Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Discovering Tuscany's Hidden Gem

Tuscan Dreams Realized: A Day of Beauty and History

Today was everything I imagined a day in Tuscany to be and more. From tranquil gardens to ancient abbeys and breathtaking views from a medieval tower, every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. Tuscany has a way of captivating your senses, and today was a full immersion into its beauty and history.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Poliziano. Sipping on a cappuccino while overlooking the rolling hills of Montepulciano is an experience I'll cherish forever. The café itself is a beautiful space, blending tradition and modernity. It’s easy to see why it’s been a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike for over 150 years. As I enjoyed my cornetto, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with Thomas and Leela.

After breakfast, we set off to Parco Villa Trecci. This garden, just a short drive from Montepulciano, is a true oasis of serenity. Created by landscape architect Adelmo Barlesi, it's a celebration of nature and sustainable design. As we strolled through the grounds, Leela was particularly fascinated by the diverse array of plants and flowers. I was impressed to know that the park is home to 400 different kinds of plants and flowers. Merlin, the cat, acted as our guide, leading us through the greenery.


Explore the serene beauty and historical richness of Parco Villa Trecci, a tranquil park in Montepulciano, Tuscany, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.

The beauty of Tuscany lies not only in its landscapes but also in its ability to transport you to another time.

Next on our itinerary was the Abbazia di Sant'Antimo. This former Benedictine monastery is steeped in history and legend. Legend says that Charlemagne founded the abbey. The abbey exudes a sense of peace and spirituality that’s hard to describe. The architecture is stunning, with its Romanesque design and intricate details. As we walked through the ancient halls, I imagined the monks who once lived and prayed here. The quietness of the place was profound, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern life. Thomas, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the stories surrounding the abbey's origins. Leela, surprisingly, was also quite taken by the abbey, perhaps sensing the tranquility of the space. We learned that the abbey was reoccupied in 1992 by a small community of Premonstratensian Canons Regular.


Discover the awe-inspiring Abbey of Sant'Antimo, a medieval gem set in the heart of Tuscany, offering rich history and stunning architecture.

For lunch, we had a delightful meal at Ristorante Godimento Divino. This restaurant offers not only delicious Tuscan cuisine but also a panoramic terrace with stunning views. The terrace was shaded, which provided a welcome relief from the warm sun. Thomas and I shared a bottle of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, while Leela enjoyed a plate of pasta. The restaurant’s location in the historic center of Montepulciano added to the charm of the experience. The food was simple yet flavorful, showcasing the best of Tuscan ingredients.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Godimento Divino in Montepulciano – a culinary treasure featuring local flavors and exquisite wines.

Our final stop for the day was a bit of a drive, but well worth it: Siena's Torre del Mangia. While technically not in Montepulciano, I felt compelled to see it. The tower is located in the Piazza del Campo, Siena's main public space. Climbing the Torre del Mangia was quite the experience. The 87-meter-high tower is one of the tallest ancient towers in Italy. The climb was challenging, with over 300 steps, but the view from the top was simply spectacular. From that vantage point, we could see the entire city of Siena spread out before us. Leela was a real trooper, making it all the way to the top with minimal complaints. I was proud of her adventurous spirit.


Experience Siena from above at Torre del Mangia, a majestic tower offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Before dinner, we stopped by Enoteca Caratello's for a glass of wine. This small wine shop is dedicated to biological and biodynamic wines. I sampled a local Vino Nobile, while Thomas opted for a German Riesling. The enoteca's selection of high-quality products and its commitment to natural wines made it a standout experience. Plus, I was thrilled to find they ship worldwide.


Discover exquisite local wines and immerse yourself in the charming ambiance of Enoteca Caratello's in Montepulciano, Tuscany.

For dinner, we chose L'Altro Cantuccio Ristorante. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was elegant, and the service was impeccable. I opted for the 50-hour cooked beef, while Thomas chose the salted cod. Leela, of course, went for the pasta. The presentation of each dish was a work of art. The flavors were exquisite, making it one of the best meals we’ve had in Tuscany.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at L'Altro Cantuccio Ristorante in Montepulciano - where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on all that we had experienced. From the tranquility of Parco Villa Trecci to the spiritual atmosphere of Abbazia di Sant'Antimo and the breathtaking views from Torre del Mangia, it was a day filled with beauty, history, and unforgettable moments. Tuscany has a way of weaving its magic, and I’m so grateful to be able to share it with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Tempio del Brunello, learn about the Bravio delle botti, and visit the Diocesan Museum. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this enchanting region.