Excursion The tufa villages & traditional lunch tour at Porto Santo Stefano

Enjoy a full-day excursion touring two of the legendary Tufa Villages (named for the volcanic rock, or Tufaceous rock, that sets the foundation of these places). See Pitigliano and its little sister town Sovana, two ancient villages with homes and buildings that seem to spring directly from the surrounding rocky terrain.

Tour of Pitigliano

Drive 90 minutes to Pitigliano and enjoy the breathtaking first impression of Pitigliano, which almost appears to have grown naturally from its rocky foundations. Take a guided walking tour. Alive with the presence of humans for 4,000 years, Pitigliano lies in the heart of the Etruscan region. Known also "Little Jerusalem," the village has been home for centuries (since Roman times) to a large Jewish community after their exile from the city of Rome.

There is free time to explore this place on your own, walking amidst the perfectly-preserved aqueducts and ancient buildings. If you have time, enjoy some of the "Bianco di Pitigliano" DOC wine made here, a straw-colored white wine with a delicate fragrance that is stored strictly in tufa cellars.

Traditional Lunch at Hostaria il Ceccottino (or Similar) in Pitigliano

With a short walk from the Jewish District, Hostaria il Ceccottino (or similar) awaits you for a delicious traditional 4-course lunch with wines.

Tour of Sovana and Scenic Drive

Next drive 30 minutes to a smaller Tufa city, Sovana, which is considered one of the most charming villages in Italy. Sovana dates back to the Etruscan times and through the centuries it has retained its importance as a Roman and medieval centre, hometown of Pope Gregory the VII. Prepare to be transported centuries back in time to Sovana, with its magical, ancient churches, including a cathedral built in the 11th century.

Enjoy free time to stroll and take photographs, and also take in the mystical, light-filled atmosphere of this picturesque place.

As your excursion concludes, make the return (2-hour) drive back to the Argentario port, with view of the quiet Orbetello lagoon and Argentario mountains by the sea.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Tufa Cities tour, Pitigliano, Sovano, 11th Century Cathedral, Orbetello Lagoon, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (1.5 miles) over uneven surfaces, inclines, and the use of stairs. Due to the terrain, this trip is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or for those in a wheelchair. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, casual clothes, and to expect significant sun exposure. In case the restaurant is not available, a similar one will be used for lunch. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with two days of advanced notice. Space on this tour is limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.