Summer in Chianti is a wonderful time to explore the beautiful wine region of Tuscany holds great possibilities. With its rolling hills, rivers, picturesque vineyards and medieval village nights, Chianti offers travelers a unique and unforgettable experience . Find out what to do in summer in Chianti in this article.
Here are 3 riverside routes to do in summer in Chianti
For the “Maybe Not Everyone Knows That…” column, today we reveal the origin of the name Chianti, so famous in the world but whose etymology is not always as well known: in fact, it derives from the Etruscan word “clante,” meaning “water” (bizarre for the home of such a famous wine, no?).
In fact, the Chianti territory has always been a water-rich area, watered by as many as five rivers that enliven its configuration with their valleys.
It was for this very reason that the Etruscans introduced the grapevine, the Romans the olive tree, and in the Middle Ages many water mills were built in the Greve and Pesa Valleys, which remained in operation until a few decades ago to grind cereals and chestnuts, for iron or woodworking, and for spinning textiles.
If you don’t know what to do in Chianti in the summer, a fascinating option is to follow the course of some of these rivers, with dedicated itineraries.
Here is a selection of Chianti hikes to do in the summer months.
Route along the Pesa: 10 km round trip hike
The trail runs along the path along the Pesa River to the old Petrazzo mill, now converted into housing. From the center of the village of Sambuca cross the old bridge over the Pesa and turn right.
Follow the road that then becomes natural-bottomed with the name of Abbot’s road (here you can leave your car) and, shortly after, on the left you will see the chapel dedicated to St. John Gualbert. Go straight ahead passing the bar placed after the last dwelling on the left. When you reach the Rignana bridge, cross it and then take a left, passing a second barrier, to follow the other bank of the Pesa.
An obvious trail on the left allows you to avoid the steep section; a short distance away you find the driveway path that descends into the riverbed where you can see the large flood control floodplain. Follow the track again that cuts through the floodplain area and resume skirting the Pesa, crossing a small side stream, until you reach a characteristic cottage: it is the old Petrazzo mill.
At the back you can still see the no-longer-used loading tank and the water intakes for the millstones, which no longer exist. The return is along the route of the outward journey.
Route along the Greve: loop hike of about 7 km
The route starts from via Case Sparse, locality Barbiano, near Greve in Chianti. Take the road on the right that immediately becomes a dirt road and becomes via Montagliari. When the road forks, take a left and continue keeping to the left until you come to a beautiful privately owned medieval mill.
Past the mill, begin the ascent along the path to Villa di Vignamaggio and then descend back down a small road that runs alongside the paved road and return to the starting point.
Trail along the Elsa: 4 km round trip hike
This is a fairly easy route that, surrounded by nature, runs along the beautiful Elsa River in Colle Val d’Elsa (Siena) and along which, on warmer days, you will also have the opportunity to bathe in the river’s waters.
We recommend that you enter the trail from the northern access point along the Colligiana Provincial Road, at Via dei Cipressi. Just cross the road to meet some information panels and, at the end of a small descent, you will already be on the trail.
and cool off in its crystal clear waters.
River Hiking in Chianti
A more eventful alternative to the “classic” hike is River Trekking, a summer activity that is attracting more and more hikers. It is a river sport that consists of descending streams on foot and allows you to discover enchanting places from a new perspective, providing rich moments and exciting experiences, in which the stream water replaces the trails in a fun and refreshing journey.
A popular destination for River Hiking in Chianti is the Elsa River in the province of Siena, which runs through the town of Colle Val d’Elsa. The river, with its crystal clear turquoise waters, offers a variety of trails suitable for everyone, even those without specific training, and does not require the use of mountain equipment. Between jumps and dives with this outdoor activity you can combine the passion for walking with the excitement of water. A different way to discover Chianti, in contact with nature, away from the crowds.
A neoprene wetsuit, helmet and life jacket will be provided for this experience. A licensed Environmental Hiking Guide will lead you safely along the trail.
Hiking and Rafting in Chianti
The last proposal among the activities to do in summer in Chianti (available from June to September) is a trail to discover the Elsa River Park, one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Tuscany, where you can combine a passion for walking with theexperience of a nature-exploratory rafting trip .
It’s a beautiful adventure along the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Elsa River in the heart of Chianti, an outdoor day out among small Tibetan bridges, caves and little beaches, sailing aboard dinghies in a “tropical” environment. A true full immersion in Chianti nature among alders, willows and elder trees, waterfalls and ancient hot springs.
A neoprene wetsuit, helmet and life jacket will be provided for this experience. An Environmental Hiking Guide and a Rafting Guide will lead you safely along the various routes.
Summer in Chianti: an enchanting experience between nature and adventure.
Summer in Chianti offers an unforgettable experience for those who wish to explore the magnificent wine region of Tuscany. With its picturesque hilly landscapes, crystal-clear rivers and charming medieval villages, Chianti captures the hearts of travelers.
From tranquil riverside itineraries to the fun adventure of river hiking and rafting, there is something for everyone. Surrounded by nature and away from the crowds, you can experience moments of pure pleasure and discovery.
Be seduced by the magic of summer in Chianti and create unforgettable memories in this wonderful Tuscan destination.
