Set against the backdrop of the Tuscan Apennines in the heart of the Casentinesi Forest National Park, the Santuario della Verna is surrounded by ancient beech forests that provide a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere.

The enchanting Bosco delle Fate, or “Forest of the Fairies,” is a place of timeless beauty, with moss-covered rocks, centuries-old beech trees, and rich, diverse wildlife.

The forest has been protected for generations, thanks to the reverence for nature shared by St. Francis and the local communities. In the past, the natural caves in the forest were used by monks as ice houses, preserving their provisions in the coolness of the woods.

As pilgrims and nature enthusiasts embark on their journey through the sacred forest on the via di Francesco, they are immediately captivated by the lush, unspoiled landscape. Walking amid the towering beech trees, visitors can appreciate the remarkable interplay between these ancient giants and the boulders they seemingly embrace, as their powerful roots delve into the rock to draw sustenance.

The path through the Bosco delle Fate offers several breathtaking itineraries, such as the lower ring of La Verna, which winds around the mountain, and the upper ring, which ascends to the Penna—the mountain’s peak. Another mesmerizing route is the one that traverses the enchanted forest itself, starting from the village of Chiusi della Verna and culminating at the sanctuary.

Along the way, pilgrims can marvel at the forest’s extraordinary and fascinating disorder, reflecting the Franciscan philosophy that nature should remain spontaneous, just as God intended. The journey up Monte Calcano, while challenging, rewards climbers with sweeping views of the Casentino valley and the Valtiberina.

As they walk through the sacred forest, visitors are enveloped in the serenity and spiritual energy that imbues this unique landscape. The experience of traversing the same paths St. Francis himself walked centuries ago only adds to the allure, creating an unforgettable journey that is not only a feast for the senses but also a profound connection to the past.

The Bosco delle Fate is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and the natural world, where the awe-inspiring beauty of the forest and the spiritual significance of the Santuario della Verna coalesce into a harmonious and transcendent experience for all who venture there.