Stretching between Florence and Arezzo the Casentino valley has long been a somewhat secluded part of the province of Arezzo in Tuscany with mainly agricultural activities. The oval-shaped valley is surrounded by gentle hills which gradually ascend to mountains, on one side climbing to reach the impressive Apennines and on the opposite side to the Pratomagno, whose ridge separates Casentino from the Chianti region on the other side.

Casentino consists of 13 different municipalities: Bibbiena, Capolona, Castel Focognano, Castel San Niccolo, Chitignano, Chiusi della Verna, Montemignaio, Poppi, Pratovecchio, Stia, Talla and Subbiano.


It is the ring of mountains which has prevented the spread of motorways and major railways, preserving the valley's natural state. On the side of the Apennines is the Casentino Forest National Park, one of the largest and best-preserved parks in Italy with 800 kilometres of hiking paths winding through forests of conifers, oak and chestnut, inhabited by many species of animals and birds.

All around the Park the valley is dotted with vineyards, olive groves, crystal streams, monasteries, little villages, Romanesque churches and fortified towns where the visitor can see, taste and experience a little of the rich Italian tradition.

Poppi, with its charecteristic castle Conti Guidi, is the historic capital of Casentino. In 2003 Poppi has been awarded the title "Most Beautiful Town in Italy", a recognition and appreciation of the centuries long importance of Poppi. Beautifully located on a hillside near Poppi you will find the Casentino Golf Club, a 9-hole golf course soon to be expanded to 18.

Both the tourist sector and property market in Casentino are in an emerging stage of development. Fortunately Casentino is still "authentic Italy", giving the area a special attractiveness and charm. With its traditional lifestyle , beautiful nature and fine food, Casentino really feels like a place where you would want to put down roots and realize your "under the Tuscan sun" dream.