San Quirico d’Orcia – Bagno Vignoni along the Via Francigena

• The departure point is the medieval village of San Quirico d’Orcia, a little jewel in the Val d’Orcia. It’s worth spending some time there: a walk around the paved streets or a visit to the Collegiate Church of San Quirico e Giulitta and Palazzo Chigi and don’t miss the Horti Leonini Italian-style garden, perfect for breathing in some Renaissance air.

• After leaving San Quirico, you set off along an unpaved road that winds through fields and groves: keep your eyes open, because this is where a splendid view of the Vignoni Alto fortress opens up. This hamlet is historical and quiet, just enough to make you feel immersed in the past.
• As you proceed, descend towards Bagno Vignoni, passing by terraced fields, olive groves and a few small farms. This stretch is often along a “strada bianca” (unpaved dirt road), typical of the Val d’Orcia.

• When you reach Bagno Vignoni, you are greeted by a truly unique image: Piazza delle Sorgenti, where, instead of the usual square, there is a large rectangular thermal pool – the Vasca di Santa Caterina (St. Catherine’s Pool). This unusual structure makes the village perfect for a relaxing break.
• Around the square, there is also the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Going down the slope a little, towards the Orcia river, you come to the Parco dei Mulini, a park where the thermal waters were once used to power the mills – an almost fairy-tale area, full of historical charm.

• Horti Leonini (San Quirico): This is a Renaissance garden with perfect geometries, ideal for starting the journey without haste.
• Collegiate Church of San Quirico e Giulitta: The parish church has interesting architectural elements and a quiet atmosphere.
• Vignoni Alto: This peaceful, ancient village has scenic views of the Val d’Orcia.
• Piazza delle Sorgenti (Bagno Vignoni): The large thermal pool is the most recognisable symbol of the village.
• Parco dei Mulini: Below the village, near the river, there are channels from the ancient mills powered by thermal waters, in a captivating and somewhat wild area.
• Views of the Val d’Orcia: Along the route, you can enjoy the endless typical Tuscan landscapes, with hills, fields, rows of cypresses and views of Rocca d’Orcia and Monte Amiata in the distance.

• It’s perfect for those who have little time but want to experience the magical thermal waters of the Val d’Orcia: You walk in the morning and you will reach Bagno Vignoni in time for a dip or a break.
• It’s less challenging compared to carrying straight on towards Radicofani, but it is still scenic and authentic.
• It allows you to combine the spiritual/pilgrim journey with a relaxing tourist experience: beauty, history, nature and well-being.

In summary, the stretch of Via Francigena between San Quirico d’Orcia and Bagno Vignoni is ideal for those who love to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Tuscan landscapes and a touch of well-being in the thermal waters. With just 5−10 km, depending on the route, in 2‑3 hours you can pass from the quiet medieval village of San Quirico to the unique atmosphere of the thermal pool square of Bagno Vignoni. The itinerary offers spectacular views, historical glimpses and a refreshing experience, making it perfect for a break before carrying on across the hills of the Via Francigena – or simply for enjoying a day of trekking with a relaxing ending.