You'd be hard pressed to describe a more perfect day trip than ours today—it's an easy drive to our stops in Montepulciano, Pienza and the Val d’Orcia. The road and scenery between Montepulciano and Pienza is some of the most beautiful in Europe – so much so that the countryside is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.   

Our first stop will be in Montepulciano, a magical medieval walled city, originally founded by the Etruscans, with car-free winding streets, glorious panoramic views, great shopping, and lively cafés where you can sample the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.  We will have our trusty sommelier with us who will help navigate the wine list and teach us the expressions of this prized dark red vintage during our gastronomic lunch.

Just a short drive away though the magnificent countryside, arrive in Pienza (a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right) to admire this ‘ideal’ city designed for a Pope. Pienza is a perfect example of sophisticated Renaissance urban planning, organized according to the era’s ideals of rationality and humanism, and with fabulous views, boutique shopping and tiny streets that (literally) smell of its famous Pecorino cheese.  After a brief orientation, explore the small city center on your own and dip into the traditional artisan shops and spectacular views.

Gargonza awaits.  We will be back “home” in time for dinner.

GARGONZA (B, L, D)