The Crete Senesi refers to an area of the Italian region of Tuscany immediately to the south of Siena. It consists of a range of hills and woods among villages and includes the comuni of Asciano, Buonconvento, Monteroni d'Arbia, Rapolano Terme and San Giovanni d'Asso, all within the province of Siena. They border to the north with the Chianti Senese area, to the east with Val di Chiana and to the south-west with Val d'Orcia. Nearby is also the semi-arid area known as the Accona Desert.Crete Senesi is just one of the many highlights you can arrange to see using our , world travel planner Edition.
Crete Senesi are literally the "clays of Siena": the distinctive grey colouration of the soil gives the landscape an appearance often described as lunar. This characteristic clay, known as mattaione, represents the sediments of the Pliocene sea which covered the area between 2.5 and 4.5 million years ago. The landscape is characterized by barren and gently undulating hills, solitary oaks and cypresses, isolated farms at the top of the heights, stretches of wood and ponds of rainwater (commonly referred as fontoni, literally "big springs") in the valleys. Badlands and biancane are typical conformations of the land.
Perhaps the most notable edifice of this area is the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, located 10 km south of Asciano.
The region is known for its production of white truffles, and hosts a festival and a museum dedicated to the rare fungus (genus Tuber).
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Crete Senesi reviews
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Unexpected wow factor visiting this delightful place. Wonderful scenery, pleasant people, art work and good cuisines at restaurants. A must visit!
Unexpected wow factor visiting this delightful place. Wonderful scenery, pleasant people, art work and good cuisines at restaurants. A must visit! more »
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I simply love this Osteria. The food is simply great and the location so cute. Do not miss pici and the cake
I simply love this Osteria. The food is simply great and the location so cute. Do not miss pici and the cake more »
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Idyllic Tuscan scenery right off the postcards. It's like a green sheet was thrown onto the hilly landscape. Drive through on the curvy roads, it's a great experience. Make sure to stop after Asciano for a sneak peak onto Agriturismo Baccoleno
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Nice place to stop and take pics of typical Toscanian countryside.
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