Val d’Orcia
The soul of Tuscany, where hills, villages and flavours meet
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Val d’Orcia is a postcard-perfect landscape of rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, medieval villages and views that change with the seasons.
Every road is a scenic route — from the white road to Monticchiello to the paths linking Montalcino, Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia and other hidden gems.
It’s a dream for lovers of walking, cycling or horseback riding, where nature and history go hand in hand.
This is a land of excellence: Brunello di Montalcino, Orcia DOC wines, Pienza pecorino cheese, and the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo.
Wine festivals, medieval pageants and local traditions bring the villages to life throughout the year.
Val d’Orcia isn’t just a destination — it’s something to savour, to explore, to breathe.
A journey through beauty, heritage and true Tuscan flavour.
Montalcino – History, wine and breathtaking views Set between the hills of Val d’Orcia and Val d’Arbia, Montalcino is a perfectly preserved medieval village, world-famous for its iconic Brunello wine. Cobblestone streets, artisan shops, wine cellars and the majestic 14th-century fortress create an atmosphere full of charm and authenticity. Must-sees include: •the Fortress, offering sweeping valley views and wine tastings; •the Cathedral of San Salvatore, with its elegant neoclassical interior; •the Civic and Diocesan Museum, featuring sacred art from the Sienese school. The Brunello di Montalcino, made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, is one of the world’s most prestigious red wines. The town celebrates its heritage year-round with events like: •Benvenuto Brunello (annual release of new vintages), •the Honey Week Festival, •and the Sagra del Tordo, a medieval reenactment with archery, contrade, and traditional feasts. Surrounded by vineyards and gentle hills, Montalcino is also ideal for hiking, cycling and scenic walks. Don’t miss the trail to the beautiful Abbey of Sant’Antimo. Montalcino is the elegant soul of Val d’Orcia. A place to savour slowly — one view, one glass at a time.
Pienza – The Ideal Renaissance City In the heart of the Val d’Orcia, Pienza is the perfect blend of architecture, history and landscape. Designed in the 15th century by Bernardo Rossellino at the request of Pope Pius II, it is a masterpiece of Renaissance urban planning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the centre lies Piazza Pio II, home to the town’s treasures: the graceful Cathedral, the Piccolomini Palace with its hanging garden and stunning views, and the Borgia and Town Hall Palaces. Among its beloved churches is San Francesco, a small Gothic gem with 14th-century frescoes. Events not to miss: •the Fiera del Cacio, celebrating local pecorino cheese with the traditional cacio al fuso game; •Pienza in Bloom, which transforms the town into a floral garden each spring; •and the Val d’Orcia Festival, with music, theatre and cultural performances. Surrounded by rolling hills, Pienza offers scenic trails and unforgettable views. Pienza is harmony made real. A place where everything feels just right — and has, for centuries.
San Quirico d’Orcia – Medieval charm among hills and gardens In the heart of the Val d’Orcia, San Quirico is a perfectly preserved medieval village with stone-paved streets, historic churches and noble palaces, surrounded by breathtaking Tuscan landscapes. Highlights include: •the Collegiate Church of Saints Quirico and Giulitta, with sculpted portals and 15th-century masterpieces; •the Horti Leonini, 16th-century Italian gardens ideal for a quiet stroll; •Palazzo Chigi, now a venue for cultural events and exhibitions; •and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a historic stop on the Via Francigena pilgrimage route. San Quirico also comes alive with local traditions: •the Festa del Barbarossa in June, a medieval reenactment with parades, archery tournaments and pageantry; •and the Orcia Wine Festival, celebrating the region’s wines with tastings, cellar tours and local producers. Scenic trails link San Quirico to Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, and nearby villages, offering stunning views along the way. A paradise for lovers of cycling, walking and nature. San Quirico d’Orcia is timeless beauty – where history, elegance and true Tuscan hospitality meet.
Castiglione d’Orcia – History and views in the heart of Val d’Orcia Nestled in the gentle hills of the Val d’Orcia, Castiglione d’Orcia is a medieval village that offers authentic charm and breathtaking views. Its ancient walls, towers and cobbled streets tell centuries of history still visible today. Highlights include: •the Rocca di Tentennano, a fortress overlooking the valley with panoramic views stretching to Monte Amiata; •the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, known for its graceful bell gable and Renaissance frescoes; •the hamlet of Bagno Vignoni, famous for its unique thermal water square, surrounded by history and steam. Local events: •the Street Food Festival, celebrating Tuscan flavours under the summer sky; •the Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot in January, with traditional markets, music and religious processions. Castiglione d’Orcia is a quiet gem, where time slows down and every stone tells a story of true Tuscany.