Lucolena

In the heart of the Chianti region of Tuscany, Lucolena is a little hamlet in the rolling hills. Part of Greve in Chianti administratively, it is just a few miles from there, as well as Figline Valdarno. You'll find shops, restaurants and caffes in both of those towns.

Lucolena is a cluster of old stone buildings and cobbled streets. Chianti is one of the most beautiful and best known parts of Tuscany, where the postcard image of the region comes true. Green hills covered with rows of grape vines, interspersed with fields of grain or small woods are everywhere. Stately cypress trees outline drives and lanes. The Chianti wine is made here, arguably Italy's most famous vintage. There are plenty of wineries where you can sample it and see how it is made.

Pretty hill towns are all around, and from here you're within two hours of all the storied sights of Tuscany. It is halfway between Florence and Siena.

Lucolena was named for the ancient castle built here in 1059. The remains of it can still be seen. The town hosts an annual chestnut festival, paying homage to one of the area's other principle products, every October. In the hamlet there is a grocer, a pizzeria, a post office, the church, and a pharmacy.