Val d'Elsa
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Val d'Elsa region is located in central Tuscany, primarily within the province of Siena. It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes characterised by rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Monteriggioni.
The area is famous for its production of Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine and its rich Renaissance and Etruscan history. |
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Val d'Elsa: picture postcard landscapes
The Val d'Elsa region in Tuscany is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the medieval hilltop towns of San Gimignano and Colle di Val d'Elsa, famous for their well-preserved architecture and artisan workshops. The area is dotted with vineyards and olive groves, offering wine tasting and culinary experiences.
Nature lovers can hike or cycle through the rolling hills and lush countryside, while history enthusiasts can visit ancient churches and fortresses. Nearby attractions include the Chianti wine region and the city of Siena, making Val d'Elsa an ideal destination for those seeking history, culture, and natural beauty.
Nature lovers can hike or cycle through the rolling hills and lush countryside, while history enthusiasts can visit ancient churches and fortresses. Nearby attractions include the Chianti wine region and the city of Siena, making Val d'Elsa an ideal destination for those seeking history, culture, and natural beauty.
Val d'Elsa
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Province: Siena
Region: Tuscany Features: cypress trees, rolling hills, vineyards Towns: Colle di Val d'Elsa, Certaldo, San Miniato Fly to: Pisa Airport - 1 hour 8 minutes (85 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Palazzo San Lorenzo & Spa |
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Val d'Elsa?
- Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the vineyards and wineries of the Val d'Elsa with guided wine tasting tours. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including Chianti, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and Super Tuscans, while learning about the region's winemaking traditions and terroir from knowledgeable guides.
- Historic Village Visits: Discover the charming medieval villages of the Val d'Elsa with guided tours of their historic streets and landmarks. Visitors can wander through picturesque towns such as San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Colle di Val d'Elsa, admiring ancient towers, Romanesque churches, and well-preserved city walls, while learning about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
- Culinary Experiences: Indulge in the flavors of the Val d'Elsa with culinary experiences that highlight the region's gastronomic traditions. Visitors can sample local specialties such as ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), pici pasta, and panforte (traditional fruitcake), as well as artisanal cheeses, olive oils, and balsamic vinegars, while dining in traditional trattorias, agriturismi, and gourmet restaurants.
- Artisan Workshops: Discover the craftsmanship of the Val d'Elsa with visits to artisan workshops and studios. Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work, creating pottery, ceramics, glassware, and other traditional crafts using techniques passed down through generations, while learning about the region's artisanal traditions and techniques.
- Cultural Events and Festivals: Immerse yourself in the cultural life of the Val d'Elsa with visits to local events and festivals. Visitors can experience traditional celebrations such as the medieval fairs of San Gimignano, the harvest festivals of Colle di Val d'Elsa, and the music and arts festivals held throughout the region, while enjoying live performances, street food, and artisanal markets.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the natural beauty of the Val d'Elsa with outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Guided excursions take visitors through scenic landscapes of vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, providing opportunities to spot wildlife, discover hidden trails, and enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
Where should I eat in the Val d'Elsa?
- Arnolfo (Colle di Val d'Elsa): Located in the historic center of Colle di Val d'Elsa, Arnolfo is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative cuisine. Chef Gaetano Trovato creates dishes that blend traditional Tuscan flavors with modern techniques, using locally sourced ingredients.
- Antica Trattoria Botteganova (San Gimignano): Situated just outside the walls of San Gimignano, Antica Trattoria Botteganova offers a rustic atmosphere and traditional Tuscan cuisine. Diners can enjoy dishes such as ribollita, pici pasta with wild boar sauce, and bistecca alla fiorentina.
- La Vecchia Pizzeria (Certaldo): This family-run pizzeria in Certaldo serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In addition to pizza, they also offer a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and antipasti.
- Il Pozzo (San Gimignano): Tucked away on a quiet street in San Gimignano, Il Pozzo offers traditional Tuscan cuisine in a charming setting. Diners can enjoy dishes such as wild boar stew, handmade pasta, and grilled meats, all paired with local wines.
