The Charcoal Trail

The Charcoal Trail: A journey into the memory of the Sassetta woods

In the heart of the Upper Cecina Valley, where chestnut, holm oak, and oak forests cover the hills of the Province of Livorno, the small town of Sassetta preserves one of the most fascinating traditions of the Tuscan Maremma: charcoal production. The Charcoal Trail was created to recount and revive this ancient craft, transforming a day of hiking into an immersive experience in the history, nature, and authentic flavors of the region.

A loop hike between history and nature

The core of the event is a 13-kilometer loop hike of moderate difficulty, winding along the forest paths in the area surrounding the Poggio Neri Forest Park. Departures are staggered from the Sassetta Tourist Office in Piazza Nuova, along Via di Castagneto, allowing participants to traverse quiet and evocative forest landscapes before returning in the evening.

The charcoal burners and the craft of carbonization

What makes this event special are the five educational stations placed along the route. Here, visitors can observe the work of the charcoal burners up close and discover the secrets of charcoal production: setting up the charcoal pile, building the earth-covered wood dome, and the slow combustion process with minimal oxygen—a task that once lasted for days and required constant supervision. It is a rare opportunity to understand a trade that deeply shaped the economy and rural culture of Sassetta and the entire wooded area between the Cornia and Cecina Valleys.

The Charcoal Burner's Menu

Distributed along the route are five refreshment stops where hikers can enjoy the Charcoal Burner's Menu, a selection of local flavors inspired by rural culture and designed to restore those tackling the loop. Traditional dishes, including typical Sassetta specialties, accompany the day, turning the effort of the hike into a convivial pleasure.

An event to discover Sassetta

Organized by the Pubblica Assistenza of Sassetta with the patronage of the Municipality of Sassetta and the Tuscany Region, The Charcoal Trail is much more than an excursion: it is a way to experience the village, its traditions, and its woods during a festive day. Advance booking is required, and comfortable clothing with trekking shoes suitable for hilly paths is recommended.