Stories, places and inspirations from Tuscany

Valdisieve · Montefiesole · Pontassieve

A side of Tuscany far from mass tourism, just outside Florence: medieval villages, Romanesque churches, ancient forests and trails through vineyards and olive groves.

The countryside around Agriturismo Tassinaia in Pontassieve is full of charm. If you are planning a stay built around discovery, here are 5 places worth visiting nearby, from the closest to the furthest.

1. Pieve di San Lorenzo in Montefiesole

A 5-minute walk from Tassinaia

Just a short walk from the farmhouse, the Romanesque Pieve di San Lorenzo, first recorded in 1038, is one of the area’s hidden architectural treasures. Restored in 1998, it keeps the austere charm of medieval Tuscany.

Visit at sunset: the golden light brings out the pietra serena stone of the façade and the bell tower rising among the cypresses.

2. The Montefiesole and Tassinaia loop

Hiking straight from the door

The loop trail starts right at the farmhouse and winds through woods, olive groves and viewpoints over the whole Valdisieve. Along the way you will find traces of rural archaeology, small country chapels and striking stone passages.

• Length: about 7.8 km
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 2 hours
• GPX track: ask us for the free file for your smartphone

3. Acone, the old village on Monte Giovi

18 minutes by car

Perched on the slopes of Monte Giovi, Acone is a small medieval village that seems suspended in time. Surrounded by woods, it offers spectacular views over the valley. Don’t miss the Pieve di Sant’Eustachio and the Church of Santa Maria in Acone.

While you are there, try penne all’aconese, the spicy, flavourful local speciality jealously guarded by the villagers.

4. Pontassieve, gateway to Chianti Rufina

15 minutes by car

Pontassieve is the main town of the valley, where the Valdisieve meets the Chianti Rufina DOCG wine area. Its lively historic centre is dominated by the Medici Bridge, and historic wineries offer guided tastings by reservation. The main cycle routes start here, and the train station connects the area to central Florence in about 25 minutes: see our guide to visiting Florence by train from Pontassieve.

5. Vallombrosa Abbey and Forest

40 minutes by car

For a cool, peaceful half-day trip, head to the Vallombrosa nature reserve. Its dense silver fir forest, praised by the English poet John Milton in Paradise Lost, surrounds the Benedictine abbey founded in the 11th century.

Besides the monastery, take time for the trails of the state forest and the Experimental Arboretum, home to more than 3,000 tree species from around the world: perfect for a shady summer hike.