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The Val d'Orcia in Tuscany is a region of agritourism par excellence and is a must if you are visiting Tuscany with your family or friends. Combining breathtaking views of the landscapes of the province of Siena - including hot springs, cypress trees, picturesque towns, medieval castles and ancient abbeys - with friendly people and the delicious flavors of the region, our selection of 5 typical villages of the Val d'Orcia, Tuscany offers a wonderful insight into central Italy, where nature blends with rich history. Often victims of their own success, these villages which are dotted throughout route of the Orcia River can become overrun by tourists all eager to see Tuscany's stunning beauty for themselves. If you come during the high season, we recommend coming early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds.
A magnificent Renaissance village classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this village in the heart of Italy's Val d'Orcia is a rare example of a completed città ideale (ideal city), and one of the best towns in the Val d'Orcia. Formerly known as Corsignano, the town was transformed at the end of the 15th Century thanks to the work of Pope Pio II, who wished to transform his native town into a utopian city. He commissioned the architect Bernardo Rossellino to create a city where the inhabitants would live in communion with nature, in keeping with the architectural ideals of the time. Stroll through the historic centre, admire the Duomo and Piazza Pio II alongside the breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside, at no extra cost. Pienza's central location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the villages of the Val d'Orcia, as well as one of th ebest places in the Val d'Orcia.
Don't leave town without visiting one of the many grocery shops where you can taste the area's Pecorino cheese, a delicious sheep's milk cheese. A favourite with everyone, whether accompanied by Italian acacia honey or jam!
Not far from Pienza, this small typical Tuscan village is less known than its neighbor. Between long rows of cypress trees, fields as far as the eye can see, long dirt roads and traditional houses tucked away behind its walls, San Quirico will seduce you. You can admire the collegiata (church) Pieve dei Santi Quirico e Giulitta, the Ospedale di Santa Maria della Scala and the Palaces of Chigi Zondadari. Another remarkable place is the Horti Leonini park, a perfect example of an Italian-style garden - one of the best places to visit on any trip to Tuscany.
A Must: Rent a bike and go for a ride to the Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta, an iconic chapel located outside the city and surrounded by two cypress trees. The city, very much invested in "slow tourism", has just installed in its high-tech centre benches equipped with Wifi and plugs to charge all kinds of electric bikes. The Val d'Orcia Outdoor application provides information on nearby parking lots and routes around the village.
Bagno Vignoni is a charming little medieval village, located on a picturesque hill five minutes from San Quirico d'Orcia, in the heart of the Orcia Valley, just south of Siena. The unique feature of Bagno Vignoni: its beautiful rectangular Renaissance pool, measuring 49 by 29 metres, in the main square of the village.
Since Roman times, its hot springs reach a temperature of 52 degrees and have therapeutic properties for skin and bones, rheumatism, and respiratory diseases.
For an enchanting experience apart, dive into the warm waters of the hot springs of the Parco dei Mulini. The whiteness of the limestone bed of the pool shows off the transparency of the crystalline water. To get there, just leave the village of Bagno Vignoni, turn right, drive a few metres and you'll see it.
Montepulciano is located about 60 km south of Siena, on top of a hill that stands at 600 metres high, and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Tuscan countryside. Discover the Piazza Grande, surrounded by sumptuous palaces and the church of San Biagio, a jewel of Renaissance architecture. The latter is located slightly outside the city, in the countryside.
Don't miss: take a detour to the Avignonesi winery and sample the famous Vino Nobile of Montepulciano, accompanied by Cinta Senese, a Tuscan sausage. Guided tours and wine tasting are available from 20€ per person.
Before crossing the stone wall that has surrounded the village of Monticchiello since the Middle Ages, stop at the Belvedere for a magnificent view of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Small and easy to explore, this village is not without its charm. The main historical monument is the 13th-century church of Santi Leonardo and Christoforo: take the time to walk around a true time capsule from the Middle Ages and admire its ancient frescoes.
Don't miss: enjoy a plate of risotto at sunset on the terrace of the restaurant La Porta - the best way to take in the spectacular view.
>>> Discover our selection of villas in Val d'Orcia, Italy
We propose to organize your stay through unique experiences, in order to make your vacation in Tuscany unforgettable. Our staff offers advice on local activities and are always available to help you organize and tailor your ideal stay.
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