26 Aug TUSCANY OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Tuscany is immensely popular among tourists, especially during high season. But what if I told you there’s a part of Tuscany, untouched by the usual crowds? You don’t believe me, right? Then follow me into my experience of Tuscany as an off-the-beaten-track destination in Europe.
Monterotondo Marittimo
Tuscany – Off the Beaten Path
Beyond the well-trodden paths of Florence and Siena lies an unexplored area between the Northern Maremma and Valdelsa Valdicecina regions. This part of Tuscany shows a blend of geothermal wonders, historic hamlets, and sustainable travel experiences. When you’re seeking a Tuscany adventure away from the crowds – the region of Valdelsa Valdicecina will surprise you. Here you are surrounded by untouched nature and quaint villages. Expect the quiet farm life in this region, where locals are proud of their heritage and use of geothermal energy. This slow travel destination is ideal for exploring nature, the geothermal wonders and its 3000-year-old mining history.
Monterotondo Marittimo
Hiking tip in Montieri:
Montieri is a hamlet notable for its innovative use of geothermal energy. Visit the Canonica di San Niccolò, an archaeological sight found in 2008, and trek to the Roste di Boccheggiano, part of the Tuscan Mining Geopark. This UNESCO Global Geopark showcases 3,000 years of mining history amid stunning landscapes. It’s almost like walking on Mars here.
Biking tip around Castelnuovo Valdicecina:
Up for a bit more excitement? Rent an e-bike or join a bike tour around Castelnuove Valdicecina. You bike through terrain transformed by geothermal activity, with volcanic phenomena and sulfuric thermal springs dotting the route.
The Devil’s Valley in Tuscany
The Lardarello Valley, also known as the Devil’s Valley or Valle del Diavolo, is a unique rural area marked by geothermal activity that has shaped its landscape and local culture. It is said that this place was an inspiration for Dante’s ‘Inferno’. MUBIA, the Geomuseo delle Biancane, teaches you more about geodiversity, and why the ground is warm and white.
Hiking tip in Monterotondo Marittimo:
After a visit to MUBIA, you might understand the geological situation in the area better. Even so, a little hike to the Biancane would really amaze you and show you what it’s all about. While hiking through a lunar landscape, you’ll find volcanic events manifesting through steam bursting from the ground. Our guide Andrea even brewed coffee with his moka pot using the steam. Once you’re on top of the Biancane, you might see the island Elbe lying in front of the coastline.
Hiking tip to Rocca Sillana:
For a 360 view, you hike up to Rocca Sillana, located in the municipality of Pomarance. This Fortress of Sillano rises on a hill 530 meters high. The hike up is fairly easy and the fortress is only accessible with a tour guide. But, when you reach the top of the fortress it will give you breathtaking views of Tuscany.
Tuscan cheese, beer and farm-to-table experiences
It almost rings like a buzzword, but the farm-to-table experiences in Tuscany are outstanding. Especially in this region, artisanal makers excel in sustainable food production harnessing geothermal energy to produce environmentally friendly products. Including various cheese makers, and the first brewery in the world to produce craft beer, using geothermal steam as a primary energy.
Podere Paterno
- Podere Paterno is a sheep farm with 800 sheep, using geothermal energy to produce different sorts of pecorino. Owner Mario uses the leftover whey to make ricotta. And you can taste it all! At weekends, they are open for lunch, other days they only take reservations. In addition, you can also buy the cheese from the small farm shop.
- Vapori di Birra is the first brewery in the world to produce craft beer, using geothermal steam as a primary energy. By using this energy they save around 800 kilo emissions! Do a beer tasting here and add a little bite to eat.
- La Dispensa is owned by brother Elia and sister Lorenza and lies in the countryside of Pomarance. With their love for cultural traditions and use of local produce, they serve a delicious pappa al pomodoro made with local bread and risotto with Chianti wine.
Visiting medieval charmed villages
Pomarance
This medieval village lies in the heart of the Devil’s Valley. Don’t let the name of the location fool you, because walking through this village is like you are part of one of those romantic paintings. Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista and have a look at Museum Casa Bicocchi. At the latter, you’ll see how the wealthy family Bicocchi lived a bourgeois lifestyle in the 19th century.
Montecatini Val di Cecina
In the 19th century, Montecatini Val di Cecina was home to the largest copper mine in Europe. Nowadays, you can still enter the 35 km of tunnels underneath the ground. After a visit, make your way back to the cobblestone streets of Montecatini Val di Cecina and enjoy traditional dishes at Terrazza sul Borgo.
Montecatini Val di Cecina
Where to sleep in Tuscany
- VIN Hotel La Meridiana – Waking up at La Meridiana is the best way to start your day in Tuscany. Owner Starri Stein restored this place to a beautiful boutique wine hotel. From my rustic room, I had views overlooking the Tuscan hills. Outside there are spacious relaxing areas and a shallow pool to cool off. Starri has a zero-kilometre philosophy: using products (at Heima Ristorante) as close to home as possible. No wonder he grows olives and grapes in his backyard.
- BioAgriturismo Il Cerreto – At the 148 acres of Il Cerreto, you sleep at a biodynamic farm. Meaning a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming, gardening and food. At their 100% veggie restaurant, around 80% comes from their own garden. Besides cultivating vegetables, the cows on the property produce milk to make yoghurt and cheeses. And thanks to their biodynamic approach, the flavour could differ around the year. You know, it’s nature. Book your stay here.
So leave all the tourist traps behind and find your way to the undiscovered part of Tuscany. It’s the perfect off-the-beaten-track destination for those who love sustainable and slow travel. Find your basic information via Visit Tuscany and find more lesser-known experiences once you’re there!
Love,
Danielle
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