Monte Matanna

The rugged yet fascinating Apuan Alps are characterised by peaks of almost 2,000 metres above sea level, offering outstanding views. However, the landscape’s beauty is not only found in the high altitudes: Matanna Mountain and its 1,300 metres above sea level offer sublime views of untamed mountain nature.

The massif is entirely within the municipality of Stazzema, and despite its modest altitude, it's the highest peak in the southern part of the Apuan chain. It has a triangular shape with easily accessible and panoramic ridges, where your eyes gaze out at the Panie, Apennines and Lake Massaciuccoli reaching as far as the sea and even the islands of the Tuscan archipelago and the Maritime Alps on clear days.

The ridges are mainly bare rock, alternating with small clearings and a small lake near the summit called Bozzone, while the slopes are often covered with beech and conifer forests. These natural environments are home to a rich biodiversity. The slopes are populated by mouflon and other ungulates, whereas if you look up, you can see the queen of the skies, the golden eagle, circling the air.

Matanna Mountain is dotted with paths that lead to the discovery of its beautiful, untouched nature and unparalleled views. The hiking trails are of varying length and difficulty; you can start from the Alto Matanna guesthouse and walk along a short, scenic ring route that takes in the summit of Matanna, or from the village of Stazzema, taking a short diversion to the Forte dei Marmi shelter, before reaching the summit and returning along the same path, making this a medium-level itinerary given the difference in altitude, but one that's also suitable for families with children.

It’s always advisable to check the weather conditions before setting off on an excursion, especially in the Apuan Alps where there are sudden changes in climate, so that you can enjoy wonderful days outdoors in total safety, in the specatcular setting of Monte Matanna.