Le Crete Senesi: Driving the Clay Hills
The clay hills south of Siena (Le Crete) are the iconic Tuscan landscape — rolling, treeless, photographed millions of times.
# Le Crete Senesi: Driving the Clay Hills
The clay hills south of Siena (Le Crete) are the iconic Tuscan landscape — rolling, treeless, photographed millions of times.
Key facts
- Car essential. No buses to the back roads.
- Best route: SR438 from Siena to Asciano, then loops through the clay country.
- Stop at: Asciano (small town), Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore (frescoed monastery), San Quirico d'Orcia.
- Best season: April-May (green) and September-October (golden).
- Photo time: golden hour. Morning fog can be dramatic too.
What I tell visitors
Drive yourself if possible — the road is the experience. If you cannot, book a small-group tour from Siena specifically for the Crete (not the broader Tuscany tours).
Related guides
Final word
Whatever brings you to Siena — food, the Palio, the Tuscan countryside — slow down. The city repays attention. If you have a tip to add or a correction, write us at redazione@visitsienaguide.it.
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