Sant'ellero and the historic railway route

Sant'ellero can be explored for travel planning through the former rack railway connection and the path that grew out of its historic route. If you are looking for hotels in Sant'ellero, the path provides a tangible point of reference when choosing where to stay. The route connects Sant'Ellero–Saltino with Vallombrosa and is now relevant to different ways of getting around.

A path connecting Valdarno and Vallombrosa

The restored trekking route between Sant'Ellero–Saltino and Vallombrosa is about 8.5 kilometres long. The path connects the valley floor of Valdarno with the Vallombrosa Biogenetic Nature Reserve. On arrival in Vallombrosa, the route provides direct access to the Vallombrosa Trail Area. This makes the starting point at Sant'Ellero, the connection via Saltino and access at Vallombrosa the key considerations when planning your route.

The Sant'Ellero–Saltino–Vallombrosa rack railway path can be used on foot, by bicycle—including e-bikes—or for running. You can therefore plan your trip around your preferred way of getting around, without viewing the route solely as a hiking trail.

A former rack railway turned path

The Sant'Ellero–Saltino rack railway operated from 25 September 1892 to 18 April 1924. The historic route, which once connected Sant'Ellero with Vallombrosa, has been converted into a path for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. This connection brings together transport history and present-day use of the path: the railway belongs to the historical chapter, while its route lives on as a path.

History, nature and technology along the way

Nine information panels along the route cover historical, natural history and technical topics. These three themes make the route more than just a way to find your bearings: when planning, you can also consider whether you are interested in nature, technology or history as well as getting active. The topics connect the route with different perspectives, without requiring you to choose a particular type of tour.

Another cultural and historical detail is an object made of embossed and engraved silver and gilded copper. The object comes from the Church of Santa Maria a Ellero and dates to the late 17th century.

Plan your journey and stay

You can also combine your journey from Florence with your route planning: thanks to the proximity of Sant'Ellero station, travellers can reach the starting point from Florence and then continue on foot or by bicycle. Check timetables and connections before travelling so you can plan your arrival and the onward route together.

Before setting off, check the latest route information and conditions. If the route is the main focus of your stay, you can choose Sant'ellero as your hotel search destination and assess the options according to your own travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Vallombrosa, Fornaci Incisa, Tosi, Tallini, Cancelli, San Donato Fronzano, Donnini

Return to the main travel overview: Reggello.