Choosing Convento San Bartolomeo means choosing a haven of peace, surrounded by a landscape that changes with the seasons and tells stories from centuries past. Just a few kilometres away, the forests of Mount Amiata guard some of the most authentic and surprising places in Tuscany — nature reserves where time seems to have stood still, and where nature remains the true master of the land.

Discovering the Pigelleto Nature Reserve

Stretching between Mount Amiata and Mount Civitella lies the Pigelleto Nature Reserve, an area of over 860 hectares, almost entirely covered by woodland. Here, among clear streams and shaded paths, grows the silver fir, locally known as “Pigello.” This tree is a living witness of the last Ice Age, having survived through the centuries thanks to the unique microclimate of these valleys.

Walking through Pigelleto reconnects you with the most authentic side of nature: the Roccone Trail, a circular route of about 7 km, winds through beech forests scented with wild garlic in spring, centuries-old fir woods, and quiet clearings where you might spot a roe deer or hear the flapping wings of a buzzard. The well-marked trail is of medium difficulty and takes about three hours to complete.

Along the way, don’t miss the small panoramic viewpoint at Poggio Pampagliano, where you can admire the beech trees and blue skies — and just beyond, a hidden waterfall awaits discovery.

The Beech Forest of Mount Amiata: Europe’s Greatest Green Breath

As you climb higher, the trails of Mount Amiata lead into what is considered the largest beech forest in Europe — a vast green canopy that transforms with the seasons, from the cool summer green to the golden-red hues of autumn.

Walking among these trees means immersing yourself in a soundscape of leaves, wind, and silence, where every step awakens a sense of freedom. The beech forest is also a symbol of Tuscan biodiversity, home to foxes, porcupines, badgers, and a great variety of birds that find refuge among the centuries-old trunks.

From Castell’Azzara or Piancastagnaio, numerous trails weave through this natural paradise, suitable for both experienced hikers and those who simply love a peaceful walk. And in every season, the light filtering through the beech trees offers scenes that look like paintings.

Whether it’s a hike through the Pigelleto, an afternoon among the ancient beeches, or a picnic beside a stream, every step is a return to your roots — to the purest essence of Tuscany.

From Convento San Bartolomeo, you can reach these places in just a few minutes by car. Don’t miss the chance to balance the peace of the cloister with the majesty of the forest!

Staying at the Convento San Bartolomeo means being in a privileged position: immersed in the quiet Tuscan hills, yet close to extraordinary places waiting to be discovered. Among them, one of the most fascinating is undoubtedly Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe, nestled in the heart of northern Lazio, just a few kilometres from the borders with Tuscany and Umbria.

Lake Bolsena immediately captivates with its vastness and the unspoiled beauty of its crystal-clear waters, which mirror the green slopes of the surrounding hills. It is no coincidence that it is called “the breathing lake.” Its volcanic origins give it a unique vitality, with colors that shift with the light of day. It is a place that tells stories of nature but also of millennia of history: from Etruscan legends to papal residences, every corner holds tales to be uncovered.

The Islands of Martana and Bisentina: nature and mystery

Among the lake’s wonders are its two islands, Martana and Bisentina, rising like suspended worlds. Wild and untouched, they are not freely accessible to the public, but can be admired up close thanks to boat excursions departing from the ports of Capodimonte and Bolsena.

Martana is the smaller and more mysterious: according to tradition, it was once the resting place of Queen Amalasuntha, killed in the 6th century. Bisentina, on the other hand, is larger and rich in history: during the Renaissance it served as a summer retreat for the popes and still preserves 16th-century chapels, remains of monumental gardens, and the majestic Church of Saints James and Christopher, built in 1588. Recently, the island has been reopened for guided tours at certain times of the year, by reservation only—a unique opportunity to walk among art and nature in a setting of extraordinary beauty.

