Exploring the Rolling Hills of Tuscany – 9 Top Photo Locations

If you are tired of the hustle and grind culture, there is no better place to experience the Italian carefree ‘dolce far niente’ way of life than in the rolling hills of Tuscany!

While most people go to Florence, or at max some of its neighboring medieval towns, it’s actually in the Tuscan countryside, (in the Val d’Orcia region to be precise), where you’ll get to truly experience that slow-living way of life. And it’s not just wine and cheese you’ll experience… (although we aren’t complaining of course!). It’s the simple beauty that the landscapes of Tuscany reveal that really elicit that state of bliss.

From immense wheatfields to brilliant hues, finding inner peace while exploring scenic Tuscany is assured. Its velutinous rolling hills and idyllic cypress trees restore the sprit with a sense of harmony that really warms the soul.

This post is meant to act as a sort of photographer’s guide to Tuscany. Because I want you to be able to pack in as much beauty and serenity as humanly possible, I’ve gone ahead and compiled a list of all the best photo spots in Tuscany I’ve encountered over the years.

There are so many top photography locations in Tuscany that you are quite literally spoiled for choice. Down below, you’ll find detailed descriptions and directions to help plan your visit to perfection.

*Please Note! This post ONLY covers photo locations that revolve around the Tuscan countryside and its idyllic landscapes of rolling hills. Therefore, it does not mention other locations in Tuscany like Florence, picturesque medieval villages, beach towns, or any of the islands of the Tuscan archipelago. Those are for another post!

Landscapes of Tuscany – When to visit for the prettiest scenery?

So, before we get into the actual list, it is so important you visit Tuscany during the right season!

This might be unexpected but summer is NOT the best season to travel to Tuscany in; in fact, it is quite possibly the worst season to go in… GASP! And not just for the sweltering temperatures and massive crowds – the landscape is quite dry and barren this time of year as well.

COLORS & SCENERY CHANGE DRAMATICALLY MONTH TO MONTH – The season you visit in will dictate what type of landscape you see!

So, what season should you visit in??

SPRING (mid April – mid June)

• • Best for green rolling hills and lush vegetation (wheatgrass changes color as it grows – see color chart below for a monthly guide on colors you’ll see)
  • Best for outdoor activities: hiking, picnicking, cycling, outdoor meals
  • Best for photography (days are long – great lighting)

FALL (mid September – mid November)

• • Best for foliage (hills aren’t green though! – see color chart below for a monthly guide on colors you’ll see)
  • Best for grape and oil harvesting – many farms do demonstrations.
  • Truffle season!

WINTER & SUMMER (late November – early April & mid June – early September)

AVOID! (If sole interest is landscape/scenery)

• • Landscape is dried up (summer)
  • Wheat has been harvested, hills are barren (both seasons)
  • Temperatures too cold or too hot to enjoy outdoor activities (both seasons)

Color Chart of Tuscan Landscapes (by season)

SPRING

Spring by far is the best season to see those green rolling hills of Tuscany.

…Why?

Because the vegetation is thriving – this is when the wheat fields are at their most vibrant and beautiful red poppies are in bloom. This isn’t the least crowded season but it’s nowhere near as crowded as summer. Plus, temperatures are mild and pleasant. This is the best season to spend your time outdoors, whether you want to picnic or go for a nice long walk. This is also a great season for cycling itineraries!

Best Month: May

FALL

Fall is a decent runner-up. Although the wheatgrass has been cut, as grapes ripen and leaves prepare to fall, vegetation and vineyards become tinted with beautiful shades of reds and oranges (usually during mid-October). Moreover, harvesting season occurs throughout the months of September and October; it can be quite interesting to attend demonstrations where the cutting and harvesting of grapes is explained!

If you’re also a foodie, this season is packed with culinary festivals – from truffles to chestnuts, it’s a paradise for your palate.

Best Month: October

SUMMER

Besides crowds and unbearable temperatures, summer is not the season to visit for beautiful landscapes. Yes, there are areas where you’ll find blooming sunflower fields, but the overall color palate is a burnt-yellow. It is very dry and grass has been cut. Don’t expect to find wheat spikes or green rolling hills in Tuscany this time of year!

