The Most Beautiful Road in Chianti…
2013
Ready for the grape harvesting in Chianti. Photo by @nnalis@ on Flickr
The word ‘Chianti’ is synonymous with the excellent, world-famous wine. But it is not only the wine that is instantly recognisable; the Chianti region itself is known for being one of the most beautiful areas in all of Italy. With lush green landscape, rolling hills, hectares of olive groves and vineyards and woodland composed of cypress, chestnut, oak and pine trees, it’s no wonder that so many people flock here to enjoy the peace and tranquillity, as well as the good wine! And one of the best ways to discover Chianti is by taking a trip along the Chiantigiana road…
As well as being the birthplace of several different wines, the Chianti region is probably most famous for producing the prestigious Chianti Classico DOCG, and in fact only a certain number of the Chianti municipalities produce ‘true’ Chianti Classico. Wine has been produced here for more than two centuries, and up until about 200 years ago, the area was actually fairly wild and overgrown; only fairly recently has it become the neat, picturesque landscape that you see before you today. It is especially beautiful during September and October, as the grape harvest takes place around this time. Warm, autumnal colours, vines heavy with juicy Sangiovese grapes and pleasant temperatures…not to mention the numerous food and wine festivals? What better time is there to pay Chianti a visit. Some tourists actually come to help with the grape harvest too!
The Via Chiantigiana, or Chiantigiana road is actually the S222, and heads south from Florence down towards Siena, weaving its way through the attractive Chianti region. It truly is a great way to admire the beautiful landscape, as it gives you the option of stopping and starting as you please. There are several places where you can take a break and explore, including the wonderful Greve in Chianti. This little market town, which is located in a ‘true’ Chianti Classico area, is home to an attractive piazza and an impressive Franciscan monastery. Another charming place to visit is Panzano, which has Etruscan origins and an 12th century castle, and there’s also Castellina in Chianti; built over Roman ruins and home to lots of lovely little restaurants. All of these towns are surrounded by wineries, where you can sample some delicious wine.
Why not take the hassle out of organising your own travel arrangements, and take part in one of our Best of Tuscany tours? Explore the Tuscan countryside in a fabulous Fiat 500, before actually lending a hand with the grape harvest! After participating, you get the chance to taste the wine and enjoy a wonderful picnic. So as harvest time is approaching, make sure you take one of our wonderful Chianti wine tours from Florence!