Boat excursions

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the lake is aboard a tourist boat. Mini-cruises allow you to circle the two islands while listening to stories and curiosities through audio guides. Departures are mainly from the port of Capodimonte, just 3 km from the islands, or from Bolsena, on the opposite shore.

During the summer months, the tour also includes a stop in front of Bisentina Island, where you can dive into the lake’s crystal-clear waters—perfect for a refreshing swim away from crowded beaches. For those who prefer independence, small boats can be rented without a boating license, offering the thrill of navigating on your own.

Excursions last on average from 40 minutes to one hour, with frequent departures, especially in high season. Special events are also held: on Ferragosto (August 15th), for instance, visitors can admire Capodimonte’s fireworks directly from the lake, in an unforgettable atmosphere.

Activities and villages around the lake

Lake Bolsena is not only about water: along its shores lie picturesque villages such as Marta, Montefiascone, Capodimonte, and Bolsena itself, which gives the lake its name. Wandering through their historic centres means discovering ancient churches, medieval palaces, and culinary traditions still alive today.

The area is also ideal for nature lovers: trails, hiking paths, and cycling routes invite exploration through woods, olive groves, and vineyards. Food enthusiasts will enjoy local restaurants serving lake fish specialties, such as whitefish and tench, paired with fresh, mineral-rich white wines.

Whether it’s a panoramic cruise, a rejuvenating swim, or a stroll through lakeside villages, this excursion offers a charming alternative to Tuscany’s more famous destinations. The lake, with its authentic and timeless atmosphere, perfectly mirrors the spirit of the Convent: both tell of silence, unspoiled nature, and an Italy that still surprises those who know how to look with fresh eyes.

In the heart of the Maremma in the province of Grosseto, nestled among the folds of a wild landscape of woodland and rocky outcrops, lie three villages that seem to have stepped straight out of a fairytale: Sovana, Sorano and Pitigliano. United by the tufa stone that shapes their identity, these towns embody the most authentic soul of ancient Tuscia, guardians of an Etruscan, medieval and Renaissance heritage that can be felt at every step.

After a silent night spent within the walls of the Convent, setting out to discover these tufa villages is an almost mystical experience. In just over half an hour drive you can reach one of them, travelling along scenic roads flanked by vineyards, dense shady vegetation, and ancient pathways carved into the rock.

Sorano

Perched on a tufa outcrop, it seems to have been sculpted by nature itself. Its houses appear to grow out of the rock, and the village rises vertically in a cascade of steep alleys, arches and stairways. Known as the “Matera of Tuscany”, it has a character all its own—more shadowed, more secretive.

Once fortified and impregnable, today Sorano captivates visitors with its winding lanes, tufa-carved cellars, and the imposing Orsini Fortress that dominates the entire village. Not to be missed is the Masso Leopoldino, a panoramic terrace from which the gaze sweeps across the entire valley below. Here too you’ll find the Vie Cave, connecting the village to the countryside in a series of atmospheric routes blending nature and archaeology.

Sovana

Compact and with a perfectly preserved historic centre, Sovana is the smallest of the three, yet it is ideal for a peaceful stroll through its medieval lanes. Once an important Etruscan settlement and later a bishop’s seat, Sovana has preserved its timeless beauty. Amid stone houses and tranquillity, you come to the splendid Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, a Romanesque jewel. On the edge of the village lies the Città del Tufo Archaeological Park, home to the celebrated Vie Cave—atmospheric routes cut into the rock by the Etruscans, linking the necropolis to the village and offering an unmissable experience for anyone who loves to walk through history. It is a place that lingers in the heart of all who encounter it.

Sovana is also the birthplace of Hildebrand of Sovana, who became Pope Gregory VII, a central figure in the history of the Church. A statue in his honour stands at the entrance to the village, as if to watch over this corner of the Maremma.

