season” is considered December and January, when sausages, hams, salsicci, sambudelli, soprassata, capocolla, ciccioli and other meat products are harvested. The local olive oil smells of herbs and is made from Gentile, Morcona, Oriola, Frantoia and Lecchina varieties. The list would be incomplete without Kentucky tobacco, which is used to make the famous Tuscan cigars.

Wine route around Arezzo

The Val di Chiana gave its name to the Chianina cow breed, which is now grown in other parts of Tuscany. The meat of this breed has a pronounced taste and contains a moderate amount of fat, evenly distributed throughout the meat. That is why the cooked meat is so soft. A special variety of beans "zolfino" and "Valdar beans" grow here. Among the meat products, we will mention “porchetta”, a roll of suckling pig baked in a wood-fired oven. Another typical dish is the Etruscan rabbit, which is stewed in a pot with onions, garlic and olives. Unusual local yellow salty bread. As for the desserts, you should try the "Aretinski Gatto" - a biscuit roll with chocolate custard. The main wine is Chianti Colli Aretini (Docg) and Cortona (Doc).

Introduction to Chianti Classico

Chianti cuisine draws on the culinary customs of the two provinces, Florence and Siena, creating its own image based on them. A typical example is straccotto alla chiantijana, beef ham with beans, sage, rosemary, garlic and tomatoes. Chianti Docg is the most common wine in Italy. It is grown in six provinces (Arezzo, Florenia, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato, Siena). Chianti from traditional places of growth is designated as Chianti Classico Docg. This incomparable wine is characterized by the smell of violets and plums, has a fruity and harmonious taste and a sour aftertaste that emphasizes its freshness.

Route through the hills of the Chianti Colli Fiorentini wine region

© turismo.intoscana.it

This area is considered a zone of "poor cuisine", the birthplace of such dishes as "trippa" and "lampredotto", "ribollita" and "pappa al pomodoro", which are cooked with stale bread, as well as soups, penne stracciate pasta. Peposo alla fornacina, beef stewed in wine, is another famous local specialty, once a favorite dish of Brunelleschi himself. Pork Cinto-Toscano (Dop category under preparation) is valued no less than the olive oil "Colline di Firenze" (Dop category under preparation). Wine Chianti Colli Fiorentini Docg - bright ruby ​​​​color, transparent, in the "reserve" version has an even more complex taste and smell with hints of tobacco, baked cherries and plum jam.

Road of Chianti-Rufina and Pomino wines

© chiantirufina.com

Mushrooms occupy an important place in the local cuisine. A rather unusual mushroom is popular here - the early hygrophorus, which appears in February, when the snow melts, delighting gourmets with its strong and wonderful taste. Local potatoes are valued: tortelli with potatoes are considered a symbol of Mugello cuisine. Of the dishes that have almost gone out of use, it is worth remembering the chiny soup and "brodo di compenso" - vegetable broth, to which butter and cheese rind are added for taste. Typical wines of the area are Pomino Doc and Chianti Rufina Docg.

Montespertoli wine route

In terms of slope exposure, soil composition and climate, the area of ​​Montespertoli is ideal for growing grapes. In 1997, the Chianti Montespertoli sub-zone was created to emphasize the high quality of local wines intended for long-term bottle aging.

The cuisine here is traditional for the Florentine region: ribollita with kale and canellini beans, panzanella, pappa col pomodoro and Florentine steak. Chianti Montespertoli Docg has a ruby ​​red color that becomes more garnet with age; smell - forest berries and violet. The wine has an excellent structure, velvety and elegant taste.

Medici Road: wines of Carmignano

Dried dates from Carmignano on reed mats have been considered a delicacy since ancient Rome. The shortbread and almond biscuits "cantuccino di Prato" are famous, which goes well with "vin santo". Carmignano is the smallest Docg area in Italy, and the first Tuscan wine (along with Chianti) to be controlled and guaranteed by origin. Its taste is dry and harmonious, the smell is violets and wildflowers.

