Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

A Day of Tuscan Serenity

Today was all about soaking in the natural beauty and local charm of Montepulciano. After several days exploring the historical sites, it felt wonderful to immerse ourselves in the quieter, more serene aspects of this region. I was eager to see what hidden gems we could unearth, and the day certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Casina Di Pulcinella.

The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting a perfect tone for the day. Maya was particularly thrilled with her chocolate-filled croissant, and Liam and I savored the traditional Tuscan flavors. The cozy atmosphere of La Casina Di Pulcinella made it a memorable start to our adventures. [I made a mental note to try and recreate those croissants back home in Kelowna – a little taste of Tuscany to brighten our Canadian mornings.]

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like a shared meal or a breathtaking view.

After breakfast, we set off for the Visitor Center Nature Reserve Lago di Montepulciano. The reserve is a haven for various bird species, and I was excited to explore this protected wetland. As we arrived, the tranquil setting immediately enveloped us. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. We strolled along the well-maintained paths, observing the diverse flora and fauna. Maya was particularly fascinated by the ducks and other waterfowl gliding gracefully across the lake. Liam, ever the attentive husband, pointed out various bird species, sharing interesting facts about their habitats and migratory patterns.


Discover the tranquil beauty and diverse wildlife at the Visitor Center Nature Reserve Lago di Montepulciano, a perfect escape in Tuscany.

The Visitor Center provided us with valuable insights into the local ecosystem. Informative displays detailed the history of the lake, its importance as a migratory stopover, and the ongoing conservation efforts. I was impressed by the dedication of the local community to preserving this natural treasure. Maya enjoyed the interactive exhibits, especially the bird-watching station equipped with binoculars and identification guides. We spent a leisurely couple of hours here, reconnecting with nature and learning about the importance of environmental stewardship.


Next on our itinerary was the Belvedere di Santa Maria. This scenic viewpoint promised panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, and it certainly delivered. As we ascended the steps leading to the belvedere, anticipation grew with each step. When we finally reached the top, we were greeted by a breathtaking vista. Rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, stretched out before us, bathed in the warm Tuscan sun. The view was simply stunning, a perfect tableau of the idyllic Italian landscape.


Discover the breathtaking views of Tuscany at Belvedere di Santa Maria, Montepulciano's iconic panoramic viewpoint, perfect for unforgettable memories.

I took several photos, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, but no image could truly do it justice. We lingered there for a while, simply soaking in the view and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Maya, always full of energy, ran around exploring the area, while Liam and I took a moment to appreciate the tranquility. It was a perfect family moment, etched in our memories forever.


Our afternoon was dedicated to wine, a quintessential part of the Tuscan experience. We visited Azienda Agricola Canneto, a local vineyard known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The drive to the vineyard was scenic, winding through picturesque country roads lined with cypress trees and vineyards. As we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly staff and the inviting aroma of fermenting grapes.


Experience the artistry of Tuscan winemaking at Azienda Agricola Canneto, where every sip tells a story amidst stunning vineyards.

The tour of the vineyard was both informative and enjoyable. We learned about the history of the estate, the winemaking process, and the unique characteristics of the local terroir. The vineyards of Canneto are located on the western slope of Montepulciano, near the beautiful church of Madonna di San Biagio. The vines grow on land that is mixed with gravelly marl, at an altitude of between 350 and 400 meters above sea level. The vineyards are oriented mainly to the south-west and are grown with a horizontal cordon system. The guide explained how the Swiss owners restored the buildings, respecting the wine-making vocation, building a new cellar, buying machinery, equipment and equipment, caring for and rejuvenating the vines and olive trees. The estate measures 48 hectares, 26 hectares of which are cultivated as vineyards; fifteen of these hectares are reserved for the production of Vino Nobile.


Of course, the highlight of the visit was the wine tasting. We sampled several of Canneto's finest wines, each with its distinct flavor profile and aroma. The sommelier expertly guided us through the tasting, explaining the nuances of each wine and offering pairing suggestions. Even Maya got to participate, with a sample of grape juice that she declared was the best she had ever tasted. Liam and I particularly enjoyed the Rosso di Montepulciano, a smooth and fruity wine that perfectly captured the essence of the Tuscan countryside. We purchased a few bottles to take back home, a delicious reminder of our time in Montepulciano.


Before dinner, we stopped by Maledetti Toscani Montepulciano. The shop was filled with unique leather goods and other handcrafted items. I picked up a beautiful leather journal, perfect for jotting down my travel experiences and reflections. Liam found a stylish leather belt, and Maya chose a small leather purse adorned with colorful beads. It was a fun little shopping excursion, adding a touch of local craftsmanship to our travel souvenirs. I learned that the shop started in 1848, selling custom made shoes, bags and jackets for Italian stars. The name came later, inspired by a book by Curzio Malaparte that highlighted the character of the Tuscans: tough people, not very diplomatic, hardworking and creative but not easy to tame.


Explore exquisite craftsmanship and unique leather goods at Maledetti Toscani in the heart of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

I was tempted to buy a pair of their shoes, but then I remembered I am a freelancer now, and should be more careful with my purchases.


For lunch, we ventured to 99 GRADI di Fiorino Davide, a cozy spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and local cuisine. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the menu featured a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes. Liam opted for the pici pasta with wild boar ragu, while I chose the ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup. Maya, ever adventurous, tried the handmade ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch, savoring the flavors of Tuscany and soaking in the laid-back ambiance. It was the perfect midday break, recharging us for the rest of our day's adventures.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at 99 GRADI di Fiorino Davide in Montepulciano—where every bite tells a story.

As evening approached, we made our way to E Lucevan le Stelle - Wine Bar Bistro for dinner. This charming establishment, run by a winemaker family, offered a delightful combination of exquisite wines and delectable cuisine. The bistro was situated in a historic building facing Piazza San Francesco, boasting a terrace with stunning views of the Val d'Orcia. The atmosphere was elegant yet inviting, with soft lighting and live jazz music creating a romantic ambiance.


Discover E Lucevan le Stelle: A delightful wine bar bistro in Montepulciano offering exquisite Tuscan cuisine and enchanting live jazz music.

We started with a selection of local cheeses and salumi, paired with a crisp white wine. For our main courses, Liam chose the grilled Florentine steak, while I opted for the truffle pasta. Maya, predictably, ordered the Margherita pizza, which she happily devoured. The food was exceptional, each dish prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The wine list was extensive, featuring a wide range of Tuscan and Italian wines. We savored every bite and sip, enjoying the beautiful setting and the delightful company.


As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we had shared. From the tranquil nature reserve to the panoramic views and the exquisite wines, Montepulciano had truly captured our hearts. It was a day of Tuscan serenity, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and gastronomy.


Tomorrow is our last day in Montepulciano, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Viewpoint on Montepulciano, offering yet another perspective on this stunning town. We'll also explore the Cattedrale San Lorenzo and Pienza Cathedral, delving deeper into the region's rich history and architecture. And of course, we'll end our trip with a relaxing evening at Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar, savoring one last glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano before we bid farewell to this enchanting corner of Tuscany. I am already looking forward to it!