Classic Tuscany

Monteverdi is the perfect base from which to tour the heritage-listed Val d’Orcia region. Here’s what to do...

Visit a historic villa

The 15th-century La Foce (lafoce.com) was inherited by Benedetta Origo Isidori, daughter of Anglo-Irish writer Iris Origo and nobleman Antonio Origo, who were responsible for great agricultural and social improvements in the impoverished valley from the 1920s. The formal gardens, which are open to the public on certain days, are considered the finest example of the work of British architect Cecil Pinsent. Dopolavoro (dopolavorolafoce.it), a nearby café, was once the after-work social club for the estate’s workers.

Eat with la famiglia

Podere Il Casale (podereilcasale.it) is a picturesque lunch spot between Pienza and Montepulciano, which includes a biodynamic farm, a cheese factory and a rustic restaurant with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Tuscan cheesemaker Ulisse will take you on a tour of the factory if you reserve ahead. His wife, Sandra, cooks hearty organic meals in the very family-friendly restaurant. Children will be happily distracted petting the animals.

Explore vineyards

The Val d’Orcia is famous for its fine wines, especially the Brunello di Montalcino, made exclusively from sangiovese grapes. The towns of Montalcino, Montepulciano and Pienza are surrounded by vineyards. A number of wineries open their cellar doors, such as the impressive winery at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (pictured above; rosewoodhotels.com), an estate established by the Ferragamo family. It hosts tasting seminars year-round and a harvest event in September.

Seek wellness

Fans of Federico Fellini will enjoy a visit to the thermal springs in the municipality of Siena, where the Italian director shot his masterpiece, 8½ . The Etruscans built a temple here in the fifth century and some Renaissance architecture survives. The modern Terme di Chianciano (terme chianciano.it) is one of the finest health resorts in Italy, with hotels, springs, thermal baths and lush parklands.

We’ve found a great gourmet country escape – and it’s just outside Rome. Visit travelinsider. qantas.com.au.