We arrived in TUSCANY'S most stunning area! (it's like a movie set!)
Exploring Tuscany's Most Stunning Area: Montepulciano, Montalcino & Scenic Views
Tuscany is a dream destination that feels straight out of a movie set. Join us as we explore the most stunning areas in Tuscany, where every view seems more beautiful than the last. From the rolling hills of Montepulciano to the charming streets of Montalcino, this region is the epitome of Italian beauty.
Arrival in Montepulciano: Our journey begins in Montepulciano, a small town known for its picturesque views and historic charm. As we parked our car at the edge of the historic centre, we were immediately greeted with that classic Tuscan backdrop—rolling hills, cypress trees, and sun-drenched stone buildings. The town was quiet and peaceful, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Venice and Florence.
We wandered through the narrow streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this enchanting town. After a short walk, we found ourselves at a cozy restaurant called Borgo Buio. Here, we indulged in some of the best pasta we've ever had. Laura ordered pici with truffle, a traditional Tuscan pasta that's thicker than spaghetti, while Horia went for trofie with a Tuscan pork ragù (Cinta Senese). Both dishes were absolutely delicious, accompanied by some excellent local wine.
Wine Tasting at De' Ricci Winery: No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a wine tasting, and De' Ricci Winery in Montepulciano did not disappoint. The winery is housed in an ancient cellar with a unique atmosphere that feels both historic and intimate. We were fortunate enough to snag the last two spots for the day's final tour, and the experience was unforgettable. From rich reds to refreshing whites, every sip was a testament to Tuscany's reputation as a wine lover's paradise.
Sunset Views at Palazzo Ricci: As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Palazzo Ricci for a sunset view that left us speechless. The golden light bathed the hills in a warm glow, making the entire landscape look like a painting. This was, without a doubt, the highlight of our trip so far—an unmissable experience that truly captures the essence of Tuscany.
Exploring Montalcino and Capanna Winery: The next day, we travelled to Montalcino, another charming town famous for its Brunello wine. We stopped for lunch at a restaurant with rave reviews and were not disappointed. The lasagna here was hands down the best we've ever had—rich, flavourful, and perfectly cooked. Afterward, we visited Capanna Winery, one of the oldest vineyards in the region, for another round of wine tasting. With stunning views of the vineyards and a castle perched on a nearby hill, this was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Tuscany.
A Movie-Worthy Landscape – Gladiator Shooting Spot: For movie buffs, our next stop was a must-see. We visited the iconic filming location from the movie Gladiator, where Maximus walks through the fields of Elysium. The landscape here is nothing short of breathtaking, with rolling hills that seem to stretch on forever. It's easy to see why this spot was chosen for such an emotional scene—it's truly one of the most beautiful places we've ever visited.
A Culinary Delight in Pienza: Our final destination was Pienza, a town famous for its pecorino cheese and stunning views. We strolled through the town's charming streets, which were filled with the scents of Parmesan and pecorino, and settled down at a restaurant with one of the most beautiful settings we've ever seen. It was the perfect way to end our culinary adventure in Tuscany.
But the day wasn’t over just yet.
After finishing our meal, we made our way to Tempio di San Biagio to catch one last sunset in Tuscany. The church, nestled in the countryside just outside Montepulciano, provided the perfect backdrop for a peaceful and breathtaking end to the day. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the golden light bathed the rolling hills and cypress trees in a warm glow, creating an unforgettable moment.
The tranquillity of this spot, combined with the stunning scenery, made it one of the most magical experiences of our trip. As we stood there, soaking in the beauty of the Tuscan landscape, we knew this was a place we would always remember.
Final Thoughts
Our three days in Tuscany were nothing short of magical. From the food and wine to the stunning views, every moment was a highlight. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy or just dreaming of your next getaway, Tuscany should be at the top of your list. We hope this vlog gives you some inspiration for your next adventure, and we can't wait to share more of our travels with you.