Hiking, E biking and
Mountain biking
“The concept of rushing does not exist”
Alessandro Verdiani and Federico Verponziani are two qualified walking guides aka guida ambientale escursionistica – close friends with a shared passion for hiking. The duo have been guiding walking tours in Tuscany since 2012. This page is dedicated to them and some of their excellent adventures that are created in tandem with chef Sophie Chamberlain.
“We delight in revealing remote corners of Tuscany.”
A statement from Alessandro and Federico, owners of Tuscany Walking Guides:
“The close bond that connects us is our shared passion for hiking, which we view not just as a physical activity, but rather as the most astute and gratifying way to explore and discover all those beautiful features, both natural and artistic, which make up our marvellous region, Tuscany. The concept of rushing does not exist while we are enjoying a walk at a leisurely pace: our aim is to embrace the stunning views, observe minute details, listen to the gentle sounds of the countryside and breathe the various aromas.”
For those who wish to reach more distant venues, the pair offer the opportunity to travel ecologically either on an e-bike or a mountain bike (MTB). The types of destination they have chosen for their patrons are those that are unspoiled and less conventional than the standard-fare walking tour. They delight in revealing remote corners of Tuscany in a natural, fun and relaxing way, contrary to what mass tourism proposes.
“We are utterly convinced that showcasing the natural environment of Tuscany and its picturesque hamlets is a formidable strategy which enables not only foreign tourists but also locals to truly discover something new whilst at the same time keeping historic and apparently forgotten places alive. We look forward to sharing our enthusiasm with people from every part of the world and to showing them our stunning Tuscany, by walking, biking and why not, also eating! Lunch ready yet Sophie? ”
This photo is a selfie
Federico declares on his Instagram page that hiking is a state of mind where your body is a part of the enchanting nature that surrounds you. We agree.
Book a most uncommon adventure…
Sophie Chamberlain, chef and purveyor of donkey picnics is the designer of some of Uncommon Italy’s Most Uncommon adventures. Working with Alessandro and Federico, Sophie has created some wonderful itineraries for hiking and bike tours around Colle val d’Elsa, Casole d’Elsa and beyond.
Sophie’s lovely donkey Pan and her friend Sarah’s donkey Gelsomino accompany them on some of the hiking adventures, as they are perfect porters for Sophie’s freshly-made that morning, lunches and treats. Yes indeed – “lunch will be served.” And it will be heavenly.
Montagnola Walking Trail - 14 km.
The Montagnola Senese hike below is extraordinarily beautiful. It is just one example of a myriad of options for walking tours on which Alessandro and Federico can take you. Sophie will be delighted to put together a custom created and finely tuned itinerary for you. Email Sophie Chamberlain for Most Uncommon adventures.
Describing the Montagnola Senese Area
Located between the upper valley of the Elsa River and the town of Siena, this modest mountain range reflects better than any other the harmony of the Tuscan landscape. An enchanted place where time seems to stand still, ancient abbeys, medieval churches and chapels, paved streets and castles are under a spell. Although its position is close to Siena, this area has remained unspoiled and somehow wild: this is still the countryside where you meet farmers at work, sheep grazing the grass and where you still see colourful natural ponds.
“There are no words in fact to describe this trail. It is beautiful in every season and involves all the important aspects that a tourist who loves hiking must know and see when visiting Tuscany; the oldest chestnut trees, the rural antique houses, the view above the Elsa Valley. The village of Ancaiano is stunningly picturesque and represents the beginning of a spectacular walk, one that will take you by two medieval churches situated in two different strategical positions: right above Siena…”
