Changing times in Tuscany
In recent years Tuscany has seen a steady increase in the number of people taking holidays in the region. While being connected with European mainland geographically, Italy has still managed to create itself a unique identity in the region. Family values and good food are two of the most important components to the culture.
Change in progress
One of the evolutions that the
region has undergone is the conversion of old derelict farmsteads into
deluxe holiday apartments. These buildings, some no more than a
windproof shell used to store cattle or grain, have been converted into
some of the most exclusive and sought after after places from which to
base a holiday in the region. The changes in the countryside happened
for two reasons: first due that local farms were unable to meet the
demands for produce from an ever expanding population, and second, that
they were unable to compete on price with the larger and more
centralized distribution companies (a similar change took place in the
UK with the rise of Supermarkets in the early 1990s, the only
difference being unfortunately that English farmers did not have the
same guarantee of sunshine like the Italian's did, on which to build a
future). As the larger processing plants took over food distribution,
the local farmers were left pondering how to make ends meet, and
Agriturismo was born.
Agriturismo
The Italians use the word "Agriturismo" to describe the new way to make a living in the countryside. It is derived from a combination of the Italian words 'Agricoltura' & 'turismo' and is a phrase that can be found in guidebooks, holiday magazines, and spoken conversation. The Agri-turism industry is now blossoming and with support and funding from the European Union, has transformed many traditional farmsteads into high quality apartments for holiday rental. Interestingly, what initially began as a way to support a declining income has actually become a thriving industry.
Modern day living
With the increase in Agri-turism you might be think that some of the tradition has been washed away during the refurbishment. Not so! Apart from the amazingly detailed restrictions in place with regards to refurbishment (akin to listed building categories in the UK, but with extra red tape), many Agriturismo's have not given up their historic roots (in fact it is generally in their financial interest to maintain them as much as possible) and you'll still find many that, while attending to guests on the one hand, will be milking the cattle or preparing salami's and cheeses with the other. Some have even adapted to the extent that guests can participate in farm life, making traditional handcrafts, and participating in wine-making and olive oil production. Many local farmers surely can't believe their luck, not only do they have paying guests, but also free labour on the farm - 'why didn't we do this sooner?, they must be thinking.
Getting to Tuscany
Cheap flights (from London Gatwick and London Stanstead to Pisa, see Ryanair, or directly from Gatiwick to Florence's Peretola airport, see Meridiana) has allowed Tuscany to enjoy its second renaissance (first time visitors might consider holiday insurance until they are completely at ease with Italy). Whereas in the 80s Italy seemed a distant and exotic land for most UK holidaymakers, it has now become much more accessible as a holiday destination. TV programmes showing couples that come out to Italy to start a new life, combined with easier movement of citizens in Europe, has resulted in an increase in the number of ex-pats that end up calling Tuscany home.
Getting to the countryside featured in the photos
If you fancy an trip out of the city and have been wise and hired a car for your holiday, we recommend this very simple itinerary. Make a reservation at the Osteria "La Sosta di Piu VII" for Sunday lunch. The restaurant has room for about 6 tables and a very small staff turn out real Tuscan food. While it is true that in the most dingy Italian restaurant an English person will find themselves wondering how a simple boiled potato could taste so good, this is a restaurant that flies the flag for Tuscany food to the fullest. It's not unusual to still be at the table 3 hours later, but it's a pleasure to do so, directions from Florence below.
