THE FARM

Nestled on a 12-hectare property surrounded by woods, olive and chestnut groves, and rolling fields,

Chiesa a Varena is located near the stunning Casentino National Park, just 35 km from Florence.

This historic estate, once known as S. Gaudenzio Abate, has a rich and storied past.

800 YEARS

Originally built as a church around 1200 A.D., it was destroyed in 1367 during the Florentine Republic’s internal struggles.

For centuries, it served as a home for local farmers until the early 20th century. In 1964, my parents, newly engaged, purchased the farm—a place then without water or roads.

Through patience, sacrifice, and love, they transformed this abandoned land into a welcoming and vibrant corner of paradise

In 2018, they entrusted the farm to me, and I moved here in September 2019. Now, I care for this cherished land as its gardener, treating it with the respect, love, and admiration it deserves.

My approach is simple: I collaborate with nature rather than force it, creating a harmony that brings me joy and serenity.

This connection is something I hope to share with every visitor who comes here.

THE TREASURES OF
CHIESA A VARENA

THE OLIVE GROVE

Surrounding the house is a thriving olive grove with around 500 trees, some centuries old, their trunks whispering stories of the past.

We let wild herbs flourish among the trees, painting the fields with vibrant colors in spring attracting pollinators. The grass is only cut in late spring

The highlight of the season is the pressing of the olives, filling the air with the delightful scent of fresh oil.

At home, freshly baked bread awaits, making the perfect pairing for our golden, aromatic treasure

— a simple yet unforgettable tradition.

In early spring, we prune the olive trees, followed by a lighter pruning just before the November harvest.

During this time, family and friends come together to form a small, dedicated team, working tirelessly in the fields.

Despite the physical effort, it is a joyful experience that connects people and nature

The highlight of the season is the pressing of the olives, filling the air with the delightful scent o fresh oil.

At home, freshly baked bread awaits, making the perfect pairing for our golden, aromatic treasure

— a simple yet unforgettable tradition.

THE VEGETABLE GARDEN

When I began creating my vegetable garden, I chose a rocky, arid area that seemed inhospitable.

A farmer friend warned me it was impossible, but I thought: “Slowly, slowly. We’ll see…”

Through hard work and patience, the barren land transformed into a lush, thriving garden. Using permaculture principles, I regenerated the soil with mulching and carefully selected plants with roots that enrich the earth.

In permaculture, the soil is alive and must be nourished, not tilled.

My vision is to develop the garden into a “food forest” where every plant plays a role in supporting the farm, creating a sustainable and harmonious ecosystem.

THE LAVENDER FIELD

Next to the olive grove was an area without trees due to poor soil. To make use of it, I began planting small lavender plants.

The experiment worked beautifully, and today, the field boasts around 500 angustifolia lavende plants.

To support the bees, I surrounded the lavender with rosemary, which flowers at different times
extending their food supply.

From the lavender, I distill essential oils and hydrolates—a fragrant reminder of the land’s gifts

THE RESTORE CHESTNUT GROVE

In 2018, we began restoring a 1.5-hectare chestnut grove that had been left uncultivated for years

Although maintaining this steep area is challenging, the breathtaking views make every effort worthwhile.

The grove now thrives, preserving its legacy while contributing to the farm’s biodiversity.

Chiesa a Varena is more than a farm—it’s a sanctuary where history, nature, and sustainability converge.

I invite you to share in this journey, discover its beauty, and leave inspired by the harmony of this special place.

THE ACTIVITIES

At Chiesa a Varena we love to share our love of nature with others – discover how you can get involved

LAVANDER WORKSHOP

Half day immersed in lavender scent

Click Here

PERMACULTURE VEGETABLE GARDEN

More info coming soon

OIL MAKING