13th edition           CASTIGLIONE D'ORCIA (SI)               17/18 April 2026

Running an ultra marathon in the rolling hills of Tuscany... a dream come true!

The Tuscany Crossing is an extraordinary experience that combines sport, adventure and the sublime natural beauty of the Val d'Orcia. This event, which began in 2013 as a trail running competition, has evolved over the years into a celebration for everyone, even those who want to participate in a non-competitive way, simply by walking. It is renowned not only for the athletic challenge it presents, but also for its route immersed in one of the most fascinating landscapes in Italy. Imagine running along trails that wind through rolling hills, golden wheat fields and lush vineyards. The Tuscany Crossing takes you to the heart of the Val d'Orcia, an area recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptionally well-preserved cultural landscapes. Every step brings you closer to enchanting medieval villages, historic abbeys and panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking views.

Imagine a place where time seems to stand still, where every corner is a living postcard and every breath is steeped in history and beauty. This is Valdorcia, an enchanted corner of Tuscany that welcomes you with its rolling hills dotted with cypress trees that stand like silent sentinels in a dreamlike landscape.

Nature is not just a backdrop, but the protagonist of an ancient tale.

Sunrise in Val d'Orcia is a mystical experience: the sun slowly rising above the hills, tinging the sky with shades of pink and orange, and the morning mist dissipating to reveal a fairytale landscape. Dawn gives you the opportunity to see nature wake up, feel the fresh morning air and admire the golden light flooding the fields.

The Tuscany Crossing route is varied and challenging, with terrain ranging from dirt roads to forest trails, flower-filled meadows to steep climbs on panoramic hills. Every kilometre presents a new challenge and a new opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape. The effort of the run is alleviated by the constant discovery of spectacular scenery.

Starting from Castiglione d'Orcia, participants will pass through the municipalities of Montalcino, San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza, discovering the most picturesque villages of the Val d'Orcia with their cobbled streets, picturesque squares and historic buildings, which offer a fascinating contrast to the surrounding nature. These are places where time seems to have stood still and every corner tells stories of bygone eras.

The waterways that cross the Valdorcia, such as the Orcia, Vivo and Asso rivers, add freshness and liveliness to the landscape. But it is the presence of thermal springs that makes this area truly special: Bagno Vignoni is famous for its central square occupied by a large thermal water pool, where the hot vapours create a magical and relaxing atmosphere. Also of remarkable beauty is the passage to another spa on the slopes of Mount Amiata, Bagni San Filippo, famous for its white whale, a limestone waterfall formed over time by the hot, calcium-rich thermal waters. These are places where nature offers comfort and refreshment, even for the most tired runners.

Along the route, participants can encounter a variety of local flora and fauna. The fields are dotted with wild flowers, and the woods provide shelter for numerous wild animals. It is common to see pheasants, hares, roe deer and wild boars. Birds fill the air with their songs, adding a natural soundtrack to the run.

The Tuscany Crossing is not just a race, but a community experience. Participants from all over the world share a sense of adventure and a passion for nature. Along the route, local residents welcome participants with enthusiasm, offering support and refreshments. This sense of community and connection with the locals adds an extra layer of meaning to the race.

The Tuscany Crossing is an epic journey through one of Italy's most beautiful and evocative landscapes. It is an opportunity to test your physical and mental limits while immersed in nature of extraordinary beauty. Every moment of the race, every panoramic view, every breath of fresh air is a tribute to the magnificence of the Val d'Orcia and the joy of exploring the world on foot.

Is it a dream? All that remains is to wake up, live, suffer, dream and then... honour and glory to those who complete this wonderful journey, whether it be 53 km, 103 km or 100 miles...

The Val D'Orcia will still be there, still standing in reality, untouched by the passing centuries, and there will still be plenty of time to enjoy its untamed beauty to the full!