Hermitages of quiet in Tuscany

In the heart of the Casentinesi Forests, just a few miles from the village of Camaldoli, the Hermitage of Camaldoli is nestled in one of the largest and most continuous forest complexes in Italy. The distanced monastic cells are protected by ancient trees that absorb any noise. The forest surrounding the Hermitage offers simple, continuous paths suitable for slow, quiet walks. The pace also tends to slow down naturally, following the regular rhythm of the forest. It is a great destination when seeking continuity and simplicity rather than new stimuli. 
Not only can you visit the Hermitage but, if you wish, can even stay in the cells for an experience of recollection and simple rhythm, in dialog with the landscape.

Perched on Monte Penna, not far from Chiusi della Verna, the Sanctuary overlooks a deep and compact forest. 
The paths leading to the Hermitage pass through shady beech forests and create a sharp separation from the valley floor. It is here that Saint Francis of Assisi sought to distance himself from the world for a paired back life.
To this day, the slope creates a distinct separation from the valley floor and the everyday environment. Space opens up, noise goes down, and the environment fosters a feeling of natural isolation.
The Sanctuary can be reached on foot via forest paths, including along the Cammino di Francesco (or Way of Saint Francis), which climbs toward Monte Penna. 
The entire complex can be freely visited, with open access to the Sanctuary and the Chapel of the Stigmata, welcoming pilgrims and visitors alike.

Less than an hour from Florence, the Abbey of Vallombrosa is set in an uncluttered natural setting, surrounded by monumental fir trees and level paths. 
Forest pathways set the pace without much effort required. Vallombrosa does not ask for introspection but offers mental rest. 
In fall, simply strolling among the colors of foliage is a source of wellness. Around the Abbey, it is then possible to follow the Circuit of Chapels, a set of short paths that connect small places of recollection immersed in the woods. 
Easy walks, suitable for those who wish to go without haste, letting your gaze fall on the landscape and slowing the pace.

Some miles from Siena, the Hermitage of Lecceto is deep in the woods but remains easily accessible. Its simplicity and immediate silence create a clear threshold between outside and inside. 
It only takes a short time for your attention to shift from the urban setting to the silence of the forest.
The contrast with the city makes this place suitable for a short break, even a few hours.
Founded in the 14ᵗʰ century as a place of eremitic life, the Hermitage can be visited as a space of silence and recollection. 
The surrounding forest offers short paths suitable for a slow walk or a quiet rest.

Immerso nel verde delle colline fiesolane, a pochi passi da Fiesole, il Convento dell’Incontro è un antico complesso francescano affacciato sulla valle dell’Arno.
Si raggiunge a piedi da Fiesole o dalla zona di San Domenico, attraversando boschi e cipressi, in un contesto aperto e luminoso. Qui il silenzio accompagna senza isolare del tutto dal contesto circostante.
È un luogo adatto quando si cerca calma restando comunque in relazione con l’ambiente e con la città poco distante.