Where we are
The location of “Podere Le Manzinaie” is the perfect base for your day trips in Southern Tuscany and Umbria to discover their rich cultural heritages
Within easy drive in the Tuscan landscape, you will find ancient abbeys, churches and medieval villages such as:
Montepulciano, just 10 km away from the farmhouse, known as “The pearl of the 16th century” because of its several architectural features dating back to renaissance time, and for its wine “Nobile di Montepulciano” that is famous all over the world.
Pienza, which was the residence of Pope PIO II, is now adopted home of the famous “pecorino” cheese. Pienza lies in the middle of the Val d’Orcia, in the South of Tuscany. During the fifteen century, Pio II, who was born there, wanted to turn that fortified medieval village into a small city. The fabric of the city widened following a regular, urban plan, where the longitudinal street or Corso Rossellino, which linked up the two main gate (Porta al Ciglio and Porta al Prato), assumed a prevailing importance.
Cortona, (at just 20 minutes driving) became more famous for the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun”, here it’s possible to find many precious pieces of antiquarian art and beautiful local craftsmanship. The city subsequently became Umbrian, Etruscan and Roman, and then in 1200, it became a free Commune under Uguccio Casali. The medieval history of Cortona ended Duchy of Tuscany. There are more than 2000 years of history found in Cortona, which makes it on of the most unique and fascinating city in central Italy.
Montalcino, Romanesque-gothic town, located in the Val d’Orcia valley (area designated a UNESCO protected heritage environment), and particularly known for its wine Brunello of Montalcino which is considered the best Italian wine.
Siena, characterized by little medieval streets that spread around Piazza del Campo, which has been defined as “the most beautiful square of the world”. The Duomo of Siena is one of Italy’s amazing cathedral dressed by marmoreal whites and black bands, according to the architectural style of the beautiful Gothic. Also famous for the Palio race, who take place every 2nd July and 16th of August. It consist in a horses race in the square Piazza del Campo in between 10 of the 17 ‘Contrade’ (= districts of Siena).
Assisi, one of the most popular destinations for Christian People because of the birthplace of St. Francis, who founded the Franciscan religious order and St. Clare, the founder of the Poor Clares. The town stands on Subasio Mount and it dominates the green Umbrian region..
Perugia, the capital city of the Umbria region, is a splendid artistic town with beautiful buildings and monuments, it is a famous University town too. The city hosts a chocolate festival every October and it's not far away from the town of Deruta, famous for its artistic pottery..
Orvieto, is located on an enormous tufaceous rock surrounded by an extensive region of hill country. The Cathedral, Duomo, is a masterpiece of the Italian gothic architecture, in fact the facade is decorated by many bas-reliefs and sculptures. Another attraction is the St. Patrick’s well, a formidable piece of engineering, which has two concentric spiral staircases, independent of each other and non-communicating..
Florence , rich of art and architecture, often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the 15th century, it came under the rule of the Medici family, who later became the Grand Dukes of Tuscany. This, in fact, was the period when the city was at the height of its glory in art and culture, in politics and economic power. Florence is also easy reachable by train for day trips and upon request, the owners can book tickets for the Academy museum and the Uffizi Gallery, to avoid queue during peak season.
Roma, centre of the Roman Empire and heart of the Catholic Christianity, is characterized by the ancient ruins, such as the Colosseum and the Forum, the amazing monuments, museums, fountains and churches, the Renaissance palaces and baroque buildings. Its historical center is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The town is also easy reachable by train for day trips..
While you stay at Le Manzinaie, if you are interested in something different from the cultural and historic itineraries, you can go shopping in the outlet store of the major fashion houses: Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, etc. or about 15 minutes from the property you’ll find an huge outlet village with over 200 great designer labels for fashion apparel and accessories for women, men and children at discounted prices! Some of the fashion names are: Benetton, Calvin Klein, Levi’s, Lee & Wrangler, Nike, Puma, Kappa, Gai Mattiolo, Just Cavalli, Sisley, Tommy Hilfiger, Datch, etc.
In the little town of Montepulciano Stazione, at just 1 km away, you can find grocery stores, post office, bars, bank, shops, laundry, petrol station, outdoor market, supermarket, etc. There are several restaurants nearby, including a good pizza take out.
REACH US BY TRAIN:
The closest railway station is Chiusi about 19 km far away from Le Manzinaie. Taxis are available just in front of the station as well as a rent-a-car agencies (which we can suggest you).
Train timetable available at: www.trenitalia.com
REACH US BY PLANE:
The closest airports are:
Florence FLR Airport … 120 km … www.aeroporto.firenze.it
Pisa PSA Airport … 190 km … www.pisa-airport.com
Rome Fiumicino FCO Airport … 220 km … www.adr.it
