Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DRIVING IN CHIANTI
Chianti's roads can be frighteningly narrow and frustratingly difficult to navigate - to cut down on
driving stress, be sure to purchase a copy of
Le strade del Gallo Nero
(€2.50), a useful map of the
wine-producing zone that shows both major and secondary roads and also includes a comprehensive
list of wine estates. It's available at newsstands in the region.
Sleeping
Ostello del Chianti
( 055 805 02 65;
www.ostellodelchianti.it
;
Via Roma 137, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa; dm €14-16, q with
private/shared bathroom €70/76; reception 8.30-11am & 4pm-midnight, hostel closed Nov-mid-Mar;
)
This is one of Italy's oldest hostels and though it occupies an ugly building in
the less-than-scenic town of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, the friendly staff and bargain prices
compensate. Dorms max out at six beds and bike hire can be arranged for €8 per day.
Breakfast costs €2. Florence is easily accessed by SITA bus (€3.30, one hour).
HOSTEL
€
Fattoria di Rignana
( 055 85 20 65;
www.rignana.it
;
Rignana; d with/without bathroom in fattoria €90/100, d villa €110-130;
)
This old farmstead and noble villa 3.8km from Badia a Passignano has
everything you'll need for the perfect Chianti experience - an historic setting, glorious
views, a large swimming pool and walking access to a decent local eatery. Two accom-
modation options are on offer: elegant rooms in the 17th-century villa and more rustic
rooms in the adjoining
fattoria
(farmhouse).
AGRITURISMO
€€
Villa I Barronci
( 055 82 05 98;
www.villaibarronci.com
; Via Sorripa 10, San Casciano Val di Pesa; s €85-150, d
€115-230; )
Located on the northwestern edge of Chianti between Florence
and Pisa, this extremely comfortable and modern country hotel offers exemplary service
and amenities. You can relax in the bar and restaurant, rejuvenate in the spa, laze by the
pool or head off for easy day trips to Volterra, San Gimignano and Siena.
HOTEL
€€
Villa Il Poggiale
( 055 82 83 11;
www.villailpoggiale.it
; Via Empolese 69, San Casciano Val di Pesa; d €80-250, ste
€120-350;
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
€€
)
Accommodation in Chianti is often prohib-
closed mid-Jan-mid-Feb;
