Tour Through Tuscany: Undiscovered Gem Montione

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When you visit Tuscany, the breathtaking scenery never loses its charm. A few years ago, Architectural Digest highlighted Montaione as a must-visit destination in Tuscany, noting its unspoiled character compared to nearby tourist-heavy cities like Florence and Pisa. Montaione is also surrounded by its own picturesque countryside, ideal for cycling or horseback riding. Nearby, in the Filicaja parish of Montaione, is the Italian Horse Protection Association, an animal sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of mistreated equines. What sets it apart isn’t just its scenic beauty, but its authenticity. The medieval heart of the town remains intact, with narrow cobbled streets, family-run trattorias, and panoramic views that stretch to the Apennines.

Montaione’s location makes it a perfect base for day trips. You’re just 40 minutes from Volterra, a city steeped in Etruscan and Roman history, and a short drive from San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and saffron gelato. The Chianti wine region is also within reach, making it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon vineyard-hopping.

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As with almost everywhere in Tuscany, the vistas were incredible.

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Also close by on the outskirts of Montaione in Tuscanys Jerusulem equaivalent, is the San Vivaldo Monastery which is one of Italys most scared religious monuments. The blessed Vivaldo chose this site as the selected area where he would live his life of fasting and penance.

The area specializes in leather goods, and there are great markets in the city offering their fresh local products such as saffron, olives, wines, cheeses, and white truffles.

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They have wonderful festivals throughout the year such as the festival of truffles in October, and the festival of home cooking cakes (once at the end of May and once at the end of September) where locals would make homemade traditional cakes and sell them to tourists.

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Just a short drive from Montaione’s town center lies Castelfalfi, a beautifully restored medieval hamlet that has been transformed into one of Tuscany’s most luxurious and sustainable resort destinations. Castelfalfi is where I spent most of my time and deserves a closer look—so nest post we will dive into what makes this hilltop village such a unique escape in the heart of Tuscany. You won’t want to miss it.

Style Tip

Those summer linen shorts. Check out my post from Boro Hotel here to see alternative styling.) But what really makes it for me too is this necklace I got from an up and coming Italian jewelry brand, Vestopazzo. Each piece is a handmade unique creation and the brand emphasizes ethical production and sustainability. Not only do they produce beautiful products, but they are involved in several charities and non profit organizations. Check out their website here.

Check out more about my trip to Tuscany