As Colline Metallifere one denotes a landscape in the southern Tuscany (Central Italy).
background
The Colline Metallifere Nature Park is located southwest of Siena and extends between Radicondoli, Larderello, Roccastrada to Massa Marittima and belongs to the provinces of Pisa, Siena and Grosetto. In particular, the area between Radicondoli and Montieri is wrongly forgotten in many travel and even hiking guides, although the mountainous, wooded region is particularly suitable for a relaxing holiday and relaxation in nature.
The Etruscans settled this area because of the rich mineral resources, hence the name "Colline Metallifere". Most of all iron ore, copper, lead and silver were extracted and smelted here. Today mining is no longer worthwhile, mining museums have been built in many tunnels, e.g. in Monterotondo or Massa Marittima.
Since the 19th century, the generation of energy through geothermal energy and the extraction of boron salts from thermal springs have become increasingly important.
The capital of the landscape today lies in the strong geothermal activity, especially in the area around Radicondoli and Larderello. Depending on the weather, a more or less strong smell of sulfur hangs over the hills, but you get used to it quickly. Often the hot vapors even come to light in nature; in other places, the energy company ENEL has drilled geothermal wells to use the hot steam to generate electricity, as the many pipes along the streets testify to.
places
- Castelnouvo Val di Cecina
- Larderello
- Radicondoli
- Roccastrada
- Roccatederighi
- Massa Marittima
- Montemassi
- Monterotondo Marittimo
- Montieri
- Sassofortino
- Sasso Pisano
Other goals
The Colline Metallifere extend east of the Etruscan Rivierawhose often natural and relatively quiet beaches can be reached quickly from here, especially the scenic and culturally worth seeing Gulf of Baratti at Populonia.
language
Italian.
getting there
Best accessible by car or motorcycle.
mobility
A car or motorcycle is essential as the small towns are not adequately connected by public transport.
Tourist Attractions
Especially those are worth seeing Mountain villagessome of which actually claw their way into the mountain.
The places of the Colline Metallifere are not touristy and dressed up like in Chianti and you won't find any chic shops, but they have a special charm. The houses and stairs that almost seem to grow out of the rocks and the naturally shaped squares invite you to stroll.
The small town, for example, is worth seeing Radicondoli. Despite the population of just under 1,000, the town has been almost completely renovated and has a lively community. You can stroll through quiet streets, visit the Collegiata (church) and enjoy the view. The small but loving geothermal museum "Le energie del territorio" is exciting. There are also basic necessities and a good pizzeria.
The slightly smaller one Roccatederighi is even more original, the houses are built so harmoniously between the rocks that they appear to have grown organically in places. There is an astonishing variety of churches and palazzi for the size of the place. The annual event takes place here on August 14th Palio dei ciuchi (Donkey race) between the contrade (Districts) instead. The place is also very suitable as a starting point for hikes and bike tours (bike rental in town).
The town Larderello is the center of geothermal use and has a large geothermal museum including an entire part of the village with a thermal lake, which is definitely worth a visit. A little outside, at Sasso Pisano, is a hike in hell-like Parco delle Fumarole a must (fumaroles are the "hot chimneys" from which earth vapors emerge) - especially worthwhile in the cooler season when the clouds of steam transform the landscape.
The nature park of the Colline Metallifere is also particularly known for its natural beauty and originality. Rough rocks and gentler hills covered with holm oaks or chestnut groves, countless streams, hot and cold springs and a diverse flora and fauna offer nature lovers a varied program. The hiking trails have been better maintained in recent years, but are often adventurous, find out more beforehand.
activities
The quiet forests and mountains invite you to hike a, there is now a good network of hiking trails, although hiking guides rarely recommend this region. Let tourist information or the landlord suggest suitable routes and tours. As the area is not very densely populated in places, you should bring water and snacks with you.
Especially on weekends, the curvy roads with little traffic serve as a race track for motorcyclists, which unfortunately also shows in the dented guard rails and many crosses. Always drive carefully and ready to brake, especially on weekends, regardless of whether you are driving a car or a motorcycle.
Alternatively, the area is suitable for experienced mountain bikers, who will find many shady, natural tours outside of the main tourist trails here.
kitchen
Similar to the Montagnola senese and on Monte Amiata play Mushrooms a very important role. The climate and vegetation are perfect for chanterelles, porcini mushrooms & Co., you can buy them in different qualities in the greengrocer's or at the weekly markets.
Chestnuts (Sweet chestnuts) are still traditionally cultivated here. From the flour you make e.g. castagnaccio, a flat, firm cake made of chestnut flour, raisins, honey, rosemary and pine nuts or walnuts, occasionally fruit (pears etc.) is also baked. The dried chestnuts can be used in many ways throughout the winter.
In the season will like Wild jaded and eaten, but a lot of it now comes from breeding or has been released into the wild for hunting pleasure.
nightlife
security
climate
At high altitudes, the weather can be very different from the nearby coast, temperature differences of 5 ° C are normal. On windy and cooler days, a trip to the sea is worthwhile, where the weather is usually milder and warmer.
In the off-season (from October to April) you should definitely take warm clothes with you and value well-heated accommodation, preferably with a closed fireplace and heating, and when planning your budget, consider that heating costs are often more expensive than off-season rent .
