Lapo is so passionate and knowledgeable about the pigs and wider culture/farming in Tuscany, the several hour tour flew by with his endless stories and it definitely made me consider a career jump as a pig farmer!

Starting with an introduction to his motley gang of random farm animals including birds, a pony, a donkey and 2 domesticated boar, we soon entered the shade of the forest and the huge enclosures where the pig roam free and although shy at first, soon approach and appreciate new guests.

Stories of the pigs’ breeding projects/research, wolf pack encroachment and management methods, local hunting culture, and social dynamics between the different litters and groups of pigs, made for a fascinating tour which was rounded off by a look inside the walk in fridge and delicious looking racks of cured hams.

For lunch in the modern on site restaurant, an assortment of breads, spreads, cheeses and salami/cured meat from the farm, along with local wine, was more than enough for even myself and we left with full belies.

I cannot recommend it enough if you are in the Florence/San Gimignano area and it also ties in nicely as a day trip with visiting Monteriggioni or another smaller town/attraction in the afternoon. Lapo and his family are doing amazing work here raising happy healthy animals in the most ethical way, and a tour of their property will surely leave you moved as I was.

Lapo’s English is also excellent!