|
Nicknamed Italy's dying city. Population is about 20, but a local once told us that only 7 people live here year round. Perched on a plateau, there are no cars here and you have to walk across a half mile pedestrian bridge.
It's only four or so blocks big, but has amazing restaurants, gift shop and hotels. It's a city that you will never forget! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corte PavoneLocated in Tuscany, Corte Pavone extends for 16 hectares across the scenic Montalcino hillsides at an altitude of 500 meters, the vineyards surrounded by fields and thick Mediterranean scrub. This unique landscape and climate along with the light, clayey soil contribute greatly to the wine’s character.
The estate has belonged to the Loacker family since 1996, established by Rainer Loacker who for 20 years worked in the chocolate wafer business before making the plunge into the wine business. Rainer was an organic pioneer when he first started out, opting to use more natural treatments instead of pesticides on his vines. Gradually he made the transition to biodynamic farming. Today, Loacker only uses homeopathic treatments on their vines, and 3 years ago, a new bio-architectural cellar was constructed at the heart of the winery. Franz Josef, Rainer’s son, oversees commercial aspects of the 4 Loacker vineyards (Schwarhof in Alto Adige, 2 in Tuscany, and 1 in Austria). His brother, Hayo, who trained in France, South Africa, and the US, manages the vines and wine making. This winery is part of the Italian Organic Wine Route. 
|
MontenidoliSergio and Elisabetta came to Montenidoli in 1965, the abandoned lands remained, waiting to be brought back to life. For the farmers had abandoned the hill in the early 1900s, drawn by the two Great Wars and the promise of industry. The vines were overgrown by brambles, while the olive trees had gone wild.
But Elisabetta had the land in her blood, thanks to her family, which had cultivated vines and olive trees in Custozza, not far from Verona, since the 1700s, and also thanks to her childhood, spent wandering the vineyards of Valpolicella. Following her family traditions, they respected the land, cultivating it with exclusively organic methods. Sulfur and copper are the only substances used to fig parasithtes, and only if absolutely necessary, because they believe sunlight and clean air to be the best medicine to make the vines healthy, strong, and resistant to disease and bad weather. The vineyards multiplied, planted to the indigenous varietals: Vernaccia, san Gimignano's historic white grape, Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Trebbiano Gentile, and Malvasia Bianca -- The traditional grapes of Chianti. The first wine was born in a great vintage -- 1971. It enjoyed the honor of being one of the first wines commented upon by Luigi Veronelli. 
|
Truffle HuntPart of the experience at Tenuta Torciano is a Truffle Hunt. Of course the weather has to cooperate. Last trip is was a bit rainy, but none the less we went out and got truffles!
Walk the Oak forest bordering Torciano with a Truffle Hunter and his dog. In this private truffle land within Tenuta Torciano, you will discover precious white and black truffles. You will be taught how to identify the various species of trees and the ideal habitat for truffle growth. The Truffle experience is followed by lots of truffles, food and lots of wine! BTW, that's Maria with all those truffles! |
|
|
|
UNA Hotel Deco RomaLocated just 350 feet from Termini Train Station UNA HOTELS Decò Roma offers contemporary design and bright interiors, and air-conditioned rooms with wood floors. Each room greats you with impressive wood and leather doors.
Upon arrival at this hotel they roll out the welcome drinks and small bites that is a meal itself. |
|
Located in the Tuscan countryside 2.5 mi from San Gimignano, the Mormoraia features an outdoor pool with hot tub, a sauna, and a Turkish bath. Free parking spaces are provided on site, and free WiFi is available in the Tuscan-style rooms.
Accommodations at the Mormoraia includes views of the garden or San Gimignano, handmade terracotta floors, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The private bathroom comes with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy homemade cakes, bread, ham and cheese at the buffet breakfast. The property produces its own extra virgin olive oil and wine, and tasting sessions can be arranged. During the day you can order light lunches, drinks and snacks. The on-site restaurant is open for dinner and serves traditional Tuscan cuisine, accompanied by the Mormoraia's own wines. In summer, dinner can also be enjoyed on the terrace with panoramic views of San Gimignano. The garden is furnished with chairs, sunbeds and parasols, while the terrace has a relaxation area with armchairs and tables. |
Tenuta MormoraiaThe Mormoraia is a 50-minute drive from both Siena and Florence. The property is not serviced by public transport, but a taxi service can be organized on request. |
Villa Medicia di LilanoThis happens to be one of our favorite wineries as well. Housed in a 16th Century Medici Estate. The wines are superb and we have personally been here several times on our own. We were super happy when we found out that were renovating some of the buildings into villas.
As a general rule, hotels have to pass the bathroom test with us. Well these villas far exceeded our expectations. We usually spend a few nights here as it it so close to Florence. Walk out your door into olive groves and vineyards! |
|
HoursM-F: 9am - 9pm
|
Telephone(845) 647-3000
|
|
