Walk from the medieval powerhouse of Siena, across the UNESCO protected Val d’Orcia region, to the elegant hilltop town of Montepulciano. South of Siena follow sections of the ancient pilgrim’s path, via Francigena, deep into a landscape of soft rolling hills and avenues of towering cypress trees. Explore the 16th-century wine town of Montalcino, renowned for its precious Brunello wine and enjoy the Roman way of life, soaking in the hot springs of Bagno Vignoni.
Ramble through chestnut groves, vineyards and across classic Tuscan landscapes. Visit the hilltop hamlets of Castelnuovo dell’Abate and Monticchiello and if you’re lucky, you may hear the mesmerizing Gregorian chants at the Abbey of Sant’Antimo. Finishing off with 2 nights in Montepulciano allows ample time to explore the charming streets and Renaissance architecture of Montepulciano.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk from Siena, through Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia region to Montepulciano
- Hangout in the glorious ‘Piazza del Campo’ in Siena
- Sample the award-winning Brunello wines of Montalcino
- Soak in the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni
- Visit medieval abbeys, hilltop towers and Romanesque churches
- Explore the Renaissance town of Montepulciano
- Spend each night in classic Tuscan townhouses or rural hotels
Richard Y
The notes were comprehensive and mostly accurate. The accommodation choices were excellent – lovely, characterful places – and the luggage transfer was seamless throughout, which helped a great deal. So good to arrive at your accommodation and know that there are dry clothes waiting! I also greatly appreciated the provision of support materials such as maps and GPS routes, and emergency phone numbers. I did use some of these extras and they gave me considerable peace of mind.