Le Crete Panoramic Road

Le Crete Panoramic Road is an amazing road trip that takes you through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Starting in Castelnuovo Berardenga and ending in Buonconvento, the route is approximately 70km and can be completed in a day. Along the way you'll drive through Asciano and Monteroni d'Arbia, two charming Italian towns with plenty of attractions to explore. Spring and summer are the best times of the year to take this road trip, as you'll be able to take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the warm weather. The roads are generally in good condition, with some parts being curvy and narrow, so it's suitable for drivers of all experience levels. Plus, it's a budget-friendly option, so you won't have to break the bank to enjoy the trip!

Castelnuovo Berardenga is a picturesque Tuscan town located on the Chianti hills, and it is the ideal starting point for the amazing journey of the “Le Crete Panoramic Road”. It is a unique experience that will take you through vineyards and olive groves, romantic castles, and breathtaking landscapes. Here, you will be able to enjoy the authentic Tuscan atmosphere, with its beautiful and unspoiled nature. When you visit Castelnuovo Berardenga, make sure to visit some of its most famous attractions, like the Castello di Brolio, an 11th-century fortress with a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside, or the Abbey of Passignano, a former Benedictine convent from the 12th century. There are also several wineries and restaurants in the area, so you can sample the region's renowned wines and traditional cuisine. The closest international airport is Peretola Airport in Florence (IATA code: FLR). Car rental services are available at the airport, so you can get a car and start your journey to Castelnuovo Berardenga. Once you arrive, you can begin your adventure on the “Le Crete Panoramic Road” and explore all the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

Welcome to the road trip stage that starts in Castelnuovo Berardenga and ends in Asciano! This 19 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete. You will be amazed by the scenic road as you make your way through this beautiful region. In some sections, the road is very winding, while in other sections it is quite narrow. Be sure to pay attention to the road while you drive and enjoy the stunning views. Once you reach Asciano, make sure to visit the Church of San Pietro, the Church of San Francesco, the Church of Sant’Agata and the Church of San Bartolomeo. These churches feature beautiful architecture and artworks that will surely captivate you. You can also visit the nearby villages of Montisi and San Giovanni d’Asso, where you can find ancient castles and ruins. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and explore the stunning Tuscan countryside on your road trip from Asciano to Monteroni d'Arbia. This 16 km drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the scenic road without worrying about time. Start your journey in Asciano, a picturesque town with plenty of attractions to explore. Here you can visit the Pieve di San Giovanni Battista, a beautiful Romanesque church, and the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a monastery built in the 15th century. You can also take a stroll around the historic centre and admire the ancient buildings. Continue your journey to Monteroni d'Arbia, a charming village with a rich cultural heritage. Here you can visit the Church of San Bartolomeo, a beautiful Romanesque church, and the Palazzo Pretorio, an imposing building with a tower. Don't forget to wander around the streets of the old town and admire the medieval buildings. Make sure to keep your eyes open for stunning views of the Tuscan countryside along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Monteroni d'Arbia to Buonconvento, a journey of 35 km that will take you less than an hour. Along the way, admire the beautiful scenery of the Tuscan countryside and take in the sights of small villages and rolling hills. Be sure to take a detour to the picturesque town of San Giovanni d'Asso, known for its production of truffles. Stop by the nearby Abbey of Sant'Antimo, a former Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 8th century. Continue to the town of Montalcino, famous for its Brunello di Montalcino wine, and explore the historic center with its narrow, winding streets. Finally, arrive in Buonconvento, a medieval village with a castle and a fortified wall. While there, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Casa di Santa Caterina, a 15th-century palace. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage.

For an amazing road trip experience in Italy, consider taking the "Le Crete Panoramic Road". This road trip will take you through some of the most beautiful countryside in the region and culminate with a visit to the charming town of Buonconvento. Located in the province of Siena, Buonconvento is an ancient walled village and is a great place to explore the region's history and culture. The town is a great place to explore the region's past, with a number of historical sites to check out. Visit the Church of San Bartolomeo, which was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest churches in the area. The 15th century Porta Senese is another must-see, as is the Palazzo del Podestà, which dates back to the 14th century. Other sites of interest include the Torre del Cassero, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Church of San Pietro. For those arriving by car, Buonconvento is located just over an hour away from Florence International Airport (FLR). Once here, there are plenty of places to park. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in which to enjoy the local cuisine, as well as several shops for souvenirs. At the end of the day, Buonconvento is the perfect place to spend some time exploring the countryside and learning about the region's past. With its historical sites, charming atmosphere, and delicious local cuisine, Buonconvento is the ideal ending point for the "Le Crete Panoramic Road" road trip.

Before you set off

The Le Crete Panoramic Road Trip, also known as the Crete Senesi, invites travelers on an enchanting voyage through the heart of Tuscany. This 70km journey, starting from Castelnuovo Berardenga and ending in Buonconvento, is enriched by breathtaking vistas of the undulating Tuscan hills, dotted with cypress trees, historic farmhouses, and terracotta-roofed towns. It's a route that captures the essence of the region's varied landscapes and offers an authentic Italian countryside experience that can be savored leisurely over the course of a single day.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The Road winds through the charming towns of Asciano and Monteroni d'Arbia, brimming with cultural and historical gems. Attractions range from rustic vineyards where you can sample the renowned local wines to centuries-old monasteries like the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore. You'll be treated to iconic Tuscan vistas, such as the verdant Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its quintessential beauty, and the distinctive clay hills of the Crete Senesi region.

Best Time to Go:

To fully appreciate the splendor of Tuscany's landscapes, the ideal times to embark on this Road Trip are during the spring, when the countryside is bursting with color, or in the early summer when the fields are a lush green and the weather is pleasantly warm, making for idyllic driving conditions.

Potential Risks:

The route generally features well-maintained Roads, although drivers should exercise caution on the serpentine and narrow segments that may present challenges. It's advisable to drive attentively, particularly when navigating the twists and turns that are characteristic of the region's topography.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Le Crete Panoramic Road Trip is an economical exploration, with minimal expenses required. The Road's condition is suitable for a diverse range of vehicles, ensuring a smooth journey. Along the way, there are ample opportunities for rest and refreshment, with facilities catering to the traveler's comfort.

Interesting Facts:

• The Crete Senesi area is known for its unique lunar-like landscape, especially striking in the area around the small village of Asciano.
• The region is also home to the prized white truffle of San Giovanni d'Asso, which is celebrated with a festival each November.
• The Val d'Orcia has inspired many Renaissance painters and remains a muse for artists and photographers today due to its timeless beauty.

A good choice for:

The Le Crete Panoramic Road Trip is an unforgettable escapade for those who yearn to be surrounded by Tuscany's legendary vistas and cultural richness, all while adhering to a modest budget. Whether you're an avid photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to bask in the natural splendor of Italy, this Road Trip promises a treasure trove of experiences.