The Val d'Orcia
The Heart of Tuscany
The Val d'Orcia, located in southern Tuscany, is a region of extraordinary natural beauty and cultural richness, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its rolling hills, iconic cypress trees, and medieval villages, the Val d'Orcia is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to experience the authentic Tuscan atmosphere.
The Val d'Orcia is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes that resemble Renaissance paintings. The golden hills, dotted with rows of cypress trees and vineyards, offer views that change with the seasons, creating a unique natural spectacle. Don't miss the opportunity to travel along the scenic roads that crisscross the valley, such as the famous white road leading to Monticchiello.
The Val d'Orcia is dotted with fascinating medieval villages, each with its own history and unique character.
The Val d'Orcia is a land of culinary and wine excellence. In addition to the famous Brunello di Montalcino, the region produces the prestigious Orcia DOC wine and Pecorino cheese from Pienza, a sheep's milk cheese with an unmistakable flavor.
The Val d'Orcia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails that cross the valley are perfect for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. The area also offers opportunities for birdwatching, thanks to its rich biodiversity.
Explore the panoramic trails that connect the various villages, enjoying breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
The white roads and gentle hills of the Val d'Orcia are ideal for cycling, with routes suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Relax in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo, two places famous for their hot springs and the therapeutic benefits of their waters.
The Val d'Orcia is not just nature and landscapes; it is also rich in history and culture. In addition to its medieval villages, the valley hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating local traditions and the region's gastronomic heritage.
Montalcino and other villages in the valley regularly host wine festivals, where you can taste the best wines of the region.
Pienza and other villages organize historical reenactments and medieval festivals, offering a glimpse into life in the Middle Ages.
Local galleries and museums host exhibitions of contemporary and classical art, further enriching the cultural offering of the valley.
Visit the Val d'Orcia for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tuscany, where nature, history, and tradition come together to offer moments of authentic beauty and serenity.
Montalcino
Montalcino, nestled among the hills of the Val d'Orcia and Val d'Arbia, is a medieval village of extraordinary beauty and charm. Known worldwide for its prestigious Brunello di Montalcino wine, the town offers visitors an irresistible mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Montalcino retains its medieval structure intact, with cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and a magnificent Fortress that dominates the landscape. Strolling through the historic center, you'll find artisan shops, wine bars, and restaurants offering local specialties.
Key attractions include:
- Fortress of Montalcino: Built in 1361, this imposing fortress offers spectacular panoramic views over the Val d'Orcia. It also hosts numerous cultural events and wine tastings.
- Cathedral of San Salvatore: A 14th-century cathedral with neoclassical interiors, located in the heart of the village.
- Civic and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art: A museum housing religious artworks and artifacts, including paintings by important Sienese artists.
Montalcino is synonymous with Brunello, one of the world's most renowned and appreciated wines. Produced exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, Brunello di Montalcino is a robust and long-lived red wine, ideal for accompanying traditional Tuscan dishes.
Montalcino hosts a series of events throughout the year celebrating wine, culture, and local traditions. These events offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in village life and interact with the local community.
Key Events include:
- Benvenuto Brunello: An annual event where the new vintages of Brunello are presented. It's a must-attend occasion for wine enthusiasts.
- Honey Week: A festival dedicated to honey and beekeeping products, featuring tastings, markets, and workshops.
- Sagra del Tordo: A historical reenactment held on the last Sunday of October, featuring an archery competition among the 4 districts and a medieval banquet.
Surrounded by hills and vineyards, Montalcino is an ideal starting point for excursions and outdoor activities. The trails through the surrounding countryside offer unforgettable views and the opportunity to discover local flora and fauna.
Explore the trails connecting Montalcino to nearby villages like Sant'Antimo, renowned for its beautiful Romanesque abbey.
The white roads of the Val d'Orcia are perfect for cycling, with routes suitable for all levels.
Visit Montalcino for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tuscany, where history, nature, and wine blend together to offer moments of authentic beauty and serenity.
Pienza
Pienza, known as the "ideal city" of the Renaissance, is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Val d'Orcia in Tuscany. Designed by the renowned architect Bernardo Rossellino on commission from Pope Pius II, Pienza is a masterpiece of Renaissance urban planning and a perfect example of harmony between man and nature. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pienza is a must-visit destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Tuscany.
The main attractions are:
- Piazza Pio II: The heart of Pienza, this enchanting square is surrounded by Renaissance buildings designed by Rossellino. Here you will find the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Borgia, and Palazzo Comunale, each a perfectly preserved example of Renaissance architecture.
- Cathedral of Pienza: Also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption, the Cathedral of Pienza is a splendid Renaissance church with bright interiors and frescoes by important artists of the time. The facade, elegant and harmonious, dominates the main square.
- Palazzo Piccolomini: This magnificent palace, residence of Pope Pius II, is one of the first examples of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you can admire frescoed halls and a beautiful hanging garden with breathtaking views of the Val d'Orcia.
