Tuscany Road Trip Stage 3: Val d'Orcia and Maremma Route

Embarking on a road trip through Tuscany is like stepping into a dream. With its rolling hills, charming medieval villages, and breathtaking landscapes, every twist and turn offers a new adventure waiting to unfold. Join me as we explore the hidden gems of Val d'Orcia and Maremma, where history, nature, and relaxation converge.

On the third day of our Tuscany road trip, we set off early to seize the day. Fueled by a hearty breakfast, we were eager to discover the beauty that awaited us on the journey from Montepulciano to Sorano. This route promised stunning vistas, natural hot springs, and enchanting towns perched high above the valleys. Are you ready to dive into this captivating experience? Let’s go!

Exploring the Scenic Route from Montepulciano to Sorano

The stretch between Montepulciano and Castiglione d'Orcia showcases some of the most picturesque landscapes in Tuscany. Imagine golden fields dotted with vibrant wildflowers, quaint farmhouses atop hills, and winding paths lined with cypress trees. These iconic sights are what make Tuscany so enchanting. And while words can only do so much, let’s highlight some key stops along our route.

1. Discover the Charm of Bagno Vignoni

We bypassed Monticchiello and arrived at Bagno Vignoni, a tiny medieval village renowned for its thermal waters. At the heart of the village lies the Piazza delle Sorgenti, a square-shaped pool that has been a source of thermal water for over five centuries. Although swimming isn’t allowed, the ambiance is mesmerizing, making it well worth a visit. Don’t forget your swimsuit; a delightful surprise awaits!

Bagno Vignoni has been famous for its healing waters since Etruscan times. Its strategic location along the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route to Rome, made it a popular stop for weary travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

2. The Historic Via Francigena

The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route that once connected Central Europe to Rome, akin to the famous Camino de Santiago. This route flourished in the Middle Ages and continues to attract hikers and pilgrims today. The path is dotted with signs of cultural exchange and heritage from various regions of Europe.

3. Explore the Fortress of Castiglione d'Orcia

Just a short distance away lies Castiglione d'Orcia, known for its formidable Rocca di Tentennano. This historic fortress played a pivotal role in territorial disputes among powerful families. If you find yourself in the area during breakfast hours, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views.

4. Relax at Terme Libere di San Filippo

One of the highlights of our trip was undoubtedly the Terme Libere di San Filippo. These natural thermal springs create inviting pools where visitors can soak freely. The standout feature here is the breathtaking Balena Bianca waterfall, which cascades down white limestone, sculpted by time and mineral-rich waters. Don’t shy away from climbing the rocks—people of all ages do it for the incredible experience!

Just a note: these thermal springs are free to enter, but there are also paid spa facilities nearby. Be sure to explore the natural pools for an authentic experience.

5. Visit the Hilltop Town of Radicofani

Continuing our journey, we passed through Radicofani, another medieval village perched on a hill, which offers intriguing sights and a warm welcome to travelers. Here, we waved farewell to Val d'Orcia as we prepared to enter the region of Maremma. Our next stop was one of those places that promise to leave a lasting impression: Pitigliano.

6. The Enigmatic Pitigliano

Known as The Little Jerusalem, Pitigliano is steeped in history, particularly due to its longstanding Jewish community. Visitors can explore the old Jewish ghetto and synagogue nestled within the historical center. However, what truly captivates is Pitigliano's dramatic setting on a tuff cliff, creating an extraordinary visual spectacle as if the town is hewn from the very rock itself.

Wandering through the narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, as they whisper stories of feuds between powerful families like the Medici and the Orsini. The architectural highlights include the Duomo, several churches, and the majestic Palazzo Orsini.

7. The Hidden Gem of Sorano

Finally, we arrived at our favorite discovery of the trip—Sorano. Often referred to as The Matera of Tuscany, this enchanting town is famous for its rock-carved structures that echo the ancient settlements of the Etruscans. Unlike other Tuscan towns, Sorano’s layout is unique, sprawling down from the fortress to the river Lente, offering a labyrinth of narrow streets to explore.

The history of Sorano is intertwined with that of Pitigliano and the Florentine families, but its roots trace back to the Etruscans. One of the most remarkable features here are the vie cave, ancient rock-cut pathways that connected settlements to necropolises, regarded as sacred trails. These paths are not only historical but also present stunning hiking opportunities.

On the hike to the Parco di San Rocco, you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas and the remnants of ancient caves. The trek itself takes about 20-25 minutes and is well worth the effort for the panoramic views at the summit.

The compact historic center of Sorano also boasts various fascinating buildings, including the Masso Leopoldino, the Jewish ghetto, and the mighty Fortress Orsini. Consider spending a night here; the views at sunset from your room can be unforgettable.

Interactive Map of the Day's Journey

Check out this interactive map showcasing our route for the day:

Essential Information for Travelers

› Highlights Along the Route:

• Montepulciano
• Monticchiello
• Bagno Vignoni
• Castiglione d'Orcia
• Terme Libere di San Filippo
• Radicofani
• Pitigliano
• Sorano

› Distance Covered:

Approximately 125 km.

› How to Reach Terme Libere di San Filippo:

Look for signs along the road leading to the springs. After arriving in the village, parking is available at the end of the main road. Follow the path to the left, marked "Fosso Bianco," which leads down to the thermal pools. The entry is free, so be sure to explore the entire area!

› Trail to Parco San Rocco:

The trail begins by crossing the Porta dei Merli in the lower part of the village. Follow the path and look for signs indicating "Vie Cave." This hike leads you up through the ancient rock-cut paths, featuring intriguing caves along the way. You can expect to spend around 20-25 minutes to reach the scenic overlook.

› Where to Park for Free in Pitigliano:

The town has a modern area with free parking options, but the historical center has restricted traffic. We initially parked in a blue zone but later found free spaces just before the cemetery on the left curve.

› Where to Park for Free in Sorano:

There are ample free parking spaces next to the fortress. Once parked, you can walk through the fortress to access the historic center.

› Dining Options in Sorano:

Dining options are limited but satisfying. We enjoyed a meal at Fidalma Restaurant in the historic center, which offers reasonably priced dishes. For a quick bite, Il Talismano has delicious pizzas available for takeaway.

› Where to Stay in Sorano:

We had the pleasure of staying overnight at the Hotel della Fortezza, located within the historic fortress. The views of the village from our room were breathtaking and truly made for an extraordinary experience.

If you are planning to explore Tuscany, immerse yourself in its beauty and history. Make sure to rise early to capture every moment of this unforgettable journey!

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