Mount Amiata is located south of Siena. It is entirely crossed by the Via Cassia, which, in ancient times, was one of the major routes of the magnificent Roman road system. Mount Amiata features several rivers, wild animals, and thick beech and chestnut forests on lands where outspoken and genuine farmers and miners live. They tell strange stories and legends that are unknown to the people of the plains. Thousands of years ago, Mount Amiata was a huge volcano whose eruptions, over the centuries, covered the surrounding low hills with ash and lava, which turned into tuff: the emblem of the entire Etruscan civilization.
Nowadays, the eruptions have stopped and Mount Amiata (1750 mt) has become one of the most famous ski resorts of Tuscany. With the spring thaw, the snow is first slowly absorbed by the ground and then returned to the surface through numerous hot springs scattered around the mount. The water is pleasantly hot, ranging from 37 to 45°C (98 to 113 °F), a sign that some residual volcanic activity still survives. If you are planning a trip to Tuscany, especially during the cold winter months, do not miss out on the charm of these places. The springs that are indicated along the roads are only accessible on foot. Sometimes, for example in the case of the San Filippo Baths, the walk will take you right through a long oak and chestnut forest.