Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

Chasing Cypress Trees and Finding Hidden Gardens

Today was a day of wandering, of letting the Tuscan landscape guide us, and of discovering hidden gems that Montepulciano so generously offers. It's days like these that make me fall in love with travel all over again, as we traded UX wireframes for winding roads and deadlines for delightful dinners.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fattoria San Martino, a delightful start that fueled us for the adventures ahead. I was particularly excited about seeing the famed Cipressi di Monticchiello, those iconic cypress trees that seem to define the Tuscan landscape. Liam, Maya and I piled into our rental car, with Maya excitedly pointing out every tractor and sheep we passed along the way. It reminded me of our hikes back in Kelowna, though the scenery here is undeniably unique.

As we drove, the anticipation built. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, were a feast for the eyes. I couldn't help but think of my parents back in Tiberias, how much they would have loved this view. Finally, we arrived at the Cipressi di Monticchiello. I’d seen countless photos, but nothing prepared me for the real thing. The road, lined with these majestic trees, snaked its way up the hill, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. We parked the car and took our time, snapping photos from every angle. Maya, ever the explorer, ran ahead, her laughter echoing through the serene countryside.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cipressi di Monticchiello, an iconic Tuscan landscape that captures the essence of serenity and charm.

The journey, not the destination, matters.

After soaking in the beauty of the cypress trees, we decided to explore the Giardini di Poggiofanti. It was a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away and offering a tranquil escape from the bustling town center. As we entered, we were greeted by a riot of colors – roses in full bloom, lavender bushes buzzing with bees, and ancient trees providing shade. Maya made a beeline for the playground, while Liam and I strolled hand in hand, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Giardini di Poggiofanti, a hidden garden gem in Montepulciano, perfect for relaxation and stunning views.

I found myself reflecting on how different this was from my usual days spent in front of a computer screen. Don't get me wrong, I love my work as a UX designer, but there's something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by nature. It's a reminder that life is more than just pixels and deadlines. Plus, I’m pretty sure Maya has logged more steps today than I have in the last month!

Next on our list was the Sentiero Toscano, a walking path that promised stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail was well-maintained, making it easy for Maya to keep up. As we walked, we were treated to panoramic vistas of rolling hills, vineyards, and distant villages. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the chirping of birds and the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. We even spotted a few deer grazing in the distance, much to Maya's delight.


Explore the serene Sentiero Toscano in Montepulciano, a stunning park offering picturesque views, lush landscapes, and a perfect escape into Tuscany's charm.

During our walk, Liam and I couldn't help but discuss our plans for tomorrow. We're thinking of visiting the Museo Archeologico and the Porta delle Farine. Liam is particularly excited about the museum, while Maya is already looking forward to exploring the Parco Villa Trecci. I’m secretly excited about the wine bar we plan to visit in the evening – E Lucevan le Stelle, sounds divine!

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Bottega del Rame. I had read about this shop, which specializes in handmade copper goods, and I was eager to see their creations. The shop was small and cozy, filled with gleaming copper pots, pans, and other kitchenware. I was particularly drawn to a beautiful copper teapot, but Liam convinced me that we didn't need another kitchen gadget. Instead, I settled on a small copper bowl, which I plan to use for serving olives at our next dinner party in Kelowna. I love supporting local artisans, and it’s nice to bring home something truly unique.


Explore Bottega del Rame in Montepulciano for unique antiques and handcrafted treasures that embody Italian artistry and charm.

For lunch, we stopped at La Bottega del Nobile, a charming restaurant that came highly recommended. We were not disappointed. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was simply divine. I ordered the pici pasta with ragu, a local specialty, while Liam opted for the grilled steak. Maya, of course, chose the spaghetti with tomato sauce, a classic that never fails to please. Every dish was a celebration of Tuscan flavors, and the service was impeccable. It was one of those meals where you savor every bite and wish it would never end.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine and exquisite local wines at La Bottega del Nobile in picturesque Montepulciano.

As evening approached, we made our way to Porta di Bacco for dinner. This osteria promised a traditional Tuscan dining experience, and it certainly delivered. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. We were seated at a cozy table overlooking the town square, and we ordered a bottle of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the region's famous wine. The food was hearty and delicious – I had the wild boar stew, while Liam enjoyed the roasted rabbit. Maya, surprisingly, tried a bite of my stew and declared it yummy. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Porta di Bacco in Montepulciano—where every meal is paired with exquisite local wines.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Montepulciano has a way of capturing your heart and soul, of making you slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the landscape, indulge in delicious food and wine, and connect with the warmth of the local people. And as we prepare for another day of exploration tomorrow, I know that our Tuscan adventure is far from over. I'm really looking forward to what tomorrow brings, especially visiting the Museo Archeologico and maybe finding another hidden gem or two. And of course, I’m already dreaming about that glass of wine at E Lucevan le Stelle!

Tomorrow we are going to explore Museo Archeologico, Porta delle Farine, and Parco Villa Trecci. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems we can find in this beautiful town.

“To travel is to live.” And today, I truly lived.

Until tomorrow,
Yael