Tuscany’s landscape of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and picturesque cypress trees creates an ideal setting for outdoor exploration. For guests at Libertas Tuscan Hideaway, the countryside surrounding the villa offers a variety of hiking trails and nature walks suited to all experience levels. Whether you’re a casual walker or a seasoned hiker, Tuscany’s beauty awaits you. Here are some of the top trails and natural spots to explore nearby.

The Chianti Hills: Vineyard Views and Cypress-Lined Paths
Nestled in the heart of the Chianti region, Libertas Tuscan Hideaway is surrounded by gently rolling hills and vineyards that provide endless hiking options. One popular route takes walkers through the countryside’s iconic vineyard paths, passing olive groves and traditional Tuscan farms. The Chianti Sculpture Park, just a short walk from Libertas, is an ideal starting point for exploring the area. The park’s open-air art installations offer a unique blend of culture and nature, and from there, trails extend into the surrounding hills, providing peaceful and scenic walks with views of the Chianti landscape.

Castello di Brolio: Birthplace of Chianti Wine
Visible from the grounds of Libertas Tuscan Hideaway, Castello di Brolio is one of Tuscany’s most historic castles and a significant landmark in the world of wine. Known as the birthplace of Chianti Classico wine, this medieval castle is home to the Ricasoli family, who are still making one of the best of its kind today. Hiking up to Castello di Brolio offers stunning views of the countryside and a rewarding destination where guests can explore the castle grounds and gardens. The castle also hosts wine tastings, giving visitors the chance to sample Chianti Classico and learn more about its rich history.

Monteriggioni to Colle Val d’Elsa: A Medieval Trail
For a longer excursion, consider hiking the Via Francigena trail from Monteriggioni to Colle Val d’Elsa. This 13-kilometer trail follows a portion of the ancient pilgrim route that once connected Canterbury to Rome. The route begins in Monteriggioni, a beautifully preserved medieval town surrounded by fortress walls, and takes hikers through a mix of forests, olive groves, and open fields. The trail finishes in Colle Val d’Elsa, a charming town known for its crystal glass production. This hike offers both historical insights and scenic beauty, providing a glimpse into Tuscany’s past along with stunning views of the countryside.

Val d’Orcia: UNESCO Heritage Landscapes
A short drive from Libertas, the Val d’Orcia offers some of Tuscany’s most photographed landscapes. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is home to iconic cypress-lined roads, gently rolling hills, and picturesque farmhouses. Several trails crisscross the region, including paths that lead through the towns of Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia, and Bagno Vignoni. The trails are generally easy to moderate, making them suitable for most fitness levels. Hiking in Val d’Orcia provides a peaceful escape into nature, with panoramic views and opportunities to explore historical villages along the way.

Mount Amiata: Tuscany’s Highest Peak
For those looking for a more challenging hike, Mount Amiata offers a unique opportunity to experience Tuscany’s higher elevations. Located about an hour and a half from Libertas, Mount Amiata is a dormant volcano and the highest peak in southern Tuscany. The mountain is covered in dense chestnut and beech forests, with well-marked trails leading to the summit. The views from the top are breathtaking, extending across Tuscany’s landscape and, on clear days, reaching as far as the Tyrrhenian Sea. Mount Amiata is ideal for hikers looking to experience a different side of Tuscany’s natural beauty, away from the vineyards and valleys.

E-Biking Through the Tuscan Hills
Libertas Tuscan Hideaway provides guests with e-bikes, offering a wonderful way to explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels. The hills around the villa are ideal for cycling, with winding paths that pass vineyards, farms, and olive groves. E-biking allows guests to cover more ground comfortably, and it’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed approach to exploring. Suggested routes include trips to nearby villages or a ride through the vineyards of the Chianti region, where you can stop to enjoy the views and perhaps a glass of local wine at a nearby enoteca.

Pieve a Castello: A Historical Woodland Walk
Just a short drive from the villa, the Pieve a Castello trail takes hikers through beautiful woodlands surrounding the ancient Romanesque church of the same name. This relatively short walk is peaceful and offers a glimpse into Tuscany’s history and nature combined. The forested path, dotted with wildflowers and shaded by trees, leads you through a serene natural environment and finishes at Pieve a Castello, a stunning church dating back to the 11th century. This trail is perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk, allowing you to connect with nature and history in one memorable outing.

Exploring Tuscany’s Unique Wildlife
For nature enthusiasts, the trails around Libertas provide opportunities to observe Tuscany’s wildlife in its natural habitat. Birds such as pheasants, hoopoes, and buzzards are commonly seen, along with deer and wild boar. The Maremma region, about an hour and a half away, offers additional wildlife experiences with its coastal parklands, where you can spot local fauna in a different ecosystem. Our concierge can help arrange guided nature walks for guests interested in learning more about Tuscany’s unique flora and fauna.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike
When exploring Tuscany’s trails, it’s best to bring a map, plenty of water, and comfortable footwear suited for uneven terrain. Some trails can be steep or rocky, so be sure to choose paths that match your experience level. As the weather can be quite warm during the summer months, early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended for a cooler, more comfortable experience. Always check for updated trail information and weather forecasts before setting out on your journey.

Discover Tuscany’s Natural Beauty from Libertas
Libertas Tuscan Hideaway is ideally located for those wishing to explore Tuscany’s rich landscapes and natural beauty. With trails suited to all experience levels and views that showcase the region’s iconic scenery, each hike promises a memorable adventure. Our concierge is available to assist with personalized recommendations and tips to help you make the most of Tuscany’s trails, whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or an adventurous day in the hills.