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This pathway is parallel to the pathway n. 7, but it goes along the eastern side. Starting from Semproniano, it climbs down towards the Rocchette, shares a stretch of the pathway number 7 and then it crosses the Calizzano torrent and reaches first the Podere Pezzano and secondly, after a long stretch, the Podere Poggio Sorbi. From here, through a branch of about 3 km, the itinerary continues till the Podere Pian dell'Acquaio and finally the Castle of Triana. The other branch of the pathway leads, by contrast, to Roccalbegna.
The itinerary, which is a mixture of white pathways and asphalt roads, has an average altitude of about 600 m and becomes demanding only in the surroundings of Roccalbegna and when crossing the Calizzano Torrent. The stretch between the two villages of Semproniano and Roccalbegna is about 13 km and it can be covered on foot in about two hours, excluding the alternative branch towards Triana.
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Roccalbegna - Semproniano | sentiero 7
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| The pathway originates in the old town of Roccalbegna and crosses, climbing up and down, a wide stretch of the old Maremma, passing near the localities of Poggio Lago, Podere Rocconi (Reserve of the Rocconi forest), Podere Ceccherino, La Crocina, and returning then, once passed the Albegna, towards Rocchette di Fazio and Semproniano (this last village can be reached from Rocchette even by the asphalt road). The stretch between Rocchette and Semproniano is also shared by the pathway number 8.
This itinerary is a mixture of white pathways and asphalt roads and presents just one demanding stretch, corresponding to the crossing of the Rivo Torrent; the pathway winds up for about 13 km and it can be covered on foot in about 4 hours.
We strongly recommend this itinerary as a unique opportunity to admire the wonderful valley of the Albegna river, which is characterized by some of the most beautiful European canyons, as well as to visit the fascinating old town of Rocchette, rare example of a perfectly maintained medieval village situated on overhanging rocks.
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Riserva Naturale Pescinello (Pescinello Nature Reserve)
Located on the upper reaches of the Albegna river, the guardians of this reserve are attempting to re-introduce the ‘capovaccaio', a bird of prey. Coming from the Roccalbegna direction, procede for Triana, and after about 2 Km/1.2 miles, take the left turning.
Riserva Naturale di Rocconi (Rocconi Nature Reserve)
Located near the town of Roccalbegna , this reserve is set on the harsh ravine of the Albegna river. It is in part a World Wildlife Fund Oasis and is open year round, but only on a reserved, guided visit basis. Nearby, in the neighboring town of Semproniano, is the Centro Recupero Rapaci (Rescue Center for Birds of Prey).
The Reserve is absolutely wonderful for all kinds of wildlife, not just birds; mammals include Wild Boar, Porcupine and Stone Marten, signs of all three of which we saw on our visit. In spring the reserve is excellent for Orchids, with 27 species, and Tortoise can be seen with relative ease, along with a good number of other herp species. Butterfly species include Southern Festoon. On the bird front, the area is excellent for raptors, with two breeding pairs of Lanner, the largest concentration of Montagu's Harrier in Italy, Short-toed Eagle, Honey Buzzard and Goshawk breeding too.
Oasi WWF of Bosco di Rocconi
It is necessary to contact in advance the responsible of the Oasi, the tourist visits to Oasi WWF is available just on request.
Phone: +39 0336 700800 - 333321
Fax: +39 0577 270854
Local Guide
Phone: +39 0564 989115
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