Staying in Montepulciano: how to get the most out of it

The surroundings of Mount Amiata, an ancient dormant volcano which still bears underground geothermal activity results in many natural hot springs and geysers. Few of them were known and used since remote times especially as relief to pilgrims or army crossing our lands and are still in use today, often transformed in modern Spas. Most of the hot springs are within private establishments (Spas or Hotel) where you need to buy an entrance which will give you access to dressing room, showers and other services.  Check the websites below for access conditions, rates and opening times. Here all the closest thermal baths to Montepulciano and estimated driving time. CHIANCIANO TERME (about 20 min) Recently renovated SPA and hot spring complex with easy access and parking Official website: https://www.piscinetermalitheia.it/en/

The reputed magazine "Lonely Planet Italia" just released (August 2020) a special guide to the surrounding areas of Montepulciano and the Sienese Chiana valley.  You can download the Italian version here: https://www.stuartview.com/images/documents/lonelyplanet.pdf 

During Summer months (March-October) you shouldn't miss a steep but rewarding climb to the Town Hall's roof and belfry.  This is part of the view (looking South) from the belfry Visitors can access the terrace (entrance ticket € 2.50) or climb up the stairs to the belfry (€ 5.00), where they can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding valleys, along with a breathtaking overview of Piazza Grande and the entire town.  Tickets are available at the Town Hall main entrance desk. The access may have restrictions in case of bad weather or during special events. Enquiries +39 0578757341 The gateway to  apartment rentals in  Montepulciano Via del Poliziano 38 - 53045 Montepulciano - Siena - Toscana cell/wa +39 351 7686640 & +39 366 6428849  www.montefelix.com  

Although the "Pearl of the Renaissance" as it is called Montepulciano would probably deserve a longer stay, two days are enough to get the spirit (and the wine) of the town.  This is my personal itinerary: FIRST STEP: After you've checked in to one of our MONTEFELIX apartments or other properties you should start from the historic cellars of 👉  Cantine Gattavecchi (2 on the above map) by the church of Santa Maria then continue up the hill and visit the 👉  old Fortress - Fortezza - (3 on the above map) built in 1200 in the highest part of the town. After a thorough renovation it hosts now the Association of the Wine Producers and offer an incredible tasting room and a beautiful panoramic garden overlooking the surrounding valleys, especially at sunset. You can taste there the wine from the most important local wineries and get many information about the the wine world including arranging further visit to wineries or other monumental cellars.  So these are definite...

Montepulciano does not slow down in winter. This is the best time of the year for unique activities Here some of our favorite! OUTDOOR ACTIVITY forget the gloomy winter scenario, Tuscany hills region can offer splendid days with dramatic views like the one below.  Brisk morning walks will reward you with the beauty of the landscapes, dramatic skies, great pictures and a good excuse to indulge with another winter treat: food! view of the hills and valleys in a typical winter morning from Montepulciano FOOD SCENE OK cherry season is over but for the foodies visiting this part of Tuscany may be even better as it is the only time of the year where you can get some delicatessen. Truffles first but also mushrooms and venison, turnip greens (with sausages), kale (in Ribollita soup), boar (stewed with olives) and the omnipresent freshly-pressed olive oil (bruschetta!). All restaurants in Montepulciano are open during November and December months and boasting best season recipes. Some will ...