Val d’Orcia – Tuscany’s Timeless Countryside
Planning a Stay in Val d’Orcia
Val d’Orcia, in southern Tuscany, is a dreamscape of rolling hills, cypress-lined lanes, and medieval towns. It’s the Tuscany of postcards, but also much more. Planning to stay here for a full week gave us the chance to slow down and connect with the rhythm of the land—something a quick stop would never allow.
We considered Siena and Montepulciano, both excellent towns in their own right, but chose to base ourselves in the heart of the valley. This decision gave us easier access to the smaller hilltop towns such as Montalcino and Pienza—and the countryside that defines the region.
San Quirico d’Orcia – A Perfect Base
San Quirico became our home for the week. Compact and authentic, the town offered narrow streets, a welcoming piazza, and a sense of being part of Tuscany rather than just passing through.
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, San Quirico is a charming medieval town surrounded by rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and golden fields. Once an important stop along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route, its cobbled streets are lined with honey-colored stone buildings, small piazzas, and Romanesque churches that speak to centuries of history.
Unlike some of Tuscany’s busier destinations, San Quirico retains a slower pace and an authentic atmosphere. Wander past gardens, wells, and quiet courtyards, or use it as a base to explore the region’s famous landscapes and nearby hill towns like Pienza and Montalcino. It’s a place where history and scenery meet — timeless, intimate, and quintessentially Tuscan.
The village is incredibly charming - cobblestone streets, walls around the old town, and excellent gelato! It became busier closer to the weekend when the Festa del Barbarossa was held. It was clear the whole town got into the spirit over the full weekend.
For us, what stood out most about San Quirico was its quiet charm and timeless feel.
The Town Itself: Unlike the more tourist-heavy parts of Tuscany, San Quirico felt authentic — narrow streets, old stone churches, wells and courtyards that carry centuries of history.
Atmosphere: It was a place to slow down and notice details — a window framed by shutters, a door wrapped in greenery, the rhythm of village life moving at its own pace.
Contrast to the Countryside: While the surrounding Val d’Orcia dazzled with sweeping hills and iconic chapels, San Quirico gave an intimate counterpoint — the human scale of Tuscany, grounded and historic.
If we were to sum it up: San Quirico felt lived-in and real — a place of stone, history, and everyday beauty, not just postcard views.
Reflection
The Val d’Orcia region felt timeless. Every sunrise, every winding road whispered of centuries past. Here, the camera captured not just landscapes but the essence of a slower, enduring way of life.
FAQs About Val d’Orcia
What is the best town to stay in Val d’Orcia?
San Quirico, Pienza, and Montepulciano are excellent choices. San Quirico offers charm and centrality without the tourist crush.
When is the best time to visit Val d’Orcia?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) bring mild weather, lush fields, or harvest colors.
Do you need a car in Val d’Orcia?
Yes, a car is essential to explore the countryside and reach scenic viewpoints.
Is there a lot to do in the area?
Yes, there is hiking, cycling, history, shopping and wine tours, just to name a few. It’s an amazing region to explore.
Resources
If you’re interested in photography, Kevin at Shutter Safari has created some great photography guides. Highly recommend checking them out!
Next Chapter
From the quiet countryside of Tuscany, we headed north into the canals and crowds of Venice. Read our reflections on Venice →