With its iconic landscapes and cultural richness, the Chianti area is one of the most fascinating destinations in Tuscany.
Thanks to a growing focus on accessibility, its beauty is increasingly within the reach of everyone. Discover accessible activities and cultural sites in Chianti.
Contents
1.
Routes connected to the Via Romea Sanese
2.
Observatory of Chianti: a journey among the stars also for the visually impaired
3.
Chianti Sculpture Park: art and nature without barriers
4.
Archaeological Museum of Sienese Chianti: an accessible dive into the past
5.
Landscape Museum: an interactive and sensory experience
6.
Giuliano Ghelli Museum: culture for all
Routes connected to the Via Romea Sanese
Badia a Passignano - Credit: Ambito Chianti
The historic Via Romea Sanese, which connects Florence to Siena through the heart of Chianti, is a lovely example of inclusiveness.
There are three accessible looped routesstarting out from three stages of the historic walk: Castellina in Chianti, Barberino Tavarnelle and Castelnuovo Berardenga. Yet another two routes are being completed in San Casciano in Val di Pesa and in Tavarnelle. These routes can be followed independently by people with mobility issues by using off-road wheelchairs.
The Via Romea Sanese Accessible Association also provides the largest vehicle fleet in Italy for such outdoor activities with nine Joëlettes (single-wheeled chairs crossing rough terrain) and two electric-powered Trirides that can be requested free of charge upon reservation to transport adults and children.
Observatory of Chianti: a journey among the stars also for the visually impaired
Multifunctional Observatory of Chianti - Credit: Ylenia Caioli
The Multifunctional Observatory of Chianti in Barberino Tavarnelle is not just a place to admire the starry sky but also an example of accessibility in science.
Indeed, the facility is equipped with a tactile and auditory pathway, which was inaugurated in 2016 by the famous tenor Andrea Bocelli,allowing even those with visual or hearing difficulties to enjoy the wonders of the universe.
Chianti Sculpture Park: art and nature without barriers
Chianti Sculpture Park - Credit: Ylenia Caioli
The Chianti Sculpture Park in Pievasciata is an example of the perfect blend of accessible art and nature.
In fact, visitors with mobility issues can explore the area availing of mobility aids with brakes suitable for a 20% gradient. An electric kart is even available at no cost upon advance reservation.
The park has also developed a free app that can serve as an audio guide and has even written texts for those with hearing impairments.
Finally, the artworks can be touched to offer a sensory experience to blind and visually-impaired visitors.
Archaeological Museum of Sienese Chianti: an accessible dive into the past
Archaeological Museum of Sienese Chianti - Credit: Museo Archeologico Chianti
In Castellina in Chianti, the Archaeological Museum of Sienese Chianti offers a fascinating journey through time thanks to the archaeological artifacts that tell the history of the area.
The museum is accessible to people with mobility issues, thanks to an elevator that provides access to the upper floor.
Landscape Museum: an interactive and sensory experience
Landscape Museum - Credit: Ylenia Caioli
Located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, the Museo del Paesaggio—or, Landscape Museum—is an excellent example of inclusiveness.
The facility is accessible to people with mobility issues thanks to an elevator that leads to the second floor, where the main exhibits are located.
The video stations are captioned to allow visitors with hearing difficulties to enjoy the experience, while the olfactory zone—with scents evoking local flowers and plants—is designed to provide a sensory experience for everyone, including visually-impaired visitors.
Giuliano Ghelli Museum: culture for all
Giuliano Ghelli Museum - Credit: Ambito Chianti
The Giuliano Ghelli Museum in San Casciano, Val di Pesa, is yet another of the most important museums in Chianti to have embraced accessibility,
with the museum being accessible for visitors with mobility issues.
Chianti - Credit: Simona Bottone
Chianti offers not just museums and cultural activities but also accessible experiences, such as hot air balloon flights for people with mobility challenges.
In addition, many wineries are equipped to be accessed by people with mobility issues for tours and tastings.
