Places
Viewpoint·Easy·Scenic·Popular
Balze di Volterra
Tuscany
These sheer clay cliffs form where erosion has stripped away the soft Pliocene sediment beneath Volterra, a process still visibly active today — an abandoned church and part of an Etruscan necropolis have already been lost over the cliff edge. The stark, almost lunar landscape contrasts sharply with the surrounding Tuscan hills of vineyards and olive groves. Sunset light turns the pale clay a deep ochre.
Duration
1.5 hours
Distance
3 km
Elevation
+80 m
Best season
September – May
Highlights
- Active erosion badlands
- Etruscan necropolis remnants
- Ochre sunset light on the clay
With your dog
Stay well back from the eroded edges; dogs on leash recommended.
