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Unpaved country roads and walking paths

The historical territory of the Chianti Classico boasts an impressive network of quiet, unpaved country roads, which are equally well-suited for discovering the countryside on leisurely walks, on bike, on horseback or by car. There are also panoramic walking paths marked out by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), which in many cases follow these roads. The Tourist Information Offices at Castellina, Radda and Gaiole will be happy to supply you with maps and descriptions, and will also inform you about guided walks and trekking guides.

While these roads used to be regarded as an inconvenient relic from the past to be paved over and be done with as fast as possible, today there is an increasing awareness that they constitute a historical, cultural and environmental heritage, which needs to be protected and promoted as such.

They invite to relaxed family outings or more ambitious hikes and are enjoyed by families on cycling trips and professional cyclists alike. Even motorists are enticed into slowing down while observing and enjoying the unique Chianti countryside around them.

A few, simple common-sense rules do apply, however:

You can picnic almost anywhere, in woods or olivegroves, as long as you don’t break off branches, pick fruit or grapes, light fires or litter (you can of course pick wild berries). Please remember that even an innocent piece of string can be a lethal trap to smaller mammals and birds.
When driving, please slow down, especially when you meet walkers and cyclists. Your gesture will be appreciated, not only by those you don’t cover in dust, but also by the ones responsible for the maintenance of the roads.
As a friendly gesture towards walkers and cyclists please keep your dog on an leash. Also, you never know how he will react to the local wildlife.
Be very careful with cigarette stubs etc. Forest fires cause extensive damage every year and even loss of life.

Enjoy our Beautiful Countryside and Help us Protect It!

© 2007 chiantistorico.com
Official Site of the Tourist Information Offices of Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti and Radda in Chianti.
Last change: 24. 04. 2008