Malmantile, Italy is a small village in the Tuscany region, about an hour or so away from Florence. I was lucky enough to visit the area after college graduation, and recently it’s been on my mind. Washington’s climate is very similar to Italy, being of similar latitude, and when it rains in the summertime and birds chirp throughout the day, as if it was a hazy, beautiful, perpetual morning, I feel like I’ve been transported back to the place that I consider to be one of the most beautiful on Earth.

Accessible by a long and winding bus ride, in addition to a train journey, Malmantile was sleepy, tiny and authentic Tuscany. Encompassed by olive groves, vineyards and fields of red poppies, this city was special indeed.

It had one of almost everything you’d need; a cheese shop, a place for local meats, cafes, a bakery, and what made the city really special was the castle right in the center of the village!

Tiny but incredibly well cared for and sculpted gardens lined the roadway and you could tell these families had been living in the village and growing their gardens for years. This artichoke was poking its head up; almost ready for harvest.

It was early in the morning and the clouds were still hanging heavy and full. The air was wet, yet crisp.

This was one of my favorite places on Earth. Where’s an amazing place you’ve visited?

Photos: Elizabeth Adan

By Elizabeth Adan

Elizabeth Adan is a Freelance Writer, Publicist and Brand Ambassador. Her site is a unique outdoor lifestyle blog dedicated to expanding your world and inspiring your creativity. When Elizabeth isn’t traveling, you’ll find her writing, hiking or gardening. Find Elizabeth on Twitter @stillaporcupine and on LinkedIn.