Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

Montepulciano, Until We Meet Again

As our Tuscan adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had in Montepulciano. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of its beauty and history, creating memories that I know will stay with Liam, Maya, and me for years to come. It's funny how a place can feel like home in just a few days, isn't it?

Our final day began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at Lalma Cafe & Tearoom. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to the day. Maya was particularly excited about her chocolate croissant, and Liam and I savored the last of the local cheeses and artisanal bread. It’s these simple moments, shared over good food and laughter, that I cherish the most.


Discover Lalma Cafe & Tearoom in Montepulciano: A cozy haven for breakfast lovers offering exquisite coffee and delightful pastries amidst stunning Italian scenery.

After breakfast, we decided to take in one last panoramic view of the Tuscan countryside. We headed to one of the many viewpoints scattered around Montepulciano, Vicolo della Mura at Vicolo dei Cacciatori, where the vista was simply breathtaking. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and cypress trees, stretched out before us like a painting. I took countless photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, but no image could truly do it justice. I made a mental note to try my hand at painting when we returned to Kelowna; perhaps I could capture a fraction of this beauty on canvas.

From the viewpoint, we made our way to the Cattedrale San Lorenzo, Montepulciano's main church. Its unfinished façade had an intriguing story. Inside, the high altar had theAssumption of the Virgin triptych painted by Taddeo di Bartolo in 1401, which included a self portrait as the apostle Thaddeus. As we stood there, admiring the artistry and history, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. It's incredible to think about the generations of people who have stood in this very spot, seeking solace and inspiration. Maya, ever curious, peppered me with questions about the saints and stories depicted in the artwork. I did my best to answer, drawing on my own knowledge and the information from our trusty travel guidebook.


Explore the stunning Cattedrale San Lorenzo in Perugia, a captivating blend of Gothic architecture and rich history set in a vibrant cultural hub.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones that sneak up on you, quietly weaving their way into the fabric of your being.

Next on our list was a visit to Pienza Cathedral, a short drive from Montepulciano. Pienza, known as the “ideal city,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its cathedral is a true gem. Commissioned by Pope Pius II, the cathedral stands as a testament to Renaissance architecture and humanist ideals. As we walked through Piazza Pio II, the main square, I was struck by the harmony and balance of the surrounding buildings. The cathedral itself, with its pale travertine façade and Gothic elements, was a sight to behold. Inside, the light flooded through the windows, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The altarpieces by Sienese artists were particularly stunning, each telling a story of faith and devotion.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pienza Cathedral, a stunning Renaissance masterpiece nestled in the heart of Tuscany's picturesque landscape.

Liam was fascinated by the history of Pienza, particularly the story of Pope Pius II and his vision for the city. He shared interesting facts about the architecture and the symbolism behind the design. Maya, meanwhile, was captivated by the stained glass windows, their vibrant colors casting a rainbow of light across the cathedral floor. I felt a sense of gratitude for being able to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that would enrich our lives for years to come.

For lunch, we decided to try La Bottega del Vino Food&Drinks, a charming little restaurant known for its local cuisine and friendly atmosphere. We were lucky enough to snag a table outside, where we could soak in the ambiance of the town. The menu was filled with tempting options, but we eventually settled on the pici pasta, a local specialty. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauce was rich and flavorful. Maya, surprisingly, devoured her portion, declaring it the best pasta she had ever tasted. Liam and I shared a bottle of local wine, toasting to our incredible journey and the memories we had made.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine and exquisite wines at La Bottega del Vino in Montepulciano.

After lunch, we strolled through the streets of Montepulciano, soaking in the last moments of our Tuscan adventure. We stopped at a few shops, picking up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl that I knew my mother would love, and Liam bought a bottle of local olive oil for his brother, a passionate cook. Maya, of course, insisted on getting a gelato, choosing a bright pink strawberry flavor that left her face covered in sticky sweetness.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to find a cozy spot for an aperitivo. We stumbled upon Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar, a charming wine bar with a delightful patio. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting over glasses of wine. We ordered a selection of local wines and some delicious snacks, including cheeses, olives, and bruschetta. As we sipped our wine and savored the flavors of Tuscany, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me.


Discover the essence of Tuscan wines at Opificio 16 - a charming enoteca and wine bar in the heart of Montepulciano.

For our final dinner in Montepulciano, we chose Al Tocco, a restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and beautiful views. The meal was a culinary delight, each dish a work of art. We started with a selection of appetizers, including truffle arancini and zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta. For our main courses, Liam opted for the grilled steak, while I chose the seafood risotto. Maya, ever adventurous, tried the homemade ravioli with sage butter. Everything was exquisite, a perfect ending to our Tuscan food journey.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Al Tocco in Montepulciano - where every dish tells a story.

As we savored our meal, we watched the sunset over the Tuscan hills. The sky was ablaze with color, painting a breathtaking backdrop to our final evening. I felt a pang of sadness knowing that our adventure was coming to an end, but also a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we had shared. Montepulciano had captured our hearts, and I knew we would carry its beauty and charm with us wherever we went.

Back at our guesthouse, as Maya drifted off to sleep, Liam and I sat on the balcony, sipping a final glass of wine. We talked about our favorite moments of the trip, reminiscing about the stunning landscapes, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the locals. We agreed that Montepulciano was a place we would never forget, a place we hoped to return to someday.

As I write this, I can't help but feel a little melancholy. Leaving Montepulciano feels like saying goodbye to an old friend. But I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever, a reminder of the beauty and magic of Tuscany. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to this charming hilltop town, ready to create new adventures and cherish old memories.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Kelowna, filled with stories to tell and photos to share. Until then, arrivederci, Montepulciano. You've been a dream come true.

I'm so grateful for this experience and for being able to share it with all of you. Stay tuned for more travel adventures, as we continue to explore the world and create lasting memories. And as always, thank you for joining us on this journey. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to raise one last glass of Vino Nobile to the memories we've made in Montepulciano. Cheers!