Tuscany, Val d Orcia
South of Siena lies a remote valley full of surprises, with rolling landscapes, a renaissance 'new town', ancient spas and, most amazingly of all, little sign of tourism. Today, the Val D'Orcia is a destination in itself, and its expansive, sweeping landscape is wildly compelling. Once dry and barren it has been transformed over the centuries into one of the most productive and beautiful regions in the world, dotted with small villages, parish churches, villas and castles, separated by a patchwork of vineyards, orchards, pastures and fields. Travellers will recall photos of country roads through rolling hills lined with pencil cyprus trees - these are exclusively photos of this lovely area.
Why South Tuscany- Relaxing countryside away from the crowds
- Stunning landscapes with unlimited walking
- Outstanding accommodation at reasonable prices
- Thermal springs
Description The hills of Val d'Orcia are rich with deposits of sand and clay and have over 5 million years of archaeological history. With medieval hill towns, relaxing hot springs and silver olive groves, the variety of the Val D’Orcia makes it an ideal destination for a Tuscan holiday. You can sample the world-famous wine Brunello di Montalcino wine along the cobblestone streets of its namesake village, relax in the therapeutic sulfurous baths in Bagno Vignoni or peruse the original Renaissance frescoes of a local monastery within a short period.
The valley’s natural beauty is suitable for a country vacation during all seasons, from the striking colors of autumn to the spectacle of flora and fauna in the spring. While visiting the Val D’Orcia you’ll want to take advantage of the scenery by hiking, cycling or even enjoying a hot air balloon ride at sunset. Staying in the Orcia Valley assures contact with Tuscany’s natural treasures, and above all a serenity that city life prohibits.
Much of the valley is part of a large park system known as the Artistic Natural and Cultural Park of Val d'Orcia, consisting of five distinct areas (Pienza, Castiglione d'Orcia, Montalcino, Radicofani and San Quirico d'Orcia). A beautiful area south of Siena, South Tuscany offers the quintessential Tuscan landscape, home to beautiful hill top towns, world heritage natural parks and patchwork farms.
Things to do in South Tuscany (coming soon)
Locality Links
Palazzone
Close to the freeway and the beautiful towns in Val d'Orcia
San Casciano dei Bagni
Thermal spa centre in the beautiful Val d'Orcia
Celle sul Rigo
A hilltop village with character and panoramic views
Montepulciano
San Quirico d'Orcia
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