Hills outlined by the endless rows of cypress trees, majestic castles, thermal spa towns, tiny Medieval villages surrounded by olive groves, wine cellars that hold the valuable oak and chestnut casks where the famous Brunello di Montalcino ages. This is the Val d’Orcia, one of the most precious jewels in the Siena area.

Montalcino

This beautiful village stands on the top of a hill that is almost entirely covered in vineyards: the area is in fact famous for the production of the super tuscan Brunello di Montalcino wine. The village is a pretty destination, not just for wine lovers, but also for art and architecture enthusiasts. The old center of Montalcino is a perfect example of Medieval Siena architecture, with its ancient walls, Palazzo dei Priori and the wonderful Rocca fortress, built around the 14th century.

Pienza

Pienza was declared Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO and is considered to be the “symbol city” of the Italian Renaissance, thanks to the work by Enea Silvio Piccolomini who had the wonderful civil and religious buildings such as the Assunta Cathedral, the majestic Palazzo Piccolomini, from where there is a wonderful view over the whole of the Val d’Orcia, the Bishop’s Palace and the Municipal Palace, built in the mid 15th century. Pecorino di Pienza, a typical cheese that you must try with walnuts and pears, is also worth a mention of its own.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a charming village known as the “pearl of the 16th century” due to the wonderful Renaissance buildings that can be seen in the old village center. The splendid Piazza Grande is completely surrounded by opulent buildings such as Palazzo Pubblico. Montepulciano is also famous for the production of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.