Southern Tuscany

Southern Tuscany - Renaissance hilltop towns and classic wines
The Tuscan landscape at its most evocative – rolling hills protected by dramatic hilltop villages, whose very stones reek of medieval power struggles and intrigue. And to assist in the consideration of these issues, two fine red wines, the rich Brunello di Montalcino and the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, with their vineyards at the heart of our walk. From Siena, pass through Montalcino, the Abbey of Sant’ Antimo, Bagno Vignoni and its ancient thermal baths, Pienza and a final walk up from the church of San Biagio to the cathedral at Montepulciano. We recommend extra nights in most places to explore the treasures of these towns as well as to relax and to eat and drink well.
Walked by On Foot staff: Simon, Debbie and Harriet
REVIEWS: For independent walker reviews submitted to the Association of Independent Tour Operators visit Aito.com.
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Tuscany can be very sophisticated and it is sometimes difficult to find an authentic regional dish, though Leonardo at Pieve a Salti thinks differently – “all our food is grown on our farm if at all possible – we have the largest organic farm in the region.  My favourite dishes here are Penne con ragù di Cinta (pork ragout) or Pici with ragù all’aglione (tomato and garlic ragout), Zuppa di farro (spelt soup), Cinghiale in umido (wild boar), Rasato al Brunello (veal with Brunello Wine) – all of which are Tuscan specialities.  And of course you must have some wine – Brunello di Montalcino – the vineyards are just down the road!”
Renaissance hilltop towns and classic wines