Manciano

I've been reading this for a while to collect tips for that area http://www.maremmaguide.com/

Just spent a week there in September. Loved it. Small hill top village with a lot of character. Be sure to walk the entire village. Their is a tourist office on the top of the hill next to the castle. There is also a library in town that was very helpful although they don't speak English. Don't let that brother you they can help with maps and such. Our favorite restaurant in town was Trattoria Da Pallino. Try the Wild Boar you will not be disappointed. In town there is a local food market (CO-OP) that you should use for treats and such. The best wine we had while we stayed there was purchased at the market and by far the cheapest. It was a local vineyard. If you go to Sienna, driving is the only practical way. It is a beautiful place not to be missed. Also, if you go to Florence, I would suggest you take a train from Orvieta to Florence. Take the IC (intercity) train and go first class. Very relaxing and no parking problems. Trains are clean and comfortable. Buy your tickets to museums and such on line. Same time on lines although November may be all right. We went to Porta Santo Stefano for the day. Very pretty. If you would like to see a vineyard and have lunch, I would suggest Orbettello. I dont remember the name of the vineyard but it began with a "P" and outside the entrance there were a stack of vine barrels in the shape of a "P". Ask a local. This vineyard also has acres of olive trees. Please go to Pitigliano which is very close. Don't forget your camera and take pictures from outside the town both at day and night. Go in the afternoon and stay for dinner. You will not be disappoint. I believe they call this the "city of lights". Get out and explore, so much to see and enjoy. I hope you don't mind the challenge of driving around sharp turns and narrow roads. There is no way around it. Enjoy!!