San Casciano Val di Pesa

San Casciano Val di Pesa is a town in Tuscany, in the province of Florence, set at the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, around fifteen kilometres south of Florence. The medieval town centre still shows traces of its old fortified walls, along with religious buildings such as the Collegiata di San Cassiano. The area is characterised by the typical rolling Tuscan countryside, planted with vineyards and olive groves, and is well known for its production of Chianti Classico wine and olive oil. The nearby hamlet of Sant'Andrea in Percussina, part of the municipality, has a historical connection to Niccolò Machiavelli, who lived there during a period of exile. San Casciano makes a convenient base for exploring the Chianti wine route, its estates and cellars, and restaurants serving traditional Tuscan cuisine. Its proximity to Florence, Siena and San Gimignano makes it a practical starting point for visiting the wider region while enjoying a quieter, rural setting. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, suits outdoor pursuits such as walking and cycling through the surrounding hills.