Pitigliano

Perhaps the most famous of the three, Pitigliano’s unmistakable profile commands the valley of the River Lente. The view from a distance is breathtaking: it looks like a cathedral carved into the rock—part natural wonder, part human masterpiece. The historic centre is a labyrinth of alleys, arches and stairways, where every corner tells a story.

Pitigliano is also known as “Little Jerusalem” for its historic Jewish community. The Jewish quarter, with its synagogue, matzo oven, and evocative ghetto carved into the tufa, is a unique example of integration and remembrance.

Sorano, Sovana and Pitigliano are far more than picture-perfect villages. They are fragments of a land that invites slowness, listening, and wonder. Here you walk through millennia, between tufa walls and woods, tasting wines and dishes that speak of the soil itself. A journey that stays within you, like the warm light of sunset. Whether for a weekend, a wedding, or a retreat into nature, these places speak directly to the heart. And the Convent, with its welcoming spirit, is the perfect starting point from which to hear them.

During a stay at the Convento San Bartolomeo, your days can take on a slower, more profound rhythm, filled with beauty and discovery. If you’re keen to venture beyond the Amiata region to explore nearby treasures, one of the most captivating experiences we recommend is a visit to Orvieto – the “high and strange city”, as the writer Orio Vergani once described it. “High” because it rises atop a dramatic tuff cliff, “strange” because from afar it appears almost suspended in the sky, as if resting on the clouds.

Orvieto is about an hour and a half from the convent and is easily reached for a day trip. Though modest in size, it holds an artistic, architectural, and cultural heritage of rare intensity. Read on to discover what you can see.

The Duomo

The Duomo is one of the finest masterpieces of Gothic architecture in Italy. Construction began in 1290, and the cathedral was designed to house the relic of the Miracle of Bolsena. The façade, with its bas-reliefs and golden mosaics, is a triumph of art and devotion. Inside, it holds two absolute gems: the Chapel of the Corporal and the Chapel of San Brizio.

The latter, frescoed by Beato Angelico and completed by Luca Signorelli, powerfully depicts the Last Judgement. Angels, demons, sinners and saints crowd the walls with such dramatic intensity that the sight is still breathtaking today.

St Patrick’s Well

Just a short walk from the historic centre lies another marvel: St Patrick’s Well. Built in the 16th century to ensure a supply of water in case of siege, it descends over 60 metres into the heart of the tuff cliff. Its double helical staircases, designed to allow people and pack animals to ascend and descend without crossing paths, represent a unique feat of Renaissance engineering. Walking down them is a step-by-step journey into the city’s hidden depths.

Underground Orvieto

But Orvieto’s real surprise lies beneath its alleys and squares. For over two thousand years, its inhabitants have carved into the tuff, creating a hidden, parallel city. Tunnels, passageways, wells, cellars, quarries and ancient cisterns form a complex labyrinth that can now be explored on a guided tour. Walking through these cavities offers an unusual insight into the city’s history – one of ingenuity, survival, and mystery.

Other Landmarks

Beyond its most famous monuments, Orvieto also guards lesser-known but equally enchanting treasures: the Torre del Moro, offering an unrivalled view over the city; the Albornoz Fortress, now a public garden overlooking the valley; the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, a quiet trove of pictorial masterpieces. Then there’s the entire historic centre, with its narrow streets, medieval buildings, artisan workshops and cuisine that still reflects Umbrian tradition and the rhythm of the seasons.

Getting to Orvieto from the Convento San Bartolomeo is simple. It’s a trip suitable for all seasons, perfect for those who love art, history, landscapes, and the suspended atmosphere of places that feel as though they’ve stepped out of a dream.

About an hour from the Convento San Bartolomeo, perched on a tuff cliff that defies time and the elements, lies Civita di Bagnoregio: one of the most fascinating and fragile villages in Italy, also known as “the dying town.” Its nickname is not a poetic invention but a reflection of a geological reality: for centuries, landslides and earthquakes have silently eroded the base of this village suspended in the void, threatening its very existence. Yet, it is precisely this fragility that forms part of its beauty.

