This past July we’ve passed a romantic weekend in the wonderful Maremma region, to the south of Tuscany. The occasion was the performance of “Le Stagioni” of the great Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi, taking place in the magic and absolutely unique setting of San Galgano Abbey, about 30 km west of Siena.
The abbey itself is incredibly suggestive, made so particular for being roofless, with grass as the nave and a splendid rose window that offers views over the blue sky, the clouds, and the Tuscan hills. The setting is wonderful, so full of peace and silence. At night the abbey is even more beautiful and the atmosphere is magical. Listening to “Le 4 Stagioni” in this amazing place has been an experience!
San Galgano is the name of a noble knight of Chiusdino, who had spent his life indulging in earthly pleasures and violent battles. After a vision of Saint Michael he became a hermit and plunged his sword into a rock, so forming a crucifix. The famous sword in the stone is still there, in the Cappella of Montesiepi up on the hill over the abbey. I definitely recommend visiting San Galgano!
The place of our stay came out to be a surprise! La Melosa Resort is highly recommended, set on a green valley, all surrounded by wild nature and with a great silence. The resort is eco-friendly and offers beautiful, elegant and refined rooms, yet with a rustic look. We stayed in a wonderful suite with private garden; perfect for us as we always travel with our sweet dog.
The room was furnished with great attention to details, the bed was incredibly comfortable, the breakfast is delicious and the swimming pool is absolutely relaxing, the hotel exceeded our expectations!
During the weekend we also visited Massa Marittima, a real jewel of Maremma, with a beautiful Duomo and great osterias. After admiring the Duomo and strolling through the narrow streets of the village we chose a little restaurant thanks to its funny name: “La Tana del Brillo Parlante”, with reference to drinking too much wine. The food is excellent!
Wonderful narrow alley in Massa Marittima, Maremma
We also visited the fortified medieval village of Roccatederighi, a charming little town atop a hill with a splendid panorama. The oldest part of the village is very particular, being exactly as it was during the Middle Ages, with very narrow alleys, stone houses, and ancient churches.
On the way back home we made our way through the Riserva del Farma, passing right amidst wild nature and green forests, where we saw many wild boars, birds, horses; the views were fantastic, nature is still predominant, and we also had a splendid view over the beautiful Castle of Belagaio!
After a quick glance at the Terme di Petriolo baths, we headed north towards Siena, that I think is no doubt one if not the most beautiful of all art towns of Tuscany!