Montalbano route

Olive oil IGP Toscano, with the refinement Montalbano, is produced from olives of the varieties Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, Pendolino, Rossellino and Piangente. It is green in color with hints of yellow, the taste is fruity, with notes of almond and artichoke. From the sweet, we note “brigidini di Lamporecchio”, the thinnest anise-flavored cookies, “berlingozzo” - a bagel that village gourmets used to wear right around the neck, “cantuccini”, which go so well with a glass of “vin santo”. Chianti Montalbano, now the Docg zone, was famous for its wine as far back as the 13th century! This wine was served at the table of the bishops of Pistoia.

Wine route "Colline Pisane"

The most famous delicacy of the province of Pisa is the white truffle, the fruit of which is the cherry from Lari. Table grapes from San Colombano are also known. It is worth noting several unusual meat dishes, for example, “testicciola alla pizana” - the boiled head of a young bull or lamb, but, of course, fish cuisine dominates here. A typical example is cuttlefish ink risotto. A DOP category for pecorino cheese from Balze Volterrane is currently being formalized. The recently registered Chianti Colline Pisane Docg has become a new star among Tuscan wines.

Wine Route Vernaccia di San Gimignano

San Gimignano is best known for its medieval tower houses, once owned by local aristocrats, each of whom sought to outdo the others in height. Along the route you will meet whole fields of saffron (just now a DOP category is being issued for it).

Vernaccia di San Gimignano Docg is an ancient wine that even Dante mentioned in The Divine Comedy. First, it was awarded the Doc category, and in 1993 - Docg. It is a dry white wine of straw-yellow color with a delicate smell and a dry, harmonious taste.

"Collie Senesi": in the hills around Siena

The most famous Sienese dish is pici. "Panforte" and "Ricciarelli" are also quite famous in Italy, the Igp category for them is now being formalized. The first, by the way, was first mentioned already in 1205: at that time it was made by no less than apothecaries, apparently because of a large number ingredients in the recipe. It consisted of candied fruit, honey, caramelized sugar, almonds, flour and many spices. The progenitor of "Ricciarelli" was marzipan, they also include sugar and almonds. The sweet became popular in Siena in the 15th century. Wine Chianti Colli Senesi Docg is almost entirely made from the Sangiovese variety. Ruby red wine has a characteristic violet smell. Dessert Vin Santo dei Colli Senesi attracts more and more oenological tourists to the region.

Wine route Nobile di Montepulciano

To the southeast of Siena, at the very border with Umbria, is the town of Montepulciano, called the "pearl of the Cinquecento" for its amazing architecture. As elsewhere in the Siena region, they eat "pichi" (a type of spaghetti made by hand) with meat and mushroom sauces. Red wine Nobile di Montepulciano is mentioned for the first time at the beginning of the XIV century. In 1980, it was awarded the Docg. "Nobile" - slightly tannic, dry, characterized by a garnet color with orange hues, intensifying with aging of the wine. The smell is violet, more or less intense.

Orcia Valley wine route

Local cuisine: grilled meat, homemade pasta, soups, game sauces, Pecorino Terre di Siena cheese, lake fish. Orcia Doc Rosso - versatile wine, white Orcia Bianco is combined with light and fish dishes

Montalcino wine route

Buristo - salami, almost disappeared from the shelves due to new sanitary and hygienic rules, has been made for centuries from pig blood, fat, lemon peel, raisins, pine nuts and spices. Salami "bastradro" - dry-cured sausage, which is made from the same minced meat as salsiccia. Brunello di Montalcino is the first Italian wine to receive the DOCG category. It is produced on the territory of the commune of Montalcino exclusively from the Sangiovese variety, in the local dialect called "brunello". This classic wine pairs well with red meats, roasts, game, and aged cheeses. It can be drunk on its own, as the Italians say, "for meditation."

Wine and food route
Monteregio di Massa Marittima

The cuisine of the Maremma is very diverse and rich, including soups, tagliatelle with sauces, pork and wild boar salsiccia, game dishes. Wine Monteregio di Massa Marittima Doc became known not very long ago. There are eight categories in Doc, including red, reserve, pink, novello. All of them are made from Sangiovese and other red grape varieties. Montregio goes well with different dishes.

