Itinerary
Departure: The Garden of Pratolino (Villa Demidoff)
It begins in the large Renaissance monumental park commissioned by Francesco I de’ Medici (16th century), now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not to be missed is the Apennine Colossus by Giambologna, the remains of the grottoes, and the tree-lined avenues.
Fontebuona
You descend toward the valley of the Carza stream, with wide views over the valley itself and Monte Morello, reaching Fontebuona, a small village along the Via Bolognese, an ancient stopping and refreshment point for those crossing the Apennines. Traces of historic buildings and rural oratories are still visible.
Ferraglia
Continuing north, you leave the Via Bolognese and climb to the locality of Ferraglia, an agricultural and wooded area with typical stone farmhouses. The landscape opens onto terraced fields and chestnut groves. Down in the valley there is a large riding stable.
Sommavilla di Sotto
A small rural hamlet that preserves the traditional Tuscan layout with farms and stone houses. From here there are beautiful views over the valley descending toward Vaglia.
Stazione di Vaglia
Intermediate arrival point: the railway station, inaugurated in the late 19th century on the Florence–Faenza line, was for decades a strategic hub connecting the Mugello valley with Florence. Even today it is useful as a junction for those wishing to return by train.
Vaglia (centro)
The route ends in the village of Vaglia, dominated by the Church of San Pietro in Vaglia (12th century, with Baroque renovations) and characterized by a compact urban layout. It is a starting point for excursions toward Monte Senario and the Mugello area.
Villa di Vaglia (now Town Hall)
It was a noble residence with a late-Renaissance layout, modified in the following centuries. It has a sober structure, with a simple façade and a small garden. Since the 20th century it has been adapted for public functions and is now the municipal seat. Its central location makes it a key urban landmark.