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Dotted with cypress trees and characterised by the dramatic slopes of the volcanic mountains Amiata and Radicofani, the natural park of the Orcia Valley is one of Tuscany’s best-preserved natural wonders. The hills are rich with the crete Senese, deposits of sand and clay with 5 million years of archaeological history, evidence that the sea once reached this valley. Encompassing medieval hill towns, relaxing hot springs and silver olive groves, the variety of the Val D’Orcia makes it an ideal stomping ground for a Tuscan holiday. You can sample Brunello wine along the cobblestone streets of Montalcino, relax in the sulfurous baths in Bagno Vignoli and peruse the Renaissance frescoes of a local monastery all in the span of a weekend. The valley’s natural beauty is an idyllic backdrop for a country vacation during all 4 seasons, from the striking colors of autumn to the spectacle of flora and fauna in the spring. While visiting the Val D’Orcia you’ll want to take advantage of the scenery by hiking, cycling or even enjoying a hot air balloon ride at sunset.

Siena is bursting with history, art and architecture so it is easy to see why the city's historic centre has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Siena prospered during the middle ages thanks to its trades in wool and money lending; the oldest banks in Italy are still found here. There remains a sense of the old Siena as you wander the streets today. The city is still divided into 17 seperate 'contrade' or neighbourhoods, each represented with a symbol (such as the Eagle, Tower or Seashell). Rivalry is fierce between the neighbourhoods and twice a year they compete against each other in the world-famous horse race, the Palio. On July 2 and August 16 thousands of people from all over the world gather in the city's unusual shell-shaped main square, the Piazza del Campo, to watch the race. The rules, costumes and traditions are the same as the first time it was held in 1650. Also in the Piazza (often described as one of the most beautiful civic spaces in Europe) there is the Palazzo Pubblico, or Town Hall. This is topped by an imposing tower, the Torre del Mangia, which, at 102m, is the second tallest tower in Italy. For those who are energetic it is possible to climb to the top for an awe-inspiring view of the Tuscan panorama. The 13th century Duomo of Siena (Cathedral) is also a striking monument of the city. Famed for it's Romanesque facade and stripy bell tower, the Duomo is full of works by famous artists such as Pisano, who sculpted the ornate pulpit, Bernini, Michelangelo and Pinturicchio, whose frescoes in the Piccolomini Library are a must-see. Siena is easily reached by train or car. Traffic is not permitted within the city walls but there are a number of car parks situated just outside.