The best waterfall hikes and walks in Tuscany

Embark on an easy hike along the Elsa River, known for its striking crystal-clear, turquoise waters and lush woods. This 3.6-mile (5.9 km) ring tour takes about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete, with a minimal elevation gain of 145 feet (44 metres). You will follow natural paths and footpaths, encountering wooden walkways and stepping stones that cross the river. The route is celebrated for its "enchanted corners" and cool, shaded environments, perfect for a summer excursion. A highlight is the impressive 15-meter-high Diborrato waterfall, which plunges into a deep pool. While generally flat, some river crossings require attention, and your feet might get wet.

The River Park trail is easily accessible from various points within Colle di Val d'Elsa, with convenient parking available nearby. This easy route is suitable for most people, including families, though strollers are not recommended due to the nature of the river crossings. Be prepared for your feet to potentially get wet when navigating the stepping stones and rope-assisted sections. The cool, shaded environments make it a particularly pleasant option for summer excursions. Beyond hiking, you can find areas along the river suitable for swimming, and soft rafting sessions are also offered for a different perspective of the waterway.

This natural oasis in Tuscany blends natural beauty with historical intrigue. Along the trail, you can discover Le Caldane, ancient thermal baths with Etruscan and Roman origins, showcasing the area's long thermal tradition. The route also passes by 11th-century hydraulic engineering marvels like La Steccaia and Callone Reale, which once channeled river water to power local artisanal activities. The River Park is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot various animal species like herons, egrets, and kingfishers.

Embark on a moderate hike through the scenic Candalla valley, where the lively Lombricese stream cascades over waterfalls. This 3.7-mile (5.9 km) loop involves a climb of 1041 feet (317 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete. As you traverse the diverse landscape, you'll discover charming villages like Casoli, known for its unique murals, and pass by ancient mill ruins. The route offers a rewarding experience, blending natural beauty with a rich historical past.

Your journey begins from the picturesque locality of Ponte di Candalla. While much of the path is accessible, some sections can be narrow, so ensure you are sure-footed. Plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the varied scenery and historical points of interest along the way.

This trail is part of the larger "Camaiore Antiqua" project, which aims to rediscover old paths and historical beauty within the region. You will explore the Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane, encountering historical chestnut drying kilns in Metato and the Medieval Ruins of Monte Penna. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the area's heritage and natural environment.

This difficult hike takes you deep into the Casentinesi Forests National Park, offering a true wilderness experience. You'll cover 8.9 miles (14.4 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1788 feet (545 metres), so be prepared for a challenging ascent. The journey, which typically takes around 5 hours and 36 minutes, leads you through dense forest where the sound of rushing water grows louder with every step. Your reward is the impressive Acquacheta waterfall, where the Montone river dramatically plunges 70 meters over a sandstone wall. The trail feels ancient, guiding you along paths that wind through old trees and past vibrant green pools formed by the waterfall.

You can begin this adventure directly from San Benedetto in Alpe, where convenient parking is available near the village center. The route follows path 407, which runs alongside the Acquacheta river for much of its length. Be aware that the trail surface varies, transitioning from natural forest paths to occasional gravel sections. It's wise to start early in the day to allow ample time to complete the 5-hour and 36-minute journey, especially given its difficult rating. Always check local conditions before you go, as weather can impact trail accessibility and safety in the mountains.

This trail is notable for its deep connection to history and literature, particularly its mention in Dante Alighieri's Inferno. In the 16th chapter, Dante compared the powerful rumble of the Acquacheta waters to the Flegetonte, a river of boiling blood. Along the way, you'll also discover the historic stone Molino dei Romiti, an old mill that once served an ancient hermitage. The route connects you to centuries of human history and the timeless beauty of the Apennine wilderness.

Embark on a difficult 9.4-mile (15.1 km) hike through the Casentinesi Forests National Park, a journey that typically takes around 6 hours and 36 minutes and includes a substantial 3082 feet (939 metres) of elevation gain. This circular route immerses you in ancient beech forests, leading to the summit of Monte Penna where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Romagnolo side and surrounding woodlands. You will also discover the picturesque Foresta della Lama, a wide clearing with open meadows and crystal-clear streams, offering a diverse and engaging experience.

To begin your adventure, head to Passo Fangacci, often accessible by car, though be prepared for a potentially unpaved final stretch. This challenging excursion requires good physical preparation, so plan your day accordingly, allowing for the full 6 to 8 hours that the loop can take. The trail involves a mix of ascents and descents, including some steep sections like the "Scalandrini" trail with its stone steps, so wear appropriate footwear and bring enough supplies.

This trail is notable for its location within a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ancient and pristine forests. You will traverse diverse ecosystems, observing old-growth trees and habitats for wildlife like black woodpeckers. The contrast between the rugged mountain slopes and the gentle, partly marshy plains of La Lama, along with impressive waterfalls such as the 90-meter cascade at Fosso degli Scalandrini, makes this a truly unique and ecologically rich experience.