To reach it, visitors must walk along a long reinforced concrete footbridge that seems to detach from the world and rise toward the sky. At the foot of the cliff, the Valley of the Calanchi opens up in all its rugged beauty, with clay ridges, crevices, and ancient silences. Once you pass through Porta Santa Maria—topped by two stone lions recalling old battles against the Monaldeschi family of Orvieto—you enter a place suspended in time.

History, Stone, and Legend

Civita di Bagnoregio is tiny, yet every corner tells a story. The visit begins at the Bagnoregio lookout point, offering a breathtaking view of the entire village and the cliff that supports it, marked by deep scars carved by time. Once inside the village, follow the stone-paved road.

At the heart of the town lies the main square, dominated by the Church of San Donato, where time seems to have stood still. Inside, a 15th-century wooden crucifix, according to local legend, spoke to a woman during the plague of 1499, announcing the end of the epidemic. Just a few steps away, the Geological and Landslide Museum tells the story of the village’s difficult coexistence with unstable ground and the ongoing efforts to preserve this threatened treasure.

In the Footsteps of Saint Bonaventure

Wandering through the quiet alleys, you reach the Grotto of Saint Bonaventure, an ancient Etruscan tomb carved into the tuff rock. According to legend, the young Giovanni Fidanza—later known as Saint Bonaventure—was miraculously healed there after his mother’s prayers to Saint Francis of Assisi. A “good fortune,” as the Saint of Assisi is said to have whispered, that changed the boy’s fate and left a lasting mark on the history of Western spirituality.

The Poet’s Garden

Among flower-filled balconies and stone houses, Renaissance palaces such as those of the Colesanti and Alemanni families emerge. The latter now houses the Geological Museum. At the far end of the village, perched over the valley, lies the Poet’s Garden—one of the most poetic and intimate spots in the village. This is a private space open to the public, where visitors can pause and soak in the beauty in silence. A small donation or the purchase of a local product helps support the upkeep of this special place.

Civita di Bagnoregio is an ideal day-trip destination from Convento San Bartolomeo. A scenic one-hour drive through gentle curves and green landscapes will take you from the heart of Mount Amiata to this enchanted village in Tuscia. Since 2013, access to Civita requires a paid entrance fee—an essential measure to fund maintenance and restoration efforts. It’s a tangible gesture of support for the survival of a place that risks disappearing with each passing day.

If you’re planning your stay with us, be sure to include Civita in your itinerary—it’s an experience you’ll carry with you forever.

Mount Amiata is a generous mountain. It welcomes walkers beneath the shade of beech forests, seekers of silence in medieval villages, and those eager to test their endurance on trails seemingly designed for mountain biking. Convento San Bartolomeo is perfectly located to start your cycling adventure into these woods. Keep reading to discover the most beautiful mountain bike and e-bike routes on Monte Amiata. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a leisure cyclist, you’ll find the perfect trail for your style.

Amiata Freeride: Adrenaline on the Trails

For thrill-seekers who love technical descents, jumps, tight rhythms, and forest trails, Amiata Freeride is a must-visit destination. Located at Prato delle Macinaie, just a few kilometres from Piancastagnaio, it’s one of the largest bike parks in Tuscany. Equipped with mechanical lifts—chairlifts and shuttles—it offers downhill and enduro trails for all skill levels. There’s even a dedicated kids’ area and a bike school to learn the basics or sharpen your technique. The season runs from spring through late autumn, and every trail is a chance to experience the mountain in a dynamic and immersive way.

The Classics: Scenic Loops and Ancient Beech Forests

If you prefer a more contemplative ride that still holds a hint of adventure, Amiata offers an extensive network of dirt paths, mule tracks, and scenic roads. One of the most breathtaking routes is the “Grand Tour of Amiata”, a nearly 62-kilometer loop that circles the entire mountain. It’s a demanding trail, suitable for experienced or well-trained bikers, but the rewards are plenty: spectacular views, constantly shifting landscapes, and hidden gems like the Abbadia San Salvatore Mine, the Camel Humps, and quiet clearings between Prato delle Macinaie and Contessa (two mountain meadows).

