In the heart of Chianti, surrounded by gentle hills covered with vineyards and rows of cypress trees, Gaiole in Chianti is a small, charming village only one hour away from The Mall Firenze.

Your visit could start from Piazza Bettino Ricasoli, the buzzing town centre which often hosts markets and events associated with the local wine-making tradition. From there a short walk will take you to the Pieve of Santa Maria a Spaltenna dating back to the year 1000.

Casa Eroica is where you will experience the real atmosphere of the famous vintage cycling competition, held every year on the first weekend of October and popular among cycling enthusiasts from all around the world. Here you can rent a bike and go for a ride along the Strada dei Castelli with gentle ascents, dirt tracks and breathtaking views. There are many places where you can stop, all perfect for food tastings or a lunch with a view.

CASTELLO DI VERTINE
This small fortified village has remained unspoilt over the centuries with its tranquil alleys and views of the vineyards where you can still breathe in the medieval soul of Chianti.

CASTELLO DI MELETO
An imposing and charming castle featuring rooms adorned with frescoes, hidden passages and an evocative underground cellar.

CASTELLO DI BROLIO
It is the oldest winemaking company in Italy, a symbol of this land and the home of the Ricasoli family for more than 30 generations. Its current appearance is the result of a renovation in Neo‑Gothic style requested by Bettino Ricasoli, the “Iron Baron”, an influential politician of the 19th century.

CASTELLO DI AMA
A must-see place for contemporary art lovers. Scattered among the vineyards are installations by great artists such as Michelangelo Pistoletto, Louise Bourgeois and Anish Kapoor.

BADIA A COLTIBUONO
Immersed in the green countryside, this ancient abbey is today the location of a winery and a place of hospitality where time goes by slowly among cloisters, gardens and wine ageing in bottles.