Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Discovering Tuscany's Hidden Gem

Tuscan Echoes: A Day of Discovery

Today, Tuscany unfolded before us in layers of history, architecture, and breathtaking views. It was a day of exploration that took us from the heart of wine country to the ramparts of ancient fortresses, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for this region's timeless charm. Each stop was a new adventure, a new story whispered by the stones and vineyards, and a new memory etched into our family's travelogue.

Our day began, as most good days in Italy do, with breakfast at Caffè Poliziano. Sipping on a cappuccino while gazing out over the Val di Chiana is quickly becoming a cherished ritual. Leela, of course, opted for a pastry, her eyes wide with delight as she chose a colorful treat from the tempting display. Thomas and I enjoyed the rich, dark coffee, fueling up for the day’s adventures. It's funny, before moving to Germany, I never truly appreciated coffee, but now, it's an essential part of my morning, a little piece of Italy in every cup.

With our caffeine fix sorted, we set off towards our first destination: Tunnel Farm. Now, I'll admit, the name had me intrigued. I envisioned something quite different from what we found. It wasn't a farm with a tunnel, but perhaps a vineyard with a unique name. Unfortunately, we didn't find an actual 'Tunnel Farm' during our travels today. Instead, we found ourselves captivated by other adventures that Tuscany had to offer. We learned about the importance of Tunnel Farm, and how it is family-owned vineyard in Roxboro, NC offering locally grown wines, wine tastings, stunning views, and an award-winning events venue. Maybe we will be able to visit it one day!


Discover the innovative world of sustainable agriculture at Tunnel Farm in Torrita di Siena, a unique tourist attraction in the heart of Tuscany.

Instead, we drove through the rolling hills towards Montalcino, eager to explore the Fortress of Montalcino. As we approached, the fortress loomed majestically on the horizon, a testament to the region's rich history. Built in 1361 by the people of Siena, the Fortress of Montalcino stands as an important example of military architecture. Its pentagonal structure was a novelty at the time, incorporating earlier buildings like the tower of San Giovanni and an ancient basilica. We parked the car and made our way up the winding path, the anticipation building with each step.


Discover the rich history and stunning views at the Fortress of Montalcino, a captivating Tuscan landmark nestled in the heart of Italy's wine country.

Stepping through the Donjon Gate felt like stepping back in time. The fortress walls, still fully accessible, offered panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia. We climbed the towers, Leela skipping ahead with boundless energy, Thomas pointing out landmarks in the distance. The views were simply breathtaking – rolling hills, vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see, and the quintessential Tuscan landscape bathed in the warm afternoon sun. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do it justice. You simply have to be there to experience the sheer beauty of it all.

The Fortress of Montalcino, a monument rich in history, offers a vertiginous and marvelous view of the Val d'Orcia.

Learning about the fortress's history was fascinating. It served as the last bastion of the Republic of Siena's resistance against the Medici family in the 16th century. Despite being under attack many times, it was never conquered. Walking along the ramparts, I imagined the soldiers who once stood guard, defending their city against invaders. It’s amazing to think that the structure has remained virtually intact since its construction, with major restoration works performed in the 1930s.

After exploring the fortress, we decided to have lunch. Baccano Hostarìa Montepulciano was our choice. This restaurant is known for its Italian cuisine, offering a range of dishes from pasta to sushi. I opted for the Pici pasta, a regional specialty, while Thomas enjoyed a sushi. Leela, ever adventurous, tried a bit of both! The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Baccano Hostarìa Montepulciano, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Our final stop for the day was Porta del Triano in Montefollonico. This ancient gateway, part of the village's fortifications, offers a glimpse into the past. As we approached, the rustic charm of the surrounding countryside captivated us. Rolling hills and vineyards stretched as far as we could see. The Porta del Triano not only reminded us of the village's medieval roots but also provided exceptional panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape.


Explore Porta del Triano, an enchanting gateway in Montefollonico, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes await every traveler.

We strolled through the remnants of the old village walls, admiring the intricate stonework and historical significance of the site. The area is rich in local lore, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts. According to inscriptions, Porta del Triano was constructed around 1294 by Siena workers Burnaccio and Ristoro. As we explored, we imagined the guards who once stood watch, protecting the village from invaders. It’s amazing how these ancient structures still stand, testaments to the skill and craftsmanship of the past.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to La Vineria di Montepulciano for a relaxing evening. This wine bar offers a wide selection of local wines. We sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air and the lively atmosphere of the town. Thomas and I sampled a few different wines, while Leela sipped on sparkling apple juice. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration, reflecting on all that we had seen and experienced.


Discover the authentic taste of Tuscany at La Vineria di Montepulciano, where exquisite small plates and exceptional wines await you.

“Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”

Dinner tonight was at Osteria del Borgo. Situated in Piazza Grande, the osteria is housed in a historic building dating back to 1270. We sat on the panoramic terrace, enjoying the unique view of the Valdorcia hills and the Temple of San Biagio. For starters, we had platters of Tuscan cold cuts and pecorino. For the main course, I chose the tagliatelle pasta with Chianina beef white ragu, while Thomas enjoyed the Pici with aglione. Leela devoured her pasta with gusto, declaring it the best meal of the trip so far. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our day of Tuscan adventures.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria del Borgo in Montepulciano - a culinary journey through Italy's finest flavors.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the warmth of the Tuscan sun on my skin and taste the delicious flavors of the region. Today was a reminder of why we love to travel – to experience new cultures, to learn about history, and to create lasting memories with our family. Every corner turned revealed a new vista, a new story, a new reason to fall in love with this enchanting land. Tuscany is more than just a place; it's an experience that nourishes the soul and enriches the spirit.

Tomorrow, we're off to explore Piazza del Campo in Siena, Palazzo Piccolomini in Pienza, and the Chapel Vitaleta [Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Piccolomini, Chapel Vitaleta]. I can't wait to see what adventures await us!

Before I turn in for the night, I also want to make sure I get all the essentials ready for tomorrow. I need to find the travel guidebook and make sure my camera is charged. We wouldn’t want to miss any photo opportunities! I am also going to remind Leela to pack her comfortable walking shoes. After all, we have much to see tomorrow!

Good night from Tuscany!