When the heat becomes intense and cities feel like ovens, some seek relief by the sea… while others choose a more intimate and relaxing alternative: the hills. In Gambassi Terme, nestled in the green heart of Tuscany, every day can become a rejuvenating escape into nature, silence, thermal waters, Romanesque art, and postcard-worthy sunsets.
Walk in nature: the Bollori trail
Walk in nature: the Bollori trailIf you love starting (or ending) the day with a slow-paced walk, Gambassi offers unique routes. One example is the blue loop of the Casciani map, a 6.3 km trail through countryside and geothermal phenomena. The hike, rated EE (for experienced hikers), starts in the historic center of Gambassi, precisely from the Church of Cristo Re, and follows the beginning of stage 31 of the Via Francigena up to Azienda Agricola Casanova.
From there, the trail heads toward I Bollori, where the Casciani stream is crossed several times by walking on stones, surrounded by bubbling water from underground geothermal energy. round. The excursion’s most spectacular point is at Bollori, where a jet of steam shoots out of the ground, and continues through vineyards and farmhouses of Agriturismo Pompone e Pola, before returning to the village. Hiking boots and a curious spirit are a must!
Relax: spa or park?
After the walk, it’s time to rest. In Gambassi, you’ve got two perfect options:
Terme di Gambassi
Outside the Gambassi Thermal Baths, a swimming pool with sunbeds and umbrellas offers you the chance to soak up the sun. Don’t miss the hydromassage in the veranda pool where you can find the benefits of mineral-rich water.
The highlight? The thermal grotto: a cave with pure saline water from Pillo, naturally anti-inflammatory, at 32°C – the ideal microclimate, even on hot days. Add massages and personalized holistic treatments, and your well-being will be complete.
The Public Park of Gambassi Terme
The Public Park of Gambassi TermeAlternatively, hide away in the Parco Comunale, a historic garden originally designed in the 18th century as the private park of the Pinucci villa-farm. It is an example of an Italian-style topiary garden that preserves paths bordered by hedges and tunnels of holm oaks arranged in a cross pattern, as well as centuries-old plants.
The park also had a productive function in the past, with olive trees still present. Since 1938, it’s been open to the public – a perfect spot for a shaded siesta, reading, chatting, or simply enjoying the coolness under magnolias and palm trees.
A step back in time: the Pieve of Santa Maria a Chianni
In the afternoon, as the light softens, or on a quiet Sunday morning, don’t miss a visit to one of Gambassi’s hidden gems: Santa Maria a Chianni. Open in this August on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 4 to 7 PM (closed on August 15), and on Sundays from 10 AM to 1 PM, this Romanesque church is a highlight of the area – and usually closed in winter.
Mentioned in the travel diary of Archbishop Sigeric (990–994), the church was already a stop on the Via Francigena. Its current form features perfect proportions, yellow sandstone, three naves divided by monolithic columns, and hand-carved capitals – each different from the next. One even bears a human face with the inscription “JOH BUNDI VULUS” – likely “Giovanni Bundi from Volterra”, its sculptor.
(Source: Federighi Editore – Santa Maria a Chianni, una pieve lungo la Francigena)
A visit here is a true journey through time, silence, and spirituality.
Evening magic: starlit walks, wine tastings and unforgettable sunset dinners
Evening magic: starlit walks, wine tastings and unforgettable sunset dinnersWhen the air cools and the sky begins to glow, Gambassi reveals its evening charm. If you spent your morning at the spa or in the park, why not take a guided starlit hike in the hills? Trekking by Night events blend music, nature, and storytelling, thanks to the folk songs performed by I Cantori di Maurizio. The views by moonlight are truly breathtaking.
Prefer something more relaxed? Summer evenings in Gambassi are laid-back and inviting. Picture long communal dinners, open-air wine tastings, or local festivals. Don’t miss the Sunset Dinners, held in scenic locations: golden hills, a glass of local wine, and the sky painted in pink and orange hues. Simple moments that stay with you forever.
🌟 Bonus tip: August is shooting star season!
Gambassi, far from city lights, is a perfect place to lie back and watch the Perseids – the meteor showers that light up the August sky. Bring a blanket, find a quiet field, and look up.
In Gambassi Terme, every day invites you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. Whether you want to walk, relax, explore, or simply be inspired, you’ll always find a welcoming corner of Tuscan hillside.
