Chianti
This is Tuscany’s most notorious region. It comprises the area bordering Florence in the north and Siena in the south. Historically, the name of Chianti seems to originate from the Etruscan word “clante”, water, but also a family name. The first renovation of villas for rent in Chianti started around the 60s, but the region has for centuries been a favourite destination for many tourists. Nowadays it is also known as Chiantishire, being a cherished destination for the English. Indeed, many foreigners, not only British, have even decided to settle themselves in this area, buying old farmhouses and restoring them. But there are not only villas. During the years, stunning castles and charming farmhouses, where loving owners produce their excellent and well known wines, have been carefully renovated, yielding an appealing assortment of apartments for rent in the Chianti area.
Distinguished by gently rolling hills, it is one of Italy's most appreciated areas due to its excellent wines, olive oil, art treasures and various landscapes, made up of vineyards, cypresses, villas, farms, castles, abbeys, churches. It has understandably become the symbol of beauty and of a way of living which is still slow, gentle and kind, the right location to savour the essence of an unspoilt Tuscany.
A must for the curious traveller is the Via Chiantigiana, from Florence to Siena, as it penetrates the heart of this luxurious region.
Absolute gems which deserve a visit: Greve in Chianti, Panzano, Castellina in Chianti, Radda, Gaiole with the Meleto and Brolio Castles, all well-renowned for their wine production and last, but not least, Castlenuovo Berardenga, a fortified village, set in a stunning landscape
