Pelago as you have never seen it

All around Florence! We reach Pelago, a quiet cluster of houses situated on a hill overlooking the Vicano Valley. At its centre stands the ancient Castle of Pelago, known as the Castle of the Guidi Counts, within which lies the parish church of San Clemente, an ancient building that has been altered over the years. The castle still has two walls and an external walkway leading to the War Memorial Chapel. The square used to be the market place; today it is surrounded by arcades.

What makes up the territory

Pelago is the main town of a region made up of small or very small villages, linked by an elegant and harmonious countryside characterised by rows of vines. But it also features woodland and significant elevations, such as the Consuma Pass, at 1,050 metres. Heading down from the Consuma, we highlight the hamlets of Borselli, nestled in the greenery; Diacceto, with the 11th-century parish church of San Lorenzo; Nipozzano, with its grand castle, first documented in 1037, now converted into a villa/farm and owned by the Frescobaldi family; Raggioli, a small, enchanting village nestled in the rock, with its stone buildings and narrow streets; Sant’Ellero, partly situated on the Arno, the starting point of a hiking trail leading to Saltino, following the route of a former rack railway; and finally San Francesco, which shares the Ponte Mediceo with neighbouring Pontassieve.

Typical

As well as producing wine and extra virgin olive oil, Pelago is renowned for its olive oil schiacciata, which is baked here regularly and enjoyed either plain or topped with cured meats, cheese or the delicious porcini mushrooms from the local forests. Do give it a try on your way up to Consuma

Hiking and walking routes to Pelago

As well as the Sant’Ellero–Saltino trail mentioned above, there are numerous routes to explore on foot or by bike in the area around the Passo della Consuma and towards Vallombrosa.
The area is also crossed by the Renaissance Ring Roadand the Way of St Francis in Tuscany.

How to get to Pelago

The municipal area can be reached by train (Sant’Ellero station), whilst to reach the upper part you’ll need to take the inter-city bus services heading for Casentino.

Download the "All Around Florence" brochure

To learn more about the history of the area surrounding Florence, download the brochure from the official tourism website of the Municipality of Florence and the Metropolitan City: Click here to download the brochure.