Cycling routes in Montepulciano and surroundings
24 February 2020
Visiting Montepulciano, Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia on bike is a particular experience, which will make a holiday in Tuscany even more exciting. Stroll by bicycle or e-bike through the vineyards, hills and small hamlets, fully breathe the unparalleled atmosphere of these places at sunset offers the opportunity to enjoy its beauty from an absolutely privileged point of view.The itineraries to choose from include not only Montepulciano but also the neighboring towns such as Pienza, Chianciano Terme, Trequanda and various points of interest along the Vino Nobile trail.
Montepulciano – Pienza
Starting from the medieval town of Montepulciano it’s possible to get to Pienza, the elegant “ideal Renaissance town” designed by Enea Silvio Piccolomini, who later became Pope Pius II. Passing on dirt roads or on asphalt, this 30 km route winds through the landscapes of Tuscan nature. This cycling route also offers the possibility to visit Monticchiello, a small medieval village next Pienza. It’s also the ideal choice to combine the visit of the most popular attractions with the tasting of typical products of the two hamlets: namely the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and pecorino, the pride of Pienza, delicious and very renowned.
Montepulciano – Chianciano Terme
From the heart of the historic center of Montepulciano, passing through the Temple of San Biagio, you can easily reach Chianciano, a town famous for its thermal baths. This rather simple route, which can be traveled by mountain bike or on foot, is a continuous surprise. The highest point of the itinerary is the Capuchin Convent in La Maddalena.
Montepulciano – Trequanda
Trequanda is a charming medieval town overlooking Val di Chiana, dominated by the imposing Cacciaconti Castle. It can be reached starting from the Temple of San Biagio in Montepulciano towards Pienza. A path between ups and downs and flat stretches, along paved roads, 18 kilometers long. You can event go to Castelmuzio, a town that boasts Etruscan origins, very close to Trequanda. Olive groves and soft hills represent the dominant landscape: the area is in fact part of the “Città dell’olio” network.
The Nobile Path of Montepulciano by bike
A must for anyone visiting the characteristic town of Montepulciano is the path of the Vino Nobile, that winds through olive groves and vineyards for 18 kilometers. Starting from Piazza Sant’Agnese, you first reach the Temple of San Biagio and then continue on a dirt road where you can admire “Le Balze”, that is, characteristic tuff gullies. The next stages are the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Querce, the small town of Argiano and the Madonna del Cerro. The final destination of the route is the Nature Reserve of Montepulciano Lake. Here you can stop for a picnic, or explore the different paths. Here you will find all the information you need to follow the path: www.montepulcianoliving.it
Nature and history are enclosed in a territory to be admired.
Credits preview photo: mic.perna, www.instagram.com/p/B3R39vYo1ut/