Chianti off-the-beaten path: 5 places for your bucket list

Chianti is one of the most visited areas in Tuscany, as well as in Italy. Its round and green hills, designed from kilometers and kilometers of vineyards represent the perfect postcard from Tuscany.

Beyond the main towns there are several hidden gems, standing off the beaten paths waiting for you to be discovered. So let’s have a quick look together on this unconventional Chianti!

1. Montefioralle

The hamlet of Montefioralle is about 2 km far from the center of Greve in Chianti, the gate of Chianti. It’s a tiny residential hamlet, preserving its original look with stone buildings and massive walls. Legend has it that it’s the birthplace of Amerigo Vespucci, as a bee reminds over an ancient door.

It’s about 5 minutes driving from the center of Greve or about 30 minutes walking (a very nice walk!). There are no shops or other tourist attractions. Just go there and enjoy its ancient beauty.

2. Abbadia a Coltibuono

This ancient abbey is entitled to San Lorenzo and dates back to 11th century, when it was founded by the Firidolfi family. It was one of the richest churches in Chianti and played an important role in the local history.

During the 19th century it was transformed into a farm, and today you can still admire the peaceful Romanesque church, the gardens and the monastery. The Abbey of Coltibuono is located near Gaiole in Chianti, about 3 kilometers.

3. San Gusmè

This little village preserves its original medieval look and it’s really cute. It’s surrounded by olive groves and vineyards and from there you can easily see Siena Bells’ Towers during a sunny day.

It’s a residential village and there are just a few shops and two good restaurants where you can have great Pici cacio e pepe. It’s famous for a funny story related to the funny statue you’ll see near the walls. San Gusmè is located near Castelnuovo Berardenga about 20 km from Siena.

4. Brolio Castle

The large Castle of Brolio is property of the Ricasoli family since 1141. The Ricasoli are one of the oldest and most important families in Italy and have producing wine since its birth. We can say that they made the Chianti Classico wine.

As a matter of fact Bettino Ricasoli discovered the recipe to make this great wine. He was so attached to his castle that legend has it that is still there and you can see him in the full moon nights. The castle is located near Radda in Chianti and included in the ticket there is a wine tasting.

5. Vertine

The small hamlet of Vertine is a residential village located near Gaiole in Chianti. It preserves its original look and offers nice pics. There are no shops or restaurant just a cafè.

The village dates back to 11th century when it was a fortress that in 1203 became property of the Ricasoli family. You can still admire part of the defensive walls and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

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