DAY 1: Arrival
Transfer from Florence. After time to settle in, enjoy a welcome dinner.
DAY 2: Sillico and Barga
The village of Sillico is a hidden gem in the Garfagnana Valley, a medieval town with narrow, winding streets and breathtaking views. Surrounded by enchanting forests of ancient chestnut trees, streams, and ruins, the landscape tells stories of shepherds and brigands from times past.
After lunch, we leave Sillico and head to one of the most famous towns in the valley: Barga.
Walk details: Distance: 6 km | Ascent: 400 m
DAY 3: Gothic Line and Grotta del Vento
There are places where you can feel the history of a country, and the Grottortondo Ridge is one of them. This ridge was part of the Gothic Line, the final German defensive line during WWII, which cut across Italy for almost a year. As we walk along this spectacular ridge in the heart of the Apuan Alps, we will uncover bunkers, foxholes, and stories of soldiers and partisans. After the walk, we explore the wonders inside the Apuan Alps with a private visit to the incredible Grotta del Vento.
Walk details: Distance: 4 km | Ascent: 150 m
DAY 4: Fortresses and Flavours
Today, we follow a section of the Via del Volto anto, a historic pilgrimage route that has been used to cross the Garfagnana Valley since the Middle Ages. We begin in the small village of San Donnino and hike towards the ancient pastures of Orzaglia, where the imposing Verrucole Fortress comes into view. The castle is magnificent, and the visit inside is a truly unique experience. After leaving the fortress, we take a short drive to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, the valley’s main town, which boasts a large fortress at its heart. After a stroll through town, we visit Romina’s cheese shop for a delightful private cheese and wine tasting. Walk details: Distance: 5 km | Ascent: 300 m
DAY 5: Free Day
Time today to relax and enjoy the award-winning saltwater pool and have a massage in our private massage space. Or enjoy a trip into Lucca, we will organise private transport for you.
DAY 6: Hills of Lucca – Noble Lands
Today, we enjoy a beautiful walk through the neyards, olive groves, and charming villages of the Lucca hills, the perfect way to explore the idyllic landscape of “Classic Tuscany”. Before returning to our starting point, we will visit a stunning organic farm for a wonderful wine tasting experience. Walk details: Distance: 7 km | Ascent: 250 m
DAY 7: San Pellegrino – The Great Ridge of the Apennines
For over a thousand years, the Hospitale of San Pellegrino has welcomed travellers seeking shelter while crossing the pass. The medieval building, along with its church, still stands atop a promontory with breathtaking views. Our hike takes us through beech forests to the main ridgeline, where meadows of grass and blueberries stretch before us. The panoramic view from the top is truly spectacular, offering a vista that spans hundreds of kilometres across the border between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. On the way back, we will enjoy a stroll and a drink through Castiglione, one of the most beautiful walled towns in the region.
Walk details: Distance: 6 km | Ascent: 200 m
DAY 8: Departure.
Transfer to Florence for your flight home.