Etruscan Coast wine route

The route runs close to the sea, from Cecina to Piombino, partly capturing the island of Elba. Bolgheri and Castagneto Carducci are home to the most famous vineyards in the world, from which the Sassicaia is made. Game plays an important role in the local cuisine, and proximity to the sea means a large selection of fish dishes. Octopus with potatoes, Elbe-style mussels, stokkafisso alla rieshe and other interesting recipes are popular on the Elba. An unusual local specialty is strawberry jam, slightly sour, ideally combined with pecorino cheese.

Monteccuco Wine Route and Amiata Mountains

© tuscanyholidayrent.com

The route covers the slopes of Mount Amiata, which is located between the Maremma lowlands and the Sienese hills. There are many forests, vineyards and olive groves, medieval towns, castles and farms with ancient wine cellars and olive oil presses. In this non-tourist part of Tuscany, food producers do not shy away from innovation, as long as they do not violate centuries-old traditions. The area is famous for its game, mushrooms (primarily porcini and royal mushrooms), chestnuts from Amiata IGP, olive oil from Seggiano olives (DOP category under development).
Montecucco red wine acquired the Doc category not so long ago, in 1998. It is made from Sangiovese and other red grape varieties.

Chianti Classico is an area between Florence and Siena, which includes the settlements of Greve, Panzano, Gaiole, Radda and Castellina.

Greve in Chianti

Greve in Chianti / Shutterstock.com

Our journey cannot fail to start at Greve, the entrance gate of the Chianti region. This lively town is known for its unusual triangular square, where local farmers have been selling their goods since the Middle Ages. The square is lined with porticos on all three sides, providing shelter from the heat or rain while shopping. In the center stands a monument to Giovanni da Verazzano, the designer of New York Harbor. In the narrow part of the square is the medieval church of Santa Croce, which houses several masterpieces of ecclesiastical art, including the triptych "Our Lady with Saints" by Bicci di Lorenzo.

In Grezzo you can taste traditional Chianti products and wines. Beneath the porticos you will find local artisan shops, wineries and restaurants. Don't miss the Falorni butcher shop, which offers an assortment of local delicacies. A stone's throw from the square is the Wine Museum.

Panzzano in Chianti

Panzzano in Chianti / Shutterstock.com

The densely populated town of Panzano is located a few kilometers from Greve. From the 12th century, Panzano played an important role in the defense of Florence. Panzano Castle was a strategic point during the wars between Florence and Siena. Traces of the castle are clearly visible in historical center. Nowadays, the center is dominated by the building of the church of Santa Maria, founded in the 13th century, but significantly rebuilt in the 19th century in the neoclassical style. It is worth strolling through the city center, which has preserved the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, and have a glass of wine in the central square. Here you will also find many restaurants and wineries where you can taste local products. Check out the old butcher's shop Cecchini, where they sell the famous Florentine steak.

A little further is the Church of San Leolino, the first mention of which dates back to 982. Despite the appearance of the Renaissance (an elegant stone portal and an arched gallery), its interior has been preserved in its original form, typical of a Romanesque three-aisled basilica. Inside, you can admire the bed masterpieces of church art by local masters.

Castellina in Chianti

Castellina in Chianti / Shutterstock.com

Moving further towards Siena, you will find yourself in Castellina in Chianti, a town so ancient that its origin is lost in the darkness of time. In any case, the tombs in Montecalvario testify that people lived here already in the time of the Etruscans. Geographical position at the intersection of four districts of the Chianti region, they made the town an important military point of strategic importance between Siena and Florence. From the period of medieval wars, the Rocca fortress, dominating the central part of the city, and the covered passage (Via delle Volta), which crosses the city through, have been preserved here. Breathtaking views open from its windows. Walking around the city, you will see many magnificent palazzos belonging to the noble Sienese and Florentines. Don't miss the church of San Salvatore, rebuilt after the Second World War, which still has a magnificent fresco from the end of the 14th century by an unknown Tuscan artist. You should definitely visit the Archaeological Museum of Chianti Senese, which houses Etruscan finds from excavations in Montecalvario, to join the ancient history of this land.

