There is a moment in the year when the hills around Gambassi Terme grow quieter
The village glows with small, delicate lights, and the air carries the scent of wood, expectation and traditions that return as faithfully as the footsteps of pilgrims on the Via Francigena.
Christmas in Gambassi Terme is not just a series of events, but an atmosphere: a blend of lights, stories, gestures and creativity that together transform the village into a place that invites you to look, listen and let yourself be surprised.
The village lights up, Montignoso tells its story
From 8 December, the old town lights up festively, marking the beginning of a special period. Walking through the streets of the old town, one discovers little trees decorated by the children, nativity scenes created in the homes of the inhabitants and scenes made of light that tell the identity of the village.
A few kilometres away from the historic centre, one reaches the Sanctuary of Montignoso.
Here the nativity scene becomes monumental. Devotion and art come together: scenes from the Gospels and a path that accompanies visitors through the life of Jesus.
It is permanent and can be visited all year round, usually during the times when the sanctuary is open to the public for services. But it is especially during the Christmas holidays that it attracts numerous visitors with its evocative power.
San Vivaldo: a Christmas experience for the whole family
Just a short distance from Montignoso, San Vivaldo is a place that enchants both adults and children alike. The forest trails and the ancient Franciscan complex create a special atmosphere, perfect for enjoying Christmas together.
The chapels of the ‘Sacro Monte’ (Holy Mount), built between 1500 and 1515, also recount the life of Jesus, but this time with terracotta scenes from the Della Robbia school. The Annunciation and the Flight into Egypt immediately lead you to the ‘Bambinello’ (Baby Jesus). Other stages of sacred history accompany visitors on a simple and evocative journey, ideal for children too.
However, it is precisely for them that the magic continues at the convent every weekend until 6 January! Santa’s House comes to life with busy elves, creative workshops, lights and colourful scenery. San Vivaldo thus becomes a destination for those looking for Christmas experiences to enjoy with the family. Nature, games and Christmas atmosphere come together in a moment to remember at any age.
Handcrafted creations and moments to share in the workshop
Back in the historic centre of Gambassi Terme, Christmas also passes through the hands of its artisans.
Catia Berni’s ceramics workshops and Irina’s goldsmithing workshops offer the opportunity to try out craft techniques rooted in the local area.
During the festive season, these moments become a way to experience the beauty of making, giving life to small objects that can be transformed into unique, meaningful Christmas gift ideas.
Wellness and flavours: when Christmas is all about taste and wellbeing
The Gambassi Thermal Baths remain a warm refuge, where you can indulge in balance and self-care: hydromassage pools, treatments and wellness paths designed to restore body and mind.
And then there’s the table, where Christmas is told through the flavours of the region: wine, new olive oil, handmade pasta, saffron, cured meats and cheeses, heritage legumes, preserves, game a
nd local vegetables.
You can enjoy these local products and share them with family and friends in Gambassi’s restaurants, but also by ordering them directly from home. A genuine cuisine that speaks the simple language of authenticity and rural tradition.
Gift ideas inspired by Gambassi Terme
If you’re looking for original gift ideas, the experiences of The Gambassi Experience are a beautiful way to dream of future travels. Wine tastings, traditional cooking classes, artistic tours of nearby cities and many more experiences make meaningful gifts for anyone who loves Tuscany.
A Christmas to remember
With its subtle lighting, nativity scenes that tell stories, artisans at work and hills that change with the seasons, Gambassi Terme offers a Christmas that will remain in your memory.
Not only for what you see, but for what you experience.
