SR 222 – Road between Florence and Siena

My love affair with Tuscany started on the famous road SR 222, also called Chiantigiana. Maybe not so strange that I was captivated, as this road is said to be the most beautiful and charming route in Italy.

Through the car window you can dream away through the rolling Tuscan countryside, while leaving behind thousands of hectares of vineyards. If you have plenty of time, and an active person, it is recommended to include a bike ride on parts of the stretch.

Along the way you pass one famous vineyard after another, and beautiful villages such as Greve in Chianti, Panzano in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti. The towns of Impruneta, Lamole, Volpaia and Radda in Chianti are just a short detour from the main route. Other detours recommended are Montefioralle and Badia a Passignano to the west, and Gaiole in Chianti and Badia a Coltibuono to the east. In the area around Gaiole in Chianti are several famous castles. Visit Vertine, Meleto, Barbischio and not least Brolio. Make one or more stops, find a piazza, order a glass of Prosecco or a homemade Gelato, and take time to study Italian daily life. When you get hungry you are in the right place. The area is a piece of heaven for food and wine lovers. Do not rate the restaurant by its facade and location. A trattoria right by the road with a single entrance can dish up the most delicious meals.

The best time of year to visit Tuscany, for many, is September, during the grape harvest. Or just before harvesting when the vines hang heavy with ripe Sangiovese grapes.

During September, you can experience village festivals in most towns in Chianti. Experience festivals like Vino al Vino which is held on the third week of September in the small town of Panzano in Chianti.

Vineyards to visit

Brolio – www.ricasoli.it
Volpaia – www.volpaia.com
Albola – www.albola.it
Casa Emma – www.casaemma.com/
Fonterutolio: – www.mazzei.it/en/The-estates/Castello-di-Fonterutoli/The-estate/
Verrazzano – www.verrazzano.com
Vignamaggio – www.vignamaggio.it/
Villa Vignamaggio: www.vignamaggio.it/
Castellare: www.castellare.it/eng/home.asp
Fattoria Montagliari: www.fattoriamontagliari.com/
Villa Trasqua: www.villatrasqua.it/
Gagliole – www.gagliole.com