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San Gimignano

Top 7 Waterfalls around San Gimignano

Best waterfalls around San Gimignano are found within the surrounding Tuscan landscape, particularly along the Elsa River. This area offers natural aquatic attractions, providing a refreshing escape from the Tuscan heat. The region is characterized by its unique geological features, including limestone rock formations that influence the water's color. Visitors can explore various river trails and natural pools in proximity to San Gimignano.

Best waterfalls around San Gimignano

  • The most popular waterfalls is Diborrato Waterfall, a waterfall that plunges about 15 meters into a deep, scenic natural pool. It is a popular spot for cooling off, especially during summer.
  • Another must-see spot is Elsa River Trail, a trail known for its stunning ice-blue waters, created by minerals from porous limestone rock. The trail offers picturesque views and opportunities for nature gazing.
  • Visitors also love Turquoise Waterfalls and River of Fosso Bianco, a waterfall with incredible water color. This spot is located within the Elsa path and surprises with its vibrant blue water.
  • San Gimignano is known for waterfalls formed by natural plunges and barrages. Visitors can explore areas with ice-blue rivers and small waterfalls creating ponds.
  • The waterfalls around San Gimignano are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 photos and over 500 upvotes.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Elsa River Trail

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Natural, deeply cut valley with wild flora and a great bird life.

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Diborrato Waterfall

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By now, word has probably gotten around a bit about how beautiful it is here. It's not quite as quiet at Pentecost, but it's still absolutely within reason 😉.

It's a bit like paradise. Well, at least that's how I would imagine it 😬. You just have to imagine the others away 😜😂.

One photo opportunity follows the other 😬, bring time and swimwear 😃👍

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Pozzo Sfondato

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Pozzo sfondato - beautiful place but maybe avoid in August as there is no water!

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Agliena River Waterfalls and Path

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The landscape in this area of Tuscany is very attractive. But one rarely finds a shady path that leads well along a stream, the Agliena. In addition, the regulated course of the stream is interesting, as barrages, the Briglie, repeatedly form small waterfalls and subsequent ponds that are teeming with life. These barrages are said to go back to Leonardo da Vinci. The season in which you walk this section of the route is also crucial. I've been there in August 2021, but since it's quite dry in summer, there were only a few small pools. But now in May you can hear the splashing of the small waterfalls and the croaking of the frogs and flowers like the purple orchid and the star of Bethlehem are growing.

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Please dismount and continue to carry the bike in your hand! 😀

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Popular around San Gimignano

A cycling pilgrimage — history and nature on Italy’s Via Francigena

Road Cycling Routes around San Gimignano

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A cycling pilgrimage — history and nature on Italy’s Via Francigena

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Jey
May 14, 2025, Turquoise Waterfalls and River of Fosso Bianco

Very easy walk but can be slippery after a rain

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The Walking Wolf

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The Diborrato waterfall, located along the Elsa river, is an enchanting natural formation found in the hilly area between the provinces of Siena and Florence. Its name derives from the term "diborrato", which in Tuscan means a small waterfall. This fascinating waterfall is located in an area of great landscape value, where the river, flowing through the rocks, forms a waterfall that flows into a stream below, creating a suggestive and tranquil atmosphere. The natural context that surrounds it is characterized by lush vegetation, which makes it the perfect place for a walk immersed in nature and for those who want to take a relaxing break away from the daily hustle and bustle.

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Incredibly beautiful bathing spot. Like paradise

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We passed there today while we were walking along the Via Francigena and it's an enchanting place, you're left speechless! It's worth going there

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Nice place. Visit in spring or early summer. In full summer possibly no water

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By now, word has probably gotten around a bit about how beautiful it is here. It's not quite as quiet at Pentecost, but it's still absolutely within reason 😉. It's a bit like paradise. Well, at least that's how I would imagine it 😬. You just have to imagine the others away 😜😂. One photo opportunity follows the other 😬, bring time and swimwear 😃👍

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Today (April 2024) the water of the Elsa flooded the stepping stones in some places. Unfortunately, I couldn't carry my bike over the stones. Be careful: the stones are slippery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most notable waterfalls near San Gimignano?

The most popular is the Diborrato Waterfall, which plunges about 15 meters into a scenic natural pool. The Elsa River Trail is also a must-see, known for its stunning ice-blue waters. Another beautiful spot is the Turquoise Waterfalls and River of Fosso Bianco, located within the Elsa path, surprising visitors with its vibrant blue water.

What makes the Elsa River Trail unique?

The Elsa River Trail is renowned for its striking ice-blue waters, a result of minerals from the porous limestone rock. The trail offers picturesque views, opportunities for nature gazing, and features multiple stone pathways traversing the riverbanks, making it a beautiful and wildy romantic experience.

What is the best time to visit the waterfalls around San Gimignano?

The waterfalls and river trails are particularly refreshing during the summer months, offering a cool escape from the Tuscan heat. However, some spots like Pozzo Sfondato might lack water in August due to dry conditions. Spring, like May, is also excellent, with splashing waterfalls, croaking frogs, and blooming flowers.

Are the waterfall trails around San Gimignano family-friendly?

Yes, many of the trails are considered family-friendly. The walk to Diborrato Waterfall along the Sentierelsa trail is an easy, family-friendly hike. The Elsa River Trail can also be enjoyed by all ages with proper footwear, offering beautiful scenery and nature.

Can I swim in the waterfall pools near San Gimignano?

Yes, spots like the Diborrato Waterfall are popular for cooling off and swimming in its deep, scenic natural pool. Pozzo Sfondato is also known for beautiful baths in its ice-cold water, though it might be dry in late summer.

What should I wear for hiking to the waterfalls?

It's recommended to wear proper footwear suitable for hiking, as trails can involve stone water crossings and potentially slippery surfaces, especially near the water. Bringing swimwear is also a good idea if you plan to cool off in the natural pools.

What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around San Gimignano?

Beyond exploring the waterfalls, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as those listed in the Hiking around San Gimignano guide. There are also options for gravel biking and MTB trails in the surrounding area.

Are there specific hiking trails that lead to the waterfalls?

Yes, the Sentierelsa trail is a well-known path that leads to the Diborrato Waterfall. The Elsa River Trail itself is a dedicated path for exploring the river's features and waterfalls. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around San Gimignano guide.

What is special about the Agliena River Waterfalls and Path?

The Agliena River Waterfalls and Path offers a shady walk along the Agliena stream. Its regulated course features barrages, known as 'Briglie,' which create small waterfalls and subsequent ponds teeming with life. This area combines natural beauty with interesting historical elements, as these barrages are said to go back to Leonardo da Vinci.

What is Pozzo Sfondato and when is it best to visit?

Pozzo Sfondato is a beautiful spot where the Evola River forms small waterfalls and natural wells in the rock. It's a wild place where locals cool off on hot summer days. It's best to visit outside of August, as the water levels can be very low or non-existent during that month.

What natural features can I expect to see along the waterfall trails?

You'll encounter stunning ice-blue waters, particularly along the Elsa River, due to minerals from limestone rock. The trails often feature natural pools, deep gorges, and lush wild flora. You might also spot butterflies and turtles, and in spring, various flowers like purple orchids.

Is parking available near the waterfalls?

While specific parking details for each waterfall vary, the areas around the main waterfall attractions like the Elsa River Trail are generally accessible. For detailed information on parking, it's advisable to check local resources or specific trailheads before your visit.

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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around San Gimignano:

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