The Chianti Mountains represent a short mountain chain between the provinces of Florence, Siena and Arezzo that separates the upper Valdarno from the Chianti geographical area and borders to the south-east with the Val di Chiana.
The highest peak is Monte San Michele (892 mt.) in the municipality of Greve in Chianti which, together with the nearby Monte Domini (750 mt.), represents the Monti di San Michele. From its top you can admire a panoramic view of the valleys of the Arno, Greve and Pesa.
A chain characterized by a gentle morphology with moderate slopes and characterized by the presence of native vegetation mixed with coniferous woods (firs and pines), the entire area has been intensely exploited since ancient times by humans, who have changed its appearance and is now regaining its naturalness so as to be considered a Site of Community Interest (SCI).
The excursion starts from the small village of Casole from where in a short time, through large terraced vineyards first and deciduous woods then, you reach the open area below the refreshment of San Michele. Climbing to the top, where a stone of the IGM and a high antenna mark the top of the mountain, after enjoying a panoramic view of the valleys below, we go down easy paths to reach the village of Lamole, from which a little-used paved road, takes us back to the starting point.
Duration: 4 hours (including stops)
Length: 11 km
Altitude difference: 350 mt
Difficulty: T-E
Recommended season: spring, summer, autumn, winter
You need: comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, rainproof equipment, water and packed lunch.
Cost: 12 € (children under 12 years free)