As at other points of the route, here you can taste local wines in one of the many wine shops and try the famous sausages and hams from local pork.

Radda in Chianti

Radda in Chianti / Shutterstock.com

Leaving Castellina along via Chiantigina, you find yourself on the SR429 highway, which leads to Radda in Chianti, a town that has retained its medieval charm. The city center - a labyrinth of concentric streets - is still surrounded by an old wall. The architectural center of the city are the Palazzo di Podesta and the Romanesque church of San Niccolò. For four centuries, the captain of the League of Chianti sat in the palazzo, which is reminiscent of the numerous coats of arms on its facade. On the outskirts of the city you will find the old Franciscan monastery of Santa Maria in Prato.

Here it is pleasant to wander along the lanes of the center, where magnificent views of the valley surrounding the city open up from time to time. A glass of wine with panino will help restore strength.

Near Radda is old City ca-fortress Castello di Volpaia. The fortress is built of dark sandstone, which distinguishes it from other fortifications in the Chianti region. Although the wars between Florence and Siena did not go unnoticed for him, a massive main tower and one of the small towers. Don't forget to visit the former 14th-century church of Commenda di San Efrosino, which now houses a vinotheque. It is here that you should taste the famous local wines.

Gaiole in Chianti

Gaiole in Chianti / Shutterstock.com

Not far from Radda is the town of Gaiole in Chianti, founded in the Middle Ages. Due to its position halfway between Chianti and Valdarno, it became a marketplace where the local feudal lords sold their products. In our time, Gaiole has not lost its significance, being an important tourist center. There are many hotels and restaurants of the agrotourism category, wine shops and farms, the owners of which will be happy to offer you their products and hospitality. In the vicinity of Gaiole, castles and fortresses have been preserved, such as Castello di Vertine, Castello di Meleto, Pieve di Spaltenna. Everywhere you can stop for the night and, of course, taste local products.

Chianti is exactly what you think. The wine fully reflects the peculiarity of the region. Through it, you can appreciate how sunny the days are in Chianti, how rich the aromas of its herbs are, how clean the air is and how measured life is. The landscapes of Chianti are endless vineyards, interrupted only by the houses of their owners, well-groomed greenery, hills lined with bushes one after another. For lovers of such idyllic pictures, they even built a special road that will lead through the best wine-growing lands directly to the birthplace of the famous Chianti - Brolio Castle.

Scattered throughout the region are ancient towns, where the atmosphere of rural life under the sun's rays has been preserved. The beauty of these places was appreciated by Leonardo da Vinci, it is hardly by chance that he painted the famous Mona Lisa here. According to one version, Mona Lisa was originally from Chianti.

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How to get to Chianti

By plane

The airport, which serves the Chianti region, is 1 km from the center of Pisa and 80 km from Florence. There are no direct flights from Moscow, so you will either have to be content with transfer flights via Rome or other European cities or use ground transportation.

By train

Network railways connects the cities of the Chianti region with each other and with neighboring provinces. Florence and Siena can be reached from Rome and Milan in a couple of hours.

Hotels in Chianti

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Find a hotel

The Chianti region is strewn with hotels and guesthouses, the choice depends solely on the preferences of tourists and their transport capabilities. It is convenient to travel between towns by car, and then you do not need to become attached to large settlements. In this case, you can choose a picturesque house away from the noise, feel like the owner of vineyards, wake up and watch orderly rows of plantings from the window. Many hotels are occupied by old mansions, in which you can also pretend to be at least a duke. At the same time, it is not necessary to empty your treasury clean.

The minimum expenses for living in Chianti - from 40 € per day for two. For this money, you can get a simple room in a house or hostel, for example, in Greve (Residence Casprini da Omero) or Gaiola (La Fonte Del Cieco, Villa Vittoria Gaiole In Chianti). In Gaiola, you can also stay like a king in the five-star Castello di Spaltenna Exclusive Resort & Spa (from 200 €), several similar places at once - in Castelnuovo Berardenga.

