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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

Statue of David by Delia Giandeini

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.

Tuscan village image by Daniela Turcanu

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!

Pasta image by davide ragusa

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.

Image of door by Michelle Rumney

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.

Image of a Vespa by Alexander Schimmeck

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. 

Image of hot air balloon by Graphic Node

Balloon rides

Glorious views followed by a Prosecco breakfast – what better way to see Chianti's vineyards, olive groves and ancient towns.

Image of horse saddle by Jez Timms

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.

Image of grapes by Kevin Maillefer

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.

Image of seedlings by Christian Joudrey

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.

Image of bicycle spokes by Chepe Nicoli

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.

Image of garlic by Matthew Pilachowski

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.

Image of leather bag by Álvaro Serrano

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

Coffee image by Hjalte Gregersen

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.

Image of fairy lights by Lily Banse

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.

Image of spring flowers by Mèng Jiǎ

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. 

Blossom image by Perica Orešković

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.

Image of Fiat 500 by Jonathan Bean

May

The heat rises and the main attractions get very busy.  The world's most prestigious car rally, Mille Miglia, passes through Chianti.

Image of medieval costumes by Slejven Djurakovic

June

Visit San Gimignano's medieval-style festival or Florence's Calcio Storico, a 16th Century sporting event played in historical costume. 

Image of sunflower by Bernard Hermant

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.

Image of Vespa by davide ragusa

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

Image of wine glasses by Vicente Veras

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.

Image of pumpkins by Aaron Burden

October

The most beautiful time of year in Chianti. There are food festivals galore (including Montaione's truffle festival) and L'Eroica cycle race.

Image of olive tree by Janine Joles

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.

Image of Christmas decorations by Pauline Jurkevicius

December

Find unusual gifts, gastronomic treats and festive atmosphere at the Christmas markets. You can even ski in parts of Tuscany in winter.

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