Summer is in full swing, and anyone living in Tuscany knows what that means. The hills turn golden, the sunny days are perfect for enjoying good food and aperitifs with friends. But summer in Tuscany also brings intense heat, especially during July and August.

Despite this, the region remains a top destination for summer holidays. If you’re planning a vacation here, we’ve put together some ideas for what to do in Tuscany in summer to cool down and make the most of all the beauty and experiences it offers—without being overwhelmed by the high temperatures. Let’s explore the best places and activities to stay cool, relax, and enjoy the magic of summer.

Castello di Gargonza: the perfect starting point

Let’s begin with a magical and strategic location. Perfect for a summer holiday full of relaxation and nature, the Castello di Gargonza is located in the province of Arezzo, nestled in a 500-hectare forest estate. This fortified medieval village overlooks the beautiful Val di Chiana. That means fresh air, even on the hottest days.

At Castello di Gargonza, you can stay in charming historic accommodations, unwind in the panoramic swimming pool, savor Tuscan cuisine, and set off to discover the best places to cool off in Tuscany.

What to do in Tuscany to beat the heat

Here’s a selection of ideal experiences and places for anyone looking to escape the summer heat in Tuscany.

Walks in forests and natural parks

Another excellent way to stay cool is hiking in forests and natural parks—always a good idea. In Tuscany, venturing into woodland trails means finding relief, silence, and a kind of peace that seems to belong to another world. The natural parks in the Arezzo area are true green oases, ideal for walking under the shade of trees, listening to the rustle of leaves, and feeling the coolness of the forest floor. Near Gargonza, you can explore:

• Casentino Forests National Park: A vast green lung between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. Temperatures remain pleasant even in summer, and you can choose from various trails—from easy ones perfect for families to more demanding paths leading to spiritual sites like the Hermitage of Camaldoli or the Sanctuary of La Verna. Walking through these ancient beech forests, now a UNESCO heritage site, is truly a rejuvenating experience.
• Alpe della Luna Nature Reserve: On the border with Umbria, this hidden gem is perfect for those seeking wilder nature. Trails wind through dense woods and panoramic ridges populated by deer, roe deer, and countless birds. It’s the ideal place for a full day of hiking, far from everything, with only birdsong and the sound of your footsteps for company.
• Camaldoli Forests: If you’re looking for a more spiritual hike, this area of centuries-old fir trees is uniquely calming. Ideal for anyone needing to slow down, perhaps after a busy week.
• Scodella Reserve: If you prefer a lesser-known route still immersed in nature, this small reserve in the municipality of Pratovecchio Stia is a hidden gem: quiet, authentic, and perfect for those who truly want to feel “inside” the woods.

In all these places, even in the middle of the day, the temperature remains pleasant and the air is clean and balsamic.

Museums and culture

Summer is also a great time to enjoy cultural attractions. You can take advantage of air-conditioned or naturally cool museum spaces. Discover the variety of museums in Arezzo—from art and archaeology to history—perfect for both adults and children.

Waterparks and fun for children

And what about the kids? Waterparks are a perfect option to cool off while having fun.

One great choice is Acquapark Crocodile, located in Monte San Savino. It features pools, water slides, and entertainment activities. It’s the ideal place to combine children’s fun with your desire for relaxation and carefree enjoyment.

Shaded trails around Gargonza

Guests staying at Castello di Gargonza are lucky to find themselves in a naturally cool place, surrounded by greenery and far from the heat of the city. But if you’re looking to cool off even more, there’s nothing better than a stroll along the shaded trails that begin right from the village.

These paths wind through the Gargonza estate, which covers over 500 hectares of woodland. Walking here is a simple and rejuvenating way to breathe fresh air, enjoy the peaceful silence of the forest, and stay cool under the shade of the trees. Even during the hottest hours of the day, the temperature remains pleasant thanks to the microclimate of this hilly area.

The trails are perfect for a morning or evening walk, and there’s no need for elaborate planning—just a pair of comfortable shoes and the desire to slow down. And when you return, the panoramic pool and all the comforts of the Castle await you, ready to make your stay truly unforgettable.

The “slow life” of a Tuscan summer

In short, Tuscany is best enjoyed slowly—especially in the summer. The key is choosing the right places: lakes, forests, and activities that blend culture and relaxation will let you experience a Tuscan holiday without suffering through the hottest, most humid days.
Don’t hesitate to book your stay at Castello di Gargonza: your vacation starts right here. Enjoy the tranquility and naturally cooler climate of the village, all within a setting you won’t easily forget.