WINTER

Winter can get cold and the terrain quite muddy and inaccessible. Plus, many agriturismi are not readily open so it can get tricky to book restaurants. Moreover, the hills and vegetation are mainly brown; it’s not the ideal season to pick if you’re interested in capturing those rolling hills of Tuscany!

9 Most Instagrammable Places in Tuscany for Countryside Landscapes

So, now that you have an idea on what kind of scenery you’ll be seeing, let’s get to the exact locations of these 9 most beautiful places in Tuscany.

Down below I’ve divided the best photo locations into two sections:

• Section 1 Photo Locations: Where to find the rolling hills of Tuscany and panoramic views
• Section 2 Photo Locations: Beautiful landmarks immersed in nature/countryside.

Best photo spots in Tuscany for Rolling Hills and Sweeping Views

1. Most beautiful sunset in Tuscany

Starting with my absolute favorite spot in all of Tuscany, this little trail off the SR2 road rewards with some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see. Not many people actually venture down the path but just linger at the panorama point on the side of the road – I encourage you to take that sunset walk down the footpath!

Once you’ve walked down towards the open fields, you’ll find a breathtaking sight! Pick your spot and savor up each passing moment as the sun prepares to set. Clear your mind and let yourself be draped by the golden light of dusk that begins to move in. United as one with the boundless landscape, abandon yourself to the breeze that in a magnificent dance of ripples billows across the infinite rolling hills.

Enjoy a profound and moving moment as the sun paints the sky in fiery reds and plunges beneath the horizon. I guarantee you won’t regret it! (And in case you’re thinking about ‘popping the question’, this is one of the best spots for proposing in Italy!)

Directions

This spot is located right in between the towns of San Quirico d’Orcia and Montalcino, practically adjacent to the SR2 – SP14 overpass. Input into your google maps “Parcheggio per Cipresseta.” You’ll be led to a very small dirt turnout off the SR2 where you can park your car. At sunset it is difficult to find available parking spaces as most photographers have already set up – plan to arrive early to find a spot and be cautious of through traffic as cars drive very fast here!

From the small parking area, you’ll see the Cypress Grove on one side of the road (southside), and an open field on the other side (northside). Stay on the northside and follow the small trail that heads out towards the open field – this is where you want to head for your sunset walk!

Exact GPS Coordinates (footpath): 43.06458935725921, 11.560715957669979

2. Famous Gladiator Alley & Wheat Field – Campi Elisi and Agriturismo Terrapille

Next up on the list of most instagrammable places in Tuscany are the notorious Elysian Fields made famous by The Gladiator. In one of the final scenes, the Spaniard (Russell Crowe), is seen from behind gently brushing the tips of wheatgrass. This epic scene is one of the most recognized movie scenes in history… and this photo location is precisely where it was shot!

Once you’ve parked (see details below), proceed to make your way down the path that leads to Agriturismo Terrapille. You’ll find it almost impossible to keep the film soundtrack out of mind.  Accompanied by the tunes of Hans Zimmer’s “Now We Are Free”, the beauty that unfolds is so familiar and welcoming that, just like in the movie, it will literally feel as if you’ve finally come home.

Interested in turning this into a longer walk? Just before getting to Agriturismo Terrapille (at the end of the path), you’ll find a crossroad with a path leading to the right. A very pleasant loop walk starts from here that leads back to the parking area.

Directions

Input into your google maps “Pieve dei Santi Vito e Modesto a Corsignano.” You’ll be led to a charming church (which you can visit!). Leave your car here and then proceed on the trail following signs for Agriturismo Terrapille. On the map you’ll see the panorama point labeled as “Gladiator Shooting Spot.”

Exact GPS Coordinates (church): 43.077201926748025, 11.671260318876646

3. Panorama Terrace from Podere il Casale Restaurant

Sidetracking for a moment from cypress trees and winding roads, let’s talk about panoramic views!

Perched at the top of a hill south of Pienza, the farm-to-table restaurant Podere il Casale boasts some of the best views in Tuscany… not to mention its stellar gourmet cuisine!

From the outdoor terrace, a most impressive view unfolds of the countryside below. Sweeping across the entire skyline and moving into the distance as far as the eye can see, you’ll find countless shades of green in the springtime and warm fiery reds in the fall.

