Located in the Italian region of Tuscany is the stunning Val d’Orcia, or Orcia Valley. Since 2004, this area has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and with its gentle rolling hills, miles of vineyards and historic little villages, it’s not difficult to see why it has been given such a prestigious title. As well as a host of beautiful towns and villages, this particular area of Tuscany is also home to the grapes which produce one of Italy’s most famous and prestigious wines: the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. Come and explore this wonderful part of Tuscany, and see for yourself what all the fuss is about…
The Val d’Orcia has been described as Brunello Territory, and Brunello wine has been produced here since the fourteenth century. This wine, which is bright garnet in colour, only gets better with age. Due to the warm and pleasant climate, this area is perfect for growing the Sangiovese grape variety, and the medieval hilltop settlement of Montalcino has its slopes full of these grapevines.
This particular town, as well as being famous for its wine association, is also historically significant, as it has been inhabited since Etruscan times. In fact, the whole Val d’Orcia is steeped in Etruscan history. Montalcino is also home to fascinating medieval walls and authentic Sienese architecture. Here, you can also find around 200 winemakers, most of whom have small, family run estates. Why not explore this stunning area with a wine tour, and get the best of the beautiful landscape and the delicious wine? Try Scenic Wine Tours in Tuscany for wine tasting in the Val d’Orcia, a tour of a winery and a tasty lunch, or Tours in Tuscany, who specialise in both guided and self-guided visits to wineries.
In the picturesque Val d’Orcia countryside you will also find the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, which looms grandly in its green and peaceful surroundings. This wonderful site is said to date back as far as 781, but the present structure is from the twelfth century. It was and still is a powerful Benedictine centre and an active monastery, where you can listen to the monks chanting, and enjoy the incredibly peaceful atmosphere.
And finally, there’s also Pienza; birthplace of Pope Pius II. This is one of the best planned and indeed best loved Renaissance towns in Italy, and is truly a wonder to behold. In fact, this town was given a UNESCO World Heritage title even before the Val d’Orcia itself, back in 1996. Make sure you pay a visit to the dominating Duomo, which boasts one of the earliest Renaissance facades.
Whether it’s wine, culturally significant towns or stunning scenery that you’re after, the Val d’Orcia has it all. We have plenty of villas available in and around the area, so take a look at our selection now.