For something gentler, try the “Full Immersion in the Forest” trail: a 17-kilometer loop starting and ending in Abbadia San Salvatore. With gentle climbs and technical descents, this route winds through Amiata’s high beech forests in an atmosphere of deep stillness and earthy aromas. The final stretch offers a more challenging descent, full of curves and rocks, bringing you back to the starting point via the heart of the village.

Exploring with an E-Bike: The Joy of Effortless Adventure

E-bikes are the perfect way to explore the mountain at a slower, more sustainable pace—wind in your face, but without gasping for breath. You can rent e-bikes directly from our convent, making it easy for everyone—adults, kids, and families—to enjoy longer routes with peace of mind.

Among the newest and most e-bike-friendly routes are the “Water Trails”: five themed paths that lead to the springs of Monte Amiata, winding through the towns of Arcidosso, Seggiano, Santa Fiora, and Castel del Piano. Along the way, you’ll find charging and maintenance stations, and the trails are clearly marked. It’s an ideal experience for those who want to combine sport, nature, and environmental awareness.

With its quiet trails, panoramic views, ancient stories, and wild spirit, Mount Amiata is ready to welcome you.

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A Romantic Escape: Discover the Timeless Beauty of the Val d’Orcia
For a romantic getaway or a slow-paced vacation exploring unforgettable landscapes that look like oil paintings, the Val d’Orcia is the perfect destination.
Located in the province of Siena, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its cultural landscapes—and those who have visited are never surprised by this recognition. Row after row of cypress trees and postcard-perfect scenery captivate travellers, alongside charming villages just waiting to be discovered. Slowly, of course.
Keep reading: we’ll guide you through what to see in the Val d’Orcia over three wonderful days.

Day One: Pienza, Monticchiello, and the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta

Begin your journey through the Val d’Orcia in Pienza, the “Ideal City.”
Originally called Corsignano, it was transformed into the enchanting town we know today by Pope Pius II, designed according to Renaissance ideals.
The heart of Pienza is its main square, flanked by the cathedral and two notable palaces: Palazzo Borgia and Palazzo Piccolomini. While exploring, take time to sip a glass of wine at one of the cozy spots overlooking the hills—you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a painting.
A short distance away lies Monticchiello, a small village perfect for a romantic stroll and a leisurely lunch. Though it takes only minutes to wander through its charming streets, don’t leave without visiting a true hidden treasure: the Madonna and Child fresco by Pietro Lorenzetti, located inside the Church of Saints Leonardo and Christopher.
End your day at the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta.
Standing solitary among golden fields and framed by cypress trees, it is one of the most photographed locations in all of Tuscany. You can reach it on foot after leaving your car along the nearby country road.

Day Two: Bagno Vignoni, Rocca d’Orcia, and Castiglione d’Orcia

Your second day begins in the picturesque village of Bagno Vignoni.
Although small, it is renowned for its ancient thermal pool located right at the village centre. Fed by an underground hot spring, the waters were known to the Romans, though today the main pool is no longer open for bathing.
Instead, enjoy a meal at one of the delightful local restaurants, savouring regional specialties such as Pienza’s famous pecorino cheese, paired with a fine glass of wine.
Next, head to Rocca d’Orcia, a hamlet of Castiglione d’Orcia.
The view of the fortress is striking—minimalist yet perfect in form. Sitting atop a hill, the fortress earned the nickname “the guardian of the Via Francigena,” overlooking a landscape dotted with ravines, rivers, and the ever-iconic rows of cypress trees.
Though partially ruined, the Rocca still retains its medieval character, standing as a testament to its crucial role during the Republic of Siena.
End your day in Castiglione d’Orcia, a quaint village easily explored on foot, like many others in the area.
Before leaving, be sure to pick up a few bottles of the excellent local red wine, a true taste of the region.

