VAL D'ORCIA - IN - BRIEF

Val d'Orcia is located in the heart of Tuscany, south of Siena. It is a land of rolling hills, soil and clay, a land of old stone country houses and lovely, intact medieval villages which still overlook and guard the surrounding territory.

It is an area characterized by gently-rolling hills. Extensive agricultural areas, pastureland, oak woods and long rows of cypresses mark the roads leading to old country houses perched on top of the hills. Parish churches and farmhouses scattered everywhere, small settlements of great historical and cultural value. The area is home to a park, the Val d'Orcia Artistic, Natural and Cultural Park.

Between Siena and Montepulciano we find the Crete Senesi, a fascinating, earthy yet lunar landscape.

Things to See
Isolated parish churches, among which the S. Antimo Abbey, 10 km from Montalcino. Pienza with its old buildings, beautiful cathedral and museums. Municipal and sacred art museums in various towns. Etruscan settlements at Chiusi. Towers and castles scattered over the whole territory.

Wines
Val d'Orcia has a long wine-growing tradition. Among the most highly-prized wines: Vino Nobile and Rosso di Montepulciano, but above all Brunello di Montalcino, one of the world's most prestigious labels. High-quality olive oil. 

Typical Dishes and Products
The cuisine is based prevalently on agricultural products. Among typical ones: bread-based hors-d'oeuvres, ribollita and various other soups, pici, broad noodles with hare sauce, Florentine T-bone steak and various grilled meats.

What to Do: Activities and Excursions
Spas all over the area. Excursions and hiking. Tours in hot-air balloons. Canoeing, photo safaris, birdwatching. Italian language and culture courses for foreigners.

Special Events
Fairs and festivals featuring wine and local products. Barbarossa Festival at S. Quirico d'Orcia, with a historical procession.

Transportation
Val d'Orcia is well-linked to Siena by coach and train.