Trekking in Fiesole: itineraries among nature, history and mystery

The ring of Monte Ceceri, a place of timeless charm and shrouded in the mists of history, is a stage where wild nature and the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci meet in unique harmony.

Legend, handed down from generation to generation, whispers that it was here, in this corner of paradise, in 1506, that Leonardo da Vinci, the man who gave the world the Mona Lisa, undertook his first daring flight experiments.

The path that leads to the heart of this legend begins at the Borgunto Gardens, an oasis of tranquility, from which one enters, along Via degli Scarpellini, a lush, enveloping forest.

The path, winding and inviting, takes us to a different world, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Turning left on a dirt road that climbs gently to the summit, we reach the plaque with the words that testify to Leonardo's presence here.

Although centuries have passed since those pioneering experiments, Monte Ceceri still retains an evocative aura.

The wind that caresses the leaves of the trees and ruffles the hair seems to carry the echo of Leonardo's ancient challenges, hopes and ambitions. You can feel in the air his presence, his energy, his unstoppable will to overcome the limits imposed by nature.

The circuit, which starts in Fiesole and winds its way up to the top of the mountain, is a relatively short route, accessible to everyone, even those who are not particularly well trained.

For the more experienced and trained, it is possible to extend the route by going down to Maiano and Salviatino. This is an itinerary of medium difficulty, but it is a walk full of suggestions and incredible views.

This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and breathe in the fresh, fragrant Tuscan air.

Val di Sambre is a secret corner of Tuscany, a small valley that reveals itself to be a naturalistic jewel of rare beauty, a green sanctuary set among lush forests that whisper ancient stories and centuries-old paths, guardians of forgotten memories.

Far from being a simple trail, Val di Sambre offers itself as an immersive experience, a fascinating journey that inextricably intertwines the unspoiled purity of nature with the fascination of the stories and legends that for centuries have shrouded, like a mysterious fog, this evocative-laden valley.

The trek, designed to be accessible to all thanks to its moderate level of difficulty, winds gently through the winding hills of Fiesole and Settignano, two villages rich in art and history.

The ascent begins in Ritorto, a small village with an evocative name, and then gradually climbs to Poggio Pratone, a privileged vantage point offering breathtaking views of the valley below. From here, the trail invites a compelling descent into the depths of the valley, with the promise of unexpected revelations.

The next stage leads to the discovery of evocative Etruscan tombs, silent witnesses to an ancient civilization that shaped the Tuscan landscape. These burial sites, steeped in mystery and fascination, offer a privileged glimpse into the past, allowing walkers to connect with the deep roots of this land.

Continuing along the trail, we finally reach the Sambre Stream Waterfall, a true spectacle of nature. The crystal-clear waters crash forcefully against the rocks below, creating a magical and rejuvenating atmosphere.

All along this route, walkers will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of tales passed down from generation to generation, fascinating legends related to the ancient inhabitants of the valley and the mysterious events that are said to have taken place in these enchanted landscapes. Prominent among these stories is that of the Roman general Stilicho, a forgotten hero who, according to legend, repelled the barbarian king Radagiso among these very hills, saving Florence from certain invasion.

This trail is not just a nature hike, but a true journey through time, an unmissable opportunity to discover a special and still little-known place, a hidden treasure in the heart of Tuscany just waiting to be revealed and appreciated.

The Cava Braschi represents a hidden treasure, a site of inestimable historical and naturalistic value set in the heart of a breathtaking landscape.

An excursion to immerse yourself in a complete sensory experience, a journey through time and nature.

Stroll among the ancient quarries, evidence of centuries-old industriousness, get lost in the coolness of lush forests, where light filters through the foliage creating games of shadows and colors, and admire spectacular panoramic views that embrace the valley.

The trekking route at Cava Braschi is designed to accommodate hikers of all levels of fitness. Gentle, flat sections, ideal for relaxing walks in which to enjoy the beauty of the landscape without hurrying, and more challenging sections, with climbs and descents that will test endurance and give a sense of achievement to those seeking a more dynamic adventure.

This place, steeped in history and mystery, whispers fantastic stories to those who know how to listen.

Suffice it to say that pietra serena, a prized raw material obtained right from the Cava Braschi, shaped the Renaissance face of Florence.

Iconic buildings such as Brunelleschi's Churches, with their timeless elegance, owe their beauty to this very stone. Almost entirely built of white plaster and pietra serena, these architectures uniquely reflect light, creating an atmosphere of harmony and spirituality.

The Cava Braschi, while not the only one on this fascinating itinerary, stands out for its impeccable state of preservation and its grandeur. It is the most visible quarry, an open-air monument that tells the story of stone quarrying and human ingenuity.

But the experience is not limited to the Cava Braschi. Along the way, you will encounter other quarries, each with its own history and special features, and discover how mining has shaped the surrounding landscape.

Fascinating rock formations, sculpted by time and man, alternate with wooded stretches that offer shelter and refreshment. Each step is a journey through centuries of mining, an immersion in a past that lives again in every stone, in every tree.

At the end of the walk, each walker will carry with him or her an indelible memory, a heart filled with wonder and the knowledge that he or she has lived.

Trekking proves to be an authentic sensory immersion, a precious opportunity to re-establish a deep and authentic bond with the surrounding nature and, above all, with one's inner self.

Abandoning oneself to the rhythm of the pace along the paths that meander through the hills of Fiesole means opening oneself up to an all-encompassing experience, letting oneself be inebriated by the intense and enveloping perfumes of the woods, enraptured by the breathtaking views that suddenly open up like curtains on a natural stage, and above all, being told the thousands of stories whispered by the wind and carved in stone of this land rich in history.

The FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole, with its enviable location, surrounded by the reassuring embrace of the lush green Tuscan hills and overlooking an unparalleled view of the city of Florence, is the ideal starting point, the perfect crossroads for venturing out to discover the numerous hiking trails that criss-cross the territory.

The Hotel, with its rooms elegantly furnished and equipped with every comfort, and its peaceful and quiet rooms, designed to favour rest and relaxation, represents an oasis of peace, the ideal refuge to regain energy after a day spent in the pursuit of adventure and discovery.

A place to recharge your batteries, preparing for the new challenges that each day brings.

And to end the day on a high note, let yourself be won over by the flavours of the Serrae Villa Fiesole Restaurant.

A gastronomic excellence awarded a Michelin Star by the prestigious Michelin Guide 2025, a well-deserved recognition for its refined and innovative culinary proposal, skilfully orchestrated by the hands of Chef Antonello Sardi.

The restaurant itself is a jewel: a cosy and elegant ambience, enhanced by a spectacular open kitchen and a splendid panoramic terrace entirely at the guests' disposal.

With the arrival of spring and summer, the terrace is transformed into an oasis of pleasure, a delightful open-air restaurant and bar where you can enjoy delicacies and refreshing cocktails while admiring the unparalleled view of the illuminated city.

An experience that engages all the senses, a perfect combination of taste, beauty and unforgettable atmosphere.

Not to be missed: the Chic Nic experience, the gourmet basket from the starred chef, ideal for trekking excursions in the Tuscan countryside.