Among the colors, villages, and flavors of autumn

In Valdichiana Senese

In Valdichiana, autumn paints the hills red and orange, and the woods begin to smell of mushrooms and damp earth. It’s the ideal season to discover this land by walking unhurriedly, savoring seasonal products, and letting yourself be surprised by details that only autumn can reveal.

Here are the most beautiful places to visit and the flavors to taste in autumn in the Valdichiana Senese.

Places to Discover in Autumn

Among the most fascinating places to experience in autumn is Montepulciano, where you can stroll through the streets of the old town, admire the golden vineyards, and descend into historic cellars to taste a glass of red wine — a true expression of the recently concluded harvest. Equally charming is Torrita di Siena, where the medieval square and ancient walls are filled with the aromas of the season. A visit to Chiusi, the quintessential Etruscan city, is a must: its museums and catacombs tell millennia-old stories, while the nearby lake reflects the colors of the foliage in a landscape of rare beauty.

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the woods of Cetona and Sarteano, which in autumn offer the most spectacular foliage in the valley. Here, the trails are covered in chestnuts, mushrooms, and dry leaves that accompany slow, peaceful walks. After a stroll, there’s nothing better than warming up with a traditional local dish in a trattoria.

For those seeking relaxation and intimacy, autumn is the perfect time to visit Chianciano Terme and San Casciano dei Bagni. The warm waters of their springs become a rejuvenating retreat as the air turns crisp, while the surrounding landscapes glow with golden hues. It’s an invitation to slow down and take care of yourself in the heart of the Valdichiana.

Autumn in Sinalunga captures the essence of local life: the town squares fill up during fairs, while the surrounding hills are tinged with warm shades. It’s the best time to experience authentic traditions and taste the area’s products. In Trequanda, the spotlight is on the new olive oil. The olive groves surrounding the village are ready for the harvest, and the rural atmosphere invites you to explore the countryside, visit oil mills, and fall in love with the genuine flavors of the season.

Autumn Flavors Not to Miss

Autumn in Valdichiana is not just about landscapes: it’s also when the fields and woods offer their finest fruits, and kitchens fill with the scents of traditional recipes.

New Olive Oil
Between October and November, the oil mills open their doors and the land is filled with the aroma of freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil. A bruschetta with new oil is a ritual every local eagerly awaits.

Truffle
The symbol of this season, the truffle is gathered in the woods with the help of truffle hunters and their dogs. It’s best enjoyed over fresh tagliolini or simple bruschette that highlight its unique aroma.

Chianina Beef
The undisputed king of the table, Chianina beef becomes the star of hearty, convivial dishes in autumn. Roasts, steaks, and stews are perfect for warming up the first chilly evenings.

Mushrooms and Chestnuts
Walks through the woods and food stops go hand in hand: porcini, chanterelles, and chestnuts—roasted or turned into traditional sweets—bring the most authentic autumn flavors to the table.

Traditional Sweets
This season features the Pan co’ Santi (“ciaccia dei santi”), a typical All Saints’ Day bread with raisins and walnuts, and the Torta di Chianciano, a creamy-centered cake that tells the story of local peasant tradition.