Open clay hills, cypress-lined farm tracks and the Benedictine abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, with its cloister frescoes.
The Crete Senesi is a landscape of pale clay hills and gravel tracks south-east of Siena. Walkers can approach Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a Benedictine abbey founded in the early 14th century and known for the frescoed cloister, from Asciano or from farm tracks nearby. Route lengths vary with the chosen line; distances here are approximate and local signage or tourist office maps should be consulted.
The abbey is free to visit according to several sources, though hours differ between listings. By car the abbey is about 40 km from Siena; by train the nearest stations are Buonconvento and Asciano, and a taxi is needed to reach the abbey itself.
Spring brings green fields and poppies; autumn brings ploughed brown clay and lower temperatures. Summer is hot and exposed.
| Distance | Roughly 10-14 km one way depending on the route chosen; marked routes and distances should be checked locally |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-5 hours one way |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trailhead | Train from Siena to Asciano (Trenitalia, Siena-Chiusi line) then walk or taxi; or car to Monte Oliveto Maggiore (about 40 km via SS2 Cassia and Buonconvento). |
| Best season | March-May and October-November |
| Address | Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, 53020 Asciano SI, Italy (approach from Asciano) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Crete Senesi, between Asciano and Monte Oliveto Maggiore, about 40 km southeast of Siena
- Trail type
- Point to point or out and back, mixed tracks and country roads
- Terrain
- White gravel roads and clay field tracks; muddy and slippery after rain, dusty and hot in summer.
What to bring
Walking shoes with grip, water (little shade or fountains), hat, sun protection, offline map.
Location
Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, 53020 Asciano SI, Italy (approach from Asciano)
43.2354, 11.4731 View on map
Highlights
- Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, open to visitors free of charge
- Biancane and clay badland scenery of the Crete Senesi
- Cypress rows and isolated farmhouses
- Monastery cellar where the monks sell wine and products
Tips for visiting
- Check opening hours before going: sources list roughly 9:15-12:00 and 15:15-18:00, closing at 17:00 in winter (conflicting sources, verify).
- The abbey phone listed by Italia.it is +39 0577 707258; museionline lists +39 0577 707611.
- From Asciano or Buonconvento stations only taxi continues to the abbey, so arrange transport back in advance.
- Avoid walking on clay after rain, when it sticks to shoes.
When to visit
Spring and autumn; avoid midday in July and August.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair-accessible on the trails; the abbey itself is reachable by car.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the abbey free to enter?
Several sources list free entry; confirm hours on the abbey's official channels before visiting.
How do I reach it without a car?
Train to Asciano or Buonconvento, then a taxi; arrange the return in advance.
When is the best time to walk?
March-May and October-November.