RECREATION
The Villa Saletta Estate contains a network of trails passing through its beautiful woods, vineyards, olive groves and farm land which can be explored on foot, on horseback or by mountain bike.
CULTURAL
Florence and Pisa need no introduction, but Villa Saletta is also a supremely well located base from which to visit other fascinating Tuscan treasures such as Volterra, Lucca, San Gimigniano, Siena, Montepulciano, Monteriggioni, Pistoia and the ancient port of Livorno.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
In addition to the world famous Palio horse race which is held every July and August in Siena, there are numerous colorful festivals and events in the Tuscan calendar.
HILL TOWNS
Perhaps nothing so defines the essence of Tuscany as its hill towns. They have benefited from strict planning controls. Palaia, in which Comune Villa Saletta sits, is a typical example. It is a town of 4,500 people which dates back to the Etruscan period. The highest point in the town provides panoramic views for miles around. Alternatively, one can dine on the terrace of “Il Petirosso” and look out upon an un-spoilt valley which forms a glorious backdrop to the town’s 13th century Romanesque church of San Martino, which has recently been restored. On market days, one can examine the fascinating antiques and bric-a-brac, and be reminded of the time by the 14th century clock tower. The visitor will probably be blissfully unaware of the elaborate network of caves and tunnels beneath him. Other local hill towns such as Peccioli, Montopoli and San Miniato are equally charming in their own particular ways.
SHOPPING
Tuscany is home to many of the world’s most famous fashion brands. In addition to the world famous stores in the centre of Florence, Prada have an outlet in Montevarchi and Gucci are in Leccio Regello where their clothes are available at discounts of 50% or more.
GARDENS
Tuscany is blessed with numerous beautiful gardens such as the magnificent formal Bobboli Gardens of the Pitti Palace in Florence and the tranquil renaissance gardens of the Medici villas in the countryside around Lucca.
SEASIDE
The smart seaside resort of Forte Dei Marmi, North of Pisa, is an easy drive away and holds the added attraction of sophisticated restaurants and elegant shops. There are also the less developed sandy beaches of Tirrenia.
SPAS
Tuscany is a centre for Spas. The most glamorous spa in Italy is located a short drive away in Montecatini Terme, and there is another in Casciana Terme. Spa treatments are also available in Pisa.
GOLF
Golf can be played at the Castelfalfi Golf Club, 10 minutes drive away, where there is a spectacular par 72, 18-hole golf course, a driving range and restaurant. Visitors are welcome, and green fees are presently 60 euros/day. Designed by Rainer Preissmann and Wilfried Moroder, the course is 6945m long.
GASTRONOMY
Gastronomes will find much of interest. Tuscan beef cattle (Chianini) are renowned for producing the best beef in Italy. The Comune of Palaia is the Tuscan centre for both black and white truffles. Many are found on the estate. The leading supplier of truffles in Tuscany, Savini Tartufi, is to be found in Montanelli, immediately adjacent to the Estate. Savini Tartufi are always happy to arrange tastings of their delicious truffles, truffle oil and other truffle products. Chestnut festivals are common throughout Tuscany in the Autumn, and there are may local specialities, such as delicious Ricciarelli cookies which are made in Siena.
EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES
There is a smart riding school on the outskirts of Palaia. Pisa and Livorno both have race courses where conventional flat races are held together with trotting races in the evening.
