WHAT TO SEE AND DO ALL YEAR ROUND
Casalone's location in the heart of Chianti offers the best of both worlds – seclusion in a beautiful landscape that's barely changed since medieval times yet with Tuscany's main attractions of Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni all less than an hour's drive away. Close by there are vineyards, hilltop hamlets, quaint towns, gourmet experiences to be enjoyed and much, much more.
From culture-packed cities to scenic countryside and seasonal festivals, there are reasons to visit this fascinating area of Italy all year round. We hope the information below helps you make the most of your time here, whenever you choose to visit.
Things to do near Casalone
Cities
Florence is half an hour, Prato 40 minutes, Siena 50, Pisa 90 and Lucca two hours' drive away, all with exceptional cultural sights, galleries and museums. We can provide insider tips.
Villages
Famous villages and lesser-known gems are nearby. Walled Montefioralle with its castle, winery and several restaurants is within walking distance – if you can manage the steep hill!
Cooking
A few kilometres away there's a full-time specialist who can teach you how to make the most tasty local dishes with the freshest ingredients. We're fortunate to have some of the region's best produce on our doorstep.
Castles
Let us know if you're interested in guided tours of castles or other historical sights. With 2,000 years of history there's plenty to choose from.
Vintage car or Vespa hire
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and scents of the countryside, towns and villages in a classic convertible or even a Vespa for the day.
Balloon rides
Glorious views followed by a Prosecco breakfast – what better way to see Chianti's vineyards, olive groves and ancient towns.
Horse riding
Explore the picturesque landscape with its rich wildlife on horseback for a day or a few hours. Riding centres cater for all levels of ability.
Wine
Chianti is one of the world's most celebrated wine regions. With so many tasting opportunities available you may like help putting together a tour that suits your tastes and interests.
Organic farms
There are organic farms in Chianti offering experiences in tastings, picnics, shopping and cookery lessons, along with the chance to learn more about organic farming practices.
Cycling
A book of routes is in the house and there's a cycle shop in nearby Greve where you can hire bikes. We can also recommend walking routes.
Food
Tuscany is heaven for foodies. Have a special dining experience in the privacy of Casalone with a private chef, eat out, or pick up the freshest local produce to cook yourself.
Shopping
From retail outlets to flea markets and where to find the best hand-made leather or ceramic goods, we can point you in the right direction.
Tuscany throughout the year
January
Find bargains in the winter sales, have fun in the snow, warm up in an ancient café or take a dip in a thermal spa. On the 6th, join the Feast of Epiphany and celebration of La Befana.
February
Carnival month, when towns hold parades and decorate the streets. San Gimignano's and Lucca's are the most spectacular. For jazz fans, the MetJazz festival is on in Prato.
March
With the arrival of Spring, this is the 'month of rebirth', when all towns celebrate with markets and craft fairs. You can also indulge in Montefioralle's delicious Frittelle Festival and Certaldo's truffle fair.
April
See Tuscany in full bloom. Easter month is packed with events and festivals of all sorts. There's something for everyone – see what grabs your interest here.
May
The heat rises and the main attractions get very busy. The world's most prestigious car rally, Mille Miglia, passes through Chianti.
June
Visit San Gimignano's medieval-style festival or Florence's Calcio Storico, a 16th Century sporting event played in historical costume.
July
Siena's famous Il Palio bare-back horse race is held this month and so is one of the best costume festivals in Italy, in gorgeous Monteriggioni.
August
Join the hazelnut festival in nearby Panzano the evening before Assumption day, an important holiday in Italy. On the 10th, watch shooting stars for the Feast Day of San Lorenzo.
September
Wine festival season makes this a prime time for wine-lovers to visit. Enjoy the Chianti Classico Expo in the streets of nearby Greve or other traditional events throughout the month.
October
The most beautiful time of year in Chianti. There are food festivals galore (including Montaione's truffle festival) and L'Eroica cycle race.
November
Spectate or take part in the Florence Marathon. Go truffle hunting or visit a mill during the olive harvest for a tasting or lunch. Visit museums and galleries without the crowds.
December
Find unusual gifts, gastronomic treats and festive atmosphere at the Christmas markets. You can even ski in parts of Tuscany in winter.