The Val d'Orcia is one of the most enchanting places in Italy and, thanks to its countless unique features, it has rightly earned recognition as a UNESCO Heritage Site. If your desire is to take a break from everyday life and escape the chaos of the city for a few days, this is undoubtedly the best place to go; losing yourself in the greenery of the Tuscan vineyards and among the various medieval villages in the area. For the more athletic, a bike ride through several specially designed itineraries to discover the best of these magical hills is an absolute must.
A bike ride in the Val d'Orcia
True cycling enthusiasts know very well that to connect 100% with the territory and the place where they are, there is nothing better than a bike ride, and calling it a ride is an understatement because the planned itineraries cover many kilometers both on flat terrain and hills. The chosen paths are stimulating and perfect for crossing with hybrid bikes that adapt to both road and off-road conditions because the territory offers both types of routes, and you can quickly switch from one to the other. Thanks to the shape of the Val d'Orcia, you can pedal undisturbed for many kilometers and enjoy the beauty of nature in complete solitude. Let’s now see some of the itineraries available once you arrive in the area. Studying them before departure could be really useful to arrive prepared and equipped to face the ride at your best.
Starting from Pienza to reach Montepulciano
This first itinerary is designed for those who are not expert athletes but still want to try this type of excursion to reconnect with nature. The starting point is the town of Pienza, and a total of 30 km will be covered, mostly on paved roads and easy-to-navigate paths suitable for all types of bicycles; the destination is Montepulciano, where you can stop in the small historic center to admire the Cathedral or take part in a wine tasting of the famous wine named after the location.
Discovering Bagno Vignoni
Bagno Vignoni is a charming village located in the highest part of the Val d'Orcia; to reach it, you again start from Pienza, but this time the route includes about 5 km of off-road terrain in addition to the paved road. This is an excursion of medium-easy level, so for those who are not absolutely fit, it might be challenging but not impossible. Those who practice even a little physical activity will manage to reach the destination calmly. In total, the path is 29 km, but the spectacle that Bagno Vignoni will reserve for you once you arrive will repay every effort.
Crossing the Val d'Orcia
Moving on to something a bit more demanding, we find the full crossing of the Val d'Orcia; during this approximately 80 km journey, you will touch various cultural points of interest, such as Radicofani. However, those who decide to undertake the ride mainly do so for the spectacular landscapes and views they will find kilometer after kilometer. The roads will be almost entirely dirt tracks because the valley will be crossed, so it’s important to have the right bicycle and well-trained legs. Otherwise, returning home will be impossible.
The Eroica
The name of this itinerary speaks volumes about what it entails; it is one of the most challenging and longest routes in the area, in fact, ranging between 140 and 200 km, and can only be chosen by true athletes who are already accustomed to cycling for many hours. Cyclists appreciate it for the muddy and cobblestone roads characteristic of the hills of the Val d'Orcia, which provide the sense of adventure sought by most of those who choose these locations for their weekend getaways.