Montaione is a stunning Tuscan village in the Province of Florence that is, potentially, the most beautiful town in all of Tuscany; a rather big claim, we are aware, but not a baseless one. Perched up high on a hill, accessible only by winding mountain roads snaking through thickly wooded surroundings, this lesser-known gem is wildly picturesque, though, perhaps, not the most happening spot in the world. However, if you are looking to well and truly get away from it all for a while, why not find a luxury villa in Florence and spend a day in the stunning surroundings of this incredibly peaceful hamlet?
Far off the typical tourist route, away from long queues and bustling crowds and steeped in preserved natural beauty and cultural gems, the town has more to offer than first meets the eye. While the town does not have its own vineyards, which is a reason that many of its young people have left for elsewhere and more job opportunities, it is located in the Elsa Valley.
Far off the typical tourist route, away from long queues and bustling crowds and steeped in preserved natural beauty and cultural gems, the town has more to offer than first meets the eye. While the town does not have its own vineyards, which is a reason that many of its young people have left for elsewhere and more job opportunities, it is located in the Elsa Valley.
This surrounding area is characterised by Chianti vineyards, olive trees, rows of cypresses and extended woods and there are plenty of places to go for wine tastings and tours. Another of the most important local delicacies are the famous and delicious Tartufo Bianco (white truffles) and there is a food festival dedicated to truffles and chestnuts every October in the historic centre of the town.
Montaione is, perhaps, most famous for its glass-making and bottles, flasks and cruets have been produced in the area since the 13th century. It is still possible to explore the craft and its history in the town to this day. Montaione also has a relatively well-preserved historical centre, as well as an existing part of the ancient fortified wall that once surrounded the town, despite destruction caused during WWII. This historical centre is home to several important museums and churches, including the Pretorian Palace, which houses the Civic Museum and the Church of San Regolo.
Montaione is, perhaps, most famous for its glass-making and bottles, flasks and cruets have been produced in the area since the 13th century. It is still possible to explore the craft and its history in the town to this day. Montaione also has a relatively well-preserved historical centre, as well as an existing part of the ancient fortified wall that once surrounded the town, despite destruction caused during WWII. This historical centre is home to several important museums and churches, including the Pretorian Palace, which houses the Civic Museum and the Church of San Regolo.
For those interested in being a little more active there is hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding available in the surrounding area, as well.
So, once you have found your rental in Florence and are spending time exploring the area, why not take some time off from the frantic tourist hotspots and come enjoy this quieter corner of Tuscany?
So, once you have found your rental in Florence and are spending time exploring the area, why not take some time off from the frantic tourist hotspots and come enjoy this quieter corner of Tuscany?
