Agata in Wonderland

Perched on a limestone cliff in the heart of Maremma, South Tuscany, the tiny village of Rocchette di Fazio seems plucked straight from a fairy tale. With just 26 inhabitants, this ancient hamlet rests on the last foothills of Mount Amiata, Tuscany’s majestic extinct volcano. At 471 meters above sea level, its stone houses appear to cling precariously to the crest of rocky walls, overlooking the serene Albegna River and encircled by the lush Bosco dei Rocconi Nature Reserve.

Dating back to 1000 AD, Rocchette di Fazio was initially founded as a strategic garrison. Over the centuries, it became a prize fought over by noble families like the Aldobrandeschi, Cacciaconti, and the Orsini of Pitigliano. Its fascinating history is intertwined with the enigmatic Knights Templar, as it served as one of their strongholds in Tuscany. This charming village, steeped in history and ancient legends, fell into decline during the 16th century until its revival in 1998, thanks to the restoration of its stone houses, cobbled streets, and panoramic castle terrace.

A Culinary Renaissance: Agata and Her Trattoria

The timeless allure of Rocchette di Fazio took a bold and flavorful turn in 2022 with the arrival of Agata Felluga, a talented chef who breathed new life into the village. After honing her craft in prestigious kitchens in Strasbourg (Jour de Fête) and Paris (Astrance and Chateaubriand, both Michelin-starred), Agata chose to return to her parents’ village to create something extraordinary.

At Trattoria Cacciaconti, Agata’s cuisine pays homage to Tuscany’s rich culinary traditions, bringing the flavors of bygone eras to the present. Her dishes are a celebration of the local landscape, crafted with seasonal, farm-fresh, and wild ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside. Each plate tells a story, enriched by Agata’s journeys and the rhythms of nature. The experience is elevated by a carefully curated selection of natural wines, making every visit unforgettable.

You can get a glimpse of Agata’s enchanting world in the delightful video below.

Something New Is Coming: 2025 Maremma Tour

Be ready to explore where Tuscany meets Lazio in our upcoming 2025 cycling tour. Stay tuned for the official presentation — an adventure through hidden gems like Rocchette di Fazio awaits!