Chianti - Not Only for Wine Connoisseurs

Chianti - Not Only for Wine Connoisseurs
By Giovanni Balboni
Chianti, in Tuscany, is not all just about their famous wine. The area brims with natural, breath-taking beauty that can be enjoyed even if you're just lounging around in Tuscany. Villa accommodation is abundant in the region, and if you heed these following tips you'll be able to savour your stay all the more.
Wine Tasting
It's safe to say that when people speak of Chianti, foremost on their minds is the region's famous wine from this region of Tuscany. Villa accommodation where you're staying may even have stocks of the good old Chianti Classico. So if you happen to be in the region specifically to see and taste where these famous wines are produced, you should know that wine tasting in Italy slightly differs than that in, say, the US. Basically, things are much slower here than how they do it in California. That's why if you're spending the day tasting wines, it pays to have a little strategy. For example, you should start by deciding which wine producer you like best. To begin with, it's always safe to choose the wines of the Chianti Classico region. Moreover, it is also not very wise to choose more than three wineries-as we've said, things are slower here, and you'll enjoy the experience better by savouring the taste and the moment.
Natural Beauty
Chianti's physical treasures-its gentle hills and the fact that it is surrounded by the more 'artsy' cities-can literally take your breath away, especially if your Tuscany villa happens to be perched on a low hill overlooking a vineyard. One tip: stand on a hill and see if the olive trees, the well-arranged geometry of the vineyards, the winding roads lined with a phalanx of old cypress trees, and the woods bordered with yellow broom do not, in fact, make you sigh deeply. Chianti has the kind of beauty artists love immortalising on canvas, and it helps that it is actually 'the heart of Tuscany'-making the rest of the region's equally enticing destinations within easy reach. Chianti's quaint charm, accentuated by its winding roads that snake through little soporific villages and the larger communities, encourage visitors to explore and willingly get lost.
The Old World Towns
Make no mistake about it, Italy is a beautiful country. But even then, only very few regions can claim to have the sheer richness of Chianti's panorama. Aside from its undulating landscape exploding with colour, the region is dotted with old towns that hark back to a more innocent time in Tuscany. Villa accommodation is often located in such a town.
Chianti's ancient walled villages offer the tourist not only a memorable experience, but also an educational and cultural one. The lively town of Greve, for instance, has a peculiar piazza that has seen gatherings and events in the past centuries and offers many shops and dining places to sample the region's famous wine and food. There's also Panzano, Radda and Castellina, and before you know it, you'll be in love! You won't want to leave the region's embrace.
Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villa in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. All our Tuscan properties are personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.
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Exploring the Captivating Charms of Chianti

Landscape in the Italian wine region of Greve in the Chianti area in Tuscany, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

In Tuscany, villa rentals are a wonderful accommodation option, giving you the freedom to explore this magical region at your leisure. Villas decorate the countryside, dotted in between the terraced vineyards and atop the rolling hills. When on holiday in this stunning region in central Italy, choosing to stay in one of the typical villas adds to the complete Tuscan experience. This beautiful area is one of Italy's favoured regions, combining stunning scenery and countryside with an interesting history, a rich artistic heritage, some wonderful architecture and excellent gastronomy.

Florence, the largest of the Tuscan cities, is the administrative capital of the region, although the famous Etruscan legacy lives on in all of the provinces and hilltop towns in the area. There are endless opportunities to visit ancient sites and uncover some hidden historical treasures. Every town has a story to tell and has played a part in the turbulent past. Some of the world's most beautiful towns are found in the undulating landscape of Tuscany; villa rentals are plentiful and you can choose one situated within a small town or out in the countryside. They are usually well serviced, comfortable and authentically Italian. Often set in their own grounds, complete with outside eating area and swimming pool, you will have ample opportunity to relax, dine al fresco and enjoy some local wine.

Puglia's Stunning Sites and Raved About Restaurants

Alberobello (Photo credit: daysecoyle)

By []Giovanni Balboni

The Puglia region has not always been one of Italy's traditional tourist destinations, however it has recently become quite popular as travellers discover the area's many charms. Its Baroque towns, stunning beaches, magnificent sites and delectable cuisine have now made it a top choice for people from all walks of life. To truly have the best experience possible in Tuscany, villas are the perfect accommodation. They are located throughout the region, including Puglia, and are available in many different sizes and budgets.

A Perfect Family Day Under the Tuscan Sun in Florence

Statue of Neptune in Piazza della Signoria (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Although it is understandably difficult to prise yourself away from the idyllic surrounds offered to your family at your rental villas in Tuscany, there is more to Italy than lolling around poolside under the warm Tuscan sun.