I highly encourage you to pair your visit with a nice long lunch! If you’re short on time however, you can always just savor the view with a glass of wine from their superb selection!

If interested in eating here, make sure to book online well ahead of time (I’m talking weeks beforehand)! Also, please note that besides summer months, temperatures are generally only warm enough for outside seating in May and September.

Directions

Depending on where you’re coming from, directions will slightly differ. Nevertheless, getting to Podere il Casale is extremely easy. Input into your Google Maps “Podere il Casale” and you’ll be led straight to the dirt parking lot in front of the farm restaurant.

Exact GPS Coordinates (restaurant): 43.08096302959054, 11.71167968297424

4. Cypress Path Leading to Poggio Covili

Back to idyllic Tuscan landscapes, this photo location is right out of a painting! The rows of cypress trees can be spotted from a distance as you drive in on the SR2 road.

In fact, this spot is photographically interesting from both near and far:

• From Afar: you’ll get a sideview shot that frames the entire string of cypresses horizontally
• From Up-Close: you’ll get a portrait shot (like above) that stacks the cypresses on top of each other

Be aware that this photo spot can sometimes get congested with multiple photographers. Please be respectful and as brief as possible. The path belongs to the Poggio Covili farmhouse, and as such, is private property. Do not trespass and venture beyond the section that is roped off!

You can always visit early in the morning or even in the rain to avoid people – umbrellas always make for such great photo props!

Directions

This photo spot is right on the side of the road. Input into your Google Maps “Farmhouse Poggio Covili” and you’ll be led directly to the alley of cypresses that leads to it. The turnout is off the SR2 close to Bagni Vignoni town.

Exact GPS Coordinates (road turnout): 43.02199344341053, 11.63687885842256

5. The Cypress Grove and Ring – Bosco dei Cipressi near San Quirico d’Orcia

Moving on to another iconic Tuscany Instagram spot, the Cypress Grove you’ll find just opposite the cipresseta parking is a true emblem of Tuscan landscapes. Standing tall in the midst of endless rolling hills, the group of cypress trees promptly catch the eye and steal the spotlight. As if photoshopped in, they make for the perfect subject for photography. You’ll get the best views right from the side of the road. Here, the angle is wide and allows for the entire landscape to be captured.

Behind the cypress grove, you might be able to catch a glimpse of another group of cypress trees planted in a ring formation. Unfortunately, the footpath leading to both the grove and cypress ring is chained off. It is unclear if the path is closed solely to vehicles or pedestrians as well. Many photographers decide to take the risk and walk right up to the cypress ring anyway. That is your call as the land is technically marked as private property.

*Leave your car at the parking on the main road. Vehicles, including bicycles, are not allowed on the footpaths here!*

Directions

Google Maps doesn’t offer the best directions if you input “Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia.” It leads you to a dirt backroad full of potholes that leads to private property – don’t take this road!  Instead, head for the parking turnout (same one as the sunset walk) right on the side of the SR2 road. Input into your google maps “Parcheggio per Cipresseta” and make sure it locates you close to the Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia. Directions should be quite straightforward but just make sure you plan accordingly as parking is very scarce. Either plan to arrive way before sunset or be prepared to have to come back at another time.

Exact GPS Coordinates (Parcheggio per Cipresseta): 43.064189615500325, 11.559449993939701

6. Winding Cypress Trees near Agriturismo Baccoleno

Finally, the location you’ve all been waiting for!!!

Arguably one of Tuscany’s most recognized sites (second to I would say only the leaning tower of Pisa and the great dome of Florence), the winding cypress road near Baccoleno farmhouse calls thousands of photographers from all around the world every single year.

So, what makes it such a unique setting? It includes all those Tuscan iconic symbols you’re dying to capture. From cypress trees, to hills, to winding roads, to country villas… this spot includes it all. And get this, it even faces north-west so you get a perfect sunset in the backdrop!

The actual photo spot is NOT on the winding road but off the SP60 main road that overlooks the agriturismo from ABOVE. This allows for a unique perspective! Having a nice zoom lens here is ideal!

*DO NOT TRESPASS!* The road leading to Agriturismo Baccoleno belongs to the farmhouse – you’ll see it is fenced off from the main road. Please be respectful and remain on public land.

