Bivigliano: Discover Villas, Forests and Trails

Villa, Art and Distinctive Local Landscapes

Bivigliano combines historic architecture with forests and various trails. A prominent landmark is the Villa di Bivigliano: the Ginori family built it in the 16th century as a summer and hunting residence; it was probably designed by Bernardo Buontalenti. The villa is set in a 12-hectare forested area and includes an artificial grotto and a formal garden. This means the village can be viewed both through the lens of its architectural history and its designed natural surroundings.

The apse of San Romolo in Bivigliano is also home to a remarkable work: a glazed terracotta altarpiece by Andrea della Robbia depicting the Virgin and Child with Saints. The Convento di Montesenario in Bivigliano includes the Church of the Addolorata, the Chapel of the Apparition and a 15th-century cloister. BiviglianoNOIR focuses on books, authors and noir stories and has already taken place for the third time. The cultural spectrum therefore ranges from sacred art and architecture to literature and storytelling.

Forest Therapy and Trails Around Bivigliano

A forest therapy project has been launched in the Boschi di Montesenario area. A forest therapy session consists of short, slow walks involving little physical exertion through particularly high-quality woodland environments, such as the forests of Montesenario. The sessions are led by psychologists or psychotherapists qualified by the CAI and frequently include breaks during which participants focus on their sensory impressions.

The “Tra chiese e badie” route starts and ends in Bivigliano and is 18.8 kilometres long. It passes through a pine forest and offers views of Florence and the surrounding hills. The connection between the route, forest and landscape is also significant because the sixth stage of the Via degli Dei reaches Bivigliano via Via della Fittaccia in approximately ten minutes.

Another circular route is called Bivigliano–Monte Senario–Ghiacciaia di Monte Senario. This route involves approximately 240 metres of ascent and takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes. The circular route from Bivigliano to the Santuario di Monte Senario and back runs mostly through dense forests, along comfortable paths and small roads. The different route lengths provide a concrete basis when planning your days between shorter walks and longer trails.

Local Specialties and Events

The Sagra della schiacciata takes place in Bivigliano in September. The festival celebrates a local product in sweet and savoury varieties. The Convento di Montesenario is another culinary point of reference: among other things, the monks produce the Gemma d’abeto liqueur, which can be tasted at the Bar-Ristoro. Both topics lead to different aspects of the village—to seasonal festival culture and to a specialty from the monastery’s surroundings.

Discover More Destinations

More destinations on this level: Pratolino, Montorsoli.

To the higher-level travel overview: Vaglia.