The cost of three-fours varies from 80 to 300 € per night.

Shopping in Chianti

Wine. Wine. And again wine. You can even take it out in boxes, most importantly, check it in as baggage, meeting the standard of your airline. However, difficulties may arise at the entrance to Russia. According to current customs regulations, you can import into our country no more than 2 liters of spirits per person. In addition to wine, Chianti produces grappa, limoncello, cognac. Marking - a red label with a black rooster in the center - speaks of high quality. Good wine costs from 10 €.

In addition to alcohol from Chianti, you can bring local olive oil, cheeses, sausages and delicacies from wild boar meat.

Wine tasting in Chianti

Any institution will offer visitors local wine. But some places are especially loved by Italians and the interest of foreign tourists.

In Panzano, queues line up for Antica Cecchini. This legendary butcher shop is famous for its Florentine steak, where the owner reads passages from Dante's Divine Comedy and pours homemade wine from his personal cellars. In the butcher's shop Dario Cecchini hangs autographs of fans of his creative approach to carcass and work: Dustin Hoffman, Jack Nicholson, Elton John and other celebrities.

There are two Michelin-starred restaurants in Castellina, where the chefs prepare dishes that best pair with Chianti from different vintages.

In Radda, you can look into the castle of Volpaia, where tasting tours are held with a sample of freshly squeezed olive oil. Of course, they won't let you go without a glass of wine either. The drinking place will be an old church turned into a bar, or a picturesque garden.

At Meleto Castle in Gaiol after a tour of the castle and winery they offer to taste wine, grappa, cognac for an appetizer of cold cuts of local production. There is also honey and organic olive oil. Everything can be bought right there.

Do you want to visit the birthplace of classic Chianti, the legendary Italian wine that became famous already in the 13th century? Then get ready: departure early in the morning from Marina di Scarlino towards Florence - here you are already in Impruneta. After admiring the beautiful Sanctuary of St. Mary, you will enter the "Chianti Road" towards Siena, following the state road no. produced during the years of the best harvests. Do you want to feel the spirit of the Middle Ages? Then we invite you to Montefioralle, one of the most beautiful towns Italy, where you can stroll through the silent streets and ancient vineyards. This wonderful area is fraught with other surprises. A few more kilometers - and here you are already in Volpaille - a beautifully preserved medieval town, famous for its castle and magnificent enoteca (if you can, go there in May, when a million fragrant roses bloom in the city). And finally, the last stage of our journey is Radda in Chianti, the headquarters of the Consortium of Classical Chianti. The last attraction of the town is the rural church of San Giusto in Salcho: feel the harmony of the architecture of the 11th century.

Scarlino

Scarlino is a town nestled on the slopes of Monte d'Alma. It is here that for the first time the Maremma appears before you in all its splendor - an endless green space that merges with the blue of the sea on the horizon. Scarlino, a small but charming medieval town, is just minutes from the beautiful Marina di Scarlino Yacht Club & Residences. The history of the town, which began before the 10th century AD, is connected with the history of the noble Aldobrandeschi family. For a sense of history, walk along the medieval walls to Rocca Aldobrandesca, and then immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the old streets or the pristine setting of the beautiful Roman church of San Donato, which was mentioned in historical records as far back as 1188.

Cala Violina

We are talking about a miracle that is located almost under your windows. Cala Felice beach club is an elegant structure where you can relax while enjoying the beautiful sea and sun. Are you unable to resist the call of the sea, irresistibly attracting you to adventure? Then you should rent an inflatable boat and visit Cala Violina ("Fiddler Bay"), the amazing beach of Maremma Grossetto, located a short sail from Marina di Scarlino. Do you want to know what the musical name of this beach is connected with? Try to walk on the fine sand of this delightful cove: on quiet days, your walk will be accompanied by a gentle sound, reminiscent of violin sounds, emitted by the sand. It is worth recalling that Cala Violina cannot be reached by private road transport, but in the summer there is a shuttle.

