Casentino
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Casentino region is located in eastern Tuscany, predominantly within the province of Arezzo. It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, characterized by lush forests and verdant valleys.
The region is famous for the imposing Camaldolese Monastery of St. Francis in the Casentino Forests National Park, and for being the birthplace of the renowned poet Dante Alighieri. |
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Casentino: majestic nature and history
The Casentino region in Tuscany is a haven for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its lush forests, including the majestic Casentino Forest National Park, offer hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore historic monasteries such as the enchanting Camaldoli Monastery and the revered Santuario della Verna, where St. Francis of Assisi received his stigmata.
The picturesque towns of Poppi and Bibbiena feature medieval architecture and charming streets lined with artisan shops. Additionally, the region is known for its traditional cuisine, including chestnut-based dishes and local wines. Casentino offers a serene escape steeped in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The picturesque towns of Poppi and Bibbiena feature medieval architecture and charming streets lined with artisan shops. Additionally, the region is known for its traditional cuisine, including chestnut-based dishes and local wines. Casentino offers a serene escape steeped in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Casentino
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Province: Arezzo
Region: Tuscany Size: 826 km² Highlights: Poppi, La Verna, Ortignano Raggiolo Fly to: Florence Airport - 1 hour 25 minutes by car (75 km) Recommended hotel: Albergo San Lorenzo (Poppi) |
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Casentino?
- Monastery and Abbey Tours: Explore the religious heritage of Casentino with guided tours of its historic monasteries and abbeys. Visitors can visit the majestic Camaldoli Monastery, founded by Saint Romuald in the 11th century, and the picturesque La Verna Sanctuary, where Saint Francis of Assisi received his stigmata, while learning about the region's spiritual significance and monastic traditions.
- Nature Hikes and Treks: Discover the natural beauty of Casentino with hiking and trekking tours through its scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore lush forests, rolling hills, and mountain trails, while observing native flora and fauna, discovering hidden waterfalls and mountain streams, and enjoying panoramic views of the Casentino Valley and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.
- Castles and Fortresses Exploration: Step back in time with guided tours of Casentino's medieval castles and fortresses. Visitors can visit iconic landmarks such as the imposing Poppi Castle, known as the "Castle of the Counts Guidi," and the picturesque Romena Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley, while learning about the region's feudal history, noble families, and medieval warfare.
- Art and Culture Visits: Immerse yourself in the art and culture of Casentino with visits to its historic towns and museums. Visitors can explore charming villages such as Poppi, Bibbiena, and Stia, admire architectural landmarks such as the Poppi Civic Tower and the Bibbiena Palace, and visit museums showcasing local art, history, and craftsmanship, including the Museo di Storia Naturale del Casentino.
- Culinary Experiences: Indulge in the flavors of Casentino with culinary experiences that highlight the region's gastronomic traditions. Visitors can sample local specialties such as tortelli di patate (potato-filled pasta), schiacciata alla fiorentina (orange-flavored cake), and castagnaccio (chestnut flour cake), as well as artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and wines from the nearby Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine regions.
Where should I eat in the Casentino?
- Trattoria Toscana da Guido: Located in the town of Poppi, this trattoria offers a cozy atmosphere and serves authentic Tuscan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features hearty pasta dishes, grilled meats, and delicious desserts.
- Osteria del Borgo: Situated in the historic center of Bibbiena, this charming osteria specializes in traditional Casentino cuisine. Dishes to try include potato tortelli, wild boar stew, and grilled meats served with seasonal vegetables.
- Ristorante La Buca di Michelangelo: Located in the village of Raggiolo, this restaurant is known for its rustic ambiance and delicious homemade dishes. The menu features classic Tuscan fare, including ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), pappardelle with wild boar sauce, and grilled meats.
- Ristorante Enoteca Il Cantuccio: Situated in the town of Stia, this restaurant offers a menu inspired by the flavors of the Casentino region. Guests can enjoy dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including handmade pasta, game meats, and artisanal cheeses.
- Trattoria Cacciatori: Located in the village of Chitignano, this trattoria offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and serves traditional Tuscan cuisine. Highlights include homemade pastas, grilled meats, and decadent desserts.
Casentino Gallery
What are the best places to stay in the Casentino?
- Castello di Porciano (Stia): This medieval castle offers charming accommodations in the heart of the Casentino Valley. Guests can stay in beautifully restored rooms and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Agriturismo La Capitana (Poppi): Located on a working farm, this agriturismo offers comfortable accommodations in a peaceful rural setting. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals made with fresh local ingredients and explore the nearby historic town of Poppi.
- Relais Villa Baldelli (Poppi): Set in a historic villa surrounded by lush gardens, this elegant hotel offers luxurious accommodations and personalized service. Guests can relax by the pool, dine at the on-site restaurant, and explore the nearby attractions of the Casentino Valley.
- Agriturismo La Pietraia (Bibbiena): This charming agriturismo is situated on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque town of Bibbiena. Guests can stay in cozy apartments surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, and enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
- Villa La Nussa (Pratovecchio): Nestled in the hills of the Casentino Valley, this historic villa offers elegant accommodations and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can relax in the beautiful garden, swim in the outdoor pool, and explore the nearby medieval villages.
What's the closest airport to the Casentino?
Florence Airport (FLR):
Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi - Umbria International Airport (PEG):
- Florence Airport, also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, is the nearest major airport to the Casentino region.
- From Florence Airport, you can continue your journey to the Casentino region by rental car, taxi, or public transportation.
Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi - Umbria International Airport (PEG):
- Perugia Airport is another option, located across the border in the Umbria region.
- While farther away than Florence Airport, it may offer additional flight options depending on your travel plans.
What are the main train stations in the Casentino?
Arezzo Train Station:
Bibbiena Train Station:
- Arezzo Train Station serves as the main railway hub in the region.
- From Arezzo, you can reach various towns and villages within the Casentino region by bus or taxi.
Bibbiena Train Station:
- Bibbiena Train Station is located within the Casentino region, providing regional train services.
- However, train services to Bibbiena may be less frequent compared to larger stations like Arezzo.
How do you get to the Casentino by car?
Driving Directions:
- If arriving at Florence Airport, you can rent a car and drive towards the Casentino region. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your specific destination within the region.
- From Arezzo Train Station, you can also rent a car or take a local bus to explore the Casentino region at your own pace.
What private transfer options are there for the Casentino?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Poppi takes around 1 hour 25 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit the Casentino?
- Arezzo: Arezzo is a larger city located near the Casentino region and offers car rental options. You can find rental agencies within the city center or at Arezzo Railway Station.
- Florence: Florence, the capital city of Tuscany, is located further away but offers a wider selection of car rental agencies, including international chains. While not within the Casentino region itself, Florence provides convenient access to rental services.
