COUNTRYSIDE TRIPS
Val d’Orcia is UNESCO heritage not only for its medieval history but also for its natural beauty. There are many hidden spots that are best reached on foot, bicycle or by car through many white roads that wind through the rolling hills of the countryside. We have selected few remarkable spots that we like visiting from time to time. For more tips how to explore Val d'Orcia park, click the link here: https://www.parcodellavaldorcia.com/en/
La Foce stands for an area just 4 kilometres from Chiancianello, containing historical hamlet with traditional Italian gardens and picturesque winding road. Established in the 1920ties by Origo family, it was instrumental in turning large part of the valley into arable land. It provided farmers with the equipment in coop form, run a school and small hospital for the area. During WWII it was anchor point for all people to survive.
Today, the formal gardens are well maintained and worth visiting throughout the spring and summer. You can get there by asphalt road direction to Chianciano Terme or by white road (see bike trip "Around la Foce"
Amongst the colourful rolling hills of Val d'Orcia lies a charming little house of praise called the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta. One of the most photographed churches in Tuscany, this mystical building used to be the home of a Renaissance statue of the Madonna sculpted by the artist, Andrea della Robbia in 1590. With poppy-dotted fields around, this spectacular tourist attraction was restored in 1984 and is becoming a destination for many hikes in the valley. Best way to explore the chapel is on a bike early in the morning, see our bike trip Pienza II.
Monte Amiata (1740 meters above sea level) dominates Val d'Orcia with its volcanic, cone-shaped skyline. Collecting the western winds and clouds from the sea, it rules the skies of Val d'Orcia, limiting actual rainfall in its shade. Underground, it is still an active geothermal area, providing source for multiple springs and baths. On the ground, it is a forested hiking destination for tourists from all around.
We also recommend hiking it in summer as temperatures are easily 10 degrees lower than in the valley. There are numerous hikes around the mountain, from easy to long ones, but views from the top are really rewarding. Additionally, there is a beautiful iron-wrought structure a la Eiffel Tower at the peak. In fall, one can also find edible chestnuts or collect mushrooms (permit needed) while enjoying the colours of the forest.
In our view this is the best part of Tuscany - naturally undulated hills, winding white roads lined with cypress trees, fields covered by red poppies, yellow sunflowers, golden wheat or just bales of hay. No wonder this is a UNESCO protected area for its artistic and natural beauty. And no wonder it provided captivating backdrop for many great movies - Gladiator, English Patient, Under the Tuscan Sun, etc.
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The best way to explore is on foot to immense yourself in the beauty and absorb every detail at your own pace. There are many beautiful walks and whichever route you take, you will not be disappointed. The scenery provides for excellent photo shooting - standalone tree on a hill, winding cypress road or cypress formations, hilltop farms. Or just playful picture of the shades when the sun is low over the fields. We will be more than happy to share our favourite spots if you ask.
Based on the tip from one of our clients we ventured to an unmarked natural cascades, only known by the locals. What we found was a series of natural pools and cascades in the canyon of granite rocks. It is about 45 min drive from our Agriturismo but well worth it. In the heat of the summer- when temperatures rise to 40 C - it's a great alternative to the pool. One can refresh in a cold pristine water or jump of the cliffs 2-3 m high for a bit of adrenaline. Getting there requires some driving through winding steep white roads as it is secluded in the forests of Monte Amiata close to Seggiano village (btw. famous for its olive oil). GPS coordinates are N42,915440 E11,527537, from the parking it is only 5 min walk.
Just about 3 kilometres from Montepulciano (when driving to Pienza, take left right after the gas station) is a beautifully manicured garden belonging to villa Treci. While it is a private property, it is open for public upon reservation. The owners also run couple of restaurants, enoteca and art gallery in Montepulciano and have been very nice to us over the years.
