About the Chianti Region::
The Chianti Region is a wine-lovers paradise, situated in the rolling hills between Florence and Siena. The region is most well known for the famed Chianti Classico wine, but is also a producer to many other red variants like Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Carmignano (together with other grapes), Morellino di Scansano, etc., while Brunello di Montalcino is based on a variant called sangiovese grosso. There are also new wines, based on sangiovese and some popular French grapes that are usually dubbed 'Super Tuscans'.
Exploring Tuscany::
The Chianti Region can be an excellent base from which to explore Tuscany as whole, without having to stay in the busier, often crowded bigger towns. Furthermore, the region offers some of the best gastronomy and wines in Italy, making it an invaluable treasure for those who are interested in exploring the rich eno-gastronomic culture of Tuscany. Not to mention the peaceful beauty of the rolling hills, that evolve in color throughout the various seasons.
Apart from the charming small Chianti towns (Gaiole, Greve, Radda, Castellina) all within 5-10 minutes drive, we highly recommend visiting the following Tuscan cities in the surrounding areas, all of which can be easily reached by car:
- Siena - 25 minutes
- San Gimignano - 30 minutes
- Florence - 45 minutes
- Cortona - 75 minutes
- Piensa - 80 minutes
- Montalcino - 80 minutes
- Lucca - 90 minutes
- Pisa - 90 Minutes.
It's also possible to make a day-trip to Rome, which is just a 2.5 - 3 hour drive.
Arriving & Getting Around:
From abroad, usually the best way to reach Chianti is to fly to a major airport in Tuscany, such as the Pisa or Florence airport. It is also possible to arrive to Rome, although the drive will be slightly longer. From there on there are several alternatives to get to Chianti: rental car, bus, taxi, etc. Alternatively, from Central Europe one might want to take a train to Florence and continue by bus to Chianti.
Chianti and the whole Tuscany Region is easiest to explore with a car. There is much to see so a car will provide freedom to explore, plus the area is so scenic that the drives themselves become an enjoyable activity.
Car rental services are abundant at all airports and in major cities (Florence, Siena, Rome, Pisa). The most important road to know is the Chiantigiana from Florence to Siena, as it penetrates the heart of the region, Chianti Classico.
Golf:
Ugolino Golf Club
This is a beautiful golf club that is near Florence. The club is one of the oldest in Italy and has an 18-hole 72 par professional course that leaves a player with lasting memories. Not only is there the golf course but there are things for the rest of the family to do, such as a swimming pool, a restaurant, billiards and football.
For further information:
Ugolino Golf Club
Strada Chiantigiana 3
50015 Grassina (Firenze)
Tel: 055 2301009
Fax: 055 2301141
email: info@golfugolino.it
Closed on Monday from November until February
You must book in order to play.
Other Activities:
wine tasting
