Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

Unveiling Montepulciano's Charms

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the heart of Montepulciano, a town that effortlessly blends history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From exploring the grand Piazza Grande to delving into an underground city and soaking in panoramic views, every moment was a discovery. It’s amazing how much this little hilltop town has to offer, and I’m so excited to share our experiences.


Discover the charm of Piazza Grande, Montepulciano's stunning town square, surrounded by rich history, breathtaking architecture, and exquisite Tuscan wines.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Corte Dell' Ulivo. The restaurant was conveniently located, just a short walk from Piazza Grande. Liam and I enjoyed cappuccinos while Maya devoured a pastry. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It was a great start to our day, setting the tone for the adventures that lay ahead. After breakfast, we headed straight for the heart of Montepulciano: Piazza Grande.

Exploring Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is the main square of Montepulciano and is surrounded by magnificent historical buildings. The square, with its characteristic L-shape, is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. The Palazzo Comunale dominates the area with its battlements and tower, reminiscent of the Palazzo della Signoria in Florence. We took our time wandering around, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. Maya was particularly fascinated by the Well of the Griffins and Lions, a beautiful fountain in front of the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. The square was lively with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

The true journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

We climbed the clock tower on Palazzo Comunale for a breathtaking view of Montepulciano and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. It was worth the 150 steps to reach the top. From there, we could see the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves that define the Tuscan landscape. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the beauty that stretched out before us. Liam pointed out landmarks in the distance, sharing stories and historical facts about the region. Maya was excited to spot the little details of the town from above, pointing out the colorful umbrellas of cafes and the tiny cars winding through the streets. I felt so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that we would cherish forever.

Journey to the Underworld: Ercolani Cellars

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Ercolani Cellars, also known as the 'Underground City' and Museum. This was an experience unlike any other. The cellars are a network of underground tunnels and chambers that date back to Etruscan times. The family-owned winery offers free tours, which we gladly joined. Our guide, Erica, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the cellars and the winemaking process.


Explore the enchanting underground cellars of Ercolani in Montepulciano, where wine, history, and tradition intertwine in a unique tasting experience.

As we descended into the depths, we were transported back in time. Erica explained that the underground city was discovered by the Ercolani family about 50 years ago. It was once used as an escape route and a secret passage for bringing wine into the cellars from neighboring vineyards. We saw ancient cisterns, medieval armor, and, of course, countless barrels of aging Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Maya was enthralled by the stories of secret passages and hidden treasures, her imagination running wild with every twist and turn in the tunnels.

The tour concluded with a wine tasting. Liam and I sampled several of Ercolani's wines, including their renowned Vino Nobile. The rich, complex flavors were a testament to the region's winemaking heritage. Maya enjoyed some grape juice and crackers, feeling very grown-up as she participated in the tasting. We purchased a few bottles to take back to Kelowna, a delicious reminder of our time in Montepulciano. The Ercolani Cellars tour was not just a wine tasting; it was an immersive journey into the history and culture of Montepulciano.

A Panoramic Perspective

Our final stop of the day was Punto Panoramico. After the depths of the Ercolani Cellars, it was wonderful to emerge back into the sunlight and ascend to one of the highest points in Montepulciano for a panoramic view. We drove to the viewpoint, which was easily accessible and offered ample parking. As we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by a breathtaking vista of the Val d'Orcia. The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves stretched out before us, a patchwork of greens and golds under the Tuscan sun.


Discover the stunning vistas of Montepulciano at Punto Panoramico, an unforgettable viewpoint in the heart of Tuscany.

We spent a long time at Punto Panoramico, simply soaking in the beauty. Maya ran around, her laughter echoing in the tranquil surroundings. Liam and I sat on a bench, holding hands and marveling at the view. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, to create memories that would last a lifetime. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do it justice. The beauty of Tuscany is something that must be experienced firsthand.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we decided to stop for a pre-dinner drink at Sax Wine Bar. The bar was quirky and charming, with a fun atmosphere. While Liam enjoyed a glass of local wine, I opted for a refreshing Aperol spritz. Maya sipped on a sparkling apple juice, feeling very sophisticated. We sat outside, watching the world go by and chatting about our day. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on all that we had seen and done.


Experience the charm of Montepulciano at Sax Wine Bar, where exquisite espresso and fine wines meet exceptional service in a delightful setting.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante La Grotta. We had heard great things about their traditional Tuscan cuisine, and we were eager to try it for ourselves. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic ambiance. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by homemade pasta with truffle sauce. For our main courses, Liam and I both ordered the Florentine steak, cooked to perfection. Maya opted for a simple tomato pasta, which she devoured with gusto. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Montepulciano at Ristorante La Grotta - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a day of discovery, a day of immersing ourselves in the beauty and culture of Montepulciano. From the grand Piazza Grande to the hidden depths of the Ercolani Cellars and the panoramic views from Punto Panoramico, every moment had been special. I knew that this was a day that we would all remember for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the wineries in the surrounding area, including Icario Winery, Contucci, and Azienda Agricola Canneto. I am excited to learn more about the winemaking process and, of course, to sample some more of the region's famous Vino Nobile. Before we dive into the wine, we'll have breakfast at Lalma Cafe & Tearoom. Also on the agenda is a stop at Le Sac| Negozio di Pelletteria| Montepulciano, a leather goods shop.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Traveling with Liam and Maya is such a joy, and I feel so lucky to be able to share these experiences with them. I know that our time in Montepulciano is just the beginning of many more adventures to come.