National Geographic Traveller (UK) - Food
A WINE-LOVER’S WEEKEND GUIDE TO THE FLORENTINE HILLS
Rich in history and steeped in tradition, the Tuscan hills surrounding Florence are a powerhouse of wine production. Discover the area’s gastronomic and cultural highlights
The popular red wine, Chianti Colli Fiorentini takes its name from the region where it’s produced — where the sun-kissed hills dotted with hamlets, stone farmhouses and forests paint a picture of Tuscany at its finest. To savour an authentic way of life in this setting, stay at Torre a Cona. This wine estate has a striking, 18th-century villa at its heart — restored by the local Rossi di Montelera family — which overlooks ancient vineyards and olive groves, the source of award-winning wines and fine olive oil. With new rooms and its first restaurant opening later this spring, it’s the perfect base for a weekend trip.
DAY ONE
With Florence a 30-minute drive away, spend the day exploring this cultural capital. Get your bearings at Piazza della Signoria, a key site during the Florentine Republic.
It’s also a gateway to the world-renowned Uzi Gallery, which guards a priceless collection of Renaissance works. Starting to feel peckish? Have a bite at Mercato Centrale, and from there it’s a five-minute walk to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: its pink, green and white marble facade is a visual spectacle, while its red-tiled cupola dominates the city’s skyline. Make time to visit the medieval Ponte Vecchio, too.
Head back to Torre a Cona for a guided tour of the estate’s archive, which tells the history of the villa and the families who’ve lived there. Dine at Osteria Torre a Cona, feasting on traditional Tuscan dishes made from seasonal local ingredients.
DAY TWO
Join a professional tru e-hunter and their dog for a walk around Torre a Cona’s private park in search of the prized funghi. Afterwards, enjoy the fruits of your labour with a tru e appetiser, paired with a selection of fine wines.
Next up, rent a car and head to the serene Vallombrosa area — a national reserve — to explore 11th-century Vallombrosa Abbey and its museum, which displays religious paintings, vestments and manuscripts.
The complex is set on the edge of a forest originally planted by monks that’s perfect for hikes and picnics.
Finish the weekend back at Torre a Cona with a tour of the vineyards and cellars, sampling varieties including Chianti, Toscana Rosso and Vinsanto in the tasting room. Don’t forget to purchase a few bottles from the wine shop, set in a converted barn.