- La Sosta di Violante (Colle di Val d'Elsa): This cozy trattoria in Colle di Val d'Elsa serves up hearty Tuscan fare in a welcoming atmosphere. Diners can enjoy dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, tagliatelle al ragù, and grilled meats cooked over an open flame.
- Il Cardinale (Poggibonsi): Located in the heart of Poggibonsi, Il Cardinale offers a menu of classic Tuscan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes such as ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and pici pasta with cinghiale sauce.
- Le Volte (San Gimignano): Situated in a historic building in San Gimignano, Le Volte offers a menu of traditional Tuscan cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes such as ribollita, pappardelle with wild boar sauce, and grilled meats.
- Ristorante La Sosta di Rossellino (Poggibonsi): This charming restaurant in Poggibonsi offers a menu of classic Tuscan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, pici pasta with sausage and mushrooms, and grilled meats.
- Osteria del Borgo (Colle di Val d'Elsa): Located in the historic center of Colle di Val d'Elsa, Osteria del Borgo offers a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes such as ribollita, pici pasta with truffle sauce, and bistecca alla fiorentina.
- Ristorante Cum Quibus (Certaldo): Situated in the medieval village of Certaldo Alto, Ristorante Cum Quibus offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a menu of classic Tuscan dishes. Diners can enjoy dishes such as ribollita, pappardelle with wild boar sauce, and roasted meats cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Val d'Elsa Gallery
What are the best places to stay in the Val d'Elsa?
- Hotel Le Renaie (San Gimignano): Located just outside the historic center of San Gimignano, Hotel Le Renaie offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, garden area, and easy access to explore the charming town.
- Relais della Rovere (Colle di Val d'Elsa): Housed in a beautifully restored medieval monastery, Relais della Rovere offers elegant rooms and suites with antique furnishings. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, stroll through the landscaped gardens, and dine at the gourmet restaurant.
- Palazzo Pacini (Certaldo): Situated in the heart of Certaldo, Palazzo Pacini offers stylish and modern accommodations in a historic building. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and easy access to explore the medieval town.
- Hotel Villa Belvedere (Poggibonsi): Nestled in the Tuscan hills near Poggibonsi, Hotel Villa Belvedere offers comfortable rooms with classic decor and modern amenities. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, enjoy panoramic views of the countryside, and explore nearby wineries and historic sites.
- Castello di Casole - A Belmond Hotel (Casole d'Elsa): Set in a beautifully restored 10th-century castle, Castello di Casole offers luxurious accommodations surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, relax at the spa, and explore the picturesque countryside.
What's the closest airport to the Val d'Elsa?
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport - FLR):
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport - PSA):
- Florence Airport is the closest major airport to the Val d'Elsa, located approximately 45-50 kilometers (about 28-31 miles) northeast of the valley.
- From Florence Airport, you can continue your journey to the Val d'Elsa by train, bus, or car.
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport - PSA):
- Pisa Airport is another option, situated approximately 80-90 kilometers (about 50-56 miles) west of the Val d'Elsa.
- While farther away compared to Florence Airport, Pisa Airport offers more international flight options.
What are the main train stations in the Val d'Elsa?
Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station:
- Poggibonsi-San Gimignano is the primary train station serving the Val d'Elsa area.
- It's located in the town of Poggibonsi, which lies at the eastern edge of the valley.
- The station is well-connected to major cities in Tuscany, including Florence, Siena, and Empoli, via regional and Intercity train services operated by Trenitalia.
What private transfer options are there for the Val d'Elsa?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to San Gimignano takes around 55 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 Val d'Elsa?
- San Gimignano: San Gimignano is one of the main towns in the Val d'Elsa region and may have car rental agencies available. You can check with local rental companies or search online for options.
- Poggibonsi: Poggibonsi is another town located in the Val d'Elsa region and offers more options for car rental agencies, including international chains.
- Siena: Siena is a larger city located further away but still within driving distance of the Val d'Elsa region. It also offers more options for car rental agencies, including international chains.
