The treasures of Tuscany have been a long-time lure for us Brits. For centuries this central Italian region has been a magnet for lovers of history, high art, fine food and breathtaking scenery – so popular, in fact, part of it was tagged “Chiantishire”. With its golden rolling slopes, fortressed hilltop towns and winding roads – elegantly lined with fragrant “pencil pine” cypress trees – Tuscany’s countryside has been a glorious fleeting backdrop as tourists shuttle between the region’s jewels in the crown of Florence, Siena and Pisa to soak up its culture, spectacle, and stories of warring cities and medieval intrigue.
But now the countryside in this land of Leonardo and Dante is enjoying a renaissance of its own – as new attractions, pushed by the growth of agritourism, offer what locals call the true, authentic character of Tuscany. It’s a chance to slow down and taste the unspoilt quality, often created using a mix of old and new techniques. It’s an undeniably enriching and delicious experience that also helps energise local farms, communities and traditions.
All the places across the globe you’ll have to pay tourist tax this summer The dogs are very good truffle hunters ( Image: PR HANDOUT) Michael Brown enjoyed the outdoor spa at Bagni di Pisa ( Image: DAILY MIRROR) Our tour of Pisa’s hinterland had plenty of new, exciting experiences, such as a mouthwatering platter of antipasti. As with discovering an ancient Etruscan artefact, the real tr.
