The weather has been dreary lately making travelling about less attractive. We did take a short trip through the gorgeous hills of Tuscany for an overnight stay in Pienza, one of our favourite towns.
We are creatures of habit, and a drive through the Tuscan hills always includes dropping into Asciano. The town itself is quaint, but it is the road leading to there is what we love. It is truly like driving through a postcard. Here are some photos taken on other trips, when the weather was better.
One of the main reasons for the stay in Pienza was to have dinner at Idyllium restaurant. I spotted it on Instagram and decided a visit was necessary. Most of our visits have been day trips, so it was fun to enjoy the town after the sun goes down. It was windy and cold, but the restaurant was warm and cosy inside.
The food was delicious, difficult to photograph in dull light.
We will go back and have lunch outside so we can look over the view from the edge of town.
Pienza has great shops, including local pecorino cheese and wine. We stocked up on some Pienza delights.
I love these tiny alleys.
The next morning we headed off in threatening rain and a slightly warmer day to nearby San Quirico d’Orcia. Come for a walk down the main street.
Entrance to the rose garden…on a better day.
The entrance to the stunning garden in the centre of town.
Another church.
This delightful little cafe/shop called us in.
Their coffee machine was not working so we had to be happy with buying some wine…another time.
Another church.
This area is gorgeous even in less than perfect weather. We will no doubt visit again when it is a little warmer and sunnier.
We stayed at Hotel San Gregorio in Pienza. It was excellent!