Look, it's not like there is any shortage of beautiful towns in Tuscany. The region is famously picturesque and it is not just because of the naturally verdant and lovely landscape, it is also largely because of the charming, historic, and well-preserved towns that are dotted throughout Tuscany. Of course, when one thinks of Tuscany, the likes of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca all come to mind first but, for many, a visit to the region is all about getting off the beaten path and stumbling upon lesser-known little towns and villages that have lots to offer in their own right; rich histories, incredible little museums with collections of wonderful local artworks or specialised collections of fascinating objects, Mom and Pop eateries where you can eat like a king for a steal, family-run wineries making the best wine and olive oil that you've ever tasted, shops selling authentic locally-made goods and traditional crafts, astounding churches, palaces, and architectural gems, amazing views over the region, and much more besides.
One such town, which is often described as potentially the prettiest town in all of Tuscany, is Montaione. Browse our vacation rentals in Montaione if you're looking to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy a peaceful and authentic getaway in Tuscany or, if you just want to visit this gorgeous gem of a town for the day but stay somewhere with a bit more to offer, then browse our luxury villas in Florence, which is just a stone's throw away.
One such town, which is often described as potentially the prettiest town in all of Tuscany, is Montaione. Browse our vacation rentals in Montaione if you're looking to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy a peaceful and authentic getaway in Tuscany or, if you just want to visit this gorgeous gem of a town for the day but stay somewhere with a bit more to offer, then browse our luxury villas in Florence, which is just a stone's throw away.
Montaione is, in fact, located in the Province of Florence, perched up high on a hill set in the Val D'Elsa in the Chianti region, accessible only by winding mountain roads snaking through wonderfully romantic and thickly wooded surroundings. This remote location that is also only a short distance from major Tuscan cities (it is actually equidistant from both Florence and Siena) means that it is both well-removed from tourist crowds and masses of tour buses but is also easy to get to. Plus, if you have decided to base yourself in the village and have found a vacation rental in Montaione, it is a great point from which to explore the wider region of Tuscany, with the whole Chianti area, Volterra, Florence, San Gimignano, and Siena all readily and easily accessible for day trips throughout your holiday. Get the best of both worlds by staying and relaxing in this sleepy, lovely, and authentic Tuscan village and then choosing other days during your trip to spend dashing around Tuscany's world-famous attractions!
However, despite the fact that it is located off the beaten track and is unknown to most international tourists, the town of Montaione is actually famous in Italy for a few things; each October it hosts a food festival dedicated to truffles and chestnuts in the historic centre of the town, it is well-known centre for glass-making with some still crafting exquisite pieces to this day, and it is surrounded by an excellent network of hiking, mountain-biking, and horse-riding trails. Plus, there are lots of things to see and do in and around Montaione. Just wandering around the impossibly pretty little streets of the town (well-preserved despite destruction during WWII) and taking in the historic centre full of architectural gems is, in of itself, an excellent way to pass some time; be sure to keep your eye out for highlights such as the lovely 12th century Church of San Regolo Church and the Palazzo Pretorio (Pretorian Palace), which now home to the Civic Museum.
While the town itself is not home to any vineyards (a fact that has led to many of the younger generation leaving Montaione in search of job opportunities), the area of the Val D'Elsa and Chianti that surrounds is bursting with food and wine producers, making Montaione a good holiday destination for those interested in good eating and drinking. Wine, olives, saffron, cheese, and white truffles are all local specialties and, in addition to the truffle and chestnut festival in October, there is a Produce Market that takes place in the town from October to November where you can taste and purchase those aforementioned delicious seasonal delicacies right on the streets. Additionally, from June to September, the Summer Festival at Montaione also takes place and festivals always mean good eating in Tuscany. For those who don't want to have to cook the products they have sampled in town themselves during their holiday or eat outdoors for the entirety of their stay and those who are interested in more formal dining experiences, there are incredible restaurants in the area that are hidden gems, like Casa Masi: located in a centuries-old former tobacco warehouse, this wonderful family-run restaurant boasts authentic Tuscan home-cooking, a romantic, candlelit atmosphere, and efficient service.
If you're looking to stretch your legs after eating well, you can walk the streets and trails around Montaione to take in the sights and wonderful scenery, particularly the fields of sunflowers that surround the entire region in the summer, at your leisure. More serious hikers will enjoy the 6 different itineraries that make up a network of hiking paths that take visitors throughout the area. Following the tracks of ancient farm roads and known to only hunters and mushroom gatherers until a few years ago, these hiking trails have been improved in order to preserve the historical memory of place names in the area and to allow access to forest areas in order to reduce damage during summer fires. Varying greatly in difficulty and length, they are well marked and information about them is readily available. Whether you are hiking or biking, looking to head to the forest or the rivers or up atop the hills to take in the best views over the area, are experienced or new, young or older, normal or really fit, you'll find a route to suit your needs! Those looking for some other excellent outdoor pursuits and activities are also in luck as the lakes and rivers nearby are perfect for fishing and splashing around (always remember to research the safety of any body of water before getting in), you can go picnicking in the woods, and animal-lovers can head to the main base of the Italian Horse Protection Association in the Filicaja parish of Montaione.
With absolutely more than enough in the area to keep you occupied, incredibly easy access to Florence, Siena, and many other important Tuscan tourist destinations, but peace and quiet and distance from the intense tourist crowds often found in the region, a vacation rental in Montaione is an excellent idea for the discerning tourist looking to get off the beaten path and discover something a little more authentic. Or, if you have found a luxury villa in Tuscany or a luxury villa in Florence or a luxury villa in Siena and are having fun dashing around and taking in all that those incredible cities have to offer but want to set aside a day to get away from it all, then be sure to make some time for a day trip to the unchanging and charming gem that is Montaione. Discover for yourself why so many are adamant that this is the most beautiful town in Tuscany and come and fall in love.