Article list for "Curiosities"

Anyone who loves golf knows that playing amidst beautiful scenery makes all the difference.The Poggio dei Medici Golf Club, in the heart of Mugello and just a stone’s throw from Scarperia and Florence, is proof of this. The course winds its way through the Tuscan hills and offers a well-designed layout, perfect both for those seeking a technical challenge and for those who simply want to spend a day in the open air, surrounded by the lush greenery of the fairways.

There are mysterious places capable of evoking the atmosphere of times long past. Such is the case with the Medici Park of Pratolino—known to everyone as Villa Demidoff—a splendid UNESCO-protected site on the outskirts of Mugello. Strolling along its paths, it almost feels like traveling back to the era of the Medici: back then, hydraulic automata came to life as guests passed by, artificial grottoes surprised visitors with sudden water displays, and stone colossi rose from the ponds. Here, wonder collides with a thrill of mystery: the monumental villa that once dominated the estate is no longer there. It has been literally erased from history, leaving behind a “void” that makes this place, if possible, even more fascinating.

When one thinks of Tuscany’s wine region, the rows of vines in Chianti, the hills of Montalcino, and the vineyards of Bolgheri immediately come to mind. Yet, far from the spotlight of the most famous appellations, Mugello is quietly rising in prominence on the regional wine scene.
Historically a land of forests, pastures, and chestnuts, this Apennine valley north of Florence offers ideal conditions for high-quality viticulture. The marked temperature fluctuations between day and night, combined with constant breezes, favor the production of elegant and refined wines, characterized by a freshness and lively acidity that are increasingly rare in many other wine-growing regions.

The Mugello is not only a land rich in natural landscapes, history, and stunning Tuscan panoramas, but also a place favored by the cinema to bring compelling stories to life. In recent years, this region has emerged as the true star of several films, linked by the common thread of its distinctive Tuscan towns.
From relationships and personal growth to moments suspended in history, several films have chosen the Mugello as their setting. In this article, we explore three movies set in the Mugello that would inspire anyone seeking a journey through not just places, but stories.

February is the ideal month to visit Mugello, a region rich in history, culture, and natural landscapes that reveal the most authentic side of Tuscany. Mugello preserves historical treasures that are often little known, telling ancient stories and local traditions. Among these stand out castles, towers, and historic residences, which rise as silent witnesses of centuries of Florentine rule and the presence of the Medici family in the valley. Walking among these buildings means immersing yourself in a past full of fascinating events, discovering how political power, daily life, and art were intertwined in the villages and countryside of Tuscany.

December in Mugello is a magical month: the medieval villages are illuminated with Christmas lights, the hills are adorned with festive decorations, and the markets turn the streets into a true holiday village. Strolling among the stalls means discovering unique Tuscan artisanal products and immersing yourself in local traditions. It’s a perfect experience for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, surrounded by Christmas atmospheres, the aromas of traditional dishes, and the enchanting views of the Mugello villages.

With the arrival of October, autumn also knocks on Tuscany’s door, bringing with it authentic flavors and intense aromas. Amidst the olive harvest, mushroom foraging, and the first taste of new wine, one flavor stands out above the rest: chestnuts. These small fruits, with their shiny, tough brown shells, are hidden inside spiky burrs.
A symbol of changing seasons and ancient rural traditions, chestnuts have fed entire generations, becoming known as the “bread of the poor” in mountain regions. With their sweet, earthy flavor, they tell stories of lit fireplaces, hands warming by the fire, and village festivals where the scent of roasted chestnuts mingles with the aroma of freshly pressed must. Packed with energy, chestnuts take center stage in a simple, wholesome cuisine that carries the essence of the forest and the memory of old traditions.

When summer gives way to autumn, the landscapes of Mugello are painted in warm hues, the crisp air wraps around the countryside and a special atmosphere begins to take hold. In this article, we take you through the vineyards and villages of Mugello during the harvest season, to discover the authentic charm of this land; a journey through flavours, scenery, and the people keeping alive a tradition that, even today, brings to the table one of our most beloved beverages: wine.

As spring awakens and the days grow longer, May becomes the ideal month to immerse yourself in the beauty of Mugello, a land rich in history, art and breathtaking scenery. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, this gem of Tuscany offers a multitude of trails that wind through wide expanses of flowering fields, lush forests and ancient villages.
In this article, we will take you on a discovery of three unique itineraries that combine the cultural element with the beauty of Mugello's trails, retracing the places that have inspired great Italian painters such as Giotto and Beato Angelico, and hosted illustrious personalities including writer Dino Campana and priest Don Lorenzo Milani, founder of the Barbiana’s School.

Still undecided on what to do during the upcoming Easter holidays? Don’t panic, we have the perfect solution for you! Mugello offers an irresistible mix of traditions, flavours, and authentic experiences. Here, you can wander through historic villages, savor seasonal delicacies, and breathe in the fresh spring air. Spend an Easter like no other—here are our recommendations for a unique weekend.