The Balze del Valdarno are one of the most evocative and unusual landscapes in Tuscany. These spectacular geological formations feature pinnacles, clay towers, and vertical walls carved out by erosion over millions of years. They were created around two million years ago when the area was covered by a large lake.
Subsequent drying up and the action of atmospheric agents sculpted the terrain, creating an almost lunar landscape, which also inspired Leonardo da Vinci, who depicted it in several of his drawings. Today, the Balze can be admired in particular between the municipalities of Terranuova Bracciolini, Castelfranco Piandiscò, and Reggello, along scenic trails ideal for hiking or cycling. It is a perfect place for those who love nature, photography, and unusual landscapes.
TRAIL 51
The C.A.I. trail No. 51 starts from the municipality of Castelfranco (278 m above sea level), from the Badia di Soffena, crosses the village and immediately plunges into the cliffs. After a long loop that takes it up towards Piantravigne and back down to the plain, it climbs again to Castelfranco, passing near the sulphurous water spring that gives it its name, and ends at the Abbey.
Link: https://caivaldarnosuperiore.it/sentiro-c-a-i-n-51-detto-dellacqua-zolfina/
