Local events and areas of interest:
The village of Colleoli is in the County of Palaia, regarded as one of the most beautiful and evocative in Tuscany. It is an area of 74 sq km with 4,500 inhabitants, full of villages of architectural and historical interest including Palaia, Forcoli, Montefoscoli, Partino, Alica, Colleoli, Gello, Montacchita, Montechiari, San Gervasio, Toiano, Usigliano and Villa Saletta. The county lies between the rivers of Chiecina and Roglio. There are six established historic and scenic trails close to the resort, whiich can be enjoyed on foot, on bike or on horseback. The trails, which are signposted and marked, are of differing lengths and difficulties, with something for everyone. Colleoli sits directly on one of the trails, at a height of 160mts, rising to Palaia at 240 metre and descending to Forcoli at 60mts. The territory around the resort is characterised by spectacular cliffs, sloping hills with poplars, vines and olives, and Mediterranean bush rich in fauna and mushrooms.
Horseriding and other Activities:
Horseriding, including lessons and pony and trap tours, are available directly adjacent the resort. The riding trails around the resort are superb, and the activity offers great value for money relative to UK prices.
Our local English speaking agent, a native of Tuscany, can welcome you at the resort and guide you through all the available tours and excursions, organise airport transfers, car-hire, baby sitting, restaurant bookings, personal shopper etc. Tours to major tourist destinations including Florence and Pisa can be booked either as part of a group, or with your own private Chauffeur and Guide. Cooking classes, pottery classes, Italian language lessons, visits to vineyards and olive farms, wine tasting and culinary tours are all available locally. Cycles may be rented for biking tours.
Walking/biking/riding trails:
Walking the trails visitors will pass farm houses, towers, tabernacles, springs and ancient fountains. The area is known for its varied environments including of gemological and botanical. Architectural sites include the ancient watch tower in Villa Saletta, St Martino's Chapel in Palaia, the fortress of Palaia, and the Castle at Forcoli, with history stretching back to the Etruscan period. The area of Palaia was scene of bloody battles in the Middle Ages. Visitors may explore the 'Alta Valdera Park' highlights including the Pre-historic park at Peccioli, the Astronomical Observatory at Libbiano, the Icon Museum within the Pretorio Palace, the farming exhibition at Montefoscoli, the agricultural museum at San Gervasio, and the wine cellars of the area. Geologists from around the world come to study the underground carbon springs ('The Mofette') in Orciatico. Other visitor attractions in the 'Alta Valdera Park' include the Zoological museum in Capannoli and the Archaeological Centre
Golf:
Golf is one of Tuscany's hidden secrets with a host of great choices available, and with the climate giving an all year round season. The nearest club to the resort is an 18 hole golf course and is a real gem, a Par 73 of some 6,645m, played mostly on a slight downhill, or on the flat. There are a number of side and frontal water obstacles to challenge the best, but relatively few difficult bunkers. The course was designed in 1991and is situated in a medieval Hamlet, deep in the Tuscan countryside, with stunning views along the Fairways . The facilities are a bit quaint, but the Course is great.
Transfers between the Resort and the Club can be arranged; for those with their own transport, it is a delightful 20 minute drive.
A super day out is to combine a round of 18 holes at the Club with a visit to the beautiful and historic Medieval town of San Gimignano, some 12 miles from the Club.
There are two additional 9 hole Golf Clubs within about a 25 minute drive, and further 18 hole courses around Florence and Pisa, which can be reached within 45 mins. One of the Pisa courses has great views out into the mediterranean.
Prices vary but you can generally play 18 holes for less than 50 euros (£30), and there are often special offers to be had. Some courses recommend you hire a buggy, about €40, but normally not required if reasonably fit.
All details on available courses are available with a confirmed booking.
Other Activities:
Flying club (microlites/gliding/parachuting)
Learn more about this holiday rental at the owner's website:
