Anello dei bollori

Walking to the Boils is a favorite walk for those who live in the area….

The hypothermal spring called “I Bollori” is located near the village of Gambassi, just over a kilometer away, in the valley of the Casciani Creek.

The water has a temperature of 23 °C, with a sulfate-alkaline-earthy composition. The spring has the appearance of a cloudy water spring, due to the presence of suspended mineral elements in the water, and it is accompanied by numerous gas emissions and intermittent jets of tepid water.

The spring has always been known by local people as a place for bathing and pet care. These waters are also said to bring benefit for dermatological diseases, although there is no scientific evidence.

Route itinerary

Starting from the village of Gambassi, one travels along the section of the Via Francigena that leads from the village to San Gimignano. It is a stretch of road that offers spectacular views of Valdelsa, Certaldo and the famous towers of the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages.”

Accompanied by vineyards and centuries-old ilex groves, shortly after the hamlet of Casanuova, take a path to the right that climbs the valley floor of the Casciani stream. After passing Santa Teresa, you arrive at the San Claudio farm. Proceeding along the Casciani stream, one quickly arrives at Bollori.

To return to Gambassi, take the unpaved road that climbs toward Poggio Sant’Anna, passing the Montefalcone farm.

A route variant

An alternative route allows visitors to travel up the stream to Poggio alla Forra, where the remains of the old aqueduct that channeled water from the Botro delle Docce spring can be seen. The old aqueduct, nearly 5 kilometers long, was inaugurated on October 1, 1908, and was a particularly important work for the local drinking water supply.

The return to Gambassi, from the variant, is made by following the Volterrana road.