A typical landscape of rolling hills defined by green vineyards and olive groves interweaved with picturesque villages watched over by medieval castles—describing Tuscany in a single sentence is in no way demanding. More demanding is resisting the desire to keep returning here after the first visit. But why resist? Life is short.
The beauty of the Italian countryside best stands out when viewed from the winding roads which link its villages and towns. The symbol and icon of Tuscany viewed from behind the wheel is the famous Via Chiantigiana. Linked by elegant groves, this road describes the curves of the Chianti region through the hills between Florence and Sienna. Although this asphalt ribbon represents a canvas for the perfect driving experience, it is not a unique phenomenon in Tuscany, more a typical image of the dozens of kilometres of routes etched into the landscape waiting to be discovered, travelled and have stories told about them.
Big wines for big explorers
Chianti, Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello—the stories of Tuscany are not told through words but through sips, and the most enchanting of them are hidden in this trio of grand red wines. They are linked through their origin in the Sangiovese variety, which is characteristic of the region. The most delightful Tuscan wines include the wonderful Vino Nobile from the area near the small town of Montepulciano, about an hour’s drive south of Siena. It combines wonderfully well with, for example, another legend of the region—Fiorentina steak from the fine, stand-out meat of the Chianina breed.
A little way to the west, grape vines are dominated by Brunello, another Tuscan icon. Worth mentioning among its producers is the Fattoria dei Barbi winery, one of five producers of Brunello di Montalcino and one that has been operating for over a hundred years.
Starry countryside
Although Tuscany mostly comprises the countryside in the genuine sense, even in its most westerly corners you can let yourself be pampered by first-class gastronomy. By the way, this region, a promised land of experiences, boasts a total of 47 Michelin stars. One of them is held by Andrea Mattei, head chef at Moe Modo in the impressive historical resort of Borgo Santo Pietro. The portfolio of Andrea’s masterful creations includes, for example, pigeon in wild strawberry sauce with sweet corn.
Borgo Santo Pietro is a place that will certainly not slip your memory. But if you are looking for the ultimate experience, your reservation should be directed to the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco. The complex has unprecedented views of the Val d’Orcia and enjoys UNESCO protection. It was created within the walls of a former Italian aristocrat’s country manor which recalls eight centuries. None other than Massimo Ferragamo, descendent of the master Salvatore Ferragamo and the current president of the brand of the same name, is behind the current form of the Castiglion del Bosco. In addition to being synonymous with five-stars for the sweet life without compromise, the Castiglion del Bosco is also a fully-functioning winery and the fifth largest producer of Brunello di Montalcino.
Behind the current form of Castiglion del Bosco is none other than Massimo Ferragamo, a descendant of master Salvator Ferragamo and the current president of the brand of the same name. In addition to a five-star synonym for sweet life without compromise, Castiglion del Bosco is also a fully functional winery, which is even the fifth largest producer of Brunella di Montalcino.
Tuscany by car
If you are going to Tuscany, accept our tip. Treat yourself to an individual Heart of Tuscany experience trip with a rented car, which will be tailored to you by the Ricard & Bonette agency. Choose the car you want to drive and your preferred hotel category. You can add an experience to the trip, such as a balloon flight or a cooking school. Find out how much such a trip will cost you. Then you don’t have to worry about anything, Ricard & Bonette will take care of everything and it is also available as a concierge for the entire stay.
You will arrive in Florence or Bologna, the driver will pick you up at the airport and take you comfortably to the hotel. In the early evening, you will meet your trip advisor, who will give you a programmed navigation and route book with a description of the recommended driving itinerary. In the morning, a car of your choice will be delivered to the hotel. And for the next few days you will just enjoy a carefree exploration of this beautiful region. More information about the experience driving journey by car can be found here >.
