On the way to the Abbey of Passignano – long route
5 h
12 km
450 m
Easy
Among the Chianti vineyards, walking immersed in the history and nature surrounding the ancient Abbey.
Description of the route
Technical details
Departure and Arrival
Useful tips
Description of the route
A new evocative excursion in the heart of Florentine Chianti, discovering theAbbey of San Michele a Passignano.
On this longer route we go further into Tuscan territory, amidst the fascinating views surrounding the hamlet of Poggio al Vento.
The ancient Abbey of Passignano is always the centerpiece of this beautiful loop walk through vineyards and forests.
Technical description:
The route starts from the village of Sambuca Val di Pesa. Take the dirt road that leads north toward Pratale, continuing past the martyrs’ memorial stone to enter straight into the woods. Keeping left at the first two forks, uphill you come out after 1.5 km among the vineyards, with a nice view of the nearby monastery of San Michele a Passignano (km 5).
After a dutiful visit to the Abbey, we set off again, descending along the paved road (Via Poggio al Vento) to the edge of the forest. Here we proceed uphill on a track inside the bush, coming out on the dirt road that leads to the hamlet of Poggio al Vento.
Skirting the few houses, go straight down in a southwesterly direction until you cross the road along the Pesa river. From here we head north toward the finish line in Sambuca, passing the Abbot’s Chapel and the distinctive Particino Boulder.
Technical details
Route type: loop
Length: 12 km
Height difference in ascent: 450 m
Downhill elevation gain: 450 m
Highest point: 455 m
Lowest point: 177 m
Technical tips:
There are no difficult passages, but you need to be used to a minimum of elevation gain. The climb after the Abbey is long and steep in the final stretch.
You need a GPS or track display App on your cell phone because it lacks signage. Water fountains can be found in Sambuca and Passignano.
Departure and Arrival
Municipality of departure: Barberino Tavarnelle
Place of departure: Sambuca Val di Pesa
Municipality of arrival: Barberino Tavarnelle
Place of arrival: Sambuca Val di Pesa
Useful tips
Recommended period:
All year round. In early autumn the foliage is very striking. Avoid excessively hot summer days, although forest cover is prevalent.
Where to park:
At the Sambuca Sports Field (Trattoria Schioccapalle).
Useful links:
https://www.barberinotavarnelle.it/
On the way to the Abbey of Passignano – long route
Touristic Area
Tuscany, Florence, Chianti
