Radda in Chianti

Radda in Chianti rests in the idyllic hills of Tuscany. It's a picture-perfect town of warm honey-colored stone and green shutters, still encircled by the protective walls. The landscape is picturesque - rolling hills striped with vineyards and backed by wooded hills. Grand villas and stone castles dot the countryside. Cypress lined roads lead to interesting villages.

Radda is in the Chianti area of Tuscany, between Siena and Florence. It's famous for its wine; Chianti Classico is perhaps the best-known Italian vintage world wide. The town is well-kept, prosperous and pretty with lots of rural charm. It is visible on its promontory from the surrounding area. A promenade along the ridge offers spectacular views of the hills and valleys, with its golden diffused light and shimmery olive trees. Radda is small but has shops, restaurants, wine bars and grocery stores. There is still a produce market selling local fruits and vegetables.

The Palazzo del Podesta' was the town's seat of power, built in the 1500s, and is decorated with the family crests of the once-ruling nobles. The church of San Niccolo' was built in the 1400s. The Sacred Art Museum is housed in an ancient Franciscan Monastery. There are lovely lanes to wander to enjoy the medieval atmosphere.

Radda in Chianti is located right in the heart of Tuscany and all the sights and art towns can be easily seen from here.