To really discover the Val d'Orcia, without following the typical tourist routes, you can count on us and our knowledge of the area.
Here, meanwhile, is some information about our surroundings and what truly typical things our land has to offer.
Nature trails
The Val d'Orcia offers visitors a wealth of color variations that mark the passage of the seasons: from the ochre of the autumn landscape, to the green in spring, to the yellow of the threshing season.
It is precisely these landscapes and this environment that are the focus of a series of trails that can help you discover it, always following paths indicated by the Tuscan Hiking Network (R.E.T.)
From spa to spa along the Via Francigena
From the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni, which have been frequented since the Middle Ages, you can descend to the Orcia River and then head to another spa, Bagni San Filippo, where the White Whale will keep you company during your moments of relaxation.
The route crosses the valley along theVia Francigena and touches on villages such as Castiglione d'Orcia, telling stories and legends that mingle with the green valley and the warmth of the thermal water.
Nature and views: from Amiata to Mount Labbro
Southern Tuscany is dominated by the massive Mount Amiata, an ancient volcano that also dominates the Val d'Orcia.
If in winter Amiata is one of the top ski destinations in Tuscany, in summer it offers trails that unravel along the largest beech forest in Europe and under the canopies of centuries-old chestnut groves.
From the summit of Mt. Amiata it is possible to see theArgentario, i Uccellina Mountains , l'Island of Elba, of Montecristo and of Giglio. To the north are visible the lands of Montalcino and, on clear winter days, Abetone and the Apuan Alps.
Similar views can be enjoyed from Mount Lip. On the highest point of the mountain towers the David Tower, a monument built by David Lazzaretti known as the "
Prophet of the Amiata
", founder of the Jurisdavidian movement. Here spirituality has remained despite the passage of time.
Culinary itineraries
The Val d'Orcia, like all of Tuscany, is also at the center of itineraries involving food and good drinking.
Taste trails not to be missed
Starting with the Aged Pecorino from the Val d'Orcia, made from the milk of sheep raised in the area and giving the cheese a sweet and slightly spicy flavor, you can learn about the typical flavors of the valley World Heritage Site.
Climbing toward the Amiata, you will discover theOlivastra of Seggiano and its PDO oil. This particular olive tree can withstand even the harsh winter temperatures of the valleys at the foot of the mountains, and its oil is characterized by a golden color.
Climbing to the top of the ancient volcano, one encounters chestnut trees and the IGP chestnut of Mount Amiata, which has always been the main food in the diet of the mountain people.
Our family's strong connection to the village of Pescina, we can't help but talk about "the scottiglia". A "poor" recipe as there are many in Tuscany, scottiglia is a soup of meats (veal, pork and chicken) on a bed of stale bread.
Historical itineraries
As you can see, getting lost in the Val d'Orcia Is all too simple. Therefore, we also suggest some itineraries for you to get to know the history of this area and the surrounding areas to the fullest.
From San Quirico to Vivo d'Orcia, the heart of the valley.
Village of Etruscan origin, S. Quirico d'Orcia Is one of the Valdorcian villages. Here, a walk through the 'immense Italian garden of the Horti Leonini is a must. We also recommend that you visit the Collegiate Church, where hospitality was offered to pilgrims and wayfarers traveling along the Via Francigena.
From San Quirico you can head to Castiglione d'Orcia, following the ancient Via Francigena.
The town developed during the Middle Ages within its Aldobrandesque fortress. In the center of the town is the Town Hall and the square of the same name.
Climbing towards the Amiata you will meet Campiglia d'Orcia, with its tower from which you can admire the entire valley and the ancient "Roccaccia," and then Vivo d'Orcia, known for the freshness of its waters, for the ancient hermitage of the'Ermicciolo and for the Cervini County, a small Renaissance treasure chest hidden among the trees.
Monticchiello, Pienza and Montepulciano
Among cypress trees and winding roads, we enter the Val d'Orcia better known and we arrive at Monticchiello. The strong city walls and keep tower surround the old town, which is still a medieval treasure chest.
Monticchiello is a hamlet of Pienza, the ideal city desired by Pope Pius II and which today is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture. The Rossellino Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini and so many other architectural wonders are perfectly guarded by the frame that opens over the Val d'Orcia to Mount Amiata.
Finally, here is Montepulciano, the main center of the Val di Chiana Senese and known for its Renaissance palaces, its wine And its wine cellars. A walk along the course and streets to the Piazza Grande is in order.
A trip to Montalcino
Controlled by the Sienese fortress and with breathtaking views of the Val d'Orcia, Montalcino is a must-see. The historic center is still medieval in style: churches, alleys and small squares are everywhere and accompany the tourist.
Under the loggias of the central square you can admire the old Palazzo dei Priori and, perhaps, taste a glass of Brunello.
Just a short distance from the town: theAbbey of Sant'Antimo, a gem of the early Middle Ages that offers wonders to those who visit and to those who can hear the monks' Gregorian chant.
Discovering Amiata
Among cypress trees and winding roads, we enter the Val d'Orcia better known and we arrive at Monticchiello. The strong city walls and keep tower surround the old town, which is still a medieval treasure chest.
Monticchiello is a hamlet of Pienza, the ideal city desired by Pope Pius II and which today is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture. The Rossellino Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini and so many other architectural wonders are perfectly guarded by the frame that opens over the Val d'Orcia to Mount Amiata.
Finally, here is Montepulciano, the main center of the Val di Chiana Senese and known for its Renaissance palaces, its wine And its wine cellars. A walk along the course and streets to the Piazza Grande is in order.
