Val d'Elsa – Tuscany: stone villages, clear waters and gentle landscapes in the heart of central Tuscany. The Val d'Elsa extends between the provinces of Siena and Florence, following the course of the river of the same name among green hills, orderly vineyards and historic villages. A territory rich in art, nature and traditions, which combines the beauty of the Tuscan rural landscape with the elegance of the medieval and Renaissance heritage. 🏘️ Medieval villages and authentic views: Along the Val d'Elsa there are jewels such as Colle di Val d'Elsa, home of crystal and craftsmanship, Poggibonsi, Casole d'Elsa, Radicondoli and many small towns that preserve the soul of the truest Tuscany intact. Stone streets, towers, fountains and squares tell a thousand-year history. 👉 Tip: In Colle di Val d'Elsa, walk along the pedestrian street between the upper and lower parts: a passage between two souls of the same city, between art and everyday life. 💧 Elsa River and nature to experience: The Elsa River runs through the valley with clear, turquoise waters, forming swimming stretches and nature trails. The Alta Val d'Elsa River Park is a perfect oasis for hiking, picnics and summer relaxation, with wooden walkways, mills and waterfalls surrounded by greenery. 👉 Tip: Follow the SentierElsa from Colle to Gracciano: easy, suggestive and refreshing on hot days. 🥾 Excursions through vineyards, churches and hills: The Val d'Elsa is crossed by historical itineraries such as the Via Francigena, which touches villages and parish churches immersed in the countryside. The hills offer walking, cycling or horseback riding routes among cypresses, farms and views that seem to come out of a painting. 👉 Tip: Start from Strove or Badia a Isola and travel along a stretch of the Francigena towards Monteriggioni: between history and pure Tuscan landscape. 🍷 Peasant cuisine and hill wines: The flavours of the Val d'Elsa reflect the local agricultural tradition: pappardelle with hare sauce, bread soups, pecorino cheeses and extra virgin olive oil are the protagonists of the tables. The white and red wines from the hills between Colle, Casole and San Gimignano are excellent companions for every dish. 👉 Tip: Try a dinner in a wine bar in Radicondoli: intimate atmosphere, panoramic views and seasonal dishes with an authentic flavor. 🛏️ Where to stay: Val d'Elsa offers farmhouses in the hills, B&Bs in the historic centers and renovated old farmhouses surrounded by vineyards. It is a perfect base for visiting San Gimignano, Volterra and the Chianti area in just a few kilometers. 👉 Tip: Choose a farmhouse with a panoramic swimming pool between Colle and Casole for a relaxing and well-located stay. In Val d'Elsa time seems to slow down between the stone villages, the reflections of the river and the quiet of the most harmonious Tuscan countryside.