Located between Florence and Siena in an area rich in history and Italian traditions, L’Aiaccia is a perfect home-base from which to experience some of Italy’s most beautiful countryside and towns, unique spectacles, and fabulous food and wine. No one wants to spend most of their vacation in a car driving hours from place to place – that is not why you go to Italy. Here are some of the many things to do, experience or discover a short distance from L’Aiaccia.
Hiking and Biking among the Castles
There is a terrific network of hiking trails for those who wish to explore the spectacular countryside and history of the territory surrounding L’Aiaccia. The trails are marked and detailed trail maps are available at the tourist office in Gaiole. Guests up for the challenge of Chianti’s hills can rent bikes locally in Gaiole. Hiking and biking can provide a different perspective and understanding of Tuscany along with some spectacular views otherwise missed. And if you love biking races, either as a spectator or participant, a stay at L’Aiaccia could afford you the opportunity to experience up close one of the most unique bike races in the world, the amazing L’Eroica, started in Gaiole, the town closest to L’Aiaccia.
Private or Group Cooking Classes
Whether you love to cook or you would like to learn, taking a cooking class in Italy is great fun for any size group and for all ages. Classes can be arranged with a chef at several excellent local restaurants or at one of the nearby cooking schools, the most famous of which is the Badia a Coltibouno, established by the renowned chef and author Lorenza de’ Medici and located in an stunning 1,100 year old monastery. Typically you will spend the morning cooking and then enjoy the fruits of your labors for a leisurely lunch with wine. Cooking classes at L’Aiaccia as well as local market tours can also be arranged.
Artisan and Designer Shopping
Whether you would prefer to go to the famous Italian designer outlets or to visit the workshops of local artisans or to explore Arezzo’s monthly outdoor antique market, all are within easy reach from L’Aiaccia. Shopping tours can be arranged with a local guide. Two of our favorite local artisans, who also provided furnishings for L’Aiaccia, are noted below:
Ceramiche Rampini
A ceramic workshop making some of Tuscany’s most beautiful ceramics. www.rampiniceramics.com
Ferro Battuto Biagiotti
An exceptional family-run wrought iron artisan workshop. Their main shop and workshop is located just outside Pienza. Many of the furnishings in L’Aiaccia were custom-made by here. www.Biagiottipienza.com/en/
SPACE or Lo Spazio
The large Prada outlet in nearby Montevarchi also featuring Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi.