Land of Tuff

Leaving the plains and the coast behind, the landscape becomes more varied: the gentle hills of the Land of Tuff stretch to the horizon, covered with vineyards and olive groves, pastures for sheep, and forests of oaks, cork oaks, and holm oaks. Visitors to this area feel as if they are traveling through time: a sparsely populated land, yet inhabited since prehistoric times.

The Land of Tuff has been shaped by some of the most refined civilizations of antiquity, from the Etruscans to the Romans, through the Middle Ages and the Medici Renaissance. The villages, perched on hills or resting on tuff plateaus, are surrounded by deep watercourses that made them practically impregnable. The area includes renowned locations such as Scansano, Manciano, Saturnia, Montemerano, Pitigliano, Sorano, Sovana, and Vitozza.

Thanks to its isolation, this corner of Maremma preserves a unique archaeological heritage: the “Vie Cave,” semi-subterranean paths carved into tuff that connected Etruscan cities, necropolises, and sacred sites. Declared a “world heritage of interest to be protected,” the Vie Cave, along with numerous caves and necropolises, represent an unparalleled setting. The ancient Via Clodia, which connected Rome to Saturnia, still allows travelers to walk sections of the original Roman paving, a testament to an extraordinary commercial and thermal past.

A volcanic area, the Land of Tuff is rich in thermal waters, including the famous Saturnia, where you can rejuvenate body and mind in natural springs.

This area of Tuscany is also home to gastronomic excellence: from Morellino di Scansano to local cheeses, from Maremma-style tortelli to acquacotta, not to mention wild boar. It’s a territory to explore slowly—on foot, by e-bike, or on horseback—savoring every detail. Stops at agriturismi, trattorias, or small villages allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic local life, hear local stories, and taste typical wines.