This 5-day donkey trek is unique: it is the only itinerary that starts and ends in Montecatini Val di Cecina. Almost every day you can choose between a shorter or longer walk, making the tour effortlessly adapt to your pace and wishes. The donkey carries the luggage and knows the rhythm of the route, so walking naturally slows down and becomes relaxing. What makes this trip extra special is that you and the donkey spend the night in the historic village center: he belongs, just like you. Stroll through narrow streets, slide into a local restaurant and experience the village as it has existed for centuries. Always near your faithful companion, an experience that makes this donkey tour unforgettable.
Arrival in Montecatini Val di Cecina
The first day is all about getting acquainted. You will learn to load, brush and guide the donkey, and discover what he likes. This is followed by a short guided walk to put everything into practice. Overnight stay in the historic center of the ancient village of Montecatini Val di Cecina. Dinner at a local restaurant, where you will experience the Tuscan atmosphere to the fullest.
Through fields and past Roman history
The first real hiking day begins with a trek through vast fields, with beautiful views towards Volterra and the ancient salt mines in the distance. Along the way you will pass the site where a Roman legion once set up camp - a tangible reminder of this region's rich history. From here you will continue to a natural spring, a refreshing break in the middle of the landscape. Following a medieval road, you walk through the cool forest to the picturesque Montecatina Val di Cecina.
Overnight stay in the village, together with the donkey, in a quiet and authentic setting.
Panoramic roads and relaxation
From the village you climb gradually up through the green Tuscan countryside. The higher you get, the more impressive the views become. The highlight of the day is the panoramic road, where sweeping views of hills and valleys open up. The tour ends at a beautifully situated agriturismo with swimming pool, an ideal place to relax and enjoy after the hiking day.
Hills, windmills and Orciatico
Today you will walk through the rolling Tuscan hills on a scenic field road. Along the way you will pass the ruins of old windmills. The route leads to the charming village of Orciatico, where you and the donkey can pause on a terrace and enjoy the relaxed village atmosphere. Those who wish can also shorten this day to 8 km or opt for a rest day.
Water dike, chestnut forest and return
The last hiking day starts with a special route over an 18th-century water dike, across pristine nature. Then you follow a shady chestnut forest, where century-old trees provide a serene atmosphere. Through rolling fields you slowly descend towards the donkey center, where the car is parked. A peaceful and beautiful conclusion to this special tour.
The freedom to choose each day how far we wanted to walk was wonderful. But the best moment was when the donkey stepped into the village without hesitation, as if it just belonged there
