Guide to San Casciano Val Di Pesa

'With its elegant villas and time-worn streets, San Casciano is a Medieval hilltop town that's Tuscan to a 'T'.'

If you really want to get away from it all, come and escape to the gorgeous Tuscan countryside and immerse yourself in the serenity of oh so pretty San Casciano. Sitting on the highest peak between Val di Pesa and Val di Greve in the captivating Chianti region, it's perfectly positioned for those wishing to get to grips with the fascinating cities of Florence and Siena. Though once you clap eyes on this rustic Italian gem, you might not want to leave. One of the largest towns in the area, this historical delight has plenty to keep you wide-eyed with wonder. Stroll around the wide, elegant streets, lined with typical terracotta-tiled Tuscan houses, and you'll soon come across parts of the town's well-preserved 14th century walls as well as the elegant town square. You can also see the beautiful Church of Santa Maria del Prato dating from 1304. Built in a Gothic style, it houses some real treasures, including a Crucifix with a 14th century background by Simone Martini, a pulpit by Giovanni di Balduccio and 17th century paintings. One sight you should most definitely pop on your sightseeing list here is Bibbione Castle. Dating from the 14th century, it was once the hunting lodge of Niccolo Machiavelli and sits in the verdant Pesa valley. A colossal, honey-coloured building, it takes you right back to Medieval times and is well worth a visit. If you're here on a Monday, don't miss market day, when the streets burst into life with colourful stalls selling everything from flowers and fish to extra virgin olive oil and honey. You'll find a good selection of shops here, including supermarkets and small one-off curios to browse. And there are also some superb little eateries, although sometimes they're hard to spot with just a name on a gatepost. Often old palazzos, you'll always receive a warm welcome, and the simple, classic dishes are to die for - such as melt-in-the-mouth marinated lamb or agnello. In fact, the locals are so passionate about their food here, the local pasta is celebrated in May, with art, music and shows and in June, local pancakes are prepared to an ancient recipe with pecorino cheese. So tuck in and do as the Italians do.

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