Val d’Orcia, a valley of rare beauty lying between Siena and Grosseto provinces, is one of Tuscany’s absolutely not to be missed destinations.

Here for you are some of the most captivating places.

SAN QUIRICO D’ORCIA 

We recommend you enter the enchanting hilltop town of San Quirico d’Orcia through the Porta dei Cappuccini gate in the ancient walls, and then stroll along Via Alighieri, where sites to admire include the little Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, the lovely Collegiata dei Santi Quirico e Giulitta and the sixteenth century Horti Leonini gardens. You can then enjoy delicious local dishes at the Trattoria Toscana al Vecchio Forno. Just outside the town walls, do not miss the Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta and take in the view of the circle of cypress trees, so emblematic of Val d’Orcia. 

For overnight stays and relaxation, there is the nearby exclusive Adler Spa Resort Thermae.

MONTALCINO ANDF MONTEPULCIANO, LAND OF GREAT WINES

We are in one of Italy’s most prestigious winegrowing areas. Two not to be missed gems are Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello, and Montepulciano. The best known winery of the former is without doubt Biondi Santi, where this iconic wine was “invented”, while the must see in the village is the Fortezza. In Montepulciano, the Cantina del Redi winery, carved from the rock, and a stone’s throw from Piazza Grande, is more than worthy of a visit, as is the Chiesa di San Biagio, with the nearby Ristorante la Grotta. For a night or two’s stay, and keeping with the wine theme, there is Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, the historic winery’s luxury resort.

VIA FRANCIGENA

An essential experience for lovers of history and nature. A route more than 3,000 kilometres long, which pilgrims from Western Europe, particularly France (hence the name), followed to Rome, and then down to Puglia, from where they would embark for the Holy Land. The last Tuscan stage –  according to the division made by Archbishop Sigerico in 990 A.D. – starts from Radicofani and ends at Acquapendente, in Lazio. Before setting out on the road, visit the majestic Rocca di Radicofani, the hideout of Ghino di Tacco, called the Robin Hood of Val d’Orcia.

For accommodation and relaxation, there is the spectacular Fonteverde resort and spa located just below Radicofani.