Untouched towns, rich in culture, that are worth a visit in the beautiful Piana Di Lucca
The Piana di Lucca, (Plain of Lucca), is the beautiful countryside region that surrounds the Tuscan town of Lucca, shaped around the bends of the Serchio river and dotted with medieval villages. These villages provide an almost untouched glimpse into Tuscan medieval life, celebrating local foods and traditions. Here are 5 towns to discover in this area of outstanding natural beauty.
Porcari is a small town in the province of Lucca, 50 km from Florence. In the middle ages, it was one of the stops along the famous Via Francigena. A short drive from Porcari town centre, you can visit the Villa Reale Di Marlia, a 17th century villa at the foot of the Pizzone Hills; visit its beautifully manicured gardens. Don’t pass up the chance to visit one of the most fascinating trees in the Piana di Lucca, the Oak of the Witches, said to have inspired a scene in Carlo Lorenzetti’s "Pinocchio". The 40 meters of twisted branches and foliage offer spectacular colours throughout all seasons. Looking for something more immersive, visit the Fattoria del Teso, a small winery that offers wine tasting, near Porcari.
A resting place for pilgrims on the Via Francigena, Altopascio hosts an old Spedale, a renowned hospice in the middle ages. Visiting the Spedale, note the two large interior courtyards and the church of San Jacopo and bell tower. The bell tower served as a lighthouse for pilgrims. The Lago di Sibolla nature reserve is a small area of wetland and represents one of the most important marshy biotropes in Tuscany. Altopascio’s bread is a must try in the town, made with no yeast, it’s famous throughout Tuscany.
The area of Capannori is made up of 40 hamlets, dating back to the medieval period; this makes it a particularly enticing part of the Piana di Lucca, characterized by many tall towers. Visit the nearby 19th century neoclassical Aqueduct of Nottolini, this structure carried water to Lucca from the mountains and is characterised by 400 arches, and over 3km in length. It is now a gorgeous hiking route, starting in Pisa. Explore the Oasis WWF del Bottaccio in Capannori thanks to the paths that stretch across the water, allowing you to admire a range of animal and bird life.
Named after the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, Montecarlo was founded in 1333 and consists of a fort and village, situated on the top of Cerruglio Hill. This magnificent town is contained within its walls and retains its medieval charm. Famous for its wine, Montecarlo hosts a local wine festival at the end of August; visit to explore a variety of traditional Tuscan wineries and dishes. The Festa Dei Sapori d’autunno, is an autumn festival where you can taste new wines, olive oils and chestnuts.
A forty-minute drive from Lucca, Villa Basilica has been made famous, despite its small size, for its role in ironmongery and sword making. The sword makers, the Biscotti family, famously made a sword for Cosimo de’ Medici. On the slopes of the Pizzorne highlands, this small town boasts immaculate views, in particular from the large piazza next to the town’s Cathedral. Visit in August to witness the Festival of Santa Maria, celebrated with events and traditional dishes, such as torta coi becchi (percorino cheese, spices and egg) and necci pancakes.