Alternatively, you can reach Cala Violina on foot along a 4 km trail that starts at the restaurant "Il Cantuccio" located in the area of ​​Il Puntone, Garibaldi seafront, and continues towards the Tourist Port. After the barrier, trail number 1 begins, which runs through the Mediterranean vegetation. After 2 km you can see the amazing jagged rocks and clear green waters of Cala Francese and Cala Martina, and after another 2 km you will see Cala Violina in all its glory.

Tuscan archipelago

Every day you can admire the delightful sight - the appearance on the horizon of Marina di Scarlino of the outlines of the island of Elba. And just like that, in the breeze of the dawning day, an exciting and slightly sporty journey through the seven wonders begins. national park Tuscan archipelago. Waiting for you in this paradise clearest water and sea ​​depths that bring treasure hunting to mind, as well as picturesque beaches, wildlife and living history. Our starting point is the island of Elba and Cape Enfola with amazingly clear water. Or maybe you want to get to know the island better and visit the house where Napoleon lived during his exile in 1814? Would you like to continue your journey by sea? Then you just have to choose any of the many routes. Here, for example, the island of Giannutri with a wonderful seabed, then the island of Giglio and the island of Montecristo, described in the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas, the island of Capraia with a settlement of the Roman period and a monastery, and finally the island of Pianosa and the island of Gorgon, already mentioned by Dante in the XXXIII song of Hell dedicated to the tragic character Ugolino della Gherardesca. But you don't have to worry - you are in paradise.

Siena And Surroundings

Siena - perfect place to get acquainted with the history and cultural heritage Tuscany. Now you are already driving in the direction of Siena - the heritage of UNESCO, an unsurpassed treasury of art, culture, cuisine, which has no equal in the whole world. Just an hour and a half from Marina di Scarlino, Piazza del Campo is at your feet. First stage? Magnificent cycle of frescoes "Allegories of good and bad government", painted by Abrogio Lorenzetti in 1337 for the Council of Nine Palazzo Pubblico. Or do you prefer Duccio's Maesta, a treasure kept in the Cathedral Museum (Museo dell'Opera Metropolitana del Duomo)? In any case, mark two dates in your diary: July 2 and August 16. It is during these days that the famous Siena Palio takes place, which you should definitely visit. But before summer comes, would you like to continue your wonderful journey by visiting one of the most beautiful and rich regions of Italy? Just south of Siena, the wonders of the Renaissance await you in Pienza and the masterpieces of Italian winemaking: Italy's finest wines are the superb Super Tuscans from Montalcino and Montepulciano. You can also travel north to enjoy the enchanting beauty of the castle of Monteriggioni, built by the inhabitants of Siena at the beginning of the 13th century, to look into Colle Val d'Elsa, an ancient city located on the Frankish Road, or to San Gimignano, a real medieval Manhattan with with its incredible towers dating back to the origins of history.

Maremma Experience

In this piece of paradise everything is perceived in a special light: nature, history, art, architecture, cuisine, winemaking. Because you are in the Maremma, one of the treasures of Italy. At the heart of this large area lies the Marina di Scarlino Yacht Club & Residences, and it is here that amazing discoveries await you every day.

Want to learn about the origins of Italian civilization?

Then we will begin our story with the Etruscans, one of the most mysterious and amazing peoples of the Mediterranean. You will travel through the majestic necropolises and old towns towering on tuff rocks: for example, Pitigliano, which is also called “little Jerusalem”, Sovane and its magnificent cathedral of the 11th century, or Sorano, which is an amazing labyrinth of streets, courtyards and niches carved into the rock. These few kilometers contain centuries of history.

Want to get an unforgettable experience?

Then visit Volterra, where the wonders of the Guarnacci Museum await you, first of all, the magnificent "Shadow of the Evening" ("L'ombra della sera"), named so by Gabriele D'Annunzio. Would you like to make a quick transition to Mannerism? Just a few steps - and you are already in the Pinacoteca in front of the masterpiece "Descent from the Cross", written by Rosso Fiorentino in 1521.

