Lord Colliers Active Retirement Life

San Miniato to Gambassi Terme

We kicked off the morning in San Miniato with one small challenge—finding coffee! But by 6:30 AM, the trail had already come alive. Dozens of fellow pilgrims were heading out—easily 30 or 40 people—creating a buzz of movement and community. It reminded me so much of the Camino, that familiar rhythm of recognizing faces, greeting fellow travelers, and reconnecting in small-town cafés and eateries along the way. The spirit of the trail was well and truly alive in Italy, and those early, quieter days in France already felt like a distant memory—thankfully! 

The morning had been nothing short of perfect. The weather held just right: warm but not hot, clear skies, and a gentle breeze to keep us going. The route buzzed with energy. There was a real sense of community that had developed, and it made all the difference—shared smiles, nods of encouragement, and that unspoken bond of shared purpose.

The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. It was the Tuscany you see in films: rolling hills, golden fields, vineyards tucked between olive groves, and ancient stone farmhouses scattered like brushstrokes across the land. Experiencing it in person was something else entirely—it wasn’t just beautiful, it was moving. A truly magnificent morning.

The walk from San Miniato to Gambassi Terme spanned approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) and is considered one of the most scenic stretches of the Via Francigena. The path wound through classic Tuscan landscapes—gentle hills, cypress-lined ridges, and terraced vineyards. While the terrain included a few steady climbs, especially as we approached Gambassi, it was mostly manageable and well-marked, with plenty of spots to rest and soak in the views.

This region formed part of the Chianti wine zone, and the trail passed by several small, family-run vineyards. A notable winery near the route is Pillo. The vineyards here produced some excellent reds and crisp whites, and the scenery alone—vines stretching across the hills under that golden Tuscan light—was worth the walk. I will try some tonight! 

Gambassi Terme is a charming hilltop town known for its thermal baths and medieval history. While small, it offered a warm welcome to weary hikers. The historic town center had beautifully preserved architecture, quiet piazzas, and a handful of great spots for beer or a well-earned glass of local wine. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, an old Romanesque church, was worth a visit, and the thermal spa (Terme della Via Francigena) was a favorite for those staying an extra night.

Dinner at the Hostel
One of the highlights of the evening had been the communal dinner cooked at the hostel. Simple, hearty, and made with local ingredients, it felt more like a family meal than just dinner. The hosts prepared pasta with a rich and herb sauce, followed by jam cake!

We gathered around the tables, swapping stories from the day’s walk, sharing laughter, and raising glasses of Tuscan white wine. It was a perfect end to a near-perfect day—warm food, warm company, and that special feeling of shared purpose that only the Via Francigena could offer.