Year round fonte sottera tours (Monte Ceceri Park) and, seasonal garden tours of 9 local villas in the outskirts, organised by local council, guided tours of course. Included are the villas Medici, Vincigliata, and Castel di Poggio.
Passage, ask for tour info at any museum or tourist info location.
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John Temple Leader villa walk or bike ride:
Vincigliata, 3 miles from Fiesole following Via di Vincigliata, goes past 4 of his restored villas, Casa Careggi, Casa al Vento, Villa la Pergolata w Lippi fresco and sculptures by Maiano and Fiesole, in the 16th century oratory, and Castello di Vincigliata (by appt only tours). Great views along the way of medieval fortress, Brunelleschi´s cupola, the quarry Cave di Vincigliata. 5 hours bike, or more if walking/hiking, thru steeply gradiented rolling hills, vine and olive groves, along Pontassieve, Pelago and Rufina., looping round Monte Ceceri, down to the Arno at Compiobbi...to Pontassieve...etc. Great views over Florence etc. Conti Guidi Castle, in Pelago, which is a village built around the castle. Beautiful porticoed palazzi and charming central piazza. Pontassieve, remains of ancient medieval fortification and city walls. Most places to eat are closed in off season winter. Bring your own food, drinks etc.
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The Mugello. rolling hills, forested woodland, mountains, that you can see in the distance from Florence. Emilia-Romagna. Beautiful villas, summer homes, fortresses, traditional landscapes and groves. Really need a car to enjoy any appreciable access to this area. CAP bus services links Florence to this area. www dot capautolinee dot it. SITA www dot sita-on-line dot it. to Vaglia bus #302, 303,306..
San Piero a Sieve, Medicean fortresses, castles, villas...hiking trails.
