There are many medieval hamlets around Greve in Chianti: Montefioralle is one of them, close to our historic hotel Villa le Barone.
Montefioralle is a fortified hamlet on a hill next to the city of Greve in Chianti, dating back to the 10th century, and which has kept its character trough the centuries. It was a major stronghold during the wars between Florence and Siena. It has an octagonal shape and is still surrounded by walls with four gates. Cars cannot enter in Montefioralle, and, walking on the cobbled streets, you will enjoy a wonderful athmosphere, with silence just interrupted by some Italian song coming out of a window, or with the smell of the “pasta sauce” beeing prepared in one of the house! You will be also able to discover the house where Americo Vespucci, the Tuscan explorer who gave his name to “America”, was born, recognizable as it has on its doorway a wasp (“vespa” )and the V of the Vespucci family. From Montefioralle, you will have wonderful views on the Chianti landscape, which one never gets tired of, with its olive trees, its vineyards and its farmhouses spread here and there.
Montefioralle is a very lively place and its inhabitants organize many pleasant events during the year, such as the feast of the “frittelle” (delicious small pancakes), which attracts many inhabitants of the surrounding cities.
The charm hotel Villa le Barone is very close to Montefioralle, and we have prepared for our guests an itinerary allowing them to walk from our hotel to the center of Greve in Chianti, passing through the marvelous Chianti countryside and Montefioralle itself. A half day excursion that hikers will love!