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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 27 March, 2024
Expert travel writer: Nicky Swallow

The UNESCO-protected Val d’Orcia is one of the most beautiful areas of Tuscany, a ravishing expanse of open, undulating farmland broken by cypresses in soldier-straight lines and dominated by Monte Amiata, an extinct volcano.

Atmospheric hill-top towns dot the countryside, many dating back to medieval times, when settlements were built on outcrops of rock or hill summits; both easier to protect and harder to invade.

Pottering between two of three of the towns is a glorious way to spend a day; Pienza and Montepulciano are the biggest draws, but other highlights include the spa village of Bagno Vignoni – where a thermal pool takes the place of the central piazza – and San Quirico d’Orcia, with its magnificent Collegiata church. Close to Montepulciano is Villa La Foce, with a beautiful garden open to visitors.

Unpaved white roads link many of the smaller villages in the area, making this ideal walking and cycling country. Weaving through these unspoilt landscapes on either foot or two wheels is a fabulous way to appreciate some of the most beautiful rural landscapes in Italy.

Recommendations

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Garden of Villa La Foce

Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy

Garden of Villa La Foce

Villa La Foce was once home to Marchese Antonio Origo and his Anglo-American biographer wife Iris who, in 1925, commissioned renowned English architect Cecil Pinsent to make a garden. The glorious result overlooks the Val d’Orcia and Monte Amiata and is open to visitors.

Adult price: £9

Best for ages 18+

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Bagno Vignoni

Bagno Vignoni, Tuscany, Italy

Bagno Vignoni

This small, enchanting village, situated on a hill above the Val d’Orcia, is famous for its central square, which is a large pool filled with hot springs water. You can’t bathe in it these days, so head for Hotel Posta Marcucci instead.

Best for ages 18+

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Montepulciano

Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy

Montepulciano

Famous for its production of robust red wines (which can be sampled at the town’s many enotecas), hilltop Montepulciano is also worth visiting for its grand palazzi, the Duomo, and, just outside the walls, Sangallo’s church of San Biagio.

Best for ages 18+

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Pienza

Pienza, Tuscany, Italy

Idyllic square with fountain, town hall and a small coffee house in Pienza.

In the mid-15th century, Pope Pius II commissioned architect Bernardo Rossellino to remodel erstwhile Corsignano, resulting in what many see as a perfect example of Renaissance town planning, with grandiose palazzi and splendid churches in what is essentially a rural village.

Best for ages 18+

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San Quirico d’Orcia

San Quirico d’Orcia, Tuscany, Italy

San Quirico d’Orcia

An atmospheric hilltop town dating back to Etruscan times, a tangle of medieval streets lies between the fortified walls, home to historic churches and a clutch of excellent restaurants and cafes.

Best for ages 18+

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Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Tuscany Hills Postcard View:Val D'orcia Scenery with Wine tasting

Florence

Tuscany Hills Postcard View:Val D'orcia Scenery with Wine tasting
Enjoy a rich and ripe tour through the worlds of grape and gourmet cheese. Experience art and architecture and blend it with good wines and mouth-warming specialties. You will visit the stunning Val d'Orcia and the very special towns snuggling in it. There's the chance to get to know wine cellars while nibbling on sheep's cheese. A prefect day out for the senses and the soul.

Price: €82

Min age: 0

Rating 4.54 / 5 [417 ratings]

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Florence: Val d'Orcia Brunello Wine tour:Montalcino Montepulciano

Florence

Florence: Val d'Orcia Brunello Wine tour:Montalcino Montepulciano
DEPARTURE GUARANTEED! Enjoy a perfect day trip visiting 3 of the most impressive places in Tuscany. Montalcino, house of "Brunello" wine; Pienza, well known for the "Pecorino" cheese and Montepulciano where the undisputed symbol is the "Nobile di Montepulciano" wine! The Valdorcia has been recognized as UNESCO world heritage site since 2004, as it was an inspiration for many Renaissance painters. There you will be surrounded by impressive views, art, culture, amazing wine and delicious food! Our semi private tour will be on board of a premium minivan with an english speaking driver, air conditioning and free water. WHY CHOOSE US? Secure bookings, Guaranted Departures! 48 hours Cancellation policy, best rates guaranteed! Group of maximum 8 people.

Price: €232

Min age: 0

Rating 4.60 / 5 [183 ratings]

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Tuscan Food and Wine Tour of Val d'Orcia from Florence

Florence

Tuscan Food and Wine Tour of Val d'Orcia from Florence
Immerse yourself in a day of art, culture, and wine. Ready for an unforgettable journey in Tuscany's breathtaking Val d'Orcia region? Reach easily our meeting point by taking the T1.3 tram heading to Villa Costanza. Enroll in this tour to explore captivating cities, plunge into their rich culinary and historical heritage, and savor the area's famous wine, paired with some snacks.

Price: €95

Min age: 0

Rating 4.08 / 5 [87 ratings]

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Brunello Wine Tour and Val D'Orcia Landscape

Arezzo

Brunello Wine Tour and Val D'Orcia Landscape
I was born and raised here in Tuscany and I know the best wine maker but the key is small wineries with high quality where they will call you by name and not by number.... Private experience for real. My English is quite good which will maximize your experience and that is very important. Also this tour as all of my tour are fully CUSTOMIZABLE..... is your tour..

Price: €220

Min age: 18

Rating 5 / 5 [61 ratings]

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Destination guides

1

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Florence

Tuscany, Italy

Florence

A heady mix of incomparable Renaissance art, gorgeous palazzos, Tuscan cuisine and home-grown haute couture.