| Hiking the Elsa Trail
Everything you need to know
The Elsa Trail, known as Sentierelsa in Italian, is a hiking trail that runs along the River Elsa and leads you to the Diborrato Waterfall. The emerald green colour of the water creates a particularly beautiful dreamlike image, which means that the entire 5-kilometre hiking route might take a little longer than expected.
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Where does the Elsa Trail start?
You can start the walk from two different points. From the bridge ‘Ponte di Spugna’ and from the bridge ‘Ponte di San Marziale’, both situated in the medieval town of Colle di Val d’Elsa.
When you start at Ponte di Spugna, you walk 2.5 kilometres along the river to finally arrive at the waterfall. You will have to cross the river a few times. Keep in mind that you may get your feet wet.
Near the Diborrato waterfall you will find the other starting point, the Ponte di San Marziale. If you choose to start the walk from here, you walk the same path and head towards Ponte di Spugna.
Personally, we prefer to start from Ponte di Spugna. This ensures that halfway through the walk, you can relax by the waterfall. Here you will also find some picnic tables and you can swim in the beautiful and cool water.
Diborrato waterfall
The Diborrato waterfall is difficult to see from the side. In fact, you have to swim here to really admire the waterfall. When swimming, be aware that there are large stones in the water.
For those who do not want to do this, the alternative is to stand on a large stone in the river. Be aware that the stone and the trail leading up to it can be a bit tricky and slippery.
Best time to visit the Elsa Trail
The Elsa Trail is best visited in spring or summer, and then early in the morning for the most peaceful experience. Or later in the day when it is warmer for a nice swim.
Near the Elsa Trail
The Elsa Trail is about a half-hour drive from Siena. This is a well-known high-light of Tuscany, with a historical town centre that has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1995. In this blog you will find a walking route that we have put together along the known and lesser known places in this beautiful city.
If you drive half an hour in the other direction from the Elsa Trail, you will arrive at San Gimignano. This is another medieval Tuscan pearl, which is known for a number of high towers. The rich families built these to compete with each other.
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