05 November 2010
Posted in Sights and Sounds

The Val d' Orcia is an open space where nature predominates over residential areas. Hilly roads that wind between harvested landscapes separate its charming towns, but you probably know this right, from the ever so romantic books and movies that are written about Tuscany!  Driving through this scene I momentarily compare the landscape with parts of South Australia's own, which strikes a similar resemblance of dryness minus the presence of the Tuscan landmark of villas and cypress trees. 

We have made semi plans to head closer to Rome, but with this soft-lit evening we feel the compulsion to leave the highway and to go and experience our own romantic cliché. We have unexpectedly driven upon Pienza which is listed with UNESCO,  elevated close to 500 metres and with a rustic exterior- Pienza has drawn us to stop for the evening!

The attractive Albergo Rutilino bed and breakfast is accommodating us as we have ventured into the reception without a booking. Silvia makes us feel instantly comfortable, and my guilt for not booking ahead has quickly diminished.  On a map of the Pienza we are being shown the whereabouts of a restaurant that will prepare fine and unfussy dishes. Food was our next priority after such a long drive from Switzerland. Next comes my question to Silvia, as to where to get a good look at these mournful looking trees. But not any cypress tree will do as I'm now on a quest for this sought-after landscape picture. Cliché it maybe, but I would like to have my own version of this tranquil setting, as it was scenic spots like these that had coaxed me into photography to begin with. Silvia is a gem, whilst pencilling the map with her location suggestions; she then confronts a warning of safety when taking pictures from the bridge. As it appears, the prime photography spot is on a 90 km zone for the passing traffic.

The early morning has arrived clear and tinged with orange, so I make my way over to Via del Casello in the old town of Pienza with my camera gear in tow. This scenic walkway is overlooking a vastness of farmland area. With my tripod set-up, I am now feeling the presence of Pienza's height and quietness, but not for long! Three chatty joggers have now appeared to do their laps around the old town, and I'm  sure they're going to wake-up the residents behind their closed window shutter.  One jogger calls out to me when he is passing-by, but I shrug my shoulders and motion with my hands to indicate my lack of understanding. They repeat their jogging lap and the same man calls out... "Very Nice-a Look-a!"  then points to the view that sits in front of my lens.

You may also like to look at pecorino from Pienza, pecorino and pear dessert and Pienza images.