This 7-day donkey trek will take you through the vast Monterufoli Nature Reserve, one of the most pristine forest areas in Tuscany. For days you will be surrounded by oak forests, maquis and valleys, far away from villages and traffic. The trek stays mostly in and around the nature reserve, where space, silence and nature are central. The overnight stays take place in special locations: historic buildings and attractive agriturismi, often in the middle of greenery and sometimes with swimming pool. A multi-day tour for those who like a challenge and really want to experience Tuscany: slowly, on foot and deep in nature.
Arrival in Pomarance
Arrive in Pomarance and meet the donkeys during a training session at the equestrian center. You will learn how to load, brush and guide the donkey, and discover what he likes and does not like. During a short walk with a guide, you can immediately put everything into practice.
Overnight stay at a petting zoo and agriturismo with pool in Pomarance.
To Micciano via the alabaster quarries
Departure from the stables and descent towards the river Trossa via the route of the ancient alabaster quarries. Along the path are white, marble-like rocks: alabaster that was mined here and processed in Volterra. After a stretch along the river you will climb towards the mountain village of Micciano. Along the way there will be time for a break at an ancient church surrounded by fields. Overnight stay and delicious food in a farmhouse with swimming pool.
To the Monterufoli nature reserve
You ascend to the road towards the medieval Micciano and then descend through the woods on wide dirt roads to the valley of the Sterza. Along the way you will enjoy impressive views of the nature reserve. After a walk through woods and macchia, at the end of the day there is a climb through old forest to a historic residence. Overnight stay in the middle of the nature reserve in an ancient building near a charming little church.
Old mines and railroad
The route continues through the forest to an area where precious stones were mined in the 18th century. On the way you can still see old mining buildings and a railroad bridge over the river. The terminus of this former railroad line today is a luxurious hotel where you will spend the night. Those who wish can make a detour to a waterfall along the way.
Day of rest in greenery
Today is a day of rest ... or just a day of discovery. Relax by the pool, taste local wines or go in search of remnants of old railroads and mines in the woods. The agriturismo is located on a beautiful estate with vineyards, woods and olive trees and features a tennis court, basketball court and swimming pool. Next to the agriturismo is one of the largest vineyards in the region, where you can taste excellent wines. Nearby you can also discover ancient chalcedony mines and ruins of 18th-century shaft towers and railroad bridges.
Through the heart of Monterufoli
You will follow the main trail of the Monterufoli Nature Reserve past the impressive “Villa of the 100 Rooms,” the historic heart of the reserve. Near the villa is a spring and a picnic area. You will then continue walking along the main trail to the next agriturismo. Overnight stay in a tent or room in an agriturismo on the edge of the nature reserve, surrounded by vast forests, far from civilization.
Back to Pomarance
The last hiking day starts in the shady maquis and oak forests of the nature reserve. Along this hillside are numerous springs where animals come to drink - with any luck you will spot deer or roe deer. The path crosses the river and winds further through the hills towards Pomarance. Along the way you will enjoy beautiful views of villages and the typical Tuscan landscape.
Nature, culture & tranquility: through the Monterufoli Reserve, among ancient forests and hidden paths of Tuscany.