Our personal opinion – did we like it?

Considered its virality, we just had to visit to determine whether the spot was truly worthy of its fame. To our dismay, we were unimpressed. Although it is a beautiful view, considering its distance from all the other photo spots in this post (it’s not in the Val d’Orcia area), we didn’t think the 40-minute drive out was worth it.

We also didn’t visit at sunset and felt this really took away from our experience (our mistake!). Based on our personal experience we highly encourage you to visit during golden hour!

Directions

Directions differ according to what direction you will be coming from. To find the best route, input into your Google Maps “Punto Panoramico Crete Senesi Agr. Baccoleno.” You’ll see that it is labeled as a panorama point off the SP60, right next to Agriturismo Baccoleno. To park, there are several dirt turnouts along the road where you can briefly leave your car.

Exact GPS Coordinates (Lookout Point): 43.199811428338684, 11.58988031905885

Best photo spots in the Tuscan Countryside for Landmarks

Switching to beautiful landmarks, here are some of the most notable sights to uncover while in the Tuscan countryside:

7. Bagni di San Filippo Hot Springs

Have a relaxing day soaking in the thermal waters of Bagni di San Filippo; one of Italy’s most beautiful natural hot springs (it’s my favorite!).

Nestled deep in the forest, you’ll trace along a creek that flows from one limestone pool to the next, until reaching the immense chalky white cliff (the White Whale) at the end of the path. Here, against the backdrop of a pearl rock wall, choose the pool whose temperature you are most comfortable with. Immerse yourself in the hot milky waters and sit back and enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery that envelops. It is absolutely striking both in spring and fall!

8. Vitaleta Chapel – Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta

Perhaps one of the most photographed chapels in Tuscany, the Madonna di Vitaleta chapel stands boldly in the hills of the Val d’Orcia. Although tiny in size, the church nevertheless dominates amidst a carpet of never ending fields. With such sweeping views, it is no wonder the chapel has come to represent the epitome of Tuscan Landscapes!

You don’t have to be spiritual to visit the chapel. The secluded spot elicits a peace that rewards both believers and non-believers with a moving experience.

Although the spot can get busy, most people only stick around a mere 10 minutes. I encourage you to take your time. Walk the premises, take a seat in the grass and just soak it all in. It’s that slow pace that rewards with the best experiences and also allows for crowds to disperse.

The best times to visit are when the sun is low, early in the morning or at sunset.

Directions

Input into Google Maps “Vitaleta Chapel” and you will be guided via the SP146 to a gravel road. You’ll see a tiny path branch off the main path and a sign indicating Madonna della Vitaleta. Park your car here and proceed by foot on the rest of the path (you will have to go around a barrier that blocks road traffic from entering).

Exact GPS Coordinates (where to leave car): 43.07071252370679, 11.641924353433708

9. Abbey of Sant’Antimo – Abbazia di Sant’Antimo

One of the most stunning Benedictine Monasteries in Italy, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo regally sits at the foot of the tiny village of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. Burrowed in the midst of an olive grove, the Romanesque church quite unexpectedly appears before you as you make your way past the last bend driving up.

A tour inside and around the grounds, (including a visit to the apothecary and herb garden) is a must! You don’t have to be a believer to experience the profound spiritual sentiment that this beautiful alabaster cathedral evokes.

For holy mass hours, or to reserve a video guided tour, contact the abbey here. If you’re interested in Gregorian chants, check out their calendar to see when they offer lessons in this sacred tradition.

Directions

Getting to the Abbey of Sant’Antimo is extremely easy. Type into Google Maps “Abbey of Sant’Antimo” and you’ll be led straight to its dirt parking lot via the SP55.

Exact GPS Coordinates (parking lot): 43.000809065084034, 11.517378807066182

Map of Most Beautiful Places in Tuscany

Down below you’ll find a map of all the photo spots discussed above. Number 1 and number 5 overlap since they are so close together. For practicality, here is the list again for quick reference:

1. Sunset Spot near San Quirico d’Orcia
2. Gladiator Wheat Fields
3. View from Podere il Casale Restaurant
4. Rows of Cypress Trees at Poggio Covili
5. Cypress Grove & Ring
6. Winding Cypresses at Baccoleno
7. Bagni di San Filippo
8. Vitaleta Chapel
9. Abbey of Sant’Antimo

Staying in the Tuscan Countryside – Accommodations for all Budget Types

When chasing the lush landscapes and rolling hills of Tuscany, there is no other area to stay in than the region of Val d’Orcia.

