Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky at Fattoria Valtellina

A slow summer in Chianti. We were lucky to call Fattoria Valtellina home for a few days—a magical Tuscan home tucked into a vineyard valley, with ridiculous views in every direction. Markets in the morning, gelato all day, half-finished sketchpads and beauty everywhere. Fresh local lunches drifted into endless Chianti-soaked dinners. Thank you, Fattoria Valtellina, for the incredible time.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

Fattoria Valtellina sits in the heart of Chianti, surrounded by the soft rolling hills that make Tuscany so timeless. Vineyards and olive groves stretch out in every direction, and you’re close enough to local markets, historic villages, and family-run wineries that every day feels like a small adventure. The air smells of wild herbs and ripe fruit—it’s truly nature at its best, with some of the world’s greatest food right at your doorstep.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

The house itself has a soul—you can feel that it’s been hosting family gatherings for generations. The restoration by Domenico Minchilli Design is thoughtful: rustic bones and old stone walls meet modern comforts and beautifully restrained details. Every corner feels warm, welcoming, and connected to the landscape outside. It’s a place that makes you want to slow down.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

We spent hours in the garden—long lunches under the trees, picking lavender, reading in the shade. The pool is set just perfectly among the vines, so you float with a view of the valley and the cypress trees. It all feels simple, sun-drenched, and peaceful.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

Food was a highlight every day. We made fresh salads with local tomatoes, huge platters of mozzarella and prosciutto, and grilled vegetables picked up from nearby markets. Even the simplest meal tasted incredible with the estate’s own olive oil—peppery, green, and alive. Every dinner turned into a slow, lingering affair under the stars: gnocchi with anchovies, bistecca alla Fiorentina, plenty of local wine, and biscotti to finish.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

It really is special that Fattoria Valtellina produces its own olive oil—you can taste how pure and fresh it is. Between that and the local cheeses, breads and wine, you’re reminded how good food can be when it’s rooted in place and tradition. We loved stocking up at the market and Macelleria Rocchigiani Fino & Figlo in Radda for groceries. You also can’t miss the homemade gelato at Lo Sfizio di Bianchi in Gaiole and the legendary meat from Dario Cecchini about half an hour away.

There's a charming winery around the corner from the house, Castelo di Melleto. You can visit or go to the osteria next door for a bite, with beautiful view of the vines. We also used the Raisin app to help us spot small natural vineyards all around, which was gold.

Photo: Fernando Aciar & Anna Polonsky

We left so recharged and grateful. It’s rare to find a place that makes you feel both completely at home and a world away. Fattoria Valtellina does just that. It’s also a good reminder that Tuscany still has quiet havens. We can’t wait to come back.

STAY: Fattoria Valtellina

SHOP: Macelleria Rocchigiani Fino & Figlo, Dario Cecchini, Castelo di Melleto

EAT: Lo Sfizio di Bianchi