Quintessential Tuscany across the Crete Senesi area
Set your GPS: Taverne d'Arbia, Vescona, Asciano, Casabianca, Sinalunga
Leave the E78, head down to Arbia and enjoy the road. Between driving and looking around there's endless pleasure to be had. At almost regular intervals there are dirt roads that lead off towards distant farmhouses.
Near Staffoli, on the right, there's a wonderful view of cypress trees winding their way through the landscape; on the right there's a sign for the Castle of Leonina. A perfect watercolor. There's not enough adjectives to describe this road. Passing beyond Vescona from km 9 there's a change: downhill curves lead you all the way towards Pievina, with its country church. At an intersection take the turn for Badia a Rofena, a poetic destination that's somewhat rundown. Between vineyards and houses, you'll see the bridge over the Ombrone, just before Asciano.
There will be signs that lead to Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore; to the left you can enjoy a view of Monte Sante Marie; drive into Asicano and park in Piazza Marconi. The center of town is rich with churches and monuments including Palazzo Corboli with its Civic Architecture museum.
Heading back on the road, take the first turn off for the town of Trequanda. The itinerary continues on SP438 with lots of signs towards Rapolano and its spas. Then the road changes name: the SP10/a is still fun, but the scenery is totally different. In Casabianca you can get local products for all your friends, while the DOCG vines nearby offer you one more breathtaking view... Sinalunga brings the journey to an end as you say to yourself, "what a fabulous trip it has been."