Pienza: Sheep and Chickens Tour w/Gourmet Lunch at Farmhouse

If you’re looking to add a touch of rustic charm to your Tuscany trip, this Sheep and Chickens Tour at a working organic farm near Pienza might just fit the bill. It’s a laid-back experience that combines close encounters with heritage breed animals, a traditional homemade meal, and impressive views of the Val D’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

We love how this tour offers a taste of authentic farm life without the fuss—just honest, local flavors and a chance to see some adorable sheep and chickens up close. Another highlight is the gourmet lunch made from ingredients sourced either from the farm itself or nearby producers, giving you a genuine sense of Tuscan cuisine. That said, it’s not a deep dive into farm history or a full-blown farmstead tour, which might disappoint those wanting more background or hands-on activities.

For travelers who appreciate scenic, relaxed outings with good food and beautiful views, this experience could be a real treat. It’s especially suited for those curious about local farming traditions, or anyone wanting a peaceful interlude in the countryside—no rushing, just enjoying the simple pleasures of Tuscany.

Key Points

• Authentic Farm Experience: Visit heritage breed sheep and chickens, get a glimpse of daily farm life.
• Delicious Tuscan Cuisine: Enjoy a homemade pasta lunch with local cured meats, cheese, and dessert.
• Stunning Views: The farmhouse overlooks the UNESCO-listed Val D’Orcia, perfect for photos and peaceful strolls.
• Flexible and Family-Friendly: Vegetarian and gluten-free options available; children under 10 get discounts, but meals are simplified.
• Affordable Price: At around $68 per person, it offers good value considering the food and scenery.
• Limited Depth: Some reviews note that the tour is more about the experience than detailed farm education.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

What the Tour Includes

The tour begins at the farm’s restaurant, which is part of a genuine, certified organic farmhouse. The first thing you’ll do is meet some adorable heritage breed sheep—names like Mini, MiniMe, and Whiskey add a personal touch. You can expect to see these friendly animals grazing and perhaps get some interesting stories about their breed and origins, although some visitors felt the tour could go deeper into the farm’s history.

Next, you’ll visit the chicken coop to collect fresh eggs, provided the chickens made some eggs that day. This hands-on element is charming and offers a real slice of farm life. The authenticity shines through in these simple yet meaningful moments, giving you a sense of connection to the land and the animals.

The Lunch and Tasting Experience

The highlight for many is the homemade Tuscan pasta lunch. This meal includes local cured meats from Pienza, Pienza’s famous Pecorino cheese, and a selection of desserts. The food is described as superb by some visitors, with the fact that it’s made from local and farm-produced ingredients adding to its appeal.

Vegetarians and gluten-free diners are well-catered for, just with a heads-up to inform the hosts in advance. If you’re craving something more substantial, there’s an option to add a Fiorentina steak or a second course for a supplement, which can be ordered on-site.

The Views and Atmosphere

The farmhouse’s setting is undoubtedly a major part of the experience. Overlooking the rolling hills of Val D’Orcia, you’ll have plenty of chances for quiet strolls before or after lunch. The scenery is consistently praised for its beauty, making this a great spot for relaxing and soaking in the Tuscan landscape.

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The Group and Duration

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity. Group sizes tend to be small, providing an intimate atmosphere, but this can vary depending on the day’s bookings. The experience is hosted by a multilingual guide who speaks English, Italian, French, Romanian, and Albanian, making communication straightforward for most visitors.

Pricing and Value

At just under $68 per person, this experience offers a fair price considering the included activities and the location. The lunch itself, with local ingredients and the chance to meet animals, adds significant value. Keep in mind that wine is not included, but an optional wine list is available, which many visitors find enhances the experience.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews suggest that the tour could benefit from more historical context or a deeper engagement with the farm’s story. It primarily focuses on the animals and the meal, which is charming but might leave those seeking a comprehensive farm tour feeling a bit underwhelmed.

Plus, while the experience is family-friendly in terms of cost and simple activities, the meals for kids are basic, so if you’re expecting a full culinary experience for children, you might want to adjust expectations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings and want to experience authentic Tuscan farm life without a long or complicated itinerary. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting to taste genuine local flavors, or nature fans eager to see traditional heritage breeds. Those looking for a quick, scenic break with a good meal will find this a satisfying choice.

If you’re traveling with children and want to include some farm fun, this tour can work, especially since the kids’ meal is simple and affordable. However, if your family seeks a more interactive or educational experience, you might find it a bit limited.

FAQ

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians or those with allergies?
Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if you notify the hosts in advance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 hours, making it a nice short activity to add to your day.

Are wines included in the price?
No, wine is not included, but there is an optional wine list if you want to enjoy some Tuscan wines with your meal.

Can children participate?
Children up to 10 years old get a discounted rate, but their meal is a basic pasta with tomato sauce, dessert, and a simplified experience. You should book for your child as an adult if they want the full food experience.

What is the setting like?
The farmhouse overlooks the Val D’Orcia, providing stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for strolling before or after the meal.

Is it suitable for large groups?
The experience tends to be small-group oriented, but it can accommodate different sizes depending on the day. It’s best to check availability beforehand.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic slice of Tuscan farm life paired with a delicious homemade meal and incredible views, this Sheep and Chickens Tour fits the bill. It’s casual, friendly, and offers a genuine connection to the land and local food traditions. While it may lack in-depth farm history or extensive activities, the charm of meeting heritage breeds and enjoying a simple, flavorful lunch makes it worthwhile, especially if you’re craving a peaceful countryside escape.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate good scenery, tasty food, and a taste of rural Tuscany without the fuss of larger, more commercial tours. It’s a great choice for those wanting a break from sightseeing and a chance to slow down and enjoy the Tuscan countryside in a friendly, informal setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: