Day Trips
The Val d’Orcia
South of Villa Cetinale lies the Val d’Orcia, one of Italy’s most celebrated landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, farmhouses and hilltop towns have come to define the image many visitors have of Tuscany.
The valley is best explored slowly, with time to stop in its small towns and take in the landscape between them. Pienza is known for its Renaissance architecture, views across the valley and pecorino cheese. San Quirico d’Orcia has a handsome historic centre and the Horti Leonini gardens, while Bagno Vignoni is built around ancient thermal waters, with a large stone pool at the centre of the village.
The area is particularly rewarding for scenic drives, photography and long lunches, with wide views across farmland, vineyards and olive groves. It also combines well with a visit to La Foce, a wine tasting in Montepulciano or Montalcino, or a stop at one of the smaller villages along the route.
For guests wanting a fuller day out, the Val d’Orcia offers an easy balance of landscape, food, architecture and wine without needing a fixed itinerary. It is one of the best areas in Tuscany for simply following the road, stopping when something catches your eye, and allowing the day to unfold at a slower pace.
For suggested routes, restaurant recommendations and points of interest, the house manager will be happy to assist.
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