Suggestive loop route in the heart of Florentine Chianti, at a time of historic places of primary importance and full of artistic charm such as theAbbey of San Michele a Passignano.

Walking through extensive oak forests and the vineyards of the prestigious Antinori wines, it is not difficult to come across wild boar and deer, sipping Chianti Classico at dusk.

Technical description:
The hike starts from the village of Sambuca Val di Pesa. Take the dirt road that leads north toward Pratale di Sotto, then continue 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, turning next to the Antinori tavern, to descend and then climb again (after the bridge over the ditch) until we reach Casa Vignola (km 6.5). From here follow the dirt road downhill that leads in about 3 km to the donkey farm along the Pesa River.
The last section leads back north to Sambuca.

Route type: loop
Length: 12 km
Height difference in ascent: 350 m
Downhill elevation gain: 350 m
Highest point: 353 m
Lowest point: 177 m

Technical tips:
There are no difficult passages, but you need to be used to a minimum of elevation gain.
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

Municipality of departure: Barberino Tavarnelle
Place of departure: Sambuca Val di Pesa
Municipality of arrival: Barberino Tavarnelle
Place of arrival: Sambuca Val di Pesa

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/