Just a few kilometers from our Villa in Tuscany lies the striking Castelvecchio Nature Reserve — a protected area where history, nature, and breathtaking views come together in perfect harmony.

Situated over 600 meters above sea level, the reserve overlooks the surrounding hills, characterized by dense woodlands and unique rock formations carved over centuries by the Botri delle Libaie and Castelvecchio streams.

Exploring the Ancient Village of Castelvecchio

This reserve is renowned for the ruins of the medieval village of Castelvecchio, once a strategic outpost of the Municipality of San Gimignano, used to control the border with Volterra. 

First mentioned in the 12th century, the village was initially under the authority of the bishops of Volterra before coming under San Gimignano’s control in the 1200s. Over the centuries, it gradually lost importance and was almost completely abandoned by the 15th century.

Today, walking among the remains of its ancient filaretto stone walls, visitors can admire the ruins of historic dwellings, a defensive tower, and a Romanesque church with a semicircular apse — a captivating site for archaeology and medieval history lovers.

An Extraordinary Ecosystem

Thanks to its remarkable biodiversity, the Castelvecchio Nature Reserve has been designated a Site of Community Importance (SCI) under the EU Habitats Directive. It spans over 1,100 hectares of protected land.

The area is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including wild boar, roe deer, and small mammals such as dormice. Birdwatchers will also find much to admire, with raptors like sparrowhawks and buzzards soaring gracefully overhead.

A Perfect Blend of Trekking and Adventure

The reserve offers excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, or horseback riding, with scenic trails that wind through forests, rocky cliffs, and open landscapes with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience that blends history and unspoiled nature, a visit to the Castelvecchio Nature Reserve is a must during your stay at Villa Le Ginepraie.