Val d’Orcia Tour
where Tuscany becomes poetry
A journey through the golden hills of the Val d’Orcia is much more than an itinerary — it’s an experience that speaks to the heart.
Every curve reveals a new view, every village a fragrance, every stop a story.
In this land of silence, cypresses and flavor, time seems to slow down, leaving space for pure wonder.
Monticchiello – the village that whispers to the wind
Our first stop is Monticchiello, a small medieval gem where time appears to stand still.
Wander through its flowered alleys and ancient walls, and you’ll feel the peace of old Tuscany. From its ramparts, the rolling hills stretch endlessly, and on summer evenings the village’s “poor theatre” brings locals and visitors together for heartfelt performances.
👉 Local tip: before you leave, stop by the Poggio Covili viewpoint, the famous cypress-lined road that looks straight out of a painting.
Bagno Vignoni – the village with a water square
Just a few kilometers ahead lies Bagno Vignoni, a one-of-a-kind village built around a steaming thermal pool instead of a piazza.
Sitting on the edge of the pool, watching the rising vapors, feels like stepping into a dream.
Legend has it that even Saint Catherine of Siena once came here to heal in these waters.
👉 Local tip: follow the short path down to the Parco dei Mulini, where ancient stone basins and channels form a peaceful natural trail.
Pienza – harmony of the Renaissance
Commissioned by Pope Pius II as the “ideal city”, Pienza is a masterpiece of balance and beauty.
The narrow Via dell’Amore, Via del Bacio and Via della Fortuna lead to terraces with breathtaking views — the perfect place for a sunset kiss.
And of course, you can’t leave without tasting the famous Pecorino di Pienza, sold in charming little shops that smell of hay and tradition.
👉 Local tip: step inside a cheese boutique in the old town and ask for a slice of truffle pecorino — a tiny taste of heaven you won’t forget.
San Quirico d’Orcia & Vitaleta Chapel – the soul of the valley
Just minutes away, San Quirico d’Orcia welcomes you with its Horti Leonini gardens and beautiful Romanesque churches.
A short drive further, the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta stands alone among fields and cypresses — small, pure, and iconic.
According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared here to a young shepherd, asking him to build this chapel. Today it’s one of the most photographed places in Tuscany.
👉 Local tip: reach it at sunset, when the golden light turns the stone walls into something almost alive.
Montalcino – home of Brunello wine
Follow the white country roads and you’ll reach Montalcino, elegant and quiet, homeland of the world-famous Brunello di Montalcino.
From the fortress, the view stretches across endless vineyards, and the scent of oak barrels fills the air in every cellar.
Not far away, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo adds a spiritual touch — a place of peace surrounded by olive trees and lavender fields.
👉 Local tip: stop at a panoramic winery for a glass of Brunello overlooking the hills — the perfect toast to Tuscany’s soul.
Montepulciano – noble wine and timeless charm
Last but not least, Montepulciano, a Renaissance jewel of stone and passion.
Its majestic palaces, scenic squares and underground wine cellars carved into the tuff tell centuries of stories.
Every corner exudes elegance, and the aroma of Vino Nobile seems to follow you through the streets.
👉 Local tip: visit one of the historic wineries in the town center, such as Palazzo Contucci, and discover the noble heart of Tuscan wine.
After such a journey, there’s nothing better than returning to Podere Grotta Antica, sitting in the garden with a glass of wine and watching the sun set behind the hills.
That’s where the Val d’Orcia reveals its true magic — when the silence of the countryside meets the warmth of home. 🌿