The Trails of Coltibuono
Over 800 hectares of woodland surround the ancient Abbey of Coltibuono, a landscape of monumental beauty featuring unique treasures such as the cedar of Lebanon near the old monastery and the centuries-old chestnut tree found along one of the designated trails.
These trails combine the beauty of nature with the charm of history, retracing the footsteps of the ancient inhabitants of the Etruscan village of Cetamura, Blessed Benedetto who lived his hermitage in these woods, and the Benedictine monks who safeguarded the secrets of the “good harvest.”
Starting from the Coltibuono outpost, visitors can choose from three circular routes, developed in collaboration with the Radici del Chianti association, which allow them to relive ancient and unique atmospheres.
Once walked by the monks of the Abbey, this trail connected three places of prayer where three crosses had been placed. One of them is still visible today along the stretch that descends from the mountain peak towards Coltibuono: the Cross of the Abbot, near which stands a unique centuries-old chestnut tree.
Ideal for nature lovers, it offers the chance to enjoy the beauty of the woods surrounding the Abbey and extraordinary panoramic views over the Upper Valdarno.
Starting from the Coltibuono outpost, the route leads to the monastery, then continues through the lush green woods up to the Chianti ridge trail, before descending again on a scenic circular path. Along the way you can visit the ancient monastery and return to the outpost—perhaps stopping for a well-deserved rest.
This circular hiking route is about 5.5 km long, with an elevation gain of 190 meters.
Suitable footwear with well-gripped soles is required.
A trail leading to the hill where the Etruscan village of Cetamura del Chianti once stood. Archaeological excavations carried out by the Department of Classics at Florida State University, in collaboration with the Superintendence of Archaeology of Tuscany, have documented the site’s occupation from the 7th century BC through the Medieval period.
Numerous valuable artifacts have been unearthed, many of which are now on display in Gaiole in Chianti at the Chianti Origo Museum. Among the most significant finds are grape seeds discovered inside a well an impressive 32 meters deep, and 194 Roman silver coins dating back to the Imperial age.
In the Cetamura woods, visitors will also find illustrated panels that recount the site’s millennia-old history.
This hiking route is 5.8 km long, with an elevation gain of 250 meters. Suitable footwear for uneven terrain is recommended.
Benedetto, a member of the powerful Ricasoli Firidolfi family, was born in the first half of the 11th century in the fortress of Montegrossi, a defensive stronghold that for centuries dominated the Chianti region. After his father’s death, he chose to abandon the comforts of a wealthy castle life and moved to the monastery of Coltibuono, to which he donated his inheritance.
After several years of communal prayer, Benedetto withdrew to an isolated place in the woods to devote himself to solitary prayer. There, on January 11, 1107, Blessed Benedetto was found lifeless by the monks.
According to legend, at the moment of his death, the bells rang spontaneously, the sky was illuminated by a heavenly light, and as the monks carried his body back to Coltibuono, the snow melted along their path.
From the Coltibuono outpost, the route leads to the square below the Montegrossi tower, offering breathtaking views over the ancient Chianti valley. From there, a steep path climbs up to the thousand-year-old fortress. Caution is strongly advised, and for safety reasons it is recommended not to approach the tower or the old stone quarries below.
Returning to the main road, the path passes through the village of Montegrossi and continues along the Chianti–Valdarno ridge road, reaching the woods near the Hermitage of Blessed Benedetto. After taking in the evocative atmosphere of the site, the route descends to the Coltibuono lake before climbing back to the outpost. The journey is best concluded with a visit to the Abbey and the church of Coltibuono, where the saint’s body rests beneath the main altar.
This hiking route covers about 6 km with an elevation gain of 146 meters. Sturdy footwear with well-gripped soles, suitable clothing, and a good supply of water are essential.
