Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
At the
Area Archeologica di Vitozza
( 24hr)
, due east of the village and signposted
from the main square, you will find more than 200 rock caves peppering a high rock
ridge. One of the largest troglodyte dwellings in Italy, the complex was first inhabited in
prehistoric times. To explore the site, you'll need two hours and sturdy walking shoes.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Sorano
POP 3590
Sorano's setting isn't quite as dramatic as Pitigliano's, but it comes pretty close. Astride a
rocky outcrop, its weather-worn stone houses are built along a ridge overlooking the Lente
gorge and river. Below the ridgeline are
cantine
(cellars) dug out of tufa, as well as a
series of terraced gardens, many hidden from public view.
Sights & Activities
Fortezza Orsini
( 05 6463 3767; admission €4; 10am-1pm & 3-7pm Tue-Sun summer (open daily Aug), to 6pm Oct,
10am-1pm & 2-5pm Sat & Sun Nov)
Standing sentinel over the town, this massive fortress was
built in the 11th century and added to over the centuries. It has two bastions connected by
sturdy walls and surrounded by a dry moat. The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly a
guided tour of the subterranean passages (11am and 2pm).
FORT
Sleeping
Sant'Egle
AGRITURISMO
€€
( 34 8888 4810;
www.santegle.it
; Case Sparse Sant'Egle 18; d €110, ste €160; )
Atmosphere-laden rooms, a pretty garden setting and a strong commitment to sustainabil-
ity make Sant'Egle a great choice. Occupying a meticulously restored 17th-century cus-
toms house on an organic farm between Sorano and Pitigliano, it offers attractive rooms
and a restaurant serving dinners (€30) featuring home-grown fruit and vegetables, hand-
made pasta and bread and free-range meats. Mountain bikes are available for guests' use.
Hotel della Fortezza
HOTEL
€€
