Checking Out the Val d’Orcia with a Local Coach: the Top 5 Bars

21 may 2018

At the end of a vacation day spent at the hot springs, trekking the hills, or exploring little medieval hamlets, enjoying an aperitif at sunset or sipping on a drink in the open air after dinner is one of the big little pleasures that the Val d’Orcia offers during the summer months. And since we do not want you to stop at just any bar, we have selected five that represent the best in the territory, where even (and especially because) the locals go.
This is the launch of a new feature, Checking Out the Val d’Orcia with a Local Coach, where we will reveal the best places in the territory, selected by people like us who live here and know all the little details: because trusting an insider, who recommends routes that are off the most touristy paths (after having experimented them personally), is the only real way to find authenticity and to fully experience a place.

Foto: Enea Barbieri

Foto: Enea Barbieri

Il Barrino – Bagno Vignoni
In its 25 years, it has become a true institution for residents and regulars in the Val d’Orcia: overlooking a small square in Bagno Vignoni, Il Barrino is a lounge bar which aims for a refined and elegant atmosphere and excellence in its cocktails, close to perfection. Definitely go for the classics: from Negroni to Mojito, or take a chance on the whimsy of the outstanding barman. Do not miss out on Thursday nights when there are jazz and blues concerts that always draw a crowd.

Il Barrino a Bagno Vignoni

Il Barrino a Bagno Vignoni

Idyllium - Pienza
A relatively new bar that has already become the place for fans of mixology. It’s a little hidden and not easy to find, like all good things. Federico welcomes all his clients with a smile and hands them a classic book with the menu on the bookmark. Bledar makes excellent cocktails and even creates his own, like the Papale Papale (in homage to Pope Pius II who was born right in Pienza as Enea Silvia Piccolomini). When the weather is nice, you can take in a unique view of the Val d’Orcia from the walls of Pienza, while in winter you can stay inside and get comfy in one of the old armchairs surrounded by the cozy atmosphere of the warm lighting and vintage furniture.

Idyllium a Pienza - Foto: Enea Barbieri

Idyllium a Pienza - Foto: Enea Barbieri

Alle Logge di Piazza – Montalcino
A young and dynamic bar where Brunello winemakers, especially the new generation, can easily be found at breakfast or at the end of the day. Grab a table on street level or under the historical portico and enjoy your front seat on authentic village life. At happy hour, the bar comes to life, often with a DJ set. Excellent cocktails and a rich list of Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino wines are served by the glass, even continuously. If you don’t feel like leaving, you can even stay there for dinner. You won’t be disappointed.
 
Intralci – San Quirico d’Orcia

Alessandro, the owner, comes from Pavia but he travelled the world before settling in the Val d’Orcia: a great wine expert, he offers an excellent selection of labels from the territory in his little bar without snubbing gems from outside the region, especially bubbly.
Excellent charcuterie boards with canapés, anchovies with parsley pesto and local sheep cheese. Inside, seating is real close at a common table – a great way to meet new people – while outside you can observe the comings and goings of San Quirico, one of the most typical towns in the Val d’Orcia.

Intralci a San Quirico d'Orcia

Intralci a San Quirico d'Orcia

Il Barrino – Montisi
One of those places whose name is whispered and kept on the down low among the regulars in the Val d’Orcia. A unique place where the elderly of the village spend their afternoons playing cards and blend in with the American and English expats who own holiday homes in the surrounding area. Gianluca, the charismatic owner of Barrino, has a unique gift for bringing together so many different souls. On the main floor there is a typical town bar (but the barmen are really up to date on the latest trends, don’t be afraid to ask), while the restaurant upstairs features Tuscan cuisine with a contemporary twist. It is a paradise for lovers of bubbly: from prestigious to lesser-known Champagne houses, without forgetting the great Italian sparkling wines, Ferrari first and foremost.

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