Just five kilometers from Florence, nestled in the rolling hills of Fiesole, lies Fattoria di Maiano – a magical place where nature, history, and tradition meet in perfect harmony. Surrounded by cypress groves and silvery olive trees, this biodynamic estate offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
I’ve visited Fattoria di Maiano many times — for dinner with friends, during the spring artisan fair, and in the golden light of summer picnics. But autumn might be the most special season of all: it’s when the olive harvest begins, and the famous Tuscan green gold comes to life.
Built around an ancient rural hamlet, Fattoria di Maiano is a place where the rhythms of the land still guide daily life. Within its vast property you’ll find a restored monastery and farmhouse, elegant panoramic suites, a swimming pool, an award-winning olive mill, and one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens.
The estate belongs to the noble Corsini family, originally gifted as a dowry to Elisabetta Corsini and Teodoro Stori. As they had no children, the property passed to their niece, Lucrezia Corsini, who married Count Giacomo Miari Fulcis from Belluno. Today, the farm is lovingly managed by Francesco Miari Fulcis and his children, Tommaso and Anna.
Spanning over 270 hectares, Fattoria di Maiano includes 500,000 square meters of parkland and 12 kilometers of scenic walking paths. The estate is home to 20,000 olive trees, organic orchards and vegetable gardens, and a farm where horses, geese, chickens, ducks, ostriches, bulls, and Amiata donkeys roam freely.
Several walking trails start from the estate, leading to truly enchanting spots like the Laghetto delle Colonne — a serene pond surrounded by a vast pietra serena quarry, the same stone used to build Florence’s Basilica of San Lorenzo. The reflection of the tower in the water feels like a scene from a fairytale — reminiscent of Rapunzel’s tower itself.
The property also includes Monte Ceceri, the hill from which Leonardo da Vinci tested his flying machine in 1506. In the heart of the park lies the historic Pietra Serena quarry, a vital source of stone that provided material for masterpieces like the Uffizi Gallery and the Medici Chapels in San Lorenzo. It’s no wonder artists like Michelangelo and patrons like Lorenzo the Magnificent considered this area a reference point for beauty and craftsmanship.
Next to the farm lies an exclusive 50-hectare botanical garden, home to a romantic-style English park, an educational farm, and agricultural laboratories. The park was created between 1870 and 1890 by Sir John Temple Leader, and it was officially inaugurated by Queen Victoria in April 1893. Today, visitors can explore over 12 kilometers of woodland paths, ideal for both seasoned hikers and those simply seeking peace in nature.
The estate’s most famous treasure, however, is the Laudemio olive oil — a symbol of Tuscan excellence. The term Laudemio dates back to the Middle Ages, when it referred to “the best part of the harvest,” reserved for the lord’s table. In the mid-1980s, a visionary group of Tuscan producers joined forces to create a pact of excellence — setting rigorous standards for cultivation, harvesting, and production.
Today, only 21 producers in Tuscany hold the prestigious Laudemio label, representing the highest level of craftsmanship and purity. Among them, Fattoria di Maiano stands proudly as one of the most distinguished.
The olive harvest typically takes place between October and November, the perfect time to visit the ancient olive mill and witness the transformation of fresh olives into emerald-green oil. Everything here is still done by hand, just as it was centuries ago. Watching the process — from the arrival of the olives to the moment they become liquid gold — is an unforgettable experience.
And of course, the best part is the tasting. Pair the freshly pressed Laudemio oil with a slice of rustic handmade bread, and you’ll understand why this is called Tuscany’s “green gold.” Don’t miss the chance to visit the estate’s farm shop, located beside the traditional farmhouse restaurant, where you can take home local products, wines, and olive-based delicacies.
Fattoria di Maiano is not just a place — it’s an experience. A blend of Tuscan nature, heritage, and craftsmanship, where every season tells a different story and every visit feels like stepping into a dream. 🌿