Day Trips and Excursions :: PIENZA AND MONTALCINO

PIENZA AND MONTALCINO
In Search of the Perfect City and the Perfect Wine

Discover the beautiful and varied scenery of the little-known Val d’Orcia en route by private de luxe vehicle with English-speaking driver to the perfect Renaissance city of Pienza. Birthplace of the brilliant and cultured Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who would take the Papal throne as Pius II, Pienza enjoyed the patronage of this extraordinary figure who dreamt of building a perfect utopian city according to the ideals of the Renaissance. Master architect, Il Rossellino, was commissioned for the project which resulted in the transformation of the former village with a magnificent public square and elegant structures. In the company of an expert local guide, visit the Duomo and imposing Palazzo Piccolomini with its delightful gardens. Have time to wander the delightful Via dell’Amore and find the perfect trattoria for lunch.
In the afternoon, proceed to the Romanesque jewel of Sant’Antimo where Benedictine monks continue to live, as they have for hundreds of years, according to the Regola. With some luck, you may hear them sing their breviary in Gregorian chant.
Later continue to Montalcino – a delightful hill-top village known around the world for the quality of its wine – Brunello – held by many to be Italy’s finest red. Decide for yourself in a special tasting held in the historic wine canteen of the ancient fortress.