Arezzo to Cortona: Scenic Drive Through Tuscany

The 30-kilometer route from Arezzo to Cortona along the SR71 regional road is one of Tuscany's most historically layered drives. Built atop an ancient Etruscan trail, this road passes through the Valdichiana valley, where the Battle of Cortona (1260) shifted power between Guelphs and Ghibellines. Unlike the monotonous A1 highway, SR71 offers a winding two-lane journey with slow traffic, making it ideal for those seeking authentic Tuscan landscapes.

The drive traverses the Valdichiana, a fertile valley sculpted by the Chiana River. To the east, the Pratomagno massif rises, while west opens toward Montepulciano. In autumn, the vineyards and sunflower fields create a patchwork of gold and green.

• Olmo Canal: A 16th-century drainage canal built by the Medici; visible at km 7 (pull over near the small bridge).
• Fattoria di Foci: A family-run farm at km 15 selling pecorino cheese and extra virgin olive oil. Open 9-6 Mon-Sat.
• Borghetto: A tiny hamlet 2 km detour from SR71 (follow SP17). Features a Romanesque church and a public oven still used for festivals.

For authentic crafts, the Spazio Zò in Olmo (km 4) offers handmade ceramic tiles. The road connects to the Etruscan road network, and a short detour to the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide reveals bronze-age tumuli near Farneta.

SR71 is generally safe, with a 60-80 km/h speed limit. However, be cautious of agricultural vehicles in early morning or dusk. Night illumination is minimal outside towns; use high beams on deserted stretches. Children will enjoy the Parco della Rocca di Cortona, but a more engaging stop is the Museo della Civiltà Contadina at km 18 (farm tools and live animals).

• Rest zones: Designated pull-off at km 20 (panoramic point with bench). For a nap, use the picnic area at Badia di Farneta (km 22) – shaded, quiet, and safe.
• Pet-friendly: Most cafes in Cortona allow dogs; midway, the Bar del Corso in Rigutino (km 12) has water bowls. Walk your dog along the Chiani river path (km 10).
• Fuel efficiency: Use cruise control at 70 km/h for best fuel economy on the undulating terrain (saves approx. 10% fuel).

The SR71 is a well-maintained regional road with a single lane in each direction. It connects directly to the A1 at the Arezzo exit (km 340). Once on SR71, follow signs to Cortona (yellow signs) for about 25 km. The road is fully asphalted with clear markings, but lacks shoulders in some sections.

• Fuel stations: Three along the route – Eni at Olmo (km 5), Q8 at Rigutino (km 12), and Api at Cortona (km 26). Prefer refueling in Arezzo or Cortona for lower prices.
• Toll gates: No tolls on SR71; only paytolls on parallel A1 (€1.20 for short segment if detour).
• Parking in Cortona: Paid lots outside city walls (€1.50/hour); free at Piazza Garibaldi after 8 pm.