Tuscany continues to amaze throughout the fall season. Moving beyond the beach, you can indulge in relaxation at some of the most famous spas in the world, discover the Chiantigiana countryside or visit the most beautiful medieval towns in Italy, where time seems to stand still.
For those who love nature-based vacations, you should definitely spend a few days visiting Chianti: this postcard-like landscape in the hills and vineyards can also be explored by bike. Along the paths and tiny streets there’s always something that will catch your attention: abbeys, churches, castles and villas add to the fairy-tale like feel of the landscape. We recommend checking out the “strade del vino” (wine roads), where you can enjoy traditional Tuscan tastes. Culture, wine, food and art take center stage in the Chianti area.
In the incredible countryside you’ll find some of Tuscany’s best gems, from the medieval Anghiari, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy, to the evocative San Gimignano, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also Volterra, fascinating for its medieval characteristics juxtaposed with traces of the Etruscan age, and Cortona in the Arezzo area, which offers an exciting chance to explore both artistic heritage sites and elegant noble villas.
A true Tuscan itinerary, though, can’t skip the important spots connected to relaxation and wellness. Want to escape the chaos of the city? You must head to some of Tuscany’s spas and resorts: these places employ a mix of ancient traditions and new methods in elegant, evocative settings. The success of Tuscany’s spas is largely due to the high quality of natural sources and thermal baths in the area, and their therapeutic qualities.
Visit Montecatini Terme, a veritable mecca for nineteenth century artists and writers. You’ll fall in love with its spa facilities. You should also check out Chianciano Terme in the Terre di Siena. This is a true paradise, a perfect place to relax, and the landscape will wow you as well. Finally, don’t miss the thermal baths in Bagni di Lucca, not far at all from the Versilia, where relaxing is the top priority. In the grottoes, natural jewels of rare beauty, you’ll experience some unforgettable moments… in Tuscany, of course.
