Val di Chiana Accommodation

Since the beginning of time the land in the valley only a short distance from Arezzo and the southern and eastern borders of Tuscany promised rich fertile lands for farms and settling populations. Val Di Chiana was well noted for its wines as far back as the Etruscans, and boasts a culinary tradition that exalts quality olive oil, honey, DOC labels wines and the Chianina beef.

Easily accessible from Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance with its museums and monuments. In fact, this valley can be found by following an easy itinerary in a landscape dotted with well preserved hamlets, cobblestone roads and medieval towers. Many of the smaller towns are on main roads and train lines, where you can participate in their rich in colorful traditions, such as farmer’s markets and historic revocations that will showcase the beauty of this unique corner of Tuscany. The towers of Siena are only a short trip from the Val di Chiana, where you can spend the day walking these famous streets.

It is highly recommended to use the charming town of Sinalunga, as a comfortable base for exploring Tuscany.  Close to outlet shopping, Siena highway and the Autostrada del Sole this town is the perfect reference point for organizing day trips throughout Tuscany. It is also a great point to start a bike tour or hiking along the easy to navigate the flat trail Sentiero della Bonifica which starts in Arezzo and takes you directly to the Lake of Montepulciano.

The area called Val di Chiana Aretina pretty much covers the “Colli Aretini”, stretching from Arezzo as far south as Monte San Savino and Montepulciano, encompassing towns like that of Civitella della Chiana, Marciano and Castello Fiorentina. It is here you will find a valley that is filled with vineyards, sunflowers, and grooves of peaches, apricots and apples. The main highway cuts right through the middle of this area, and the roads are filled with gentle curves and stunning vistas. Start your itinerary in Arezzo and wind through the back roads stopping for wine tasting, picnics and shopping.

To the west of the river Chiani, in the part of Val di Chiana Senese which borders Val d'Orcia, you will find some of the oldest signs of life in Tuscany near Cetona and Sarteano. Towns like Chianciano Terme promise a day full of soaking in the warm spa waters which were popular even during the Etruscans times. Visit towns like that of Montepulciano and Trequanda for fabulous wines including that of Vino Nobile and Orcia DOC. The landscape promises soft rolling hills, signs of the famous Creti Senesi and monasteries and lovely little borgos from the Middle Ages.