The best traffic-free bike rides in Riserva Naturale Alto Merse

La Montagnola Senese Donato & Donata represents a true haven of peace nestled in the picturesque wooded landscape west of Siena. Located in the heart of the Sovicille territory, amidst dense forests of holm oaks, chestnut trees, and ancient Romanesque churches, this welcoming establishment combines authentic family hospitality with a love for nature. It proves to be the perfect destination for a regenerating stop during a hike or a bike ride along the dirt paths and wonderful white roads that cross the unspoiled hills of the Montagnola. In addition to offering a well-deserved break away from the chaos, this place gifts travelers with a genuine corner of domestic warmth, where the deep connection with the Tuscan territory is expressed through sincere hospitality, slow rhythms, and the opportunity to fully enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. An excellent balance between rural vocation, landscape discovery, and deep relaxation, ideal for recharging your batteries and savoring the most intimate and genuine spirit of the Sienese province. Montagnola Senese Donato & Donata is also the ideal place to recharge your e-Bike and earn DINAclub points. Find out how at: dinaclub.repower.com To discover the territory, here is an itinerary ready to be cycled: https://www.komoot.com/tour/3014185073

here there is a small equipped area, also with some mechanical tools for the bike

The thermal water springs from the ground at 40° and creates several pools, forming a real little thermal bath.

Loop starting from Monticiano (Si) by i'Lupo che cammina

Lovely agritourism spot with excellent local food - the private family chapel was established Pope Clement 13

Nice 8km climb. Shaded and very consistent with most grade from 3% - 5%, sometimes to 7% for very short distances. But beware the roads - one side of the pass has wonderful roads while the other side is very rough!

Built in the 13th century in Gothic style and dedicated to the saint from Chiusdino, today it is completely in ruins: only the walls remain standing, with the apse still in evidence, perfectly facing east, while on the upper part of the facade there are two pointed windows. The roof of the Abbey of San Galgano is no longer there today. The "official" version says that it deteriorated and then fell over the centuries, while an alternative version, according to some legend and according to others truth, states that it was originally made of lead, and was sold by Girolamo Vitelli in 1550. Whatever the truth behind the roof of the abbey, after some restoration attempts that went badly, at the end of the 18th century it was deconsecrated and left to the elements until the present day. The ruins of the Abbey of San Galgano, with its profile still intact and immersed in the Tuscan countryside, offer a truly incredible and particular view. In addition to the roof, the floor is also missing, which during the summer turns into a grassy blanket, while you can still see a transept with three naves and 4 chapels with cross vaults. Next to the Abbey of San Galgano there is the cloister, which was rebuilt at the beginning of the last century, using the original materials. Some accessory rooms are also very beautiful, which can also be visited with the entrance ticket to the abbey, including the chapter house, where the monks originally met to deliberate the main rules of the community, and the scriptorium, which was the place where the monks copied the manuscripts.

Mandatory pit stop at the Petriolo spa, the water has a temperature of 42°. There is a food truck where you can eat very well.