Montaione is
Montaione is … at the centre of the world.
Located in the centre of the triangle of land between Florence, Pisa and Siena, and therefore in the heart of Tuscany, and very close to San Gimignano and Volterra, Montaione truly is a place where you’ll feel you are at the centre of the world. Cities that were the cradle of Western civilization are within easy reach, less than an hour by car or train, and they project the light of their history and beauty as far as Montaione. The entire area is surrounded by World Heritage Sites. Then, there’s the proximity to the sea, the Etruscan Coast, where a stunning natural heritage meets the birth of Tuscan history.
Montaione is … a retreat from the world
Can you be at the centre of the world and yet feel like you’re on a retreat, leaving the real world far behind? For the discerning traveller who seeks the unusual and loves discovery, who prefers to take the road less travelled, away from the main tourist trails, Montaione truly is a world apart. A refuge in which you can spend your time hidden away, where you’ll discover unexpected treasures nestled in the shelter of the forest: the “Jerusalem” of San Vivaldo, the white truffle and the Carfalo Nature Reserve. And where else but Montaione could you also learn to play the cittern in a monastery.
Montaione is … one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy
Surrounded by hills covered in a lush carpet of oak and chestnut woods, vineyards and olive groves, clay slopes bordered with cypress trees, Montaione is an ancient medieval castle. Still today, the oval shape of its historic centre, which was once protected by a strong city wall, reinforced with 11 towers, can be seen in the map of the town.
The main entry points into the centre are in the exact same location as where the ancient castle gates once stood, and when you enter the historic town centre, you will be walking along the same streets, small squares and alleyways from many centuries ago, and you will discover the historic buildings that make it one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Montaione is … a green town
Those who love nature, the environment and outdoor activities cannot but feel at home in Montaione. Here you can walk or cycle along a vast hiking network that criss-crosses the countryside and expansive wooded areas. You can visit the nature reserve inhabited by rare species that are considered of particular interest by the European Union. You will also be able to appreciate sustainable development and the use of renewable energy sources: Montaione is the only Italian municipality certified with the European Energy Award Gold, ISO 50001 and ISO 14001. This award is given to the most deserving cities in recognition of their energy and environmental policies.
Montaione is… all about the local food and wine tradition
In the woods of Montaione, the white truffle is born, the most prized species of truffle in the world. But the truffle is only the main jewel in the crown in a region that also offers other gastronomic delights, such as olive oil for the refined palate and top-quality wines. Farms and artisan producers also offer fresh and mature pecorino cheese, goat’s cheese, locally raised and produced cured and fresh meats, and jams and fruit compotes. With over 20 restaurants, food lovers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to sampling the delights of Tuscan cuisine, and some even feature innovative reinterpretations of more traditional dishes.
Montaione is … along the Via Francigena
This ancient trade and pilgrim route, which connected Northern Europe to Rome in the Middle Ages, meets the Montaione area along the section that runs from San Miniato to Gambassi Terme. The European Cultural Route follows the pilgrimage made by Sigeric, the Archbishop of Canterbury in AD 990, taking you along hills whose slopes are dotted with vineyards, farmhouses, olive trees, and through clearings and groves. However, while you’re on the Via Francigena, it would be a pity not to plan a detour to another ancient place of pilgrimage: the “Jerusalem” of San Vivaldo.
Montaione is … Tartufesta
In honour of to the white truffle, “king of the table” and “pearl of the woods”, at the end of October, Montaione holds the Tartufesta. This exhibition-market of truffles and local delicacies is an explosion of flavours and knowledge, which showcases the excellence of the food and wine production in the area. The festival includes various exhibition areas with local agricultural and handicraft products on display, as well as a vast programme of events and experiences for visitors and tourists to enjoy, such as hikes, guided tours, and the CookingArtShow.
