A challenging stage stretching 20.5 miles or 33 kilometers among the spectacular views and picturesque hills of the Val d’Orcia. The path alternates between dirt roads and paved sections, including ascents, descents and fords. After the fortified village of Vignoni Alto, descend to Bagno Vignoni, famous for its thermal baths in the historic piazza. The short detour to Castiglione d’Orcia, which is well worth a visit, affords sweeping views of the valley, with the Rocca di Tentennano dominating the landscape.

Continue through the valleys of the Orcia and Paglia rivers, encountering the old abandoned Le Briccole hospital and some fords to be approached with caution. The ford before the hospital can prove challenging if there have been heavy downpours, as can the ford of the Formone stream near the junction to Radicofani, but this one can be avoided by following the provincial road and returning to the itinerary after crossing the bridge.

Then enter the Amiata lands, passing near Bagni San Filippo, with its hot springs nestled in the woods. The last stretch is a long, strenuous climb to Radicofani, dominated by the fortress of the same name that was once the refuge of Ghino di Tacco, the gentleman brigand.

Water supplies and refreshments are available in Bagno Vignoni, Gallina (about 1640 feet or 500 meters off the track) and at the Agriturismo Podere San Giorgio.

Bagno Vignoni is a unique place in the world: a spa village gathered around a large Renaissance pool from which waters gush at a hot 120 °F (49 °C), known since Roman times for their healing properties. Over the centuries, its location, right along the Via Francigena, has made this a destination for pilgrims and for illustrious travelers, such as Saint Catherine of Siena and Lorenzo de’ Medici. Although it is no longer possible to soak in the historic pool, you can enjoy the thermal waters in elegant accommodations equipped with swimming pools and spas.

At sunset, when the vapors rise silently between the stones, the village takes on an enchanted appearance.

Imposing and solitary, the Tentennano Fortress   stands on a rocky spur overlooking Castiglione d’Orcia and the entire valley. First documented as of the 12ᵗʰ century, it was long disputed between the Republic of Siena and the powerful Salimbeni family due to its strategic control over the Via Francigena. Rebuilt by the Sienese in 1262, it finally passed to the Salimbeni in 1274. Legend has it that Saint Catherine of Siena stayed there.

Today, the Rocca hosts exhibitions and events and can be visited by climbing up to the top. From here, the panoramic terrace opens up to a spectacular view of the harmonious hills of the Val d’Orcia (a UNESCO heritage landscape).

Located at the foot of the Amiata mountain range, Bagni San Filippo is a quaint village famous for its hot springs that gush at 118 °F (48 °C) and give life to a fairy-tale landscape of lush forests, waterfalls and natural hot tubs. The most iconic is the Balena Bianca (White Whale), a huge limestone formation resembling the mouth of a whale, from which warmer waters descend. The contrast between the white of the deposits and the green of the forest creates striking scenery.

The area is freely accessible via a short path and offers numerous pools in which to soak in relaxation.

Also worth visiting is the nearby San Filippo Benizi Grotto, an ancient place of prayer linked to the legend of the miraculous spring.

For more than a thousand years, the Radicofani Fortress has attracted the eye from afar and dominated the Val d’Orcia from its basaltic cliff nearly 3000 feet (900 meters) above sea level. Built by the Carolingians in the 9ᵗʰ century, it was first cited in 973. Over time, it came under the Papal States, the Republic of Siena and the Medici clan. In addition to its strategic importance along the Via Francigena, the Rocca is linked to the legendary figure of Ghino di Tacco, a “gentleman brigand”, as described by Dante and Boccaccio.

Today, the fortress houses the Cassero Museum, with historical artifacts and medieval reconstructions. Then there are the breathtaking views of the Amiata and Val d’Orcia hills from the terrace of the battlements.