Strada di Cipressini Val d'Orcia
Iconic cypress trees in Val d'Orcia, a symbol of Tuscany and a famous 'Gladiator' filming location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Strada di Cipressini Val d'Orcia
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic cypress trees in Val d'Orcia, a symbol of Tuscany and a famous 'Gladiator' filming location.
"One of the most iconic and famous locations of Tuscany, the cypresses (cipressini) of San Quirico d’Orcia. "
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
The access road is unpaved and can be muddy. You'll be walking, so comfort is key.
📸 Golden hour is magic
Sunset offers the most spectacular light for photos, making the cypress trees truly glow.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Cypress Circle
Strada di Cipressini
A mesmerizing ring of cypress trees set against the rolling Tuscan hills. A must-see for photographers and fans of the 'Gladiator' film.
Gladiator Film Location
Near San Quirico d'Orcia
The very spot where Maximus's home was depicted in the epic film 'Gladiator'. Feel the cinematic history.
Panoramic Val d'Orcia Views
Hilltop overlooking the cypress grove
Breathtaking vistas of the quintessential Tuscan countryside, with its undulating hills and picturesque landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Cypress Grove
Best Photo Spots & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
The access road is unpaved and can be muddy. You'll be walking, so comfort is key.
📸 Golden hour is magic
Sunset offers the most spectacular light for photos, making the cypress trees truly glow.
🚗 Park wisely
Parking can be tricky. Avoid the highway shoulder to prevent tickets; explore nearby side roads cautiously.
⬆️ Climb for the best view
Don't stop at the first grove; a short hike up the hill reveals a second, equally stunning cluster of cypresses.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
The access road is unpaved and can be muddy. You'll be walking, so comfort is key.
📸 Golden hour is magic
Sunset offers the most spectacular light for photos, making the cypress trees truly glow.
🚗 Park wisely
Parking can be tricky. Avoid the highway shoulder to prevent tickets; explore nearby side roads cautiously.
⬆️ Climb for the best view
Don't stop at the first grove; a short hike up the hill reveals a second, equally stunning cluster of cypresses.
🎬 Gladiator vibes
Channel your inner Maximus! This is a famous filming location for the movie 'Gladiator'. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Strada di Cipressini for its iconic beauty and photographic potential, especially its connection to the film 'Gladiator'. However, some find the access challenging due to unpaved roads, limited parking, and the need for a walk, with a few experiencing muddy conditions or parking tickets.
"There is no sculpture here just trees in a circle. It’s a 15 min detour on a dirt track from the main road. Then the road is blocked so you have to walk ten mins. We got our shoes caked in mud and saw nothing. No idea why there are thousands of positive reviews"
imogen holmes
"Beautiful place if you want to take some very good pictures. There isn't much space to park the cars."
Raimondo Romanazzi
"Nice place, good views.
However, there are “Private Property” signs, so continue at your own peril.
You can “park” on the side of the highway. On our first pass, we saw 2 cars that had parked there who had been given parking tickets! We came back a while later and parked but thankfully no parking ticket for us, so maybe they got unlucky 😅"
Aufar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Strada di Cipressini is a dirt track off the main SR 2 road between Montalcino and San Quirico d'Orcia. Look for signs for San Quirico d'Orcia and be prepared for an unpaved detour. You'll need to park and walk the rest of the way.
It's a well-known spot, but the access can be a bit hidden. The main grove is visible from the SR 2, but the best views require a short walk up a hill.
No, you cannot drive directly to the cypress trees. The final approach involves walking on a dirt track for about 10 minutes.
The most common way is by car, as it offers flexibility to explore the region. Public transport is limited. Consider renting a car from Siena for a half-day trip. [^R]
The geographical coordinates for the main group of cypresses are approximately 43°03'45.62" N; 11°33'31.86" E. However, exploring the area around this will lead you to the best spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Strada di Cipressini cypress grove. It's a natural landscape accessible to the public.
Val d'Orcia itself is a region, and there are no general entrance fees. Individual attractions within the region might have fees, but the cypress grove is free to visit.
The cypress grove is an outdoor landscape and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and photography.
Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially outside of peak tourist season, will help you avoid the largest crowds.
While generally accessible, be respectful of the private property signs and avoid damaging the trees or surrounding landscape.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunset is highly recommended for its magical golden hour light that bathes the landscape. Early morning also offers beautiful soft light and fewer people.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscape, while a telephoto lens can help isolate details. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions at sunset.
Experiment with different perspectives. The classic shot is the circular arrangement, but try framing it with the rolling hills or the sky. Don't forget to climb the hill for a different view.
Drone regulations can be strict in Italy. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in this area.
The cypress grove is famously associated with the film. Recreate iconic scenes or capture the landscape that inspired the movie's setting. +1
♿ 🚗 Parking & Access
Parking is limited and often on the side of the road or a dirt track. Be cautious of 'No Parking' signs and potential fines. Some visitors park on the highway shoulder, but this carries a risk of tickets.
The walk is relatively short, about 10 minutes on an unpaved, potentially muddy track. It's not strenuous but requires comfortable footwear.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the dirt track. Layers of clothing are advisable as the weather in Tuscany can change.
The unpaved access road and uneven terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. It's not a fully paved or wheelchair-accessible path.
There are no facilities directly at the cypress grove. You'll need to use facilities in nearby towns like San Quirico d'Orcia before or after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families:
* Wear sturdy, easy-to-clean shoes as the path can be muddy.
* Bring snacks and water, as there are no facilities nearby.
* Combine the visit with a stop in a nearby town like San Quirico d'Orcia, which offers more amenities and child-friendly activities. [^R]
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography advice:
* Visit during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic lighting.
* Explore different angles, including the view from the hilltop for a broader perspective.
* Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a telephoto lens for detail shots.
* Be patient to wait for moments without other visitors for unobstructed shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Tips for day-trippers:
* Allocate about 1-2 hours for the detour, including travel time from the main road and the walk. [^R]
* Combine it with visits to nearby towns like San Quirico d'Orcia or Pienza to make the most of your limited time. [^R]
* Ensure your rental car is suitable for unpaved roads, or be prepared for a short walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Cypress Trees of Val d'Orcia
While the main group of cypresses is visible from the SR 2 road, a short, unpaved walk up the hill reveals a second, equally impressive cluster. This hidden gem offers a different perspective and is often less crowded. The journey to reach these trees involves navigating a dirt track, so sturdy footwear is a must, especially if the ground is wet.
This location gained significant fame as a filming site for the epic movie 'Gladiator', where it was used to depict the serene countryside surrounding Maximus's home.
Navigating Val d'Orcia and Access
Accessing the cypress grove requires a slight detour from the main SR 2 road. The 'road' itself is a dirt track, and while some vehicles can manage it, it's best to be prepared for a walk. Parking is a common challenge; while some opt for the highway shoulder, this carries the risk of parking tickets.
When planning your visit, consider combining the cypress grove with other nearby attractions such as the charming towns of San Quirico d'Orcia, Pienza, or Montalcino. The entire region offers stunning scenery and a glimpse into traditional Tuscan life.
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