Montalcino is arguably most famous for its 14^th century Rocca or Fortress. You approach through groves of olive trees, and vineyards renowned for red Brunello wine. The fortress dominates the landscape and from its gardens you look out over the whole province. If you visit in winter, take refuge in a cosy bar with a glass of red and a plate of home made spaghetti (pici). The people are rightly proud of their history of resistance to the Germans during the second world war – they held out until 1945. Besides the fortress, you may wish to take in the neo-classical cathedral, a Romanesque church and a there is also a maze of intriguing alleys to explore. A visit to Montalcino works well combined with a wonderful walk down through woods and fields to the 12^th Century Benedictine abbey of San Antimo (about an hour and a half, perhaps longer if you take as many photos as there are opportunities!).

Florence Rome Pisa Siena Montepulciano Pienza La Foce San Antimo Banfi Montalcino Bagno Vignoli