- Palazzo Borgia: Now home to the Diocesan Museum, this palace houses a collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that tell the religious history of the region.
- Church of San Francesco: A small and fascinating Gothic church located in the historic center of Pienza, famous for its 14th-century frescoes.
Pienza hosts numerous events throughout the year that celebrate its culture and traditions. These events offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local life and discover authentic Tuscan hospitality.
- Cheese Fair: A festival dedicated to Pienza's pecorino cheese, featuring tastings, markets, and the traditional "cacio al fuso" competition, a popular game where a cheese wheel is rolled along a path.
- Pienza in Bloom: Every spring, Pienza transforms into a flower garden with floral installations that decorate the streets and squares of the village.
- Val d'Orcia Festival: A summer event celebrating music, art, and culture of the Val d'Orcia, featuring performances, concerts, and exhibitions.
Surrounded by the gentle hills of the Val d'Orcia, Pienza has trails that cross the surrounding countryside, offering unforgettable views and the opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna.
Visit Pienza for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tuscany, where history, nature, and tradition come together to offer moments of authentic beauty and serenity.
San Quirico d'Orcia
San Quirico d'Orcia, located in the heart of the Val d'Orcia in Tuscany, is a medieval village of extraordinary beauty and charm. With its rich history, well-preserved monuments, and privileged position among the rolling hills of the valley, San Quirico d'Orcia is an unmissable destination for those wishing to discover the authentic essence of Tuscany.
San Quirico d'Orcia maintains its medieval character intact, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a central square that invites strolling and immersing oneself in the atmosphere of the past.
The main attractions include:
- Collegiate Church of Saints Quirico and Julietta: This splendid Romanesque church is famous for its carved portals and its interior rich in artworks, including a precious 15th-century altarpiece.
- Horti Leonini: These Renaissance gardens, created in the 16th century by Diomede Leoni, are an oasis of tranquility with well-manicured hedges, statues, and shaded pathways, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
- Palazzo Chigi: An elegant 17th-century palace that hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Its Baroque architecture and richly decorated interiors offer a glimpse into aristocratic life at that time.
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Located along the Via Francigena, this small Romanesque church serves as a stopping point for pilgrims and is an example of medieval religious architecture.
San Quirico d'Orcia hosts numerous events throughout the year that celebrate its culture and traditions. These events offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in local life and discover authentic Tuscan hospitality.
- Barbarossa Festival: A historical reenactment held in June, during which the village relives the medieval era with costume parades, tournaments, and performances. It's an unforgettable opportunity to discover the history and traditions of San Quirico d'Orcia.
- Orcia Wine Festival: An event dedicated to the wines of the Val d'Orcia, featuring tastings, cellar visits, and meetings with producers. It takes place every spring and attracts wine enthusiasts from around the world.
Explore the trails that connect San Quirico d'Orcia to nearby villages such as Bagno Vignoni, famous for its Roman baths, and Pienza. Every step will reward you with spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside.
The white roads of the Val d'Orcia are perfect for cycling, with routes suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists. You can explore the Tuscan landscape on your bike, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the area.
Visit San Quirico d'Orcia for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tuscany, where history, nature, and tradition come together to offer moments of authentic beauty and serenity.
Castiglione d'Orcia
Castiglione d'Orcia is an enchanting village located among the rolling hills of Val d'Orcia, in Tuscany. With its ancient walls, narrow cobbled streets and breathtaking panoramic views, Castiglione d'Orcia is a place where time seems to have stopped, offering visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience.
The origins of Castiglione d'Orcia date back to the medieval period, and the village still retains its ancient charm today, with the medieval walls surrounding the historic center and the towers that stand out over the surrounding landscape.
The Main Attractions are:
- Rocca di Tentennano: This imposing medieval fortress dominates the village and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Val d'Orcia and Monte Amiata. Every year, the fortress hosts cultural events and exhibitions that celebrate the history and culture of the region.
- Church of Santa Maria Maddalena: Located in the heart of the village, this fascinating Romanesque church is famous for its bell tower and the Renaissance frescoes that adorn the interior.
- Bagno Vignoni: A hamlet of Castiglione d'Orcia famous for its ancient Roman baths, which date back to the medieval period. Here it is possible to admire the suggestive thermal water square, surrounded by historic buildings and thermal fountains.
Castiglione d'Orcia hosts numerous events throughout the year, celebrating its culture and traditions. These events offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the life of the village and interact with the local community.
- Street Food Festival: A summer event celebrating local gastronomy, with stalls offering traditional Tuscan dishes and regional specialities.
- San Antonio Abate Fair: A traditional festival held every January to celebrate the patron saint of the village, San Antonio Abate. During the fair, the streets of the historic center come alive with stalls, shows and religious processions.
Visit Castiglione d'Orcia for an authentic experience in the heart of Tuscany, where history, nature and tradition blend to offer you moments of authentic beauty and serenity.