Do you want to completely relax and not think about anything?

A few kilometers from Scarlino are the famous Terme di Saturnia, which were highly valued already in the days of the Roman Empire. It is enough to spend just one day in the thermal springs, the temperature of which is 37 °, and you will completely relax and find excellent health.

Are you interested in the Romanesque period?

Then you must be in a place just steps away from Marina di Scarlino Yacht & Residences. We are talking about the city of Massa Marittima and the charming Cathedral of San Cerbone, the true pearl of which is the Madonna and Child (1316), attributed to Duccio di Buoninsegna. A little further - the most interesting "Sources of Abundance". On their walls grows, like a forbidden fruit, the original "Tree of Fertility" - a fresco of 1265, to which all expectant mothers made a pilgrimage.

Do you want to relax in the bosom of nature?

The Maremma National Park is a virgin forest stretching for many kilometers, pine groves, pastures and beaches with dazzling white sand, awarded the European diploma, which is awarded to protected areas. At your disposal paradise 9800 hectares, located between Principina a Mare and Talamone. Here you can admire the Mediterranean vegetation, go for a walk, by bike or on horseback. This oasis of beauty hides small and large masterpieces of art and nature, such as the Abbey of San Rabano, an ancient Benedictine monastery, which then passed to the Knights of Jerusalem. It is here that adventures worthy of a movie await you.

Florence

Only one thing can be said about this city - it is a whole world full of amazing surprises waiting for you at any time of the year and in any situation. Here you will find a completely different world. Do you want to devote a whole day to museums? In the Uffizi, masterpieces of great masters await you, starting with Giotto and Botticelli, ending with Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Titian. Are you looking for a more private environment suitable for reflection? Then take a stroll through the silent monastery of St. Mark, which houses a painting by Beato Angelico (fans of Savonarola should definitely visit his cell). Do you have an unbridled desire to look at the works of Raphael? If so, then head to Palazzo Pitti. Or, conversely, slow down and take romantic walk along the Arno and Ponte Vecchio or along the paths of the Boboli Gardens. Unforgettable shopping awaits you in the magnificent boutiques of Via dei Tornabuoni, which is the epitome of refined taste and Italian elegance. Before returning to the coast, dedicate at least an hour to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum and its amazing creations that have graced the feet of world stars such as Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland and Audrey Hepburn. And of course, this museum is dedicated to you, as evidenced by Salvatore Ferragamo's "Vintage" line.

Wines of the Maremma

Wine is one of the main treasures of Tuscany and, in particular, the Maremma. Just a few steps from Marina di Scarlino, the wonderful wine and gastronomic route called "Road of wine and taste among the hills of the Maremma" (Strada del Vino e dei Sapori Colli di Maremma) begins, which lies among the natural beauties of the province of Grossetto. On your way you can taste all the richness of the local cuisine and wines of the thirteen cities of the Maremma: Campagnatico, Capalbio, Grossetto, Isola del Giglio, Magliano in Tuscany, Manciano, Monte Argentario, Orbetello, Pitigliano, Roccalbegna, Scansano, Semproniano. In each of these cities you will find wines with a strong character, such as Morellino di Scansano, Bianco di Pitigliano, Montecucco Bianco and Montecucco Rosso, Monteregio di Massa Marittima Vin Santo, Novello di Montereggio di Massa Marittima" and "Parrina Rosato al Sovana Rosso Riserva". One sip - and you rise up, feeling like a great sommelier, enjoying an unforgettable experience from a great combination of cuisine and wine. It's on the table, gentlemen!

Golf

A short drive from Marina di Scarlino, not far from Gavorrano, the Il Pelagone Golf Club was opened. Here you will find one of the best golf structures in Tuscany. Magnificent field from which opens scenic view on the hills of the Maremma, has 18 holes. Nearby there is a convenient training field where you can prepare for major sports competitions and show decent results.