Outdoors with your family in the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano area

In the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano area, there are many trails suitable for all ages that are great for introducing even small kids to nature.  

The Sentieri del Genio (Genius’ paths), for example, are 5 easy-to-follow trails in the surroundings of Vinci, the village where Leonardo spent his childhood. More experienced walkers should know that the Empolese Valdelsa area is crossed by a section of the famous Via Francigena, divided here into 3 stages: Fucecchio, Gambassi Terme and Certaldo. 

If you’re interested in introducing your children to the local flora and fauna, you have at least two interesting options: the first is a visit to the Arnovecchio Nature Reserve near Empoli where you'll be able to explore independently, following an educational trail. A second option is to take part in one of the many activities organized by the Castelmartini Visitor Centre of the Fucecchio Marshes. 
 

In fine weather, there’s nothing better than having a nice picnic outdoors to relax after finishing an excursion or visiting a museum, and the parks and gardens in the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano area are ideal.

The Serravalle Park is particularly appreciated by locals, who can reach this naturalistic oasis by bike from the centre of Empoli. In Fucecchio, in the highest part of the city, there’s Parco Corsini, a vast green area characterized by a fascinating medieval tower. 

Other good destinations for relaxing outdoors are: the Albereta Park in Cerreto Guidi on the riverbank of the Arno, with a nice playground for kids; the Ambrogiana Park by the historic Medici Villa of Montelupo Fiorentino; Gambassi Terme’s municipal park, situated between the historical centre and the thermal facilities; and Parco Collinare di Canonica in Certaldo, enjoyed by lovers of sport. 
 

Cycling excursions are perfect for families who enjoy doing sports together! In the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano area, there are many cycling itineraries suitable for all ages. 

The Genius’ paths in Vinci are 5 easy-to-follow trails that are the perfect mix of sport and culture. Following these paths, you will get to explore the places where the Renaissance genius spent his childhood years, while getting some outdoor exercise. 
Another option is to explore the area surrounding Castelfiorentino, where there are two well marked ring-route itineraries suitable for all ages, the Giracastello. 

And in case you would like to go cycling alongside a river, the Cycle Path of the Arno river will lead you from Montelupo Fiorentino (famous for the production of ceramics), all the way to Empoli and vice versa. 
 

Whether it's to refresh yourself in summer or to relax in winter, a splash at the swimming pool with family is always a nice way to spend time. The pools in the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano area are well equipped and safe for all ages. 

The swimming pool in Certaldo stays open all year long and is not far from the Canonica Park. It features an Olympic-size pool as well as a recreational one with hydromassage jets. During summer, the lawn around the pools is also equipped with a gazebo, umbrellas and sun-lounges. 

If you prefer thermal baths, Gambassi Terme should be your destination. The baths are famous worldwide for the salt water of Pillo and are really close to Parco Benestare. What better place than a thermal bath to wash away the fatigue accumulated by walking through woods and valleys?