Two Great Hikes in Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
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A second hike we like to recommend is in the hills surrounding Pienza. We like to visit a wonderful organic sheep farm called Podere il Casale that specializes in pecorino cheese. They also make wine, grow their own organic vegetables, and run a very successful restaurant.
After a tour of the farm and a hearty lunch featuring their pecorino cheeses and other produce from the farm, we enjoy a great little trek to Pienza. The walk leads us through the farm and down amongst the fertile landscape surrounding the medieval village. Part of the walk follows the Via Francigena, the ancient pilgrimage between France and Rome. In the spring, poppies and wildflowers surround you as farmers tend their fields and work the vines. This hike highlights all the things you think of when you think of Tuscany – winding lanes, tall cypress trees, beautiful villages and lots of grape vines. It’s glorious on a nice day!
The path takes you through a valley pass with some very steep hills to trek up. However, you are rewarded with stunning views of Pienza you will not get any other way. And once you make the final climb into the village, your prize is one of the most beautiful hill towns in all of Tuscany. There are numerous shops to scout out, and several restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a Campari Spritz. The views over the Val d’Orcia from Pienza are amazing!
Pienza Circular Route Hike
The walk is about 4.5 km but if you wanted to make a day of it, start in Pienza and hike to postcard perfect Montichiello. There are several routes you could take to make it a circular route that would be 12-14 km in total. I can’t think of a better place to spend a day than walking under the beautiful Tuscan sun through the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia between the villages of Montichiello and Pienza.
We think the Val d’Orcia is one of the most beautiful spots in Italy. With world-class wines, delicious Tuscan restaurants, and warm friendly people, it is the perfect place to come for a visit. We hope you can join us for a Small Group Tour of Tuscany sometime, or let us create an amazing custom itinerary just for you!