Down below I’ve listed a few accommodations according to budget type. I only recommend accommodations that I’ve either personally stayed in or that I have extensively researched and would book for myself as well.

I’ve personally stayed in both Agriturismo Marinello and Agriturismo del Cocco, which were both AMAZING! I have yet to stay in Capanna Suites, but hope to stay there sometime in the next future!

Budget Top-Rate Farm stay – Agriturismo il Cocco!

Montalcino countryside – Best for wine tasting

Besides the property’s sheer countrylike beauty, Agriturismo il Cocco offers in my opinion one of the best wine tasting tours in the entire region! Completely organic, the vineyard onsite is exemplary and Giacomo, the owner, is exceptional in his craft. Whether you book an unbelievably informative wine tasting tour or indulge at the onsite restaurant, this agriturismo is absolutely phenomenal. The rooms are clean and comfortable and offer cozy lounge areas. The value for money is truly the best I’ve yet to experience in all of Val d’Orcia.

Midrange – Agriturismo Marinello

Pienza countryside – Best for breathtaking views

Tucked away from busy roads and nestled in the heart of an immense prairie, Agriturismo Marinello is the quintessential accommodation to choose to fully immerse yourself in the rolling hills of Tuscany. We absolutely loved our stay here! With a working fireplace in the fall and an outdoor swimming pool in the summer, these fully equipped apartments are great in all seasons. Plus, you’ll find a fun bocce ball field onsite! You can even have a nice scrumptious breakfast if you book ahead with the manager (only fresh products and home-cooked food of course)!

Luxury – Capanna Suites

Montalcino countryside – Best for spa and luxury amenities

With its very own restaurant, wellness center, and winery, this luxury farm-house accommodation offers sweeping views of the Tuscan hills. Relax in the amazing infinity pool (open in the summer), or indulge in your very own private spa session in the winter (complete with jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath and chromotherapy shower). This is one stay that totally regenerates the mind and body.

Photographing the Rolling Hills of Tuscany – Rules to Know!

• Be Aware of Drone Restrictions

Nowadays, drones have become so popular and accessible, my own 7-year-old nephew has one! But as captivating as drone footage can be, flying one comes with a lot of restrictions in the Val d’Orcia. For example, flying above private property is restricted. This may seem obvious, but a lot of open land in the area that would seem public is actually private. Also, flying at night-time is prohibited. There are a dozen more restrictions on the list, so to be safe, you might want to leave your drone at home! For details please visit the European Union Aviation Safety Agency website.

DRONE ALTERNATIVE: The Insta 360-degree camera with its far-reaching selfie-stick and extreme wide angle allows for fantastic drone-like shots. I love using mine to capture film and video from outside the car window as if a drone is following.

• Be Respectful of Private Property

Many photograph locations around the Tuscan Countryside are near or sometimes even partially on private property. Always make sure you are respectful and remain on public land – don’t trespass!

• Stay on the Footpaths and Don’t Damage the Crops

As tempting as it might be to walk out into the hills and fields of wheat, bear in mind that these are live crops being grown. Walking on them damages them! Please stay on the paths and help conserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site!

So, there it is guys! The 9 best photography spots in Tuscany for countryside scenery.

I was quite literally lovestruck from the first time I set foot in this area of Tuscany. Ever since that memorable trip, I’ve made my way back almost every year.

As I continue to uncover and explore more in the area, I will build and refine this list to make it as unique and comprehensive as possible. Until then, if you have any questions or would like to suggest other stellar photo locations for countryside landscapes in Tuscany, please by all means comment below or get in contact!

Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…

Buona esplorazione! Have fun exploring!

Need more inspiration for your trip to Italy? Try the following guides:

• 60+ Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Italy
• Visiting Romantic Venice in 2 Days
• Experiencing Matera – the Remarkable Cave City in Italy
• 10 Most Beautiful Places in the Italian Dolomites
• Explore Stunning Seaside Pizzo and its World-famous Gelato

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