Poggio all'Olmo nature reserve

This nature reserve is divided between Cinigiano and nearby Arcidosso and covers 434 hectares of countryside.

Truly a gigantic slice of perfectly preserved Tuscan countryside, the reserve is a lovely place for an afternoon stroll and the ideal location for anyone wanting to get up close and personal with the famous flora and fauna of Mount Amiata.

The dense forests are criss-crossed by walking and cycling paths and are home to foxes, wild boars, owls and the odd badger.

Chestnut groves (free for those looking for an afternoon snack) and oak trees stand alongside brambles of wild roses and orchids, as well as local varieties of rosemary and pine.

In summer the silence is broken by the noise of bees and, curiously, wild cats in search of rabbits and hares.

The nature park is open all year round and is a true paradise for cyclists, picnickers and bird watchers.

There are signs leading to the entrance to the nature reserve, which is on the left just before turning for Cinigiano. If you have trouble finding it, pop into the tourist information center in town and they should be able to help you.