The Villa

A perfect day begins with a delicious and nutritious breakfast. The region is conducive to rising early, the sounds of birds and a balmy breeze beg you to leap out of bed and take an early morning constitutional to one of the nearby farmer's markets. Here you can buy any manner of fresh produce, still throbbing with life force. The markets here are famous for the availability of organic produce that has arrived directly from the farm.

Finding Your Way in Fabulous Florence

Florence Roofs (Photo credit: plemeljr)

By []Giovanni Balboni

In Tuscany, villas are famous as a desirable and typically Italian place to stay when visiting this eminent region. This large area in central Italy is best known for its turbulent history, its artistic attributes and its rich and fertile soils. People travel from all over the world to appreciate the architectural elegance of its cities, to explore its breath taking landscape, and to indulge in some of the most celebrated gastronomy Europe has to offer. There is no doubt that through the ages, nowhere in Italy has attracted more artists, poets and influential people than Tuscany. Villas dot the landscape, many of them elegantly adorned with grand facades and long winding driveways. Originally built for the elite and aristocracy many have now been turned into hotels or are privately owned.

Discovering the Delights of the Tuscan City of Siena

Piazza del Campo with Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia, town of Siena, Tuscany/Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Experience picture postcard Tuscany as you explore the stunning and beautiful Chianti area in the heart of Italy. Wander around the quaint hilltop towns, visit some of the country's most romantic cities and soak up the unique light and atmosphere while meandering through the countryside. When choosing to stay in Tuscany, villas dotted throughout the region are the perfect way to make the most of your time here. In Tuscany, villas are offered for rent by many excellent companies, all with something different to offer. You are certain to find one that suits your group size and holiday aspirations. Whether you are travelling with a group of friends, family, or even if you and a loved one are looking for a peaceful getaway, there will be somewhere perfect for you in this stunning region.

Enjoying the Regional Produce of Tuscany

Tuscany (Photo credit: nubui)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Summer holiday planning time is here and many families look forward to the arrival of warmer climes, a change of scene, relaxation and adventure. Escaping to countryside villas in Tuscany is the perfect way to grant all these wishes, to recharge and get your family fit and healthy. This region is like a health retreat for the whole family!

With good reason, this area is famous as one of Italy's and Europe's most popular destinations. Steeped in history, renowned for its beautiful countryside, sensational weather, fine fare and numerous tourist attractions, this part of Italy simply pulsates with a passion for life.

Discover the Wonderful Region of Chianti in Tuscany

Vineyards in Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico region (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

The Chianti region is arguably one of most beautiful places in Italy. It is deservedly well known and is a region rich in culture, history and gastronomy. There is no better way to explore the Chianti than by hiring a car and spending your days discovering the picturesque towns and breathtaking scenery at your own pace. There is no doubt that the Chianti lives up to all we expect from this stunning region in Tuscany. Villas are found in abundance throughout the area and there is bound to be one to suit your group, budget and holiday hopes.

The Highlights of Lucca - A True Tuscan Gem

Salumi e vino lucchese. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

If you are searching for a holiday in Italy, but want to escape the crowds then why not rent one of the many Tuscan villas in or around the beautiful town of Lucca? Lucca is definitely one of the hidden gems of the most famous region of Italy that is Tuscany. Villas can be booked for short breaks or extended stays, and no matter how many people are in your group there will be the perfect villa for you.

Learning Holidays in Chianti

Vineyards in Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico region (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

New research tells us that learning is good for our health! Learning new skills offers numerous health benefits: mental, emotional, and physical. By learning new skills you are building new neural pathways that keep your brain active, healthy and ward off the dreaded dementia. Learning in a class situation is sociable and provides opportunities to make new like-minded friends; so, why not combine some of your hard-earned leisure time with the opportunity to improve your mind and spirit and head to Italy!

Must See Sights in Spectacular Tuscany

By []Giovanni Balboni
Tuscany is an area of Italy situated along the upper 'shin' of the leg-shaped country itself. The region is large enough to offer both inland and coastal sites to visit - providing a snapshot of the best of Tuscany. Villas are available to book virtually everywhere you look, so you are bound to find just the right setting for your own personal holiday story.

In deciding the main highlights of the region, the choice is virtually endless in Tuscany: villas that will take your breath away, historical attractions, artistic treasures and spectacular countryside. Let's explore, shall we?

Enjoying the Delights of Tuscan Cuisine

By []Giovanni Balboni

Chances are, delightful as the villas in Tuscany invariably are, there will be many occasions when you want to get out and about in order to sample the true taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine. Which is not to say that you can't get good meals inside your villas in Tuscany - with the fresh produce, the great spices and overall wonderful environment, any meal you make yourself is practically guaranteed to be delicious. Eating in the best food outlets in the area, however, is an experience not to be missed - whether they're small hole-in-the-wall shops, traditional family restaurants, or globally-recognised gourmet bistros.

