A green paradise calm awaits you in the Val d’Orcia—a distinctive rural landscape located in the Siena province of central Tuscany.
Stretching from Siena to Monte Amiata, an ancient volcano and lava dome, Val d’Orcia showcases some of the best landscapes in Tuscany. It is characterised by rolling hills, luscious olive groves and dusty winding roads framed by cypress trees which inspired Renaissance agricultural landscapes. The Orcia River, from which the region derives its name, also runs through its gentle hills.
Dating back to the 13th century, the origin of the Val d’Orcia region is largely tied to Siena’s expansion, the Renaissance period, and the rise of agricultural farming in the region. Today, it stands as one of the country’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, Val d’Orcia is one of Italy’s main agricultural hubs.
Sheep roam the countryside and have been reared in open pasture fields for decades, enabling the production of sheep’s milk and the Tuscan-born Pecorino Toscano DOP.
Grapes and olives are further fruits of the Val d’Orcia. The region is flowered with traditional Tuscan vineyards, including those of the Sangiovese and Trebbiano grape varieties.
Sitting atop a 500m high hill, Poggio al Vento is famous for its organic grapes and far-reaching views across the region. Meanwhile, Tenuta Sanoner is another beautiful winery offering fascinating educational tours and tastings.
In Autumn, seasonal mushrooms, chestnuts, and truffles are gathered from fertile forests to be sold as local produce. These forest-foraged ingredients also take pride of place in food festivals across the region, such as the “Sagra del Fungo e della Castagna” event in October.
Towns in the Val d’Orcia
Enchanting, age-old towns are not hard to come by in this rural region of Tuscany. With their quaint, cobbled streets, fortified walls, castles, and cathedrals, many of the medieval villages in the Val d’Orcia will transport you back in time.
The tiny hilltop village of Pienza—known as the “ideal city” of the Renaissance—is one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany. Visitors can marvel at architecture dating back to the 15th century, including the magnificent Piccolomini Palace. This ancient structure once functioned as Pope Pius II’s summer residence, and you may recognise it from Franco Zeffirelli’s famous Romeo and Juliet.
Once the site of the medieval village, Osenna, San Quirico d’Orcia boasts a rich and marvellous history. Expect fortified walls and Romanesque churches. Its magical Italian Renaissance garden also hosts a contemporary sculpture exhibition every year.
Bagno Vignoni makes for another delightful day trip. The beautiful spa town is famous for its hot springs, and in the central piazza, you’ll find a pool of thermal water dating back to Etruscan times and heated by the nearby Mount Amiata volcano.
Travellers in this region of central Italy often gravitate to well-known destinations like Florence and Pisa. And while these cities certainly have their merit, the Val d’Orcia region is not to be missed.
From rolling landscapes and enthralling wine trails to medieval villages and age-old architecture, there is something to captivate every traveller. For a truly unforgettable trip to Tuscany, the Val d’Orcia awaits.
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