Why on Earth Doesn't Anyone Go to These Places in Tuscany? #part1
Curiosity has encouraged us to look for new things since the very beginning. So If you happen to be in Tuscany any time soon, let your curiosity take you to these amazing destinations.
Abbazia San Rabano
Badia a Coltibuono.
Abbazia San Rabano
San Rabano Abbey is right at the edges of Maremma Natural Park, 16 minute drive west of Grosseto. The place is just a brilliant excuse to visit Maremma - a scenic area of Tuscany inexplicably neglected by the majority of people.
If you see San Rabano it looks like a dreamy castle randomly dropped from the sky in the middle of cloud-soft hills edging the superb Maremma coastline. This simple reason should convince you to get there. But as ever in these cases, there is more. You can horseback ride for instance across the area going from the lush and craggy cliffs to the white-sanded beaches (see this website). Or you can go trekking in a landscape untouched by mass tourism. And of course, you can enjoy all the incredible food this part of Tuscany can offer you.
BADIA A Coltibuono
The Abbey of Coltibuono is 50 minute drive north-east of Siena. But it can be easily reached from Florence, Arezzo and Grosseto. The place used to be a Monastery but quite recently it has been converted into a winery and B&B. It’s definitely a must-see as it provides a wonderful change of pace from the hectic world out there.
For one, this stunning agriturismo is run by a family who among other things produces a refined Chianti Classico exported all over the world. It seats on a hill overlooking a scenic view that will bring peace to your heart. To put it simply, its breath-taking views, wine tasting, cooking classes and meals will give you a lot of reasons to indulge yourself as well as putting you in a good mood for a long while. You’d be crazy not to visit it, should you happen to be in Tuscany!
Castello di Brolio
CASTELLO DI BROLIO
Not far from the Abbey of Coltibuono, bang in the middle of the gorgeous Chianti area, you are in for a beautiful surprise - the Castle of Brolio. The fortress has been home to the once powerful Ricasoli family since the 12th century.
Today, parts of the castle are still inhabited by members of the Ricasoli family. Other areas are opened for tours and wine tastings. The tours offered allow the visitor to explore the beautiful park, magnificent gardens, the family chapel, one of the castle towers, vineyards and wine cellars -- I recommend making reservations. The views from the terrace walls are nothing short of spectacular!