Tuscany's Wine Country: The Wine-Lover's Dream

Landscape in the Italian wine region of Greve in the Chianti area in Tuscany, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

If you want to spend time in a place where there's fabulous wine, food and the kind of natural beauty that inspires great art, how about spending a week or two in one of those amazing villas in Tuscany's prime wine region- Chianti!

In Chianti, you'll certainly find your fill of everything that makes for a great holiday. Here are a few of the things that may convince you to choose Chianti when choosing which of the numerous villas in Tuscany to make as your home away from home for the holidays.

Tuscan Cuisine: Simple, Rustic and Delicious

Bistecca alla fiorentina (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

You will find that the cuisine is kept simple but delicious when you stay in Tuscany. Villas located throughout the region make the perfect base to discover the cuisine of this area of Italy for yourself, and it does not really matter where you stay because the food here is exceptional throughout the area.

Tuscan cuisine is known for being healthy, hearty and very, very tasty. It comprises [predominantly] of salads, pastas, herbs, pies, soups and grilled meat. If you like your food simple, honest and delicious, you are in for a treat in Tuscany. Villas to rent will often have their own, spectacularly appointed kitchens, so you can try your hand at recreating some of the dishes yourself.

Travel to Volterra and Discover the Real Tuscany

Vineyards in Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico region (Photo credit: Wikipedia) By Giovanni Balboni


Volterra is not one of the best-known settlements in Tuscany, however, it is certainly one of the most appealing. Of all of the hilltop towns in the region, there are few that can match it.
There are many reasons so many people decide to make their holidays in Tuscany; villas in this region provide visitors with rolling hills, exquisite landscapes, quaint architecture and a more relaxed way of life. Volterra has all of these in abundance, making it the ideal place to spend some quality downtime.

The Ampelography of Chianti

A close-up view of sangiovese grapes to be made into Chianti at the Colle Lungo vineyard in Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Giovanni Balboni


While there are many people who might enjoy a wonderful holiday with a Chianti villa rental, there is one subsection of the general populace who find it particularly appealing - ampelographers! Confused? Don't worry - if you've never heard it before, ampelography is just the term for the field of botany which studies the classification and identification of grapevines. As a scientific discipline, it grew to prominence in the 19th century, as it became important to gain a greater knowledge of grapevines in the face of diseases and pests such as phylloxera. The grape vine is an extremely mutable species, making the study of it absolutely fascinating - and its good news for wine lovers as well, as it allows the range of different vintages we enjoy today. An ampelographer visiting Chianti will find a lot to mull over while sampling the region's wines.

When In Italy - Twenty Essential Things To Do

Image via Wikipedia
By Katy Hyslop


Sitting round the dinner table one night , after a few bottles of Chianti with some old friends, most of whom had spent time as European tour guides and backpackers, I asked them to name the best thing to see or do while staying in Italy. There was a lot of loud discussion as some tried to praise the less obvious things over the more mainstream, but there were also plenty of unanimous agreement for others.

In no particular order may I present to you the top 20 things to do in Italy as decided by my mates.
1. Nun Watching in Piazza San Pietro
There is something serene about watching a line of Nuns on tour, especially on specific Saint's days, taking photos of the façade of St Peter's or trailing behind each other inside the huge basilica. They are only out numbered by the pigeons, which parents ,who hate their children, encourage to sit on their offspring's head in hopes they will pick them up and fly away, perhaps dropping them somewhere over the Forum.

When In Italy - Twenty Essential Things To Do

Image via Wikipedia
By Katy Hyslop


Sitting round the dinner table one night , after a few bottles of Chianti with some old friends, most of whom had spent time as European tour guides and backpackers, I asked them to name the best thing to see or do while staying in Italy. There was a lot of loud discussion as some tried to praise the less obvious things over the more mainstream, but there were also plenty of unanimous agreement for others.

In no particular order may I present to you the top 20 things to do in Italy as decided by my mates.

I Love Sightseeing Tours of Italy - Tuscany Winter Attractions and Events

Image via Wikipedia
By Levi Reiss


The Tuscany region of central Italy is famous for wine and food. Tuscany is proud of their white truffles, one of the tastiest and most expensive "mushrooms" in the world. On the second, third and fourth weekends November, why not visit La Sagra del Tartufo Bianco (Festival of the White Truffle) in the medieval hilltop town of San Miniato? Besides the food you can enjoy craft displays, theater performances, and marching bands.

Tuscany for Nature Enthusiasts

Image via Wikipedia
By Giovanni Balboni


Tuscany is a region of Italy most notably recognised for its influence in the world of art and music. However, the prolific nature of the art that emerges from Tuscany must suggest there is something truly inspirational about the region, something sown into the proverbial soil. This is, of course, the country's natural landscape and the inspirational, captivating sights that it offers.