Driving Through Tuscany On The Ss222

By Author: Melissa Gabrielle
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Tuscany is an excellent destination for those who are planning to explore the countryside and it is well worth it. Trains and buses will take you to the main villages and towns, but if you want to delve deeper into the countryside and do your own thing, it is better to rent or come in your own car.

If you are not used to driving abroad then you may find it better to use state roads (they are usually two lanes wide) as they tend to be quieter than the majority of the motorways.

One of the most scenic roads is the SS222 or chiantigiana road that takes you from Florence to the beautifully gothic Siena through the stunning Chianti countryside.

Tuscany offers one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Italy and a drive through this region can be just as amazing as the sites and monuments of the larger cities and towns.

On leaving Florence, the Birthplace of the Renaissance, moving along amongst the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside you will be gifted with spectacular views of vineyards and olive groves. Tall, thin cypress trees are typical of the region and can be spotted frequently as you look ...
... out over the surrounding Chianti, one of the world's most famous wine producing regions.

The area is dotted with ancient farmhouses most of which have been converted into charming Tuscany villas with pool available for weekly rentals.

As you wind your way leisurely through the wine-sodden hills take time to stop and explore some of the smaller villages along the way.
Some of the charming villages you can find include:

Grevi
A small, picturesque, country town with a few museums and monuments. Attractions include the beautiful Castle of Montefioralle, the Santa Croce church, the Museum of Sacred Art and the Wine Museum. Grevi is the unofficial capital of Chianti.

Castellina
This small city's origins go back to Etruscan times. Via della Volte is a fascinating tunnel with shops and restaurants which offers an alternative view of the surrounding Chianti countryside through the small windows along the tunnel. Palazzo Banciardi, Palazzo Squarcialupi and the church of San Salvatore are all worth investigating.

Radda
A beautiful medieval town surrounded by large defensive walls. Located on a hilltop surrounded by vineyards, Radda maintains its medieval look. Attractions include the church of San Niccolò, the Grand Duke's Ice house, the museum of Sacred Art in Chianti and the castle of Volpaia.

Chianti wineries are becoming increasingly open to drop-in visitors, especially during the high season summer months, so you shouldn't have problems finding some where for a wine tasting along the way.

The Chianti is the perfect place for a countryside getaway and the SS222 is ideal for exploring the wineries, history, nature and beautiful scenery of the region.

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