San Gimignano & Chianti

Dominating the Elsa Valley, the 11th and 13th century towers of San Gimignano rise above this hill-top town and create a striking image. The unique architecture is still alive in the preserved city squares. Piazza della Cisterna and the adjacent Piazza del Duomo with its cathedral façade stand in the shadow of grandiose palaces whilst rustic taverns and pavement cafes add to the character. In the rural interior, neat lines of vines and ancient olive groves cling to gently rolling hills topped with tall cypress trees and the famed River Arno creates a host of stunning picture-postcard landscapes. Walled towns and medieval villages provide welcome respite. Tucked away amongst narrow stone flagged streets are typical trattorias and a fine choice of friendly, intimate restaurants for memorable lunches and evening meals. Seasonal dishes include the local porcini mushrooms and tasty black truffles. Take time to sample the many traditional specialities washed down with the region¹s most famous export, Chianti.