Day Three: Bagni San Filippo and Radicofani

The final day of your Val d’Orcia adventure starts at Bagni San Filippo, home to the stunning “White Whale.”
As you approach, you’ll notice the distinct scent of sulfur in the air.
These natural thermal baths, tucked away in the forest, are free and open to everyone. Pools connect through small cascading waterfalls, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. Relax here for a few hours before continuing your journey.
Heading south, you’ll reach the medieval village of Radicofani, perched at the crossroads of Tuscany, Lazio, and Umbria.
Due to its strategic location, a watchtower was built here, offering sweeping views across the valleys. Wander through Radicofani’s quiet stone alleys and soak up the authentic atmosphere of a place where time seems to stand still.

There’s no doubt: the Val d’Orcia is one of Tuscany’s most beautiful treasures.
Are you ready to fall in love with it?

Seggiano is an enchanting village nestled on the slopes of Mount Amiata, just a few kilometers from our convent. Set between the gentle landscapes of the Val d’Orcia and the mysterious forests of the mountain, Seggiano is a place filled with stories waiting to be discovered. Read on to learn more.

The Olivastra Seggianese

When speaking of Seggiano, one cannot overlook the Olivastra Seggianese, a unique variety of olive tree that grows exclusively in eight towns around Mount Amiata. This ancient tree, a true symbol of the village, is the heart of a DOP-certified extra virgin olive oil that captures the very essence of the land. Its flavour, shaped by the unique microclimate and altitude of these hills, is renowned worldwide.

With its golden-green hue and fresh aroma reminiscent of aromatic herbs, this exquisite oil perfectly complements the traditional dishes of Tuscan cuisine. A visit to Seggiano offers the perfect opportunity to take home a few precious bottles of this extraordinary olive oil.

In addition, Seggiano is home to an olive tree that defies the laws of nature, growing without roots in the ground. Suspended in mid-air atop a large cistern that once collected the village’s rainwater, this remarkable tree is the result of an innovative project led by Professor Stefano Mancuso, in collaboration with agronomist Fabio Menchetti. Cultivated using the advanced technique of aeroponics, the tree’s roots are nourished by a computer-controlled misting system that delivers water and nutrients as needed.

 

The Ancient Olive Mill and the Museum of the Olivastra

Seggiano’s history is deeply intertwined with that of olive oil. A must-see is the ancient hypogeal olive mill, lovingly restored with respect for its storied past. Once the beating heart of the village’s economy, this mill houses one of the first dynamos ever used for energy production.

For those passionate about history and eager to delve into the roots of our territory, the Museum of the Olivastra and the Land of Seggiano offers a fascinating journey into the world of olive oil. The museum not only explores the production process but also unveils the historical and cultural significance of olive cultivation, inviting visitors to see nature through a new lens and discover the profound bond between humanity and the environment.

Churches and Historic Buildings

Seggiano is not only a haven for nature and gastronomy but also a treasure trove of art and architecture. Its churches and historic buildings tell centuries-old tales. Among them, the Oratory of San Rocco stands out—a small gem built in the 15th century to pray for deliverance from the plague. Another remarkable site is the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Carità, a Renaissance masterpiece adorned with frescoes and paintings, famous for a popular legend about a miraculous appearance of bread inside the pantry of a destitute family.

Just a short stroll from the historic centre lies the Daniel Spoerri Garden, an extraordinary open-air museum. Set amidst olive groves and woodland, this magical garden features over 120 sculptures by various artists, creating a space where art, beauty, and contemplation come together in perfect harmony.

Seggiano is a village of understated yet authentic beauty, where nature and history intertwine effortlessly. During your stay, be sure not to miss the opportunity to experience its charm firsthand!