Private day tour with your personal driver from Siena to Cortona and Montepulciano crossing the scenic Orcia Valley to experience the excellent wines of this area visiting premium wineries producing Sirah and Nobile di Montepulciano with time at leisure to visit the medieval town on Montepulciano.
Private day tour from Siena through the Val d'Orcia to taste Sirah wines and Nobile di Montepulciano wines and free time to discover the medieval villages of Montepulciano where to have lunch in one of the many good restaurants serving traditional local specialties (to be paid in site).
With your private driver from the lobby of your hotel in Siena crossing the Crete Senesi south of Siena, reach the Valdichiana where the hill towns of Cortona and Montepulciano face each other to discover their excellent wines.
The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a ruby full-bodied red, made primarily from a Sangiovese grape varietal locally called Prugnolo Gentile produced in the Montepulciano area that you will experience in a local premium vinery togheter with a visit of the cellars.
The town of Montepulciano whose origins dates back to an ancient Etruscan settlement, was turned in to a fortified village in the Middle Ages and encircled by walls and fortifications designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder in 1511 during the Medici rule.
In the historical centre there are rest of roman elements, medieval architecture and Renaissance noble buildings: the elegant Palazzo de' Nobili-Tauragi, the austere Palazzo Comunale and the stunning Renaissance Church San Biagio are a must to see.
The Sirah is a dark-skinned grape variety originates from the Rhone Valley which has adapted well to warm, bright and dry environments of the Cortona area. Visit of a premium winery with tasting a at least 4 of their excellent wines includind Sirah.
Cortona is a well preserved ancient and charming hill town, dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, which has recently become very popular thanks to the book and film “Under the Tuscan Sun”. The Etruscan Museum in the medieval city center of Cortona preserves the tracks of the Etruscan presence in the area.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Private driving tour from Siena
- Time at leisure to visit the town of Montepulciano
- Cortona winery visit with tastings of Sirah wines
- Montepulciano winery visit with tasting of Nobile di Montepulciano wines
DETAILS
Duration:
10 hours
Start Time Private Tour:
Morning
Meeting Point:
At the lobby of your Hotel in Siena centre.
If your hotel is not in the center of Siena, ask us for a personalized quote.
Price include:
- Private Mercedes E series car (for your party from 1 to 2 persons)
- Private Mercedes Minivan (for your party from 3 to 6 persons)
- Professional English speaking driver.
- Montepulciano winery visit with wine tastings (at least 5 wines coupled with cold cuts or cheese)
- Cortona winery visit with wine tastings (at least 5 wines coupled with cold cuts or cheese)
Price do not include:
- Gratuities (optional),
- Admission fees to churches and museums
- Meals and beverage
On Request:
- Rates for more of 6 people.
F.A.Q.
- Why is Val d Orcia a UNESCO site?
Val d'Orcia, located in Tuscany, Italy, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Several factors contribute to its UNESCO status:
1. Cultural Landscape: Val d'Orcia is renowned for its exceptional cultural landscape, which is characterized by rolling hills, cypress trees, vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque medieval towns and villages. The harmonious integration of human activity with the natural environment reflects centuries of agricultural practices and land management.
2. Agricultural Heritage: The agricultural landscape of Val d'Orcia has been shaped by traditional farming practices, including terracing, crop rotation, and irrigation systems, which have been in place since the Middle Ages. These practices have not only sustained agricultural productivity but have also contributed to the region's unique visual and cultural identity.
3. Historic Villages: Val d'Orcia is home to several well-preserved medieval towns and villages, such as Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and San Quirico d'Orcia, which showcase outstanding examples of Renaissance architecture and urban planning. These settlements have retained their historic character and cultural significance over the centuries, serving as centers of art, culture, and commerce.
4. Artistic and Literary Connections: Val d'Orcia has inspired numerous artists, writers, and poets over the centuries, including Renaissance painters like Pietro Lorenzetti and writers like Dante Alighieri and Boccaccio. The region's breathtaking landscapes and tranquil atmosphere have been immortalized in countless works of art and literature, contributing to its cultural significance.
5. Conservation Efforts: The designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has helped to raise awareness about the importance of conserving Val d'Orcia's cultural and natural heritage. Efforts to preserve traditional agricultural practices, protect historic sites, and promote sustainable tourism have been undertaken to ensure the long-term preservation of the region's outstanding universal value.
Overall, Val d'Orcia's UNESCO status recognizes its exceptional cultural landscape, rich agricultural heritage, historic towns and villages, artistic connections, and conservation efforts, making it a deserving addition to the